Development and evaluations of the ancestry informative markers of the VISAGE Enhanced Tool for Appearance and Ancestry

The VISAGE Enhanced Tool for Appearance and Ancestry (ET) has been designed to combine markers for the prediction of bio-geographical ancestry plus a range of externally visible characteristics into a single massively parallel sequencing (MPS) assay. We describe the development of the ancestry panel markers used in ET, and the enhanced analyses they provide compared to previous MPS-based forensic ancestry assays. As well as established autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that differentiate sub-Saharan African, European, East Asian, South Asian, Native American, and Oceanian populations, ET includes autosomal SNPs able to efficiently differentiate populations from Middle East regions. The ability of the ET autosomal ancestry SNPs to distinguish Middle East populations from other continentally defined population groups is such that characteristic patterns for this region can be discerned in genetic cluster analysis using STRUCTURE. Joint cluster membership estimates showing individual co-ancestry that signals North African or East African origins were detected, or cluster patterns were seen that indicate origins from central and Eastern regions of the Middle East. In addition to an augmented panel of autosomal SNPs, ET includes panels of 85 Y-SNPs, 16 X-SNPs and 21 autosomal Microhaplotypes. The Y- and X-SNPs provide a distinct method for obtaining extra detail about co-ancestry patterns identified in males with admixed backgrounds. This study used the 1000 Genomes admixed African and admixed American sample sets to fully explore these enhancements to the analysis of individual co-ancestry. Samples from urban and rural Brazil with contrasting distributions of African, European, and Native American co-ancestry were also studied to gauge the efficiency of combining Y- and X-SNP data for this purpose. The small panel of Microhaplotypes incorporated in ET were selected because they showed the highest levels of haplotype diversity amongst the seven population groups we sought to differentiate. Microhaplotype data was not formally combined with single-site SNP genotypes to analyse ancestry. However, the haplotype sequence reads obtained with ET from these loci creates an effective system for de-convoluting two-contributor mixed DNA. We made simple mixture experiments to demonstrate that when the contributors have different ancestries and the mixture ratios are imbalanced (i.e., not 1:1 mixtures) the ET Microhaplotype panel is an informative system to infer ancestry when this differs between the contributors.

The effect of TGF-β1 polymorphisms on pulmonary disease progression in patients with cystic fibrosis

Background

Transforming Growth Factor-β₁ (TGF-β₁) is a genetic modifier in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TGF-β₁ are associated with neutrophilic inflammation, lung fibrosis and loss of pulmonary function.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between genetic TGF-β₁ polymorphisms and pulmonary disease progression in CF patients. Furthermore, the effect of TGF-β₁ polymorphisms on inflammatory cytokines in sputum was investigated.

Methods

56 CF-patients and 62 controls were genotyped for three relevant SNPs in their TGF-β₁ sequence using the SNaPshot® technique. Individual “slopes” in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁) for all patients were calculated by using documented lung function values of the previous five years. The status of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) infection was determined. Sputum concentrations of the protease elastase, the serine protease inhibitor elafin and the cytokines IL-1β, IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α were measured after a standardized sputum induction and processing.

Results

The homozygous TT genotype at codon 10 was associated with a lower rate of chronic Pa infection (p < 0.05). The heterozygous GC genotype at codon 25 was associated with lower lung function decline (p < 0.05). Patients with homozygous TT genotype at the promotor SNP showed higher levels of TNF-α (p < 0,05). Higher levels of TGF-β₁ in plasma were associated with a more rapid FEV₁ decline over five years (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that polymorphisms in the TGF-β₁ gene have an effect on lung function decline, Pa infection as well as levels of inflammatory cytokines. Genotyping these polymorphisms could potentially be used to identify CF patients with higher risk of disease progression. TGF-β₁ inhibition could potentially be developed as a new therapeutic option to modulate CF lung disease.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-022-01977-1.

Textbook outcome following oesophagectomy for cancer: international cohort study

Background

Textbook outcome has been proposed as a tool for the assessment of oncological surgical care. However, an international assessment in patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer has not been reported. This study aimed to assess textbook outcome in an international setting.

Methods

Patients undergoing curative resection for oesophageal cancer were identified from the international Oesophagogastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA) from April 2018 to December 2018. Textbook outcome was defined as the percentage of patients who underwent a complete tumour resection with at least 15 lymph nodes in the resected specimen and an uneventful postoperative course, without hospital readmission. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors independently associated with textbook outcome, and results are presented as odds ratio (OR) and 95 per cent confidence intervals (95 per cent c.i.).

Results

Of 2159 patients with oesophageal cancer, 39.7 per cent achieved a textbook outcome. The outcome parameter ‘no major postoperative complication’ had the greatest negative impact on a textbook outcome for patients with oesophageal cancer, compared to other textbook outcome parameters. Multivariable analysis identified male gender and increasing Charlson comorbidity index with a significantly lower likelihood of textbook outcome. Presence of 24-hour on-call rota for oesophageal surgeons (OR 2.05, 95 per cent c.i. 1.30 to 3.22; P = 0.002) and radiology (OR 1.54, 95 per cent c.i. 1.05 to 2.24; P = 0.027), total minimally invasive oesophagectomies (OR 1.63, 95 per cent c.i. 1.27 to 2.08; P &lt; 0.001), and chest anastomosis above azygous (OR 2.17, 95 per cent c.i. 1.58 to 2.98; P &lt; 0.001) were independently associated with a significantly increased likelihood of textbook outcome.

Conclusion

Textbook outcome is achieved in less than 40 per cent of patients having oesophagectomy for cancer. Improvements in centralization, hospital resources, access to minimal access surgery, and adoption of newer techniques for improving lymph node yield could improve textbook outcome.

Textbook outcome following oesophagectomy for cancer: international cohort study

BACKGROUND

Textbook outcome has been proposed as a tool for the assessment of oncological surgical care. However, an international assessment in patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer has not been reported. This study aimed to assess textbook outcome in an international setting.

METHODS

Patients undergoing curative resection for oesophageal cancer were identified from the international Oesophagogastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA) from April 2018 to December 2018. Textbook outcome was defined as the percentage of patients who underwent a complete tumour resection with at least 15 lymph nodes in the resected specimen and an uneventful postoperative course, without hospital readmission. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors independently associated with textbook outcome, and results are presented as odds ratio (OR) and 95 per cent confidence intervals (95 per cent c.i.).

RESULTS

Of 2159 patients with oesophageal cancer, 39.7 per cent achieved a textbook outcome. The outcome parameter 'no major postoperative complication' had the greatest negative impact on a textbook outcome for patients with oesophageal cancer, compared to other textbook outcome parameters. Multivariable analysis identified male gender and increasing Charlson comorbidity index with a significantly lower likelihood of textbook outcome. Presence of 24-hour on-call rota for oesophageal surgeons (OR 2.05, 95 per cent c.i. 1.30 to 3.22; P = 0.002) and radiology (OR 1.54, 95 per cent c.i. 1.05 to 2.24; P = 0.027), total minimally invasive oesophagectomies (OR 1.63, 95 per cent c.i. 1.27 to 2.08; P < 0.001), and chest anastomosis above azygous (OR 2.17, 95 per cent c.i. 1.58 to 2.98; P < 0.001) were independently associated with a significantly increased likelihood of textbook outcome.

CONCLUSION

Textbook outcome is achieved in less than 40 per cent of patients having oesophagectomy for cancer. Improvements in centralization, hospital resources, access to minimal access surgery, and adoption of newer techniques for improving lymph node yield could improve textbook outcome.

Pathophysiology of Demineralization, Part I: Attrition, Erosion, Abfraction, and Noncarious Cervical Lesions

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

Compare pathophysiology for infectious and noninfectious demineralization disease relative to mineral maintenance, physiologic fluoride levels, and mechanical degradation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Environmental acidity, biomechanics, and intercrystalline percolation of endemic fluoride regulate resistance to demineralization relative to osteopenia, noncarious cervical lesions, and dental caries. Demineralization is the most prevalent chronic disease in the world: osteoporosis (OP) >10%, dental caries ~100%. OP is severely debilitating while caries is potentially fatal. Mineralized tissues have a common physiology: cell-mediated apposition, protein matrix, fluid logistics (blood, saliva), intercrystalline ion percolation, cyclic demineralization/remineralization, and acid-based degradation (microbes, clastic cells). Etiology of demineralization involves fluid percolation, metabolism, homeostasis, biomechanics, mechanical wear (attrition or abrasion), and biofilm-related infections. Bone mineral density measurement assesses skeletal mass. Attrition, abrasion, erosion, and abfraction are diagnosed visually, but invisible subsurface caries <400μm cannot be detected. Controlling demineralization at all levels is an important horizon for cost-effective wellness worldwide.

