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Berk L. Response to Mistry: Radiosensitivity Index is Not Fit to be Used for Dose Adjustments: A Pan-Cancer Analysis. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2023; 35:482. [PMID: 37088571 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L Berk
- Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Florida, USA
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Ratheesh A, Hett D, Ramain J, Wong E, Berk L, Conus P, Fristad MA, Goldstein T, Hillegers M, Jauhar S, Kessing LV, Miklowitz DJ, Murray G, Scott J, Tohen M, Yatham LN, Young AH, Berk M, Marwaha S. A systematic review of interventions in the early course of bipolar disorder I or II: a report of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders Taskforce on early intervention. Int J Bipolar Disord 2023; 11:1. [PMID: 36595095 PMCID: PMC9810772 DOI: 10.1186/s40345-022-00275-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the likelihood of progressive illness in bipolar disorder (BD), it is important to understand the benefits and risks of interventions administered early in illness course. We conducted a systematic review of the effectiveness of interventions in the early course of BD I or II. METHODS We completed a systematic search on MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL and Google Scholar from 1/1/1979 till 14/9/2022. We included controlled trials examining intervention effects on symptomatic, course, functional and tolerability outcomes of patients in the 'early course' of BD I or II. We classified patients to be in early course if they (a) were seeking help for the first time for a manic episode, (b) had a lifetime history of up to 3 manic episodes, or (c) had up to 6 lifetime mood episodes. Evidence quality was assessed using the GRADE approach. RESULTS From 4135 unique publications we included 25 reports representing 2212 participants in 16 randomized studies, and 17,714 participants from nine non-randomized studies. Available evidence suggested that in early illness course, lithium use was associated with lower recurrence risk compared with other mood stabilizers. Mood stabilizers were also associated with better global functioning, compared with the use of antipsychotics in the medium term. While summative findings regarding psychological therapies were limited by heterogeneity, family-focused and cognitive-behavioral interventions were associated with reduced recurrence risk or improved symptomatic outcomes. There was some evidence that the same pharmacological interventions were more efficacious in preventing recurrences when utilized in earlier rather than later illness course. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS While there are promising initial findings, there is a need for more adequately powered trials to examine the efficacy and tolerability of interventions in youth and adults in early illness course. Specifically, there is a compelling need to compare the relative benefits of lithium with other pharmacological agents in preventing recurrences. In addition to symptomatic outcomes, there should be a greater focus on functional impact and tolerability. Effective pharmacological and psychological interventions should be offered to those in early course of BD, balancing potential risks using shared decision-making approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Ratheesh
- grid.488501.00000 0004 8032 6923Orygen, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XCentre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - D. Hett
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK ,Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - J. Ramain
- grid.8515.90000 0001 0423 4662TIPP Program, Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - E. Wong
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XCentre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - L. Berk
- grid.414257.10000 0004 0540 0062IMPACT-The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - P. Conus
- grid.8515.90000 0001 0423 4662TIPP Program, Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - M. A. Fristad
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, USA
| | - T. Goldstein
- grid.21925.3d0000 0004 1936 9000Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - M. Hillegers
- grid.5645.2000000040459992XDepartment of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S. Jauhar
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK ,grid.415717.10000 0001 2324 5535South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 3BX UK
| | - L. V. Kessing
- grid.475435.4Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - D. J. Miklowitz
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - G. Murray
- grid.1027.40000 0004 0409 2862Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - J. Scott
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - M. Tohen
- grid.266832.b0000 0001 2188 8502Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - L. N. Yatham
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - A. H. Young
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK ,grid.415717.10000 0001 2324 5535South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 3BX UK
| | - M. Berk
- grid.414257.10000 0004 0540 0062IMPACT-The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - S. Marwaha
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK ,Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Ciuba D, Curtis A, Dunlap N, Siegel R, Biswas T, Wisbeck W, Berk L, Miller D, Holmlund J, Allen B. AESOP: Phase 2 Open-Label Trial of Avasopasem Manganese (GC4419) for Reduction of Esophagitis in Patients Receiving Chemoradiotherapy for Nonmetastatic Lung Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.07.659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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van Boxtel MPJ, Berk L, E de Vugt M, van Warmenhoven F. Mindfulness-based interventions for people with dementia and their caregivers: keeping a dyadic balance. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:697-699. [PMID: 30938168 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1582004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin P J van Boxtel
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte Berk
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marjolein E de Vugt
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Franca van Warmenhoven
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Educational Development and Research, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Alfonso JCL, Berk L. Modeling the effect of intratumoral heterogeneity of radiosensitivity on tumor response over the course of fractionated radiation therapy. Radiat Oncol 2019; 14:88. [PMID: 31146751 PMCID: PMC6543639 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-019-1288-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Standard radiobiology theory of radiation response assumes a uniform innate radiosensitivity of tumors. However, experimental data show that there is significant intratumoral heterogeneity of radiosensitivity. Therefore, a model with heterogeneity was developed and tested using existing experimental data to show the potential effects from the presence of an intratumoral distribution of radiosensitivity on radiation therapy response over a protracted radiation therapy treatment course. Methods The standard radiation response curve was modified to account for a distribution of radiosensitivity, and for variations in the repopulation rates of the tumor cell subpopulations. Experimental data from the literature were incorporated to determine the boundaries of the model. The proposed model was then used to show the changes in radiosensitivity of the tumor during treatment, and the effects of fraction size, α/β ratio and variation of the repopulation rates of tumor cells. Results In the presence of an intratumoral distribution of radiosensitivity, there is rapid selection of radiation-resistant cells over a course of fractionated radiation therapy. Standard treatment fractionation regimes result in the near-complete replacement of the initial population of sensitive cells with a population of more resistant cells. Further, as treatment progresses, the tumor becomes more resistant to further radiation treatment, making each fractional dose less efficacious. A wider initial distribution induces increased radiation resistance. Hypofractionation is more efficient in a heterogeneous tumor, with increased cell kill for biologically equivalent doses, while inducing less resistance. The model also shows that a higher growth rate in resistant cells can account for the accelerated repopulation that is seen during the clinical treatment of patients. Conclusions Modeling of tumor cell survival with radiosensitivity heterogeneity alters the predicted tumor response, and explains the induction of radiation resistance by radiation treatment, the development of accelerated repopulation, and the potential beneficial effects of hypofractionation. Tumor response to treatment may be better predicted by assaying for the distribution of radiosensitivity, or the extreme of the radiosensitivity, rather than measuring the initial, general radiation sensitivity of the untreated tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C L Alfonso
- Department of Systems Immunology and Braunschweig Integrated Centre of Systems Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany.