Pathophysiology of Demineralization, Part II: Enamel White Spots, Cavitated Caries, and Bone Infection

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Compare noninfectious (part I) to infectious (part II) demineralization of bones and teeth. Evaluate similarities and differences in the expression of hard tissue degradation for the two most common chronic demineralization diseases: osteoporosis and dental caries.

RECENT FINDINGS

The physiology of demineralization is similar for the sterile skeleton compared to the septic dentition. Superimposing the pathologic variable of infection reveals a unique pathophysiology for dental caries. Mineralized tissues are compromised by microdamage, demineralization, and infection. Osseous tissues remodel (turnover) to maintain structural integrity, but the heavily loaded dentition does not turnover so it is ultimately at risk of collapse. A carious tooth is a potential vector for periapical infection that may be life-threatening. Insipient caries is initiated as a subsurface decalcification in enamel that is not detectable until a depth of ~400μm when it becomes visible as a white spot. Reliable detection and remineralization of invisible caries would advance cost-effective wellness worldwide.

Technique of open and minimally invasive intrathoracic reconstruction following esophagectomy-an expert consensus based on a modified Delphi process

BACKGROUND

In recent years, minimally invasive Ivor Lewis (IL) esophagectomy with high intrathoracic anastomosis has emerged as surgical standard of care for esophageal cancer in expert centers. Alongside this process, many divergent technical aspects of this procedure have been devised in different centers. This study aims at achieving international consensus on the surgical steps of IL reconstruction using Delphi methodology.

METHODS

The expert panel consisted of specialized esophageal surgeons from 8 European countries. During a two-round Delphi process, a detailed analysis and consensus on key steps of intrathoracic gastric tube reconstruction (IL esophagectomy) was performed.

RESULTS

Response rates in Delphi rounds 1 and 2 were 100% (22 of 22 experts) and 83.3% (20 of 24 experts), respectively. Three essential technical areas of intrathoracic gastric tube reconstruction were identified: first, vascularization of the gastric conduit, second, gastric mobilization, tube formation and pull-up, and third, anastomotic technique. In addition, 3 main techniques for minimally invasive intrathoracic anastomosis are currently practiced: (i) end-to-side circular stapled, (ii) end-to-side double stapling, and (iii) side-to-side linear stapled technique. The step-by-step procedural analysis unveiled common approaches but also different expert practice.

CONCLUSION

This precise technical description may serve as a clinical guideline for intrathoracic reconstruction after esophagectomy. In addition, the results may aid to harmonize the technical evolution of this complex surgical procedure and thereby facilitate surgical training.

Postoperative outcomes in oesophagectomy with trainee involvement

BACKGROUND

The complexity of oesophageal surgery and the significant risk of morbidity necessitates that oesophagectomy is predominantly performed by a consultant surgeon, or a senior trainee under their supervision. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of trainee involvement in oesophagectomy on postoperative outcomes in an international multicentre setting.

METHODS

Data from the multicentre Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Study Group (OGAA) cohort study were analysed, which comprised prospectively collected data from patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer between April 2018 and December 2018. Procedures were grouped by the level of trainee involvement, and univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to compare patient outcomes across groups.

RESULTS

Of 2232 oesophagectomies from 137 centres in 41 countries, trainees were involved in 29.1 per cent of them (n = 650), performing only the abdominal phase in 230, only the chest and/or neck phases in 130, and all phases in 315 procedures. For procedures with a chest anastomosis, those with trainee involvement had similar 90-day mortality, complication and reoperation rates to consultant-performed oesophagectomies (P = 0.451, P = 0.318, and P = 0.382, respectively), while anastomotic leak rates were significantly lower in the trainee groups (P = 0.030). Procedures with a neck anastomosis had equivalent complication, anastomotic leak, and reoperation rates (P = 0.150, P = 0.430, and P = 0.632, respectively) in trainee-involved versus consultant-performed oesophagectomies, with significantly lower 90-day mortality in the trainee groups (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Trainee involvement was not found to be associated with significantly inferior postoperative outcomes for selected patients undergoing oesophagectomy. The results support continued supervised trainee involvement in oesophageal cancer surgery.

Risk Prediction Model of 90-Day Mortality After Esophagectomy for Cancer

Importance

Ninety-day mortality rates after esophagectomy are an indicator of the quality of surgical oncologic management. Accurate risk prediction based on large data sets may aid patients and surgeons in making informed decisions.

Objective

To develop and validate a risk prediction model of death within 90 days after esophagectomy for cancer using the International Esodata Study Group (IESG) database, the largest existing prospective, multicenter cohort reporting standardized postoperative outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this diagnostic/prognostic study, we performed a retrospective analysis of patients from 39 institutions in 19 countries between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019. Patients with esophageal cancer were randomly assigned to development and validation cohorts. A scoring system that predicted death within 90 days based on logistic regression β coefficients was conducted. A final prognostic score was determined and categorized into homogeneous risk groups that predicted death within 90 days. Calibration and discrimination tests were assessed between cohorts.

Exposures

Esophageal resection for cancer of the esophagus and gastroesophageal junction.

Main Outcomes and Measures

All-cause postoperative 90-day mortality.

Results

A total of 8403 patients (mean [SD] age, 63.6 [9.0] years; 6641 [79.0%] male) were included. The 30-day mortality rate was 2.0% (n = 164), and the 90-day mortality rate was 4.2% (n = 353). Development (n = 4172) and validation (n = 4231) cohorts were randomly assigned. The multiple logistic regression model identified 10 weighted point variables factored into the prognostic score: age, sex, body mass index, performance status, myocardial infarction, connective tissue disease, peripheral vascular disease, liver disease, neoadjuvant treatment, and hospital volume. The prognostic scores were categorized into 5 risk groups: very low risk (score, ≥1; 90-day mortality, 1.8%), low risk (score, 0; 90-day mortality, 3.0%), medium risk (score, -1 to -2; 90-day mortality, 5.8%), high risk (score, -3 to -4: 90-day mortality, 8.9%), and very high risk (score, ≤-5; 90-day mortality, 18.2%). The model was supported by nonsignificance in the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. The discrimination (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.64-0.72) in the development cohort and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.60-0.69) in the validation cohort.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, on the basis of preoperative variables, the IESG risk prediction model allowed stratification of an individual patient's risk of death within 90 days after esophagectomy. These data suggest that this model can help in the decision-making process when esophageal cancer surgery is being considered and in informed consent.

Three-dimensional condylar changes from Herbst appliance and multibracket treatment: A comparison with matched Class II elastics

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to quantify and qualify the 3-dimensional (3D) condylar changes using mandibular 3D regional superimposition techniques in adolescent patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusions treated with either a 2-phase or single-phase approach.

METHODS

Twenty patients with Herbst appliances who met the inclusion criteria and had cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images taken before, 8 weeks after Herbst removal, and after the completion of multibracket appliance treatment constituted the Herbst group. They were compared with 11 subjects with Class II malocclusion who were treated with elastics and multibracket appliances and who had CBCT images taken before and after treatment. Three-dimensional models generated from the CBCT images were registered on the mandible using 3D voxel-based superimposition techniques and analyzed using semitransparent overlays and point-to-point measurements.

RESULTS

The magnitude of lateral condylar growth during the orthodontic phase (T2-T3) was greater than that during the orthopedic phase (T1-T2) for all condylar fiducials with the exception of the superior condyle (P <0.05). Conversely, posterior condylar growth was greater during the orthopedic phase than the subsequent orthodontic phase for all condylar fiducials (P <0.05). The magnitude of vertical condylar development was similar during both the orthopedic (T1-T2) and orthodontic phases (T2-T3) across all condylar fiducials (P <0.05). Posterior condylar growth during the orthodontic phase (T2-T3) of the 2-phase approach decreased for all condylar fiducials with the exception of the posterior condylar fiducial (P <0.05) when compared with the single-phase approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Two-phase treatment using a Herbst appliance accelerates condylar growth when compared with a single-phase regime with Class II elastics. Whereas the posterior condylar growth manifested primarily during the orthopedic phase, the vertical condylar gains occurred in equal magnitude throughout both phases of the 2-phase treatment regime.

Diagnostic criteria and symptom grading for delayed gastric conduit emptying after esophagectomy for cancer: international expert consensus based on a modified Delphi process

Delayed gastric conduit emptying (DGCE) after esophagectomy for cancer is associated with adverse outcomes and troubling symptoms. Widely accepted diagnostic criteria and a symptom grading tool for DGCE are missing. This hampers the interpretation and comparison of studies. A modified Delphi process, using repeated web-based questionnaires, combined with live interim group discussions was conducted by 33 experts within the field, from Europe, North America, and Asia. DGCE was divided into early DGCE if present within 14 days of surgery and late if present later than 14 days after surgery. The final criteria for early DGCE, accepted by 25 of 27 (93%) experts, were as follows: >500 mL diurnal nasogastric tube output measured on the morning of postoperative day 5 or later or >100% increased gastric tube width on frontal chest x-ray projection together with the presence of an air-fluid level. The final criteria for late DGCE accepted by 89% of the experts were as follows: the patient should have 'quite a bit' or 'very much' of at least two of the following symptoms; early satiety/fullness, vomiting, nausea, regurgitation or inability to meet caloric need by oral intake and delayed contrast passage on upper gastrointestinal water-soluble contrast radiogram or on timed barium swallow. A symptom grading tool for late DGCE was constructed grading each symptom as: 'not at all', 'a little', 'quite a bit', or 'very much', generating 0, 1, 2, or 3 points, respectively. For the five symptoms retained in the diagnostic criteria for late DGCE, the minimum score would be 0, and the maximum score would be 15. The final symptom grading tool for late DGCE was accepted by 27 of 31 (87%) experts. For the first time, diagnostic criteria for early and late DGCE and a symptom grading tool for late DGCE are available, based on an international expert consensus process.

Role of intravoxel incoherent motion parameters in gastroesophageal cancer: relationship with 18F-FDG-positron emission tomography, computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance perfusion imaging parameters

BACKGROUND

Identification of pretherapeutic predictive markers in gastro-esophageal cancer is essential for individual-oriented treatment. This study evaluated the relationship of multimodality parameters derived from intravoxel incoherent motion method (IVIM), 18F-FDG-positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (CT) perfusion and dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with gastro-esophageal cancer and investigated their histopathological correlation.

METHODS

Thirty-one consecutive patients (28 males; median age 63.9 years; range 37-84 years) with gastro-esophageal adenocarcinoma (N.=22) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (N.=9) were analyzed. IVIM parameters: pseudodiffusion (D*), perfusion fraction (fp), true diffusion (D) and the threshold b-value (bval); PET-parameters: SUV<inf>max</inf>, metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG); CT perfusion parameters: blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV) and mean transit time (MTT); and MR perfusion parameters: time to enhance, positive enhancement integral, time-to-peak (TTP), maximum-slope-of-increase, and maximum-slope-of-decrease were determined, and correlated to each other and to histopathology.

RESULTS

IVIM and PET parameters showed significant negative correlations: MTV and bval (r<inf>s</inf> =-0.643, P=0.002), TLG and bval (r<inf>s</inf>=-0.699, P<0.01) and TLG and fp (r<inf>s</inf>=-0.577, P=0.006). Positive correlation was found for TLG and D (r<inf>s</inf>=0.705, P=0.000). Negative correlation was found for bval and staging (r<inf>s</inf>=0.590, P=0.005). Positive correlation was found for positive enhancement interval and BV (r<inf>s</inf>=0.547, P=0.007), BF and regression index (r<inf>s</inf>=0.753, P=0.005) and for time-to-peak and staging (r<inf>s</inf>=0.557, P=0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

IVIM parameters (bval, fp, D) provide quantitative information and correlate with PET parameters (MTV, TLG) and staging. IVIM might be a useful tool for additional characterization of gastro-esophageal cancer.

Distribution of lymph node metastases in esophageal carcinoma [TIGER study]: study protocol of a multinational observational study

BACKGROUND

An important parameter for survival in patients with esophageal carcinoma is lymph node status. The distribution of lymph node metastases depends on tumor characteristics such as tumor location, histology, invasion depth, and on neoadjuvant treatment. The exact distribution is unknown. Neoadjuvant treatment and surgical strategy depends on the distribution pattern of nodal metastases but consensus on the extent of lymphadenectomy has not been reached. The aim of this study is to determine the distribution of lymph node metastases in patients with resectable esophageal or gastro-esophageal junction carcinoma in whom a transthoracic esophagectomy with a 2- or 3-field lymphadenectomy is performed. This can be the foundation for a uniform worldwide staging system and establishment of the optimal surgical strategy for esophageal cancer patients.

METHODS

The TIGER study is an international observational cohort study with 50 participating centers. Patients with a resectable esophageal or gastro-esophageal junction carcinoma in whom a transthoracic esophagectomy with a 2- or 3-field lymphadenectomy is performed in participating centers will be included. All lymph node stations will be excised and separately individually analyzed by pathological examination. The aim is to include 5000 patients. The primary endpoint is the distribution of lymph node metastases in esophageal and esophago-gastric junction carcinoma specimens following transthoracic esophagectomy with at least 2-field lymphadenectomy in relation to tumor histology, tumor location, invasion depth, number of lymph nodes and lymph node metastases, pre-operative diagnostics, neo-adjuvant therapy and (disease free) survival.

DISCUSSION

The TIGER study will provide a roadmap of the location of lymph node metastases in relation to tumor histology, tumor location, invasion depth, number of lymph nodes and lymph node metastases, pre-operative diagnostics, neo-adjuvant therapy and survival. Patient-tailored treatment can be developed based on these results, such as the optimal radiation field and extent of lymphadenectomy based on the primary tumor characteristics.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03222895 , date of registration: July 19th, 2017.

International consensus on a complications list after gastrectomy for cancer

BACKGROUND

Perioperative complications can affect outcomes after gastrectomy for cancer, with high mortality and morbidity rates ranging between 10 and 40%. The absence of a standardized system for recording complications generates wide variation in evaluating their impacts on outcomes and hinders proposals of quality-improvement projects. The aim of this study was to provide a list of defined gastrectomy complications approved through international consensus.

METHODS

The Gastrectomy Complications Consensus Group consists of 34 European gastric cancer experts who are members of the International Gastric Cancer Association. A group meeting established the work plan for study implementation through Delphi surveys. A consensus was reached regarding a set of standardized methods to define gastrectomy complications.

RESULTS

A standardized list of 27 defined complications (grouped into 3 intraoperative, 14 postoperative general, and 10 postoperative surgical complications) was created to provide a simple but accurate template for recording individual gastrectomy complications. A consensus was reached for both the list of complications that should be considered major adverse events after gastrectomy for cancer and their specific definitions. The study group also agreed that an assessment of each surgical case should be completed at patient discharge and 90 days postoperatively using a Complication Recording Sheet.

CONCLUSION

The list of defined complications (soon to be validated in an international multicenter study) and the ongoing development of an electronic datasheet app to record them provide the basic infrastructure to reach the ultimate goals of standardized international data collection, establishment of benchmark results, and fostering of quality-improvement projects.

The evolution of surgical approach for esophageal cancer

Esophageal surgery for esophageal cancer has been performed for over a century now. Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) was first described in 1992, and it is now a standard approach in many countries. However, MIE is technically difficult and requires a long learning curve. It takes >100 cases to train for MIE with gastric tube reconstruction with an intrathoracic anastomosis. A possible option to overcome several challenges of MIE might be the use of a robotic system. A robot-assisted MIE was first described in 2005, and long-term results have shown its feasibility and safety. Over the years, different approaches for esophagectomy have been established. Our review discusses these developments and recent literature on open, minimally invasive and robotic esophageal surgery.

Three-dimensional treatment outcomes in Class II patients with different vertical facial patterns treated with the Herbst appliance

INTRODUCTION

The aims of this study were to evaluate, using 3-dimensional superimposition techniques, the skeletal changes in Class II subjects with different vertical facial patterns treated with the Herbst appliance and to compare these skeletal changes to those of Class II controls treated with elastics.

METHODS

Sixteen Herbst patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into 2 equal groups based on vertical facial pattern as determined by the Frankfort mandibular plane angle (brachyfacial, ≤22°; mesofacial, 23°-29°) and had cone-beam computed tomographs taken before treatment, 8 weeks after Herbst appliance removal, and after subsequent fixed appliance treatment. Eleven Class II control patients treated with fixed appliances and elastics had cone-beam computed tomographs taken before and after treatment. Three-dimensional models were generated from the cone-beam computed tomography images, registered on the anterior cranial bases, and analyzed using color maps and point-to-point measurements.