| | - L Berk
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, Morsani School of Medicine at the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Berk L, Warmenhoven F, Stiekema APM, van Oorsouw K, van Os J, de Vugt M, van Boxtel M. Mindfulness-Based Intervention for People With Dementia and Their Partners: Results of a Mixed-Methods Study. Front Aging Neurosci 2019; 11:92. [PMID: 31068800 PMCID: PMC6491691 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Studies have shown preliminary support for mindfulness-based interventions benefitting people with dementia and their caregivers. However, most studies focus on these two groups separately. This study examined whether it would be possible and beneficial for people with dementia and their caregiver to jointly undergo an adjusted Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training, named TANDEM. Methods The 8-week MBSR training was adjusted based on a literature review and interviews with experts (clinicians and mindfulness trainers). Seven couples (a person with early-stage dementia and their caregiver) participated together in the 8-week TANDEM program. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted after completion. Questionnaires (administered before and after the intervention) assessed the primary outcomes of quality of life and psychological distress (stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms). Secondary outcomes were mindfulness, self-compassion, positive mental health, worrying, and perceived burden (for caregivers). Results All participants completed the program and reported beneficial effects (relaxation, awareness, acceptance, and resilience). Most managed to integrate exercises into their daily lives and planned to continue their practice. Participating in a group was considered valuable and supportive. Furthermore, it was appreciated that participants could follow the training together (as a couple). The quantitative results showed a small effect on increased quality of life for caregivers. No substantial decrease in psychological distress was apparent. Caregivers displayed a large increase in mindfulness. Conclusion The results of this mixed-methods study suggest that an adjusted mindfulness program is feasible and well-received among couples of persons with early-stage dementia and their caregiver, warranting further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Berk
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Franca Warmenhoven
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Educational Development and Research, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Annemarie P M Stiekema
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Limburg Brain Injury Center, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Kim van Oorsouw
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's Health Partners, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marjolein de Vugt
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Martin van Boxtel
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Center Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Berk L, Hotterbeekx R, van Os J, van Boxtel M. Mindfulness-based stress reduction in middle-aged and older adults with memory complaints: a mixed-methods study. Aging Ment Health 2018; 22:1107-1114. [PMID: 28721742 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1347142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In a rapidly aging world population, an increasingly large group faces age-related decline in cognitive functioning. Cognitive complaints of older adults are often related to worries and concerns associated with age-related functional decline. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) can successfully target stress, worry and ruminative thinking, but the applicability of this method in middle-aged and older adults with memory complaints is unclear. METHOD Patients of a university hospital memory clinic (n = 13), aged 45-85 years, with memory complaints but no diagnosis of cognitive disorder, participated in a standard 8-week MBSR program, consisting of weekly group meetings and a one-day silent retreat. After completion, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted. Questionnaires (administered before, one week after and five weeks after the intervention) assessed quality of life, psychological distress (stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms), mindfulness, self-compassion, and subjective memory functioning. Neurocognitive functioning was assessed online, before and after the intervention. RESULTS The qualitative analysis showed positive effects of the training (e.g. increased serenity), many participants worrying less about memory complaints. The self-reported measures were in line with the results of the qualitative analysis. CONCLUSION This exploratory mixed-methods study suggests that MBSR is feasible and well received among older individuals with cognitive complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Berk
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience , Maastricht University Medical Centre , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Rafke Hotterbeekx
- b U-Center , Special Hospital and Behavioral Health Residential Treatment Center , Epen , The Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience , Maastricht University Medical Centre , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,c Department of Psychosis Studies , Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, King's Health Partners , London , UK
| | - Martin van Boxtel
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience , Maastricht University Medical Centre , Maastricht , The Netherlands
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Berk L, Warmenhoven F, van Os J, van Boxtel M. Mindfulness Training for People With Dementia and Their Caregivers: Rationale, Current Research, and Future Directions. Front Psychol 2018; 9:982. [PMID: 29951027 PMCID: PMC6008507 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The world population is aging and the prevalence of dementia is increasing. By 2050, those aged 60 years and older are expected to make up a quarter of the population. With that, the number of people with dementia is increasing. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia. The progression of symptoms with no hope of improvement is difficult to cope with, both for patients and their caregivers. New and evidence-based strategies are needed to support the well-being of both caregiver and patient. Mindfulness training is a body-mind intervention that has shown to improve psychological well-being in a variety of mental health conditions. Mindfulness, a non-judgmental attention to one's experience in the present moment, is a skill that can be developed with a standard 8-week training. Research has shown preliminary but promising results for mindfulness-based interventions to benefit people with dementia and caregivers. The aim of this review is (a) to provide a rationale for the application of mindfulness in the context of dementia care by giving an overview of studies on mindfulness for people with dementia and/or their caregivers and (b) to provide suggestions for future projects on mindfulness in the context of dementia and to give recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Berk
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Franca Warmenhoven
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Educational Development and Research, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
- King’s Health Partners, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin van Boxtel
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Cavalcanti Ferreira P, Berk L, Daher N, Petrofsky J, Lohman E, John A, Campus T. 0657 Circadian and Homeostatic Control of The Sleep-wake Cycle In Type 2 Diabetes Correlated with salivary Melatonin. Sleep 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsy061.656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - L Berk
- Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
| | - N Daher
- Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
| | | | - E Lohman
- Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
| | - A John
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, BRAZIL
| | - T Campus
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, BRAZIL
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Berk L, van Boxtel M, Köhler S, van Os J. Positive affect and cognitive decline: a 12-year follow-up of the Maastricht Aging Study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2017; 32:1305-1311. [PMID: 27753153 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In cross-sectional studies, positive affect (PA) has been associated with higher levels of cognitive functioning. This study examined whether positive affect (PA) is associated with change in cognitive function over 12 years in an adult population sample. METHODS Participants (n = 258), aged 40 to 82 years, were drawn from a subsample of the Maastricht Aging Study (MAAS) and assessed at baseline, 6 years and 12 years. PA was measured at baseline with a Dutch translation of the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). PA scores and associations with cognitive decline were tested in random-effects models. RESULTS Controlling for demographics and depressive symptoms, there was no significant association with PA scores and decline in memory (χ2 = 1.52; df = 2; P = 0.47), executive functions (χ2 = 0.99; df = 2; P = 0.61), and information processing speed (χ2 = 0.52; df = 2; P = 0.77) at 6- and 12-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS PA did not predict cognitive change over time. These findings question the extent of protective effects of PA on cognitive aging in adulthood, and are discussed in terms of age range and types of measures used for PA and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Berk
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Martin van Boxtel
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Köhler
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Berk L, van Boxtel M, van Os J. Can mindfulness-based interventions influence cognitive functioning in older adults? A review and considerations for future research. Aging Ment Health 2017; 21:1113-1120. [PMID: 27827541 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2016.1247423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An increased need exists to examine factors that protect against age-related cognitive decline. There is preliminary evidence that meditation can improve cognitive function. However, most studies are cross-sectional and examine a wide variety of meditation techniques. This review focuses on the standard eight-week mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). METHOD We searched the PsychINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, COCHRANE, and PubMed databases to identify original studies investigating the effects of MBI on cognition in older adults. RESULTS Six reports were included in the review of which three were randomized controlled trials. Studies reported preliminary positive effects on memory, executive function and processing speed. However, most reports had a high risk of bias and sample sizes were small. The only study with low risk of bias, large sample size and active control group reported no significant findings. CONCLUSION We conclude that eight-week MBI for older adults are feasible, but results on cognitive improvement are inconclusive due a limited number of studies, small sample sizes, and a high risk of bias. Rather than a narrow focus on cognitive training per se, future research may productively shift to investigate MBI as a tool to alleviate suffering in older adults, and to prevent cognitive problems in later life already in younger target populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Berk
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology , School for Mental Health and Neuroscience , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Martin van Boxtel
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology , School for Mental Health and Neuroscience , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- a Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology , School for Mental Health and Neuroscience , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,b King's College London , King's Health Partners , Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry , London , UK
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Lauder S, Cosgrove VE, Gliddon E, Grimm D, Dodd S, Berk L, Castle D, Suppes TS, Berk M. Progressing MoodSwings. The upgrade and evaluation of MoodSwings 2.0: An online intervention for bipolar disorder. Contemp Clin Trials 2017; 56:18-24. [PMID: 28257919 PMCID: PMC5612827 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
MoodSwings 2.0 is a self-guided online intervention for bipolar disorder. The intervention incorporates technological improvements on an earlier validated version of the intervention (MoodSwings 1.0). The previous MoodSwings trial provides this study with a unique opportunity to progress previous work, whilst being able to take into consideration lesson learnt, and technological enhancements. The structure and technology of MoodSwings 2.0 are described and the relevance to other online health interventions is highlighted. An international team from Australia and the US updated and improved the programs content pursuant to changes in DSM-5, added multimedia components and included larger numbers of participants in the group discussion boards. Greater methodological rigour in this trial includes an attention control condition, quarterly telephone assessments, and red flag alerts for significant clinical change. This paper outlines these improvements, including additional security and safety measures. A 3 arm RCT is currently evaluating the enhanced program to assess the efficacy of MS 2.0; the primary outcome is change in depressive and manic symptoms. To our knowledge this is the first randomized controlled online bipolar study with a discussion board attention control and meets the key methodological criteria for online interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lauder
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Australia.