RESULTS

There were minimal differences in treatment response between the 2 Herbst groups across all skeletal parameters measured. The Herbst subjects showed a greater inferior displacement of anterior nasal spine compared with the Class II controls (Herbst brachyfacial, -1.44 mm; Herbst mesofacial, -1.95 mm) with other maxillary changes being clinically insignificant. The Herbst subjects showed greater inferior displacement of B-point compared with the Class II controls (Herbst brachyfacial, -2.59 mm; Herbst mesofacial, -2.75 mm). There were no statistically significant differences in mean linear mandibular measurements. All groups showed a trend toward posterior displacement of the condyles and glenoid fossae from the start to the end of treatment, with no significant differences across the 3 groups. There were minimal differences in the changes in gonial angle and Frankfort mandibular plane angle across all groups.

CONCLUSION

Approximately 2 years after Herbst treatment, the Herbst subjects with different vertical facial patterns showed similar patterns of skeletal change compared with the Class II controls treated with elastics.

Endemic Molar Incisor Hypomineralization: a Pandemic Problem That Requires Monitoring by the Entire Health Care Community

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review brings a major, previously under-recognized dental and general health problem to the attention of the medical and scientific community. The goals are to help clinicians make early diagnoses, thereby improving treatment outcomes, and to stimulate increasing research efforts to understand the etiology and ultimately prevention.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are two recent systematic reviews of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH). One reveals the global burden of the condition; mean global prevalence is 13% with 878 million people affected, with 4.8 million cases per year requiring treatment. The review into etiology found a lack of definitive knowledge, but that it is likely to be multifactorial, with childhood illness including fever possibly implicated. The review presents details of MIH sufficient to enable clinicians to recognize it and understand its impact on affected children, its management, and the importance of early intervention. Much further research is needed.

Evaluation of multifunctional imaging parameters in gastro-oesophageal cancer using F-18-FDG-PET/CT with integrated perfusion CT

BACKGROUND

Positron emission tomography (PET) / computed tomography (CT) is among the most frequently used imaging modalities for initial staging of gastro-oesophageal (GE) cancer, whereas CT-perfusion (CTP) provides different multiparametric information. This proof of concept study compares CTP- and PET-parameters in patients with GE cancer to evaluate correlations and a possible prognostic value of a combined PET/CTP imaging procedure.

METHODS

A total of 31 patients with F-18-FDG-PET/CT and CTP studies were prospectively analysed. Patients had adenocarcinoma (n = 22) and oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, n = 9). Imaging was performed before start of treatment. CTP parameters [blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV), mean transit time (MTT)] and metabolic parameters [(maximum and mean standardised uptake values and standard deviation (SUVmax, SUVmean, SUVsd), metabolic tumour volume (MTV) and tumour lesion glycolysis (TLG)], as well as flow metabolic product [FMP (BF × SUVmax)] were determined and their relationship was compared. Additionally their association to clinical parameters (differentiation grading, staging, HER2-status, follow-up status) and to histopathological regression (post-neoadjuvant regression grading) was evaluated.

RESULTS

Correlation between parameters of both modalities was significant between MTT and MTV (r = 0.375, p = 0.038); no other significant correlation was found. Patients with complete histopathological regression showed significantly lower BF and BV than patients with nearly complete or partial response. TLG and regression grading showed significant correlation with staging. All other quantitative parameters for CTP and PET data did not correlate significantly with histopathological regression grading, differentiation or staging.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of PET and CTP parameters (FMP) showed no significant prognostic value. Significant correlations were only found between MTT and MTV, which indicates a possible perfusional/metabolic coupling. Therefore, pre-therapeutic CTP and PET- parameters provide complementary information about the pre-therapeutic tumour status and are not interchangeable. Only CTP parameters might be able to predict complete histopathological regression. On the other hand, only PET parameters are correlated with staging.

18FDG-PET-CT identifies histopathological non-responders after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced gastric and cardia cancer: cohort study

Background

Pathologic response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (neoCTX) is a prognostic factor in many cancer types, and early prediction would help to modify treatment. In patients with gastric and esophagogastric junction (AEG) cancer, the accuracy of FDG PET-CT to predict early pathologic response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (neoCTX) is currently not known.

Methods

From a consecutive cohort of 72 patients, 44 patients with resectable, locally-advanced gastric cancer or AEG Siewert type II and III received neoCTX after primary staging with endoscopic ultrasound, PET-CT and laparoscopy. Overall, 14 patients did not show FDG uptake, and the remaining 30 were restaged by PET-CT 14 days after the first cycle of neoCTX. Metabolic response was defined as decrease of tumor standardized uptake value (SUV) by ≥35%. Major pathologic regression was defined as less than 10% residual tumor cells.

Results

Metabolic response after neoCTX was detected in 20/30 (66.7%), and non-response in 10/30 (33.3%) patients. Among metabolic responders, n = 10 (50%) showed major and n = 10 (50%) minor pathologic regression. In non-responders, n = 9 (90%) had minor and 1 (10%) a major pathologic regression. This resulted in a sensitivity of 90.9%, specificity 47.3%, positive predictive value 50%, negative predictive value 90% and accuracy of 63.3%.

Conclusion

Response PET-CT after the first cycle of neoCTX does not accurately predict overall pathologic response. However, PET-CT reliably detects non-responders, and identifies patients who should either immediately proceed to resection or receive a modified multimodality therapy.

Trial registration

The trial was registered and approved by local ethics committee PB_2016–00769.

A cephalometric study of the skeletal and dento-alveolar effects of the modified Louisiana State University activator in Class II malocclusion

Objectives

To analyse the skeletal and dento-alveolar effects of the modified Louisiana State University activator (MLSUA) in Class II treatment.

Materials and methods

A test group of 46 participants (25 females, 21 males) with Class II malocclusion treated with MLSUA followed by fixed appliances was compared with a matched Class II control group. Lateral cephalograms were taken at T1 (initial records), T2 (completion of MLSUA treatment), and T3 (before deband). The participants were also divided into two groups: pre-pubertal and pubertal according to skeletal maturity and three groups of different vertical facial patterns at the start of the treatment: brachyfacial, mesofacial, and dolichofacial. Statistical comparisons were performed with t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

Statistically significant supplementary mandibular growth (Co-Gn) in the test group (2.6 mm) was associated with improvement of overjet (OJ), overbite (OB), and molar relationship. Short-term mandibular growth was greater in pubertal than pre-pubertal groups (2.4 mm, P < 0.05). Mandibular incisors retroclined by 2.1 degrees after MLSUA treatment. The brachyfacial group showed greater reduction in the ANB angle and forward movement of pogonion. Mandibular, palatal, and occlusal plane angles showed insignificant change regardless of the facial type.

Conclusions

MLSUA treatment corrected the Class II malocclusion by accelerating mandibular growth in the short-term with minimal dento-alveolar compensation, and the correction was maintained before deband. The treatment may be more effective if started at puberty. The mandibular, palatal, and occlusal planes remained stable throughout the treatment. Brachyfacial patients showed more favourable horizontal growth.

A structured training program for minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer- a Delphi consensus study in Europe

Evidence suggests that structured training programs for laparoscopic procedures can ensure a safe standard of skill acquisition prior to independent practice. Although minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIO) is technically demanding, no consensus on requirements for training for the MIO procedure exists. The aim of this study is to determine essential steps required for a structured training program in MIO using the Delphi consensus methodology. Eighteen MIO experts from 13 European hospitals were asked to participate in this study. The consensus process consisted of two structured meetings with the expert panel, and two Delphi questionnaire rounds. A list of items required for training MIO were constructed for three key domains of MIO, including (1) requisite criteria for units wishing to be trained and (2) to proctor MIO, and (3) a framework of a MIO training program. Items were rated by the experts on a scale 1-5, where 1 signified 'not important' and 5 represented 'very important.' Consensus for each domain was defined as achieving Cronbach alpha ≥0.70. Items were considered as fundamental when ≥75% of experts rated it important (4) or very important (5). Both Delphi rounds were completed by 16 (89%) of the 18 invited experts, with a median experience of 18 years with minimally invasive surgery. Consensus was achieved for all three key domains. Following two rounds of a 107-item questionnaire, 50 items were rated as essential for training MIO. A consensus among European MIO experts on essential items required for training MIO is presented. The identified items can serve as directive principles and core standards for creating a comprehensive training program for MIO.

Stent-over-sponge (SOS): a novel technique complementing endosponge therapy for foregut leaks and perforations

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVT) has evolved as a promising option for endoscopic treatment of foregut wall injuries in addition to the classic closure techniques using clips or stents. To improve vacuum force and maintain esophageal passage, we combined endosponge treatment with a partially covered self-expandable metal stent (stent-over-sponge; SOS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twelve patients with infected upper gastrointestinal wall defects were treated with the SOS technique.

RESULTS

Indications for SOS were anastomotic leakage after surgery (n = 11) and chronic foregut fistula (n = 1). SOS treatment was used as a first-line treatment in seven patients with a success rate of 71.4 % (5/7) and as a second-line treatment after failed previous EVT treatment in five patients (success rate 80 %; 4/5). Overall, SOS treatment was successful in 75 % of patients (9/12). No severe adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION : SOS is an effective method to treat severely infected foregut wall defects in patients where EVT has failed, and also as a first-line treatment. Comparative prospective studies are needed to confirm our preliminary results.

Is the Urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator System a Reliable Prognostic Factor in Gastric Cancer?

Aim

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical and prognostic impact of immunohisto-chemically assessed uPA and PAI-1 in patients with gastric cancer.

Methods

This prospective study analyzed specimens obtained from 105 gastric cancer patients who underwent gastrectomy with extended lymphadenectomy. The immunohistochemical expression of uPA and PAI-1 was studied semiquantitatively in the tumor epithelium and was correlated with the clinicopathological features of each patient.

Results

Univariate analysis revealed no statistically significant association of uPA levels with pT and pN category (p=0.655 and 0.053, respectively), grading (p=0.374), depth of tumor invasion (p=0.665), UICC classification (p=0.21) and the Laurén classification (p=0.578). PAI-1 expression showed no statistically significant correlation with pT, pN and M category (p=0.589, 0.414, and 0.167, respectively), grading (p=0.273), and the Laurén classification (p=0.368). Only the UICC classification was significantly correlated with PAI-1 (p=0.016). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no significant association of uPA and PAI-1 with overall survival (p=0.0929 and 0.0870, respectively).

Conclusions

Our results could not verify any prognostic value of uPA and PAI-1 levels in patients with gastric carcinoma. Therefore, the uPA-system as a biologically defined prognostic marker to identify high-risk gastric cancers should be applied with caution. However, considering the number of patients involved and the borderline level of significance observed in this study, a larger number of events may have resulted in significant differences.

Evaluating the forensic application of 19 target microRNAs as biomarkers in body fluid and tissue identification

RNA-based body fluid and tissue identification has evolved as a promising and reliable new technique to classify type and source of biological evidence in crime cases. In particular, mRNA-based approaches are currently on the rise to replace conventional protein-based methods and are increasingly implemented into forensic casework. However, degradation of these nucleic acid molecules can cause issues on laboratory scale and need to be considered for a credible investigation. For this reason, the analysis of miRNAs using qPCR has been proposed to be a sensitive and specific approach to identify the origin of a biological trace taking advantage of their small size and resistance to degradation. Despite the straightforward workflow of this method, suitable endogenous controls are inevitable when performing real-time PCR to ensure accurate normalization of gene expression data in order to allow a meaningful interpretation. In this regard, we have validated reference genes for a set of forensically relevant body fluids and tissues (blood, saliva, semen, vaginal secretions, menstrual blood and skin) and tested 15 target genes aiming to identify abovementioned sample types. Our data showed that preselected endogenous controls (miR26b, miR92 and miR484) and miR144, initially selected as potential marker for the detection of menstrual blood, were the most stable expressed genes among our set of samples. Normalizing qPCR data with these four validated references revealed that only five miRNA markers are necessary to differentiate between the six different cell types selected in this study. Nevertheless, our observations in the present study indicate that miRNA analysis methods may not provide straightforward data interpretation strategies required for an implementation in forensic casework.

Development of a methylation marker set for forensic age estimation using analysis of public methylation data and the Agena Bioscience EpiTYPER system

Individual age estimation has the potential to provide key information that could enhance and extend DNA intelligence tools. Following predictive tests for externally visible characteristics developed in recent years, prediction of age could guide police investigations and improve the assessment of age-related phenotype expression patterns such as hair colour changes and early onset of male pattern baldness. DNA methylation at CpG positions has emerged as the most promising DNA tests to ascertain the individual age of the donor of a biological contact trace. Although different methodologies are available to detect DNA methylation, EpiTYPER technology (Agena Bioscience, formerly Sequenom) provides useful characteristics that can be applied as a discovery tool in localized regions of the genome. In our study, a total of twenty-two candidate genomic regions, selected from the assessment of publically available data from the Illumina HumanMethylation 450 BeadChip, had a total of 177 CpG sites with informative methylation patterns that were subsequently investigated in detail. From the methylation analyses made, a novel age prediction model based on a multivariate quantile regression analysis was built using the seven highest age-correlated loci of ELOVL2, ASPA, PDE4C, FHL2, CCDC102B, C1orf132 and chr16:85395429. The detected methylation levels in these loci provide a median absolute age prediction error of ±3.07years and a percentage of prediction error relative to the age of 6.3%. We report the predictive performance of the developed model using cross validation of a carefully age-graded training set of 725 European individuals and a test set of 52 monozygotic twin pairs. The multivariate quantile regression age predictor, using the CpG sites selected in this study, has been placed in the open-access Snipper forensic classification website.

Inter-laboratory evaluation of the EUROFORGEN Global ancestry-informative SNP panel by massively parallel sequencing using the Ion PGM™

The EUROFORGEN Global ancestry-informative SNP (AIM-SNPs) panel is a forensic multiplex of 128 markers designed to differentiate an individual's ancestry from amongst the five continental population groups of Africa, Europe, East Asia, Native America, and Oceania. A custom multiplex of AmpliSeq™ PCR primers was designed for the Global AIM-SNPs to perform massively parallel sequencing using the Ion PGM™ system. This study assessed individual SNP genotyping precision using the Ion PGM™, the forensic sensitivity of the multiplex using dilution series, degraded DNA plus simple mixtures, and the ancestry differentiation power of the final panel design, which required substitution of three original ancestry-informative SNPs with alternatives. Fourteen populations that had not been previously analyzed were genotyped using the custom multiplex and these studies allowed assessment of genotyping performance by comparison of data across five laboratories. Results indicate a low level of genotyping error can still occur from sequence misalignment caused by homopolymeric tracts close to the target SNP, despite careful scrutiny of candidate SNPs at the design stage. Such sequence misalignment required the exclusion of component SNP rs2080161 from the Global AIM-SNPs panel. However, the overall genotyping precision and sensitivity of this custom multiplex indicates the Ion PGM™ assay for the Global AIM-SNPs is highly suitable for forensic ancestry analysis with massively parallel sequencing.

An undigested cherry tomato as a rare cause of small bowel obstruction

Small bowel obstruction due to undigested fibre from fruits and vegetables is a rare but known medical condition. We report a case of small bowel obstruction caused by a whole cherry tomato in a patient without a past medical history of abdominal surgery. A 66-year-old man presented to the emergency department complaining of lower abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. His last bowel movement had occurred on the morning of presentation. He underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT), which showed a sudden change of diameter in the distal ileum with complete collapse of the proximal small bowel segment. Laparoscopy confirmed a small bowel obstruction with a transition point close to the ileocaecal valve. An enterotomy was performed and a completely undigested cherry tomato was retrieved. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a small bowel obstruction caused by a whole cherry tomato.

Nonmyeloablative allogeneic stem cell transplantation for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia offers the possibility of disease control with minimal morbidity and mortality--a single institution experience

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is a treatment option for patients with poor risk CLL. We conducted a retrospective analysis of all CLL patients allografted at our institution, the University Hospital of Cologne, Germany. Data was collected on 40 patients from 2004 to 2012. The mean age was 54, and the majority were male (75 %). On average, the patients were diagnosed 6 years (range 2-12) prior to transplant with an average of 4 years (range 1-8) from time of first-line therapy to transplant. The remission states at the time of transplant were complete remission (CR) (n = 4), stable disease (n = 10), partial remission (n = 20) and progressive disease (n = 6). Only reduced intensity conditioning regimens were employed. The average CD34(+) cell dose was 4.16 × 10(6)/kg. Neutrophil engraftment was seen by day +17 (range 10-23) post-transplant, and 88 % achieved 95-100 % donor chimerism by day 100. Overall survival, progression-free survival and non-relapse mortality at 2 years post-transplant were 65, 52.5 and 27.5 %, respectively. A total of 51 % of patients were found to be minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative at 1 year post-transplant. Our single-centre experience confirms the valuable role of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) in the treatment of poor risk CLL patients with promising long-term survival and acceptable transplant-related mortality. The advent of newer therapeutic agents should not hinder the consideration of allo-SCT for this patient cohort as it remains the only curative option for these patients.