| | - V E Cosgrove
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, United States; Bipolar and Depression Research Program, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, United States
| | - E Gliddon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - D Grimm
- Bipolar and Depression Research Program, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, United States
| | - S Dodd
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - L Berk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - D Castle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - T S Suppes
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, United States; Bipolar and Depression Research Program, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, United States
| | - M Berk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia
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Backes Y, Moons LMG, van Bergeijk JD, Berk L, Ter Borg F, Ter Borg PCJ, Elias SG, Geesing JMJ, Groen JN, Hadithi M, Hardwick JCH, Kerkhof M, Mangen MJJ, Straathof JWA, Schröder R, Schwartz MP, Spanier BWM, de Vos Tot Nederveen Cappel WH, Wolfhagen FHJ, Koch AD. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) versus endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for resection of large distal non-pedunculated colorectal adenomas (MATILDA-trial): rationale and design of a multicenter randomized clinical trial. BMC Gastroenterol 2016; 16:56. [PMID: 27229709 PMCID: PMC4882830 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-016-0468-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is currently the most used technique for resection of large distal colorectal polyps. However, in large lesions EMR can often only be performed in a piecemeal fashion resulting in relatively low radical (R0)-resection rates and high recurrence rates. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a newer procedure that is more difficult resulting in a longer procedural time, but is promising due to the high en-bloc resection rates and the very low recurrence rates. We aim to evaluate the (cost-)effectiveness of ESD against EMR on both short (i.e. 6 months) and long-term (i.e. 36 months). We hypothesize that in the short-run ESD is more time consuming resulting in higher healthcare costs, but is (cost-) effective on the long-term due to lower patients burden, a higher number of R0-resections and lower recurrence rates with less need for repeated procedures. Methods This is a multicenter randomized clinical trial in patients with a non-pedunculated polyp larger than 20 mm in the rectum, sigmoid, or descending colon suspected to be an adenoma by means of endoscopic assessment. Primary endpoint is recurrence rate at follow-up colonoscopy at 6 months. Secondary endpoints are R0-resection rate, perceived burden and quality of life, healthcare resources utilization and costs, surgical referral rate, complication rate and recurrence rate at 36 months. Quality-adjusted-life-year (QALY) will be estimated taking an area under the curve approach and using EQ-5D-indexes. Healthcare costs will be calculated by multiplying used healthcare services with unit prices. The cost-effectiveness of ESD against EMR will be expressed as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) showing additional costs per recurrence free patient and as ICER showing additional costs per QALY. Discussion If this trial confirms ESD to be favorable on the long-term, the burden of extra colonoscopies and repeated procedures can be prevented for future patients. Trial registration NCT02657044 (Clinicaltrials.gov), registered January 8, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Backes
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - L M G Moons
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - J D van Bergeijk
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Gelderse Vallei, Ede, Netherlands
| | - L Berk
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Sint Franciscus, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - F Ter Borg
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Deventer Hospital, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - P C J Ter Borg
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ikazia, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - S G Elias
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - J M J Geesing
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - J N Groen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Sint Jansdal, Harderwijk, Netherlands
| | - M Hadithi
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Maasstad hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - J C H Hardwick
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - M Kerkhof
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Groene Hart Hospital, Gouda, Netherlands
| | - M J J Mangen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - J W A Straathof
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Máxima Medical Center, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - R Schröder
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Gelre Hospital, Apeldoorn, Netherlands
| | - M P Schwartz
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Meander Medical Center, Amersfoort, Netherlands
| | - B W M Spanier
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Rijnstate hospital, Arnhem, Netherlands
| | | | - F H J Wolfhagen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Albert Schweitzer, Dordrecht, Netherlands
| | - A D Koch
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Berk L, Stewart JL, May AC, Wiers RW, Davenport PW, Paulus MP, Tapert SF. Under pressure: adolescent substance users show exaggerated neural processing of aversive interoceptive stimuli. Addiction 2015; 110:2025-36. [PMID: 26234745 PMCID: PMC4644498 DOI: 10.1111/add.13090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Adolescents with substance use disorders (SUD) exhibit hyposensitivity to pleasant internally generated (interoceptive) stimuli and hypersensitivity to external rewarding stimuli. It is unclear whether similar patterns exist for aversive interoceptive stimuli. We compared activation in the insular cortex and other brain regions during the anticipation and experience of aversive stimuli between adolescents with SUD and those without. DESIGN Cross-sectional experimental study with two groups. PARTICIPANTS Adolescents (ages 15-17 years) with an alcohol or marijuana SUD (n=18) and healthy comparison subjects (CON, n=15). Participants were recruited by distributing flyers at local high schools. SETTING Keck Imaging Center, University of California San Diego, CA, USA. MEASUREMENTS Behavioral and neural responses to a continuous performance task with inspiratory breathing load recorded during an fMRI session. Questionnaires assessed life-time drug use, anxiety, sensation-seeking, impulsivity, affect and bodily awareness. Visual analog scales assessed drug craving and breathing load responses. FINDINGS Across subjects, experience of breathing load elicited greater bilateral anterior and posterior insula (AI and PI, respectively) activation than anticipation (F(1,31)=4.16, P<0.05). SUD exhibited greater left AI and bilateral PI activation during breathing load than anticipation, compared with CON (F(1,31)=4.16, P<0.05). In contrast, CON showed greater activation during anticipation than breathing load in left PI, compared with SUD (F(1,31)=4.16, P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Adolescents with alcohol and marijuana substance use disorders may be hypersensitive to aversive interoceptive stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Berk
- University of California San Diego, Department of Psychiatry, USA
| | | | - April C. May
- University of California San Diego, Department of Psychiatry, USA
| | - Reinout W. Wiers
- University of Amsterdam, Developmental Psychology, The Netherlands
| | - Paul W. Davenport
- University of Florida, Department of Physiology, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Martin P. Paulus
- University of California San Diego, Department of Psychiatry, USA,Laureate Institute For Brain Research, Tulsa OK, USA,Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, USA
| | - Susan F. Tapert
- University of California San Diego, Department of Psychiatry, USA,Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, USA,Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to: Susan Tapert, 3350 La Jolla Village Drive 116B, San Diego, CA 92161. Phone: (858) 552-8585. Fax: (858) 552-7414.