Forensic ancestry analysis with two capillary electrophoresis ancestry informative marker (AIM) panels: Results of a collaborative EDNAP exercise

There is increasing interest in forensic ancestry tests, which are part of a growing number of DNA analyses that can enhance routine profiling by obtaining additional genetic information about unidentified DNA donors. Nearly all ancestry tests use single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), but these currently rely on SNaPshot single base extension chemistry that can fail to detect mixed DNA. Insertion-deletion polymorphism (Indel) tests have been developed using dye-labeled primers that allow direct capillary electrophoresis detection of PCR products (PCR-to-CE). PCR-to-CE maintains the direct relationship between input DNA and signal strength as each marker is detected with a single dye, so mixed DNA is more reliably detected. We report the results of a collaborative inter-laboratory exercise of 19 participants (15 from the EDNAP European DNA Profiling group) that assessed a 34-plex SNP test using SNaPshot and a 46-plex Indel test using PCR-to-CE. Laboratories were asked to type five samples with different ancestries and detect an additional mixed DNA sample. Statistical inference of ancestry was made by participants using the Snipper online Bayes analysis portal plus an optional PCA module that analyzes the genotype data alongside calculation of Bayes likelihood ratios. Exercise results indicated consistent genotyping performance from both tests, reaching a particularly high level of reliability for the Indel test. SNP genotyping gave 93.5% concordance (compared to the organizing laboratory's data) that rose to 97.3% excluding one laboratory with a large number of miscalled genotypes. Indel genotyping gave a higher concordance rate of 99.8% and a reduced no-call rate compared to SNP analysis. All participants detected the mixture from their Indel peak height data and successfully assigned the correct ancestry to the other samples using Snipper, with the exception of one laboratory with SNP miscalls that incorrectly assigned ancestry of two samples and did not obtain informative likelihood ratios for a third. Therefore, successful ancestry assignments were achieved by participants in 92 of 95 Snipper analyses. This exercise demonstrates that ancestry inference tests based on binary marker sets can be readily adopted by laboratories that already have well-established CE regimes in place. The Indel test proved to be easy to use and allowed all exercise participants to detect the DNA mixture as well as achieving complete and concordant profiles in nearly all cases. Lastly, two participants successfully ran parallel next-generation sequencing analyses (each using different systems) and achieved high levels of genotyping concordance using the exercise PCR primer mixes unmodified.

RNA/DNA co-analysis from human menstrual blood and vaginal secretion stains: results of a fourth and fifth collaborative EDNAP exercise

The European DNA Profiling Group (EDNAP) organized a fourth and fifth collaborative exercise on RNA/DNA co-analysis for body fluid identification and STR profiling. The task was to identify dried menstrual blood and vaginal secretion stains using specific RNA biomarkers, and additionally test 3 housekeeping genes for their suitability as reference genes. Six menstrual blood and six vaginal secretion stains, two dilution series (1/4-1/64 pieces of a menstrual blood/vaginal swab) and, optionally, bona fide or mock casework samples of human or non-human origin were analyzed by 24 participating laboratories, using RNA extraction or RNA/DNA co-extraction methods. Two novel menstrual blood mRNA multiplexes were used: MMP triplex (MMP7, MMP10, MMP11) and MB triplex (MSX1, LEFTY2, SFRP4) in conjunction with a housekeeping gene triplex (B2M, UBC, UCE). Two novel mRNA multiplexes and a HBD1 singleplex were used for the identification of vaginal secretion: Vag triplex (MYOZ1, CYP2B7P1 and MUC4) and a Lactobacillus-specific Lacto triplex (Ljen, Lcris, Lgas). The laboratories used different chemistries and instrumentation and all were able to successfully isolate and detect mRNA in dried stains. The simultaneous extraction of RNA and DNA allowed for positive identification of the tissue/fluid source of origin by mRNA profiling as well as a simultaneous identification of the body fluid donor by STR profiling, also from old and compromised casework samples. The results of this and the previous collaborative RNA exercises support RNA profiling as a reliable body fluid identification method that can easily be combined with current STR typing technology.

Complex anastomotic leaks following esophageal resections: the new stent over sponge (SOS) approach

A new approach for the treatment of complicated anastomotic leaks following esophageal resections by combining vacuum-assisted therapy with covered self-expanding stents is reported. This is not an approach for a simple leak but a rescue maneuver for complex uncontained leaks. It is known that anastomotic leakages particularly situated in the chest can be successfully treated with endoscopically placed self-expanding stents with/without additional drainage. If this approach fails, reoperation with substantial morbidity is frequently necessary. Two complicated anastomotic leakages refractory to stenting alone were successfully treated with the combination of an endo-sponge-assisted device covered by a self-expanding metallic stent. If stent therapy fails or the perianastomotic abscess cavity is large and complex to drain from outside, the endoscopic two-modality approach can be considered.

Glutathione S-transferase PI (GST-PI) mRNA expression and DNA methylation is involved in the pathogenesis and prognosis of NSCLC

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the relevance of mRNA expression and DNA methylation of GST-PI in tumor and non-tumor lung tissue from NSCLC patients in terms of prognostic and pathogenetic value of this biomarker.

METHOD

Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure mRNA expression and DNA methylation of GST-PI in paired tumor (T) and non-tumor (N) lung tissue of 91 NSCLC patients. Of all 91 patients 49% were stage I, 21% stage II and 30% stage IIIA. Forty-seven percent of the patients had squamous cell carcinoma, 36% adenocarcinoma and 17% large cell carcinoma. All patients were R0 resected.

RESULTS

GST-PI mRNA expression could be measured in 100% in both (T and N) tissues; GST-PI DNA methylation was detected in 14% (N) and 14% (T). The median GST-PI mRNA expression in N was 7.83 (range: 0.01-19.43) and in T 13.15 (range: 0.01-116.8; p≤0.001). The median GST-PI methylation was not significantly different between T and N. No associations were seen between the mRNA expression or DNA methylation levels and clinical or histopathologic parameters such as gender, age, TNM stage, tumor histology and grading. The median survival of the investigated patients was 59.7 years (the median follow-up was 85.9 months). High GST-PI DNA methylation was significantly associated with a worse prognosis (p=0.041, log rank test). No correlation was found between the GST-PI DNA methylation levels and the correlating mRNA expression levels.

CONCLUSION

GST-PI mRNA expression seems to be involved in the pathogenesis of NSCLC. High levels of GST-PI DNA methylation in tumor tissue of NSCLC patients have a potential as a biomarker identifying subpopulations with a more aggressive tumor biology. Quantitation of GST-PI DNA methylation may be a useful method to identify patients with a poor prognosis after curative resection and who will benefit from intensive adjuvant therapy.

DNA commission of the International Society of Forensic Genetics: Recommendations on the evaluation of STR typing results that may include drop-out and/or drop-in using probabilistic methods

DNA profiling of biological material from scenes of crimes is often complicated because the amount of DNA is limited and the quality of the DNA may be compromised. Furthermore, the sensitivity of STR typing kits has been continuously improved to detect low level DNA traces. This may lead to (1) partial DNA profiles and (2) detection of additional alleles. There are two key phenomena to consider: allelic or locus 'drop-out', i.e. 'missing' alleles at one or more genetic loci, while 'drop-in' may explain alleles in the DNA profile that are additional to the assumed main contributor(s). The drop-in phenomenon is restricted to 1 or 2 alleles per profile. If multiple alleles are observed at more than two loci then these are considered as alleles from an extra contributor and analysis can proceed as a mixture of two or more contributors. Here, we give recommendations on how to estimate probabilities considering drop-out, Pr(D), and drop-in, Pr(C). For reasons of clarity, we have deliberately restricted the current recommendations considering drop-out and/or drop-in at only one locus. Furthermore, we offer recommendations on how to use Pr(D) and Pr(C) with the likelihood ratio principles that are generally recommended by the International Society of Forensic Genetics (ISFG) as measure of the weight of the evidence in forensic genetics. Examples of calculations are included. An Excel spreadsheet is provided so that scientists and laboratories may explore the models and input their own data.

Barrett's esophagus: progression to adenocarcinoma and markers

The following on progression to adenocarcinoma and markers of Barrett's esophagus includes commentariess on the expression of claudin 4 in Barrett's adenocarcinoma; the role of acid and bile salts; the role of insulin-like growth factor; the value of reactive oxygen species; the importance of abnormal methylation; genetic alterations in stromal cells and genomic changes in the epithelial cells; the value of confocal laser endomicroscopy for the subsurface analysis of the mucosa; indications for statins as adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent; the sequence of molecular events in malignant progression in Barrett's mucosa; and the value of the macroscopic markers and of p53 mutations.