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Murray G, Leitan ND, Berk M, Thomas N, Michalak E, Berk L, Johnson SL, Jones S, Perich T, Allen NB, Kyrios M. Online mindfulness-based intervention for late-stage bipolar disorder: pilot evidence for feasibility and effectiveness. J Affect Disord 2015; 178:46-51. [PMID: 25795535 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2015.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES People in the late stage of bipolar disorder (BD) experience elevated relapse rates and poorer quality of life (QoL) compared with those in the early stages. Existing psychological interventions also appear less effective in this group. To address this need, we developed a new online mindfulness-based intervention targeting quality of life (QoL) in late stage BD. Here, we report on an open pilot trial of ORBIT (online, recovery-focused, bipolar individual therapy). METHODS Inclusion criteria were: self-reported primary diagnosis of BD, six or more episodes of BD, under the care of a medical practitioner, access to the internet, proficient in English, 18-65 years of age. Primary outcome was change (baseline - post-treatment) on the Brief QoL.BD (Michalak and Murray, 2010). Secondary outcomes were depression, anxiety, and stress measured on the DASS scales (Lovibond and Lovibond, 1993). RESULTS Twenty-six people consented to participate (Age M=46.6 years, SD=12.9, and 75% female). Ten participants were lost to follow-up (38.5% attrition). Statistically significant improvement in QoL was found for the completers, t(15)=2.88, 95% CI:.89-5.98, p=.011, (Cohen׳s dz=.72, partial η(2)=.36), and the intent-to-treat sample t(25)=2.65, 95% CI:.47-3.76, (Cohen׳s dz=.52; partial η(2)=.22). A non-significant trend towards improvement was found on the DASS anxiety scale (p=.06) in both completer and intent-to-treat samples, but change on depression and stress did not approach significance. LIMITATIONS This was an open trial with no comparison group, so measured improvements may not be due to specific elements of the intervention. Structured diagnostic assessments were not conducted, and interpretation of effectiveness was limited by substantial attrition. CONCLUSION Online delivery of mindfulness-based psychological therapy for late stage BD appears feasible and effective, and ORBIT warrants full development. Modifications suggested by the pilot study include increasing the 3 weeks duration of the intervention, adding cautions about the impact of extended meditations, and addition of coaching support/monitoring to optimise engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Murray
- Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - N D Leitan
- Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - M Berk
- Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - N Thomas
- Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - E Michalak
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - L Berk
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - S L Johnson
- University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - S Jones
- Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - T Perich
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Wong R, Deshmukh S, Wyatt G, Sagar S, Singh A, Sultanem K, Nguyen-Tan P, Yom S, Pugh S, Berk L. RTOG 0537 Phase 2/3 Study Comparing Acupuncture-Like Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (ALTENS) Versus Pilocarpine (PC) in Treating Early Radiation-Induced Xerostomia (RIX): Phase 3 Preliminary Analysis. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2013.06.299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To be used in conjunction with 'Pharmacological management of unipolar depression' [Malhi et al. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2013;127(Suppl. 443):6-23] and 'Lifestyle management of unipolar depression' [Berk et al. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2013;127(Suppl. 443):38-54]. To provide clinically relevant recommendations for the use of psychological treatments in depression derived from a literature review. METHOD Medical databases including MEDLINE and PubMed were searched for pertinent literature, with an emphasis on recent publications. RESULTS Structured psychological treatments such as cognitive behaviour therapy and interpersonal therapy (IPT) have a robust evidence base for efficacy in treating depression, even in severe cases of depression. However, they may not offer benefit as quickly as antidepressants, and maximal efficacy requires well-trained and experienced therapists. These therapies are effective across the lifespan and may be preferred where it is desired to avoid pharmacotherapy. In some instances, combination with pharmacotherapy may enhance outcome. Psychological therapy may have more enduring protective effects than medication and be effective in relapse prevention. Newer structured psychological therapies such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy lack an extensive outcome literature, but the few published studies yielding positive outcomes suggest they should be considered options for treatment. CONCLUSION Cognitive behaviour therapy and IPT can be effective in alleviating acute depression for all levels of severity and in maintaining improvement. Psychological treatments for depression have demonstrated efficacy across the lifespan and may present a preferred treatment option in some groups, for example, children and adolescents and women who are pregnant or postnatal.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lampe
- CADE Clinic, Department of Psychiatry, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Mita MM, Poplin E, Britten CD, Tap WD, Rubin EH, Scott BB, Berk L, Rivera VM, Loewy JW, Dodion P, Haluska F, Sarantopoulos J, Mita A, Tolcher A. Phase I/IIa trial of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor ridaforolimus (AP23573; MK-8669) administered orally in patients with refractory or advanced malignancies and sarcoma. Ann Oncol 2012; 24:1104-11. [PMID: 23211938 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mds602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ridaforolimus is an inhibitor of mTOR with evidence of antitumor activity in an I.V. formulation. This multicenter, open-label, 3 + 3 design nonrandomized, dose-escalation, phase I/IIa trial was conducted to determine the safety, pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic parameters, maximum tolerated dose, and antitumor activity of oral ridaforolimus. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with metastatic or unresectable solid tumors refractory to therapy were eligible. Seven different continuous and intermittent dosing regimens were examined. RESULTS One hundred and forty-seven patients were enrolled in this study among which 85 were patients with sarcoma. Stomatitis was the most common DLT observed. The dosing regimen, 40 mg QD × 5 days/week, provided the best combination of cumulative dose, dose density, and cumulative exposure, and was the recommended dosing regimen for subsequent clinical development. PK was nonlinear, with less than proportional increases in day-1 blood AUC0-∞ and Cmax, particularly with doses >40 mg. The terminal half-life estimate of ridaforolimus (QD × 5 40 mg) was 42.0 h, and the mean half-life ∼30-60 h. The clinical benefit rate, (complete response, partial response, or stable disease for ≥4 months was 24.5% for all patients and 27.1% for patients with sarcoma. CONCLUSION Oral ridaforolimus had an acceptable safety profile and exhibited antitumor activity in patients with sarcoma and other malignancies. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00112372.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Mita
- Cancer Therapy Research Center, Institute for Drug Development, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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Ryu S, James J, Gerszten P, Yin F, Timmerman R, Hitchcock Y, Movsas B, Kanner A, Berk L, Kachnic L. RTOG 0631 Phase II/III Study of Image-guided Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Localized Spine Metastases: Phase II Results. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2011.06.271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Schmaal L, Berk L, Hulstijn KP, Cousijn J, Wiers RW, van den Brink W. Efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in the treatment of nicotine dependence: a double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study. Eur Addict Res 2011; 17:211-6. [PMID: 21606648 DOI: 10.1159/000327682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Relapse is the rule rather than the exception in smokers aiming to quit smoking. Recently, evidence has emerged that glutamate transmission plays an important role in relapse. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a cysteine prodrug, restores glutamate homeostasis and appears to be a potential new treatment for substance dependence. In the current pilot study, the effects of NAC on short-term abstinence of smoking were investigated. Subjects were heavy smokers randomized to receive placebo (n = 12) or NAC 3,600 mg/day (n = 10) in a double-blind fashion during 3.5 days. Subjects were asked to stop smoking and report on nicotine craving, nicotine withdrawal symptoms, and cigarette smoking during treatment. At the end of the treatment, subjects were invited to smoke a cigarette and to rate the rewarding effect of this cigarette. There was no significant effect of NAC on craving (p = 0.23, d = 0.52) and only a statistical trend towards fewer withdrawal symptoms in the NAC condition (p = 0.07, d = 0.80). Interestingly, subjects receiving NAC rated the first cigarette after the abstinence period of 3.5 days as significantly less rewarding than subjects on placebo (p = 0.04, d = 0.85). It is concluded that the results of this pilot study are encouraging and suggest that NAC might be a promising new treatment option for relapse prevention in nicotine dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianne Schmaal
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. l.schmaal @ amc.uva.nl
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21