Barrett's esophagus: genetic and cell changes

The following includes commentaries on how genetic code of Barrett's esophagus (BE) patients, the mechanisms for GERD-induced esophageal expression of caudal homeobox, and the development of Barrett's metaplasia are increasingly better known, including the role of stromal genes in oncogenesis. Additional lessons have been learned in vitro models in nonneoplastic cell lines, yet there are limitations to what can be expected from BE-derived cell lines. Other topics discussed include clonal diversity in Barrett's esophagus; the application of peptide arrays to clinical samples of metaplastic mucosa; proliferation and apoptosis of Barrett's cell lines; tissue biomarkers for neoplasia; and transcription factors associated with BE.

Roles of thymidylate synthase and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase expression in blood as predictors of response to multimodal therapy in esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND

Thymidylate synthetase (TS) and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) RNA expression in peripheral blood was examined as a noninvasive molecular predictor of response to neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy in patients with locally advanced cancer of the esophagus.

METHODS

Blood samples were drawn from 29 patients with esophageal cancer (10 squamous cell carcinomas and 19 adenocarciomas) before neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy. After extraction of cellular tumor RNA from blood samples, quantitative expression analysis of TS and DPD was performed with quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Twenty of 29 (68%) of patients had a minor histopathologic response, and 9 of 29 (32%) had a major response to neadjuvant radiochemotherapy. RNA expression in the blood of patients was detectable for TS in 86%, for DPD in 97%, and in 100% for β-actin. No significant associations were detected between TS and DPD expression levels and clinical variables of the patients. A high expression level for TS was associated with a minor response to neoadjuvant treatment (P = .046), while there was no significant association between DPD and response to therapy. Combined analysis of TS and DPD expression increased the specificity for the prediction of response to 100%. No major responder to therapy had high expression levels for both genes in their peripheral blood.

CONCLUSION

Quantitation of TS and DPD in peripheral blood may be a highly specific analysis to identify a subset of patients who do not respond to neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy and may therefore prevent expensive, noneffective, and potentially harmful therapies in a substantial number of patients with esophageal cancer.

Barrett's esophagus: treatments of adenocarcinomas II

The following topics are explored in this collection of commentaries on treatments of adenocarcinomas related to Barrett's esophagus: the importance of intraoperative frozen sections of the margins for the detection of high dysplasia; the preferable way for sentinel node dissection; the current role of robotic surgery and of video-endoscopic approach; the value of the Siewert's classification of adenocarcinomas; the indications of two-step esophagectomy; the evaluation of pathological complete response; the role of PET scan in staging and response assessment; the role of p53 in the selection of adenocarcinomas patients; chemotherapy regimens for adenocarcinomas; the use of monoclonal antibodies in the control of cell proliferation; he attempt to define a stage-specific strategy, and the possible indications of selective therapy; and changes in mortality rates from esophageal cancer.

A new SNP assay for identification of highly degraded human DNA

There is growing evidence that the histone-DNA complexes found in nucleosomes offer protection from DNA degradation processes, including apoptotic events in addition to bacterial and environmental degradation. We sought to locate human nucleosome regions and build a catalogue of SNPs sited near the middle of these genomic segments that could be combined into a single PCR multiplex specifically for use with extremely degraded human genomic DNA samples. Using recently optimized bio-informatics tools for the reliable identification of nucleosome sites based on sequence motifs and their positions relative to known promoters, 1395 candidate loci were collected to construct an 18-plex single base extension assay. Genotyping performance of the nucleosome SNPs was tested using artificially degraded DNA and 24 casework samples where the likely state of degradation of DNA was established by comparison to profile completeness in four other forensic assays: a standard 15-plex STR identification test, a miniaturized STR multiplex and two autosomal SNP multiplexes. The nucleosome SNP assay gave genotyping success rates 6% higher than the best existing forensic SNP assay: the SNPforID Auto-2 29-plex and significantly higher than the mini-STR assay. The nucleosome SNPs we located and combined therefore provide a new type of marker set that can be used to supplement existing approaches when the analysed DNA is likely to be extremely degraded and may fail to give sufficient STR genotypes for a reliable identification.

β-catenin and Her2/neu expression in rectal cancer: association with histomorphological response to neoadjuvant therapy and prognosis

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant treatment strategies have been developed to improve survival of patients with advanced rectal cancer. Since mainly patients with major histopathological response benefit from this therapy, predictive and prognostic markers are needed. We examined the association of β-catenin and Her2/neu protein expression with histopathologic response to neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy and prognosis in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients (33 male; 21 female; median age 60.4 years) with locally advanced rectal cancer were included in this study. All patients received a neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy (50.4 Gy, 5-FU) followed by surgical resection. Histomorphologic regression was evaluated by Dworak and Cologne staging system. Major response was defined by Dworak classification when resected specimens contained less than 50% vital tumor cells (n = 14) and by Cologne grading system when resected specimens contained less than 10% vital tumor cells (n = 15). Intratumoral β-catenin (nuclear/membranous) and Her2/neu (cytoplasmatic/membranous) expression was determined by immunohistochemistry in pre- and post-therapeutic specimens and correlated with clinicopathologic parameters.

RESULTS

A significant association was detected between pre-therapeutic membranous β-catenin levels and response: patients with a lower β-catenin protein expression showed significantly more often a major response compared with patients having high intratumoral protein levels (p = 0.011). In addition, patients with a higher Her2/neu protein expression showed a significant survival benefit compared with patients having low intratumoral protein levels (5-year survival rate: 81% vs. low 41%; p = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

The pre-therapeutic β-catenin and Her2/neu protein expression seem to be valuable predictive and prognostic markers in the multimodality treatment of advanced rectal cancer.

Evaluation of quality indicators following implementation of total mesorectal excision in primarily resected rectal cancer changed future management

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We evaluated the outcome of primarily resected rectal cancer patients immediately after the implementation of total meserectal excision (TME) based on potential quality indicators.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Following initial teaching of two staff surgeons (PMS and AHH) by RJ Heald, 164 consecutive patients were analyzed. The following quality indicators were evaluated: (a) frequency of local recurrence, (b) number of resected lymph nodes, (c) selection of operative technique depending on tumor localization, (d) use of a protective loop ileostomy, and (e) frequency and type of adjuvant therapy.

RESULTS

Local recurrence rate was 8.5% after a minimum follow-up of 5 years. An increasing pT category (p < 0.02) and the presence of lymph node metastases (pN+, p < 0.05) were significantly associated with local recurrence rates. The number of resected lymph nodes was significantly associated with nodal metastases rate (p < 0.02). Patients with distal third rectal cancer underwent significantly more often an abdominoperineal amputation (p < 0.0001). Clinical course, but not the rate of anastomotic leakage (9.5%) itself was influenced by using a protective loop ileostomy. Forty-two (29.7%) patients received adjuvant therapy; however, local recurrence rate was higher in patients with adjuvant chemo-/radiotherapy (14.2% vs. 6.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

The local recurrence rate of 8.5% demonstrates that through consequent implementation of TME excellent onclogical results can be achieved. The number of resected lymph nodes significantly influenced the pN category. The primary construction of a protective loop ileostomy after TME became standard. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation was systematically introduced in order to improve local tumor control and prevent abdominoperineal amputations. No conclusions can be drawn concerning adjuvant therapy.

Increased platelet counts after transthoracic en bloc resection for esophageal cancer is associated with significantly improved survival

BACKGROUND

We analyzed perioperative platelet counts as a potential clinical marker for survival after transthoracic en bloc resection for esophageal cancer. Recent data described preoperative thrombocytosis in malignancies to be associated with poor prognosis.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis from a prospective database (1997-2006) was performed for 291 consecutive patients with esophageal cancer who underwent transthoracic en bloc esophagectomy and extended lymphadenectomy. Squamous cell cancer was found in 47.0% and adenocarcinoma in 50.9% (2.1% had rare histologies). Neoadjuvant chemoradiation was performed in 152 (52%) patients. Platelet counts before surgery and on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 10, and 30 were evaluated. We used the published cutoff value of 293 × 10(9)/l (mean of 80 healthy controls ± standard deviation) for platelet counts.