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Wong R, James J, Sagar S, Wyatt G, Nguyen-Tan P, Singh A, Lukaszczyk B, Cardinale F, Yeh A, Berk L. RTOG 0537 Phase II/III Study Comparing Acupuncture-like Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (ALTENS) versus Pilocarpine in Treating Early Radiation-Induced Xerostomia (RIX): Phase II Results. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2010.07.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Dodd S, Kulkarni J, Berk L, Ng F, Fitzgerald PB, de Castella AR, Filia S, Filia K, Montgomery W, Kelin K, Smith M, Brnabic A, Berk M. A prospective study of the impact of subthreshold mixed states on the 24-month clinical outcomes of bipolar I disorder or schizoaffective disorder. J Affect Disord 2010; 124:22-8. [PMID: 19944466 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2009.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2009] [Revised: 10/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The clinical significance of subthreshold mixed states is unclear. This study investigated the clinical outcomes in participants with bipolar I disorder or schizoaffective disorder, using the Cassidy and Benazzi criteria for manic and depressive mixed states, respectively. METHODS Participants (N=239) in a prospective observational study of treatment and outcomes in bipolar I or schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, were grouped based on study entry clinical presentation as having pure depression (n=63) if they satisfied DSM-IV-TR criteria for a Major Depressive Episode (MDE), depressive mixed state if they also had at least three concurrent hypomanic symptoms (n=33), or not depressed (n=143) if they did not satisfy the criteria for MDE. Participants were similarly grouped as having pure mania (n=3) if they satisfied DSM-IV criteria for a Manic Episode, manic mixed state if they also had at least two concurrent depressive symptoms (n=33), or not manic (n=203). Clinical data were collected by interview every 3 months over a 24-month period. RESULTS Measures of quality of life, mental and physical health over the 24-month period were significantly worse for participants who were classified as having mixed states at study entry on most outcome measures compared to participants who were not in an illness episode at study entry. A depressive mixed state was predictive of greater manic symptomatology over the 24 months compared to participants with pure depression. CONCLUSION In participants with a current episode of mood disorder, the presence of subthreshold symptoms of opposite polarity was associated with poorer clinical outcomes over a 24-month period.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dodd
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences: Barwon Health, The University of Melbourne, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
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Sessa C, Tosi D, Viganò L, Albanell J, Hess D, Maur M, Cresta S, Locatelli A, Angst R, Rojo F, Coceani N, Rivera VM, Berk L, Haluska F, Gianni L. Phase Ib study of weekly mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor ridaforolimus (AP23573; MK-8669) with weekly paclitaxel. Ann Oncol 2009; 21:1315-1322. [PMID: 19901013 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdp504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The additive cytotoxicity in vitro prompted a clinical study evaluating the non-prodrug rapamycin analogue ridaforolimus (AP23573; MK-8669; formerly deforolimus) administered i.v. combined with paclitaxel (PTX; Taxol). MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with taxane-sensitive solid tumors were eligible. The main dose escalation foresaw 50% ridaforolimus increments from 25 mg with a fixed PTX dose of 80 mg/m(2), both given weekly 3 weeks in a 4-week cycle. Collateral levels with a lower dose of either drug were planned upon achievement of the maximum tolerated dose in the main escalation. Pharmacodynamic studies in plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and skin biopsies and pharmacokinetic (PK) interaction studies at cycles 1 and 2 were carried out. RESULTS Two recommended doses were determined: 37.5 mg ridaforolimus/60 mg/m(2) PTX and 12.5 mg/80 mg/m(2). Most frequent toxic effects were mouth sores (79%), anemia (79%), fatigue (59%), neutropenia (55%) and dermatitis (48%). Two partial responses were observed in pharyngeal squamous cell and pancreatic carcinoma. Eight patients achieved stable disease > or =4 months. No drug interaction emerged from PK studies. Decrease of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein1 (4E-BP1) phosphorylation was shown in PBMCs. Similar inhibition of phosphorylation of 4E-BP1 and mitogen-activated protein kinase was present in reparative epidermis and vascular tissues, respectively. CONCLUSION Potential antiangiogenic effects and encouraging antitumor activity justify further development of the combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sessa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland; Department of Medical Oncology I, 'Montabone' Unit for New Drug Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto dei Tumori di Milano, Italy
| | - D Tosi
- Department of Medical Oncology I, 'Montabone' Unit for New Drug Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto dei Tumori di Milano, Italy
| | - L Viganò
- Department of Medical Oncology I, 'Montabone' Unit for New Drug Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto dei Tumori di Milano, Italy
| | - J Albanell
- Department of Medical Oncology, IMAS-Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Hess
- Department of Oncology-Hematology, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Saint Gallen, Switzerland
| | - M Maur
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - S Cresta
- Department of Medical Oncology I, 'Montabone' Unit for New Drug Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto dei Tumori di Milano, Italy
| | - A Locatelli
- Department of Medical Oncology I, 'Montabone' Unit for New Drug Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto dei Tumori di Milano, Italy
| | - R Angst
- Department of Oncology-Hematology, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Saint Gallen, Switzerland
| | - F Rojo
- Molecular Therapeutics and Biomarkers in Breast Cancer Program, IMIM-Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Coceani
- Study Management Unit, Southern Europe New Drugs Organization, Milano, Italy
| | - V M Rivera
- Preclinical and Translational Research Unit
| | - L Berk
- Preclinical and Translational Research Unit
| | - F Haluska
- Clinical Research Unit, ARIAD Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - L Gianni
- Department of Medical Oncology I, 'Montabone' Unit for New Drug Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto dei Tumori di Milano, Italy.
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Small W, James J, Moore T, Fintel D, Lutz S, Movsas B, Suntharalingam M, Graces Y, Ivker R, Berk L. A Phase II Randomized Trial with Captopril in Patients Who Have Received Radiation Therapy +/- Chemotherapy for Stage II–IIIB Non–small Cell Lung Cancer and Stage I Central Non–small Cell Lung Cancer, or Limited-stage Small–cell Lung Cancer: RTOG 0123. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2009.07.1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Messidoro C, Berk L, Rietveld AP. History reveals the cause of rectal bleeding. Gut 2009; 58:1352, 1362. [PMID: 19749138 DOI: 10.1136/gut.2008.169193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Messidoro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sint Franciscus Gasthuis, Postbus 10900, 3004 BA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Petrofsky J, Bains G, Prowse M, Gunda S, Berk L, Raju C, Ethiraju G, Vanarasa D, Madani P. Does skin moisture influence the blood flow response to local heat? A re-evaluation of the Pennes model. J Med Eng Technol 2009; 33:532-7. [DOI: 10.1080/03091900902952683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Petrofsky J, Bains G, Prowse M, Gunda S, Berk L, Raju C, Ethiraju G, Vanarasa D, Madani P. Dry heat, moist heat and body fat: are heating modalities really effective in people who are overweight? J Med Eng Technol 2009; 33:361-9. [PMID: 19499453 DOI: 10.1080/03091900802355508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Surface heating modalities are commonly used in physical therapy and physical medicine for increasing circulation, especially in deep tissues, to promote healing. However, recent evidence seems to indicate that in people who are overweight, heat transfer is impaired by the subcutaneous fat layer. The present investigation was conducted on 10 subjects aged 22-54 years, whose body mass index averaged 25.8+/-4.6. Subcutaneous fat above the quadriceps muscle varied from 0.51 to 0.86 cm of thickness. Three heating modalities were examined: the application of dry heat with a commercial chemical heat pack, hydrocollator heat packs (providing a type of moist heat), and a whirlpool, where conductive heat loss through water contact would be very high. The temperature of the skin and the temperature in the muscle (25 mm below the skin surface) were assessed by thermocouples. The results of the experiments showed that for heating modalities that are maintained in skin contact for long periods of time, such as dry heat packs (in place for 6 hours), subcutaneous fat did not impair the change in deep muscle temperature. In contrast, when rapid heat modalities were used, such as the hydrocollator and the whirlpool (15 minutes of sustained skin contact), the transfer of heat from the skin to deep muscle was significantly impaired in people with thicker subcutaneous fat layers. We observed that the greater the impairment in heat transfer to muscle from skin covered by body fat, the warmer the skin temperature increase during the modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Petrofsky
- Department of Physical Therapy, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
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28
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Rivera V, DiRenzo R, Berk L, Wardwell S, Ning Y, Narasimhan N, Xu Q, Shakespeare W, Wang F, Clackson T. 553 POSTER AP24534: an orally active kinase inhibitor that targets multiple pro-angiogenic receptors and exhibits potent anti-tumor activity in vivo. EJC Suppl 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1359-6349(08)72487-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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29
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Berk L, Miller D, Clapham D, Loewy J, Mita M, Britten C, Poplin E, Bedrosian C, Clackson T, Rivera V. 321 POSTER A phase I trial evaluating pharmacodynamics of deforolimus (AP23573, MK-8669) delivered orally on multiple dosing schedules. EJC Suppl 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1359-6349(08)72255-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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30
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Berk M, Dodd S, Callaly P, Berk L, Fitzgerald P, de Castella AR, Filia S, Filia K, Tahtalian S, Biffin F, Kelin K, Smith M, Montgomery W, Kulkarni J. History of illness prior to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder. J Affect Disord 2007; 103:181-6. [PMID: 17324469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2007.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2006] [Revised: 01/23/2007] [Accepted: 01/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are obstacles to early identification of bipolar disorder. Identifying and treating illness early in its time course may be associated with a better prognosis. METHODS A questionnaire was administered at interview, when the participant was euthymic, to participants (n=240) enrolled in the Bipolar Comprehensive Outcomes Study (BCOS). Information was collected about the sequential timeline of specific symptoms of mental illness up to when they first received a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder or Schizoaffective Disorder. RESULTS Any symptoms of mental illness were first experienced at 17.5 years (median; Inter Quartile Range (IQR) 13.8-24.3; n=216) and mood swings at 18.0 years (IQR 14-25; n=197). Symptoms of depression were experienced at 18.0 years (IQR 14-25; n=197), a full episode of depression at 21.2 years (IQR 17-28.5; n=200), symptoms of mania at 21.0 years (IQR 16.8-29.5; n=212) and a full episode of mania at 24.1 years (IQR 19-30.5; n=205). Medical treatment was sought at 24.0 years (IQR 19-31.5; n=217). Participants received a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder or Schizoaffective Disorder at 30.0 years (IQR 23-37.3; n=215). Having had a previous diagnosis other than Bipolar Disorder or Schizoaffective Disorder was reported by 120 of 216 participants who answered this question, most commonly unipolar depression (26.6%). Diagnostic delay was greater in individuals with early onset disorder. CONCLUSIONS Participants typically experience a long sequential course of symptoms, episodes, treatments and diagnosis. The polarity of onset is most commonly depressive, and subthreshold symptoms tend to precede threshold symptoms of both polarities. LIMITATIONS Data were collected retrospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Berk
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Barwon Health, The University of Melbourne, PO Box 281, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia
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31
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Zachariah B, James J, Gwede CK, Ajani J, Chin L, Donath D, Kane BL, Rotman M, Berk L. RTOG 0315: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III study to determine the efficacy of octreotide acetate in preventing or reducing the severity of chemoradiation-induced diarrhea in patients with anal or rectal cancer. J Clin Oncol 2007. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2007.25.18_suppl.4032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
4032 Background: Diarrhea is a common side effect of chemoradiation for pelvic malignancies. Octreotide acetate has been shown to control grade 3–4 chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in >90% of patients. The primary objective of this randomized placebo-controlled phase III study was to determine the efficacy of long acting octreotide acetate in preventing the onset of grade 2–4 diarrhea. Secondary objectives were to assess the impact of diarrhea on chemoradiation delivery and medical resource utilization. Methods: Eligible patients (pts) with primary anal or rectal cancer, and scheduled to receive concurrent chemoradiation to a minimum dose of 45 Gy using pelvic field sizes greater than 10x10cm, were enrolled. Pts with history of pelvic radiotherapy, chronic bowel disease, diarrhea of grade ≥2, or colostomy were excluded from the study. Pts were stratified by RT dose (<50 Gy and ≥50 Gy), chemotherapy (bolus and continuous) and gender. Pts were randomized to receive two 30 mg intramuscular injections of octreotide acetate (Sandostatin LAR® Depot) or placebo. Injections were given between day -7 and day -4 and on day 22 (± 3 days) of RT. The primary endpoint was incidence of grade 2, 3, or 4 diarrhea (CTCAE v3.0). Assuming a 45% placebo incidence rate, a one-sided chi-square test (alpha 0.05) would require 226 pts to detect a 42% reduction in incidence due to octreotide acetate. Results: The study accrued 233 pts (215 analyzable), 106 pts in the placebo arm and 109 pts in the octreotide acetate arm. The majority of pts (80%) on each arm had rectal cancer. There was no statistically significant difference in incidence of grade 2+ diarrhea (p=0.21) with 52 (49%) and 48 (44%) in the placebo and octreotide acetate treatment arms, respectively. There was also no statistically significant difference between the treatment arms in chemoradiation delivery or medical resource utilization. Conclusions: Prophylactic use of octreotide acetate was not shown to significantly reduce the incidence of mild, moderate or severe diarrhea. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Zachariah
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - J. James
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - C. K. Gwede
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - J. Ajani
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - L. Chin
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - D. Donath
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - B. L. Kane
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - M. Rotman
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
| | - L. Berk
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Philadelphia, PA; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY; Notre Dame Hospital, Montreal, PQ, Canada; California Cancer Center, Fresno, CA; SUNY Brooklyn, New York, NY
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Scarantino C, Berk L, David F, Fisher J, Griffin P, Hartsell W, Konski A, Kuske R, Pilipich M, Scarantino C, Scott C, Sperduto P. Radiation Therapy Oncology Group. Research Plan 2002-2006. Cancer Prevention and Control Committee. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2002; 51:113-9. [PMID: 11641026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
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33
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Watkins Bruner D, Berk L, Bondy M, Kachnic LA, Konski A, Layne E, Lee WR, Choucair A, Movsas B, Okunieff P, Roach M, Scott C, Vijayakumar S, Wenzel L. Radiation Therapy Oncology Group. Research Plan 2002-2006. Outcomes Committee. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2002; 51:66-74. [PMID: 11641019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
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34
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Such J, Hillebrand DJ, Guarner C, Berk L, Zapater P, Westengard J, Peralta C, Soriano G, Pappas J, Runyon BA. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and nitric oxide in sterile ascitic fluid and serum from patients with cirrhosis who subsequently develop ascitic fluid infection. Dig Dis Sci 2001; 46:2360-6. [PMID: 11713936 DOI: 10.1023/a:1012342929326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Ascitic fluid infection probably results from repeated episodes of bacteremia and seeding of ascitic fluid. The outcome of these episodes of colonization is probably a function of serum and ascitic fluid defense mechanisms and the virulence of the organism. Patients who develop spontaneous bacterial peritonitis may have serum and ascitic fluid characteristics that are different from those who do not develop infection. We prospectively collected serum and ascitic fluid specimens at the time of admission from patients with sterile cirrhotic ascites, and tested these specimens for interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and nitric oxide and compared these results as well as other characteristics of patients who did not develop infection to those who did. An elevated baseline serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha as well as an increased proportion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in sterile ascitic fluid from patients who subsequently developed infection probably represent a subclinical activation of defense mechanisms from prior silent colonizations with bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Such
- Liver Unit, Hospital General Universitario, Alicante, Spain
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35
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Shiraishi T, Druck T, Mimori K, Flomenberg J, Berk L, Alder H, Miller W, Huebner K, Croce CM. Sequence conservation at human and mouse orthologous common fragile regions, FRA3B/FHIT and Fra14A2/Fhit. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2001; 98:5722-7. [PMID: 11320209 PMCID: PMC33280 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.091095898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that delayed DNA replication underlies fragility at common human fragile sites, but specific sequences responsible for expression of these inducible fragile sites have not been identified. One approach to identify such cis-acting sequences within the large nonexonic regions of fragile sites would be to identify conserved functional elements within orthologous fragile sites by interspecies sequence comparison. This study describes a comparison of orthologous fragile regions, the human FRA3B/FHIT and the murine Fra14A2/Fhit locus. We sequenced over 600 kbp of the mouse Fra14A2, covering the region orthologous to the fragile epicenter of FRA3B, and determined the Fhit deletion break points in a mouse kidney cancer cell line (RENCA). The murine Fra14A2 locus, like the human FRA3B, was characterized by a high AT content. Alignment of the two sequences showed that this fragile region was stable in evolution despite its susceptibility to mitotic recombination on inhibition of DNA replication. There were also several unusual highly conserved regions (HCRs). The positions of predicted matrix attachment regions (MARs), possibly related to replication origins, were not conserved. Of known fragile region landmarks, five cancer cell break points, one viral integration site, and one aphidicolin break cluster were located within or near HCRs. Thus, comparison of orthologous fragile regions has identified highly conserved sequences with possible functional roles in maintenance of fragility.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Shiraishi
- Kimmel Cancer Center, Jefferson Medical College, 233 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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36
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Berk L, van Gool AR, Bannink M, Kruit WH. [Side effects of interferon alfa]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 1999; 143:1461-4. [PMID: 10443261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Interferons are a class of glycoproteins whose properties include antiviral, immunomodulatory and antiproliferative effects. Immunotherapy with interferons is used in a variety of diseases, such as haemato-oncological disorders, solid tumours, viral hepatitis and multiple sclerosis. Due to their involvement in the regulation of a large number of physiological functions, many different side effects can occur. Flu-like syndromes, gastrointestinal complaints, fatigue, pain, increased susceptibility to infections, thyroid dysfunction and psychiatric side effects occur frequently with alfa-interferon. Side effects frequently necessitate interruption and dose reduction. Severe or even life-threatening side effects are not frequent but do occur. Patient education is an important promotor of patient compliance, as are proper detection and symptomatic treatment of the side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Berk