RESULTS

High platelet counts before surgery missed significance for poorer survival (p = 0.054). Following a perioperative fall in thrombocytes, a significant rise at POD 10 after surgery was evident. Platelet counts of more than 293 × 10(9)/l at this time correlated with a significantly improved survival rate (p = 0.027). Patients with no increase in thrombocytes until POD 10 had significantly poorer survival (p = 0.012). Multivariate analysis confirmed that a thrombocyte increase between the preoperative count and that on POD 10 is an independent prognostic indicator (p = 0.035) for patients with completely (R0) resected tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in platelet counts measured on POD 10 following transthoracic en bloc esophagectomy and extended lymphadenectomy is an independent prognostic indicator for improved survival in patients with esophageal cancer.

Low thymidylate synthase, thymidine phosphorylase, and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase mRNA expression correlate with prolonged survival in resected non-small-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Thymidylate synthase (TS), thymidine phosphorylase (TP), and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) are key enzymes in the 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) pathway. The aim of this study was to investigate the mRNA expression of TS, TP, and DPD in tumor and nontumor lung tissue of patients with NSCLC and to determine the potential of these genes as molecular biomarkers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The TS, TP, and DPD mRNA expression was analyzed in tumor and nontumor tissue of 91 patients with NSCLC by quantitative real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with β-actin as the internal control. All tumors were R0 resected. The median follow-up was 85.9 months.

RESULTS

The mRNA expression of TS, TP, and DPD was detectable in both tumor and nontumor tissue. Tumor TP (tTP) seems to correlate with tumor TS (tTS) and tumor DPD (tDPD) mRNA expression, but no correlation in the mRNA expression of tTS and tDPD was found. The TS and TP mRNA expression levels were significantly associated with patient prognosis. The 5-year survival probability was 58.7% (TS), and 59.6% (TP) for patients with a low TS and TP mRNA expression and 33.4% (TS), and 31.8% (TP) for patients with a high mRNA expression (P = .04 [TS]; P = .03 [TP]; log-rank). The probability of survival was significantly different among patients with no and any 1 highly expressed gene compared with patients with any 2 or more of the 3 investigated genes highly expressed (P = .012).

CONCLUSION

High TS, TP, and DPD mRNA expression are biomarkers for a more severe malign NSCLC biology. Quantitation of the mRNA expression of these genes seems to be helpful in differing patients with unequal malign tumor entities and therefore possibly helpful in selecting tailored additional therapies to control the disease.

Cetuximab in combination with chemoradiotherapy before surgery in patients with resectable, locally advanced esophageal carcinoma: a prospective, multicenter phase IB/II Trial (SAKK 75/06)

PURPOSE

This multicenter phase IB/II trial investigated cetuximab added to preoperative chemoradiotherapy for esophageal cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with resectable, locally advanced esophageal cancer received two 3-week cycles of induction chemoimmunotherapy (cisplatin 75 mg/m(2) day 1, docetaxel 75 mg/m(2) day 1, cetuximab 250 mg/m(2) days 1, 8,15 [400 mg/m(2) loading dose]) followed by chemoimmunoradiation therapy (CIRT) and surgery. CIRT consisted of 45 Gy radiotherapy (RT) plus concurrent cisplatin 25 mg/m(2) and cetuximab 250 mg/m(2) weekly for 5 weeks in cohort 1. If fewer than three of seven patients experienced limiting toxicity (LT), the next seven patients also received docetaxel (20 mg/m(2) weekly × 5). If fewer than three patients experienced LTs, 13 additional patients were treated at this dose.

RESULTS

In total, 28 patients (median age, 64 years) with predominantly node-positive (82%) esophageal adenocarcinoma (15 patients) or squamous cell carcinoma (13 patients) were enrolled and 24 (86%) completed the entire trimodal therapy. During CIRT, no LT occurred, rash was not exacerbated within the RT field, and the main grade 3 toxicities were esophagitis (seven patients), anorexia (three), fatigue (three), and thrombosis (two). Surgery (R0 resection) was performed in 25 patients. Anastomotic leakage occurred in three patients: two recovered spontaneously and one successfully underwent re-operation. There were no deaths at 30 days and no treatment-related mortality after 12 months. Nineteen patients (68%) showed complete or near complete pathologic regression.

CONCLUSION

Adding cetuximab to preoperative chemoradiotherapy is feasible without increasing postoperative mortality. Phase III investigation has begun based on the high histopathologic response and R0 resection rate.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy compared with surgery alone for locally advanced cancer of the stomach and cardia: European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer randomized trial 40954

PURPOSE

Patients with locally advanced gastric cancer benefit from combined pre- and postoperative chemotherapy, although fewer than 50% could receive postoperative chemotherapy. We examined the value of purely preoperative chemotherapy in a phase III trial with strict preoperative staging and surgical resection guidelines.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the stomach or esophagogastric junction (AEG II and III) were randomly assigned to preoperative chemotherapy followed by surgery or to surgery alone. To detect with 80% power an improvement in median survival from 17 months with surgery alone to 24 months with neoadjuvant, 282 events were required.

RESULTS

This trial was stopped for poor accrual after 144 patients were randomly assigned (72:72); 52.8% patients had tumors located in the proximal third of the stomach, including AEG type II and III. The International Union Against Cancer R0 resection rate was 81.9% after neoadjuvant chemotherapy as compared with 66.7% with surgery alone (P = .036). The surgery-only group had more lymph node metastases than the neoadjuvant group (76.5% v 61.4%; P = .018). Postoperative complications were more frequent in the neoadjuvant arm (27.1% v 16.2%; P = .09). After a median follow-up of 4.4 years and 67 deaths, a survival benefit could not be shown (hazard ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.52 to 1.35; P = .466).

CONCLUSION

This trial showed a significantly increased R0 resection rate but failed to demonstrate a survival benefit. Possible explanations are low statistical power, a high rate of proximal gastric cancer including AEG and/or a better outcome than expected after radical surgery alone due to the high quality of surgery with resections of regional lymph nodes outside the perigastic area (celiac trunc, hepatic ligament, lymph node at a. lienalis; D2).

ISFG: recommendations regarding the use of non-human (animal) DNA in forensic genetic investigations

The use of non-human DNA typing in forensic science investigations, and specifically that from animal DNA, is ever increasing. The term animal DNA in this document refers to animal species encountered in a forensic science examination but does not include human DNA. Non-human DNA may either be: the trade and possession of a species, or products derived from a species, which is contrary to legislation; as evidence where the crime is against a person or property; instances of animal cruelty; or where the animal is the offender. The first instance is addressed by determining the species present, and the other scenarios can often be addressed by assigning a DNA sample to a particular individual organism. Currently there is little standardization of methodologies used in the forensic analysis of animal DNA or in reporting styles. The recommendations in this document relate specifically to animal DNA that is integral to a forensic science investigation and are not relevant to the breeding of animals for commercial purposes. This DNA commission was formed out of discussions at the International Society for Forensic Genetics 23rd Congress in Buenos Aires to outline recommendations on the use of non-human DNA in a forensic science investigation. Due to the scope of non-human DNA typing that is possible, the remit of this commission is confined to animal DNA typing only.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy compared with surgery alone for locally advanced cancer of the stomach and cardia: European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer randomized trial 40954

PURPOSE

Patients with locally advanced gastric cancer benefit from combined pre- and postoperative chemotherapy, although fewer than 50% could receive postoperative chemotherapy. We examined the value of purely preoperative chemotherapy in a phase III trial with strict preoperative staging and surgical resection guidelines.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the stomach or esophagogastric junction (AEG II and III) were randomly assigned to preoperative chemotherapy followed by surgery or to surgery alone. To detect with 80% power an improvement in median survival from 17 months with surgery alone to 24 months with neoadjuvant, 282 events were required.

RESULTS

This trial was stopped for poor accrual after 144 patients were randomly assigned (72:72); 52.8% patients had tumors located in the proximal third of the stomach, including AEG type II and III. The International Union Against Cancer R0 resection rate was 81.9% after neoadjuvant chemotherapy as compared with 66.7% with surgery alone (P = .036). The surgery-only group had more lymph node metastases than the neoadjuvant group (76.5% v 61.4%; P = .018). Postoperative complications were more frequent in the neoadjuvant arm (27.1% v 16.2%; P = .09). After a median follow-up of 4.4 years and 67 deaths, a survival benefit could not be shown (hazard ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.52 to 1.35; P = .466).

CONCLUSION

This trial showed a significantly increased R0 resection rate but failed to demonstrate a survival benefit. Possible explanations are low statistical power, a high rate of proximal gastric cancer including AEG and/or a better outcome than expected after radical surgery alone due to the high quality of surgery with resections of regional lymph nodes outside the perigastic area (celiac trunc, hepatic ligament, lymph node at a. lienalis; D2).