- Albert Schweitzer Ziekenhuis, afd. Interne Specialismen, Zwijndrecht
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37
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Mimori K, Druck T, Inoue H, Alder H, Berk L, Mori M, Huebner K, Croce CM. Cancer-specific chromosome alterations in the constitutive fragile region FRA3B. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1999; 96:7456-61. [PMID: 10377436 PMCID: PMC22107 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.96.13.7456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We have sequenced 870 kilobases of the FHIT/FRA3B locus, from FHIT intron 3 to intron 7. The locus is AT rich (61.5%) and Alu poor (6. 2%), and it apparently does not harbor other genes. In a detailed analysis of the 308-kilobase region between FHIT exon 5 and the telomeric end of intron 3, a region known to encompass a human papillomavirus-16 integration site and two clusters of aphidicolin-induced chromosome 3p14.2 breakpoints, we have precisely mapped 10 deletion and translocation endpoints in cancer-derived cell lines relative to positions of specific repetitive elements, regions of high genome flexibility and aphidicolin-induced breakpoints. Conclusions are (i) that aphidicolin-induced breakpoint clusters fall close to high-flexibility sequences, suggesting that these sequences contribute directly to aphidicolin-induced fragility; (ii) that 9 of the 10 FHIT allelic deletions in cancer cell lines resulted in loss of exons, with 7 deletion endpoints near long interspersed nuclear elements or long terminal repeat elements; and (iii) that cancer-specific deletions encompass multiple high-flexibility genomic regions, suggesting that fragile breaks may occur at these regions, whereas repair of the breaks involves homologous pairing of flanking sequences with concomitant deletion of the damaged fragile sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Mimori
- Kimmel Cancer Institute, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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38
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Druck T, Berk L, Huebner K. FHITness and cancer. Oncol Res 1999; 10:341-5. [PMID: 10063967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In early 1996, the Fragile Histidine Triad or FHIT gene (pronounced FIT) was cloned and shown to straddle the most fragile human chromosome site at chromosome band 3p14.2. The exceptionally large FHIT locus also encompasses a hereditary renal carcinoma associated chromosome translocation breakpoint and is very frequently altered by internal deletions in the most common human cancers. Germline alteration of one allele in familial cancer and deletions within the gene in sporadic cancers are hallmarks of tumor suppressor genes. Some of the DNA and RNA alterations exhibited by the FHIT gene in cancers showed features not previously encountered for known tumor suppressor genes, prompting a number of investigators to reject FHIT as a suppressor gene. However, evidence continues to accumulate, demonstrating that FHIT inactivation occurs in the majority of lung, gastric, cervical, and kidney carcinomas and that replacement of Fhit expression in such cancer cells suppresses their tumorigenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Druck
- Kimmel Cancer Center, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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39
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van der Aa RP, Berk L, Mahabier C, Ponssen HH, van Vliet AC. [An amebic abscess in the liver; early suspicion, late detection]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 1997; 141:2418. [PMID: 9678989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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40
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Berk L. An overview of radiotherapy trials for the treatment of brain metastases. Oncology (Williston Park) 1995; 9:1205-12; discussion 1212-6, 1219. [PMID: 8703690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
A review of the English literature was undertaken to (1) determine the efficacy of radiation therapy for the treatment of brain metastases, (2) identify prognostic factors, and (3) ascertain whether there is an effect of treatment technique on outcome. Critical analysis of relevant randomized trials indicated that radiation therapy can effectively palliate the symptoms of brain metastases. Prognostic factors for improved survival are good performance status and the absence of a non-central nervous system tumor. The most efficient treatment protocol is controversial, but the literature supports the use of 20 Gy in five fractions for the treatment of patients with a poor prognosis. Patients with a solitary brain metastasis and no systemic disease benefit from resection of the brain metastasis followed by postoperative radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Berk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, USA
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41
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Abstract
Radiation therapy is a proven technique to relieve the pain of bone metastases. Focal painful metastases can be palliated in up to 80 percent of patients. The technique to use for the treatment varies depending on the extent of disease, the prognosis of the patient and physician preference. Most studies indicate that the local treatment of bone metastases with single large treatments is as efficacious as extended courses of treatment. For patients with wide-spread disease, two forms of systemic radiotherapy are available: hemibody irradiation and intravenous injection of radionuclides. Studies have shown the combination of either focal irradiation and hemibody irradiation or focal irradiation and the injection of strontium (89) prolongs the pain-free duration of the patients. All palliative patients with symptomatic bone metastases should be evaluated for radiotherapy.
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42
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Heijtink RA, De Wilde GA, Kruining J, Berk L, Balzarini J, De Clercq E, Holy A, Schalm SW. Inhibitory effect of 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)-adenine (PMEA) on human and duck hepatitis B virus infection. Antiviral Res 1993; 21:141-53. [PMID: 8338351 DOI: 10.1016/0166-3542(93)90050-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
9-(2-Phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA) was evaluated for its inhibitory effect on hepadnavirus replication in three different cell systems, i.e., human hepatoma cell lines HepG2 2.2.15 and HB611 (transfected with human hepatitis B virus (HBV)) and primary cultures of duck hepatocytes infected with duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV). PMEA inhibited HBV release from HepG2 2.2.15 cells and HB611 cells at a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.7 and 1.2 microM, respectively. Intracellular viral DNA synthesis was inhibited at concentrations equivalent to those required to inhibit virus release from the cells. DHBV secretion from duck hepatocytes was inhibited by PMEA at an IC50 of 0.2 microM. HBsAg secretion was inhibited by PMEA in a concentration-dependent manner in HB611 cells and DHBV-infected duck hepatocytes but not HepG2 2.2.15 cells. The 50% cytotoxic concentration, as measured by inhibition of [3H-methyl]deoxythymidine incorporation was 150 microM for the two human hepatoma cell lines and 40 microM for the duck hepatocyte cultures. In a pilot experiment PMEA was found to reduce the amounts of DHBV DNA in the serum of Pekin ducks.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Heijtink
- Department of Virology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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43
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Janssen HL, Berk L, Heijtink RA, ten Kate FJ, Schalm SW. Interferon-alpha and zidovudine combination therapy for chronic hepatitis B: results of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Hepatology 1993; 17:383-8. [PMID: 8444411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Interferon-alpha therapy leads to HBeAg seroconversion in only one third of patients with chronic hepatitis B. In an attempt to increase the seroconversion rate, we investigated the combination of interferon-alpha and zidovudine in a subset of patients with presumably low response rates for interferon-alpha monotherapy. In a double-blind, controlled trial, 24 HBeAg-positive patients were randomized to receive lymphoblastoid interferon-alpha in subcutaneous doses increasing to 5 MU daily, combined with zidovudine given orally in doses increasing from 500 to 1,000 mg/day or with placebo for 16 wk. Treatment effects were monitored by quantitative assessment of HBV DNA, HBeAg and HBV DNA polymerase. Six months after termination of therapy, 1 of 12 (8%; 95% confidence interval = 2% to 39%) patients treated with interferon-alpha plus zidovudine and 2 of 12 (17%; 95% confidence interval 2% to 48%) patients from the control group exhibited responses (HBeAg seroconversion). All patients remained HBsAg positive. The only responder of the interferon-alpha-zidovudine group relapsed after cessation of therapy, so none of the zidovudine-treated patients were HBeAg negative at the end of follow-up. No significant difference in AST level or in any of the virological markers was observed between the two groups during the course of the study. Adverse effects (anemia, leukopenia) necessitated reduction in the dose of zidovudine in 50% and of interferon-alpha in 42% of the patients treated with interferon-alpha plus zidovudine; in the control group these rates were 0% for placebo and 8% for interferon-alpha. In conclusion, the antiviral effect of interferon-alpha in chronic hepatitis B was not enhanced by additional zidovudine treatment. The combination therapy induced considerable side effects leading to dose reduction for both zidovudine and interferon-alpha. For combination therapy with interferon-alpha, oral nucleoside analogs with more potent antiviral effects and less toxicity than zidovudine should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H L Janssen
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Dijkzigt, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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44
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Abstract
In chronic hepatitis B transition from active replication to viral latency (HBeAg seroconversion) usually leads to remission of the disease. alpha-Interferon (IFN) therapy induces HBeAg seroconversion in about one-third of the patients, thus leaving the majority of patients with persistent disease. Eighteen chronic hepatitis B patients who did not respond (HBeAg seroconversion and clearance of HBV-DNA) to an initial 16-week course of IFN subsequently received IFN again after at least 6 months of no therapy. The repeated therapy consisted of 1.5-5 MU lymphoblastoid IFN daily for 16 weeks. Treatment effects were monitored by quantitative measurement of HBeAg and HBV-DNA. To analyze whether the results were related to patient characteristics known to affect the response to initial treatment, a predicted response rate, based on pre-treatment factors, was determined. After a follow-up of 52 weeks, 2 of the 18 patients (11%) had responded to therapy. Two additional patients became HBV-DNA-negative with sustained HBeAg positivity. All patients remained HBsAg-positive. According to the pre-treatment parameters, a response was predicted for 9 of the 18 patients (50%). This predicted response rate was significantly higher than the actual response rate (p = 0.03). In conclusion, this pilot study with moderate dosages of IFN suggests that the HBeAg seroconversion rate after repeated IFN treatment is low for previous non-responders and probably is not related to important clinical characteristics that influence the response to initial IFN treatment. A large controlled trial with higher doses of IFN is desirable to further evaluate the benefits of retreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- H L Janssen
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Dijkzigt, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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45
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Janssen HL, Berk L, Schalm SW, Heijtink RA, Hess G, Rossol S, Meyer zum Buschenfelde KH, Chamuleau RA, Jansen PL, Reesink HW. Antiviral effect of prolonged intermittent lymphoblastoid alpha interferon treatment in chronic hepatitis B. Gut 1992; 33:1094-8. [PMID: 1398234 PMCID: PMC1379449 DOI: 10.1136/gut.33.8.1094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In a European multicentre study 40 patients with HBeAg positive chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection were treated with 5 mega units of lymphoblastoid alpha-interferon daily according to the following regimen: a four week primer course, four weeks of rest and a second course lasting 16 to 30 weeks. After 52 weeks of follow up, a response (HBeAg seroconversion and HBV-DNA negativity) was observed in 22 patients (55%). HBsAg seroconversion occurred in five patients (12.5%). One patient exhibited a relapse for serum HBeAg and HBV-DNA after cessation of treatment. According to a response prediction model, the observed response rate was not related to the selection of patients likely to respond. The initial interferon course induced a reduction of the serum HBV-DNA and HBeAg levels of 87% and 18%, respectively, leading to a significantly lower level of viral replication activity at the start of the second longterm course compared with baseline. After 24 weeks of follow up (week 16 of the second course), 19 (48%) patients exhibited a response, 13 (32%) a partial response (HBeAg < 50% of initial level or HBV-DNA negative) and 8 (20%) no response. For eight of the 13 partial responders treatment was stopped at week 24 and viral replication rebounded to pretreatment values. In the last five partial responders prolongation of therapy up to week 38 led to a definite response and HBsAg seroconversion in three of the five patients. The results of this study suggest that a short primer course and prolongation of therapy may help to enhance the response rate of alpha-interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis type B.
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Affiliation(s)
- H L Janssen
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Dijkzigt, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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46
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Abstract
Hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase is a viral enzyme that can use viral DNA as well as viral RNA as a template for DNA synthesis. Since both activities are essential for the production of new virus particles, blocking of this enzyme should reduce viral replication. In the present study the in vitro effect of zidovudine triphosphate on hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase activity and the in vivo effect of zidovudine on viral replication in chronic HBsAg-positive patients are investigated. Zidovudine triphosphate inhibited in vitro DNA polymerase activity by 50% at a concentration of 0.3 microM. Serum DNA polymerase activity was significantly reduced in 7 patients who received zidovudine (200 mg orally 4 times daily) for one week. A dose-response effect was suggested by the results found for 6 patients who received 100 mg, 200 mg and 300 mg orally 4 times daily for one week with 2 drug-free weeks between each course. We conclude that zidovudine may be of value for non-responders to alpha-interferon therapy or patients with high initial levels of viral replication prior to the start of interferon treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Berk
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Dijkzigt, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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47
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Janssen HL, Berk L, de Man RA, Heijtink RA, Schalm SW. [Alpha-interferon antiviral treatment in 100 patients with chronic hepatitis B]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 1992; 136:835-9. [PMID: 1522928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In a retrospective study we investigated the antiviral effect of alpha-interferon in 100 patients with chronic hepatitis B who were treated in controlled trials conducted in Rotterdam (1985-1990). The aim of the treatment was to induce viral latency as indicated by HBeAg seroconversion. Alpha-interferon was administered in a dose of 5 mega-units per day subcutaneously. Sixty-two patients received alpha-interferon for 16 weeks combined with a second antiviral agent (acyclovir or descyclovir) while the other 38 patients were treated with alpha-interferon monotherapy during 20 to 34 weeks. Follow-up continued until 1 year after the start of therapy. Thirty-eight per cent of the patients exhibited an HBeAg seroconversion and 9% exhibited an HBsAg seroconversion indicating a complete eradication of the virus. After 1 year transaminase levels were normalised in 70% of the patients with HBeAg seroconversion compared with 22% in those without seroconversion (p less than 0.05). The combination therapy for 16 weeks and the alpha-interferon monotherapy of longer duration resulted in HBeAg seroconversion rates of 29% and 53%, respectively (p less than 0.05). The predominant adverse effects were fatigue, flue-like illness and leukopenia. Serious side effects such as seizures, psychosis and peripheral neuropathy occurred in seven patients. Side effects led to a dose reduction in 26% of the patients. Alpha-interferon is effective in terminating the virus replication in chronic hepatitis B. However, both the common mild and the uncommon major side effects necessitate intensive patient monitoring during alpha-interferon treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- H L Janssen
- Afd. Inwendige Geneeskunde, Academisch Ziekenhuis Rotterdam-Dijkzigt
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48
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Berk L, Schalm SW, de Man RA, Heytink RA, Berthelot P, Brechot C, Boboc B, Degos F, Marcellin P, Benhamou JP. Failure of acyclovir to enhance the antiviral effect of alpha lymphoblastoid interferon on HBe-seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B. A multi-centre randomized controlled trial. J Hepatol 1992; 14:305-9. [PMID: 1500694 DOI: 10.1016/0168-8278(92)90175-o] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Serum HBeAg levels and HBe-seroconversion were investigated in patients with chronic HBeAg-positive hepatitis who were randomized to receive either alpha lymphoblastoid interferon (5 megaunits subcutaneously daily for 16 weeks) plus acyclovir (2 g intravenously daily during weeks 1 and 2 and weeks 9 and 10) (n = 49) or no treatment (n = 48). HBeAg levels in serial dilutions of patient serum were assessed quantitatively by radioimmunoassay and compared with the values found for negative control serum. One year after the start of therapy 44 treated patients and 43 control patients were available for follow-up. A complete response (HBe-seroconversion) occurred in 11 treated patients (25%) and six controls (14%) (difference: 11%, 95% CI-5-28%). A partial response (HBeAg less than 50% of initial level) was found significantly more often for treated patients (n = 13, 30%) than for controls (n = 2, 5%) (difference: 25%, 95% CI 10-40%). During acyclovir-interferon combination therapy the decrease in HBeAg level was similar to that achieved during therapy with interferon alone. We conclude that acyclovir does not enhance the effect of interferon on serum HBeAg levels. Since HBeAg levels continue to decline during interferon treatment and rebound thereafter to pretreatment levels, prolongation of therapy may yield a higher response rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Berk
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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49
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50
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Abstract
Severe chronic active hepatitis, defined as the presence of a fivefold increase in serum aminotransferases and a twofold rise in gamma globulin for at least 10 weeks, is considered a progressive immunological liver disease requiring corticosteroid treatment, particularly when serum autoantibodies and a severe lymphoplasmacellular periportal infiltrate are found in the liver biopsy specimen. A 38 year old man who fulfilled the criteria for severe chronic active hepatitis is described. His sex, his homosexuality, and the presence of antibodies against HIV, however, led to the suspicion of a coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) rather than autoimmune disease. The rapid and complete response to alpha interferon treatment and a recently available positive antibody test for HCV supported this view. These findings indicate that a HCV related chronic active hepatitis can present as the severe autoimmune type of chronic active hepatitis. Moreover, as in HBV infection, the response to treatment differs from that of autoimmune severe chronic active hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Berk
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Dijkzigt, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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