Evaluation of thyroid congestion in patients with heart failure using shear wave elastography: An observational study

Shear wave elastography (SWE) is a noninvasive method for measuring organ stiffness. Liver stiffness measured using SWE reflects hepatic congestion in patients with heart failure (HF). However, little is known about the use of SWE to assess other organ congestions. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of SWE for assessing not only the liver but also thyroid congestion in patients with HF. This prospective study included 21 patients with HF who have normal thyroid lobes (age: 77.0 ± 11.0, men: 14). Thyroid and liver stiffness were measured by SWE using the ARIETTA 850 ultrasonography system (Fujifilm Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). SWE of the thyroid was performed on B-mode ultrasonography; a target region was identified within a region of interest. SWE was performed in each lobe of the thyroid gland. Five measurements were taken at the same location and the averages were recorded for comparison. We investigated the relationship between SWE for evaluating thyroid stiffness and the clinical characteristics of patients with HF. SWE of the thyroid was significantly correlated with SWE of the liver (R = 0.768, P < .001), thyroid stimulation hormone (R = 0.570, P = .011), free thyroxine (R = 0.493, P = .032), estimated right atrial pressure (RAP; R = 0.468, P = .033), and composite congestion score (R = 0.441, P = .045). SWE may be useful for evaluating thyroid stiffness and assessing the degree of thyroid congestion. Thyroid congestion may reflect the elevation of RAP and cause thyroid dysfunction through organ congestion.

Prognostic role of apolipoproteins on long-term major adverse cardiac events after percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Apolipoprotein (apo) levels are associated with coronary risk. However, the relationship between apo levels after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and long-term major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between lipid levels, including apo, at follow-up, and long-term MACEs in patients undergoing PCI.

METHODS/MATERIALS

In total, 241 patients who underwent PCI between January 2004 and August 2008 were included in this study. MACEs were defined as cardiac death, acute coronary syndrome, or coronary revascularization of new lesions. The primary endpoint was MACE, and the secondary endpoint was a composite of cardiac death and acute coronary syndrome.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up period of 2079 days, the following cardiovascular events occurred in 78 patients: cardiovascular death (n = 1), non-fatal acute myocardial infarctions (n = 10), and revascularizations of new lesions (n = 67). Multivariate cox's proportional hazards analysis showed that the apo B level was an independent risk factor for MACEs (hazard ratio 1.11, 95 % confidence interval 1.03-1.20; P = 0.009). In the Kaplan-Meier estimation for primary endpoints, significant differences were observed in the apo B level and apo B/apo A1 ratio (P = 0.04 and P = 0.004, respectively). However, there was no difference in the LDL-C level and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. At the secondary endpoint, only the apo B/apo A1 ratio was a prognostic factor (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

In the long-term cardiovascular events of patients undergoing PCI, the apo B level and apo B/apo A1 ratio were more valuable prognostic factors for cardiovascular events compared to the LDL-C level and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio.

Intraoesophageal pressure in patients receiving proximal gastrectomy with hinged double flap method for gastric cancer: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Objective functional assessment of esophagogastric anastomosis in patients who underwent proximal gastrectomy with the hinged double flap method for gastric cancer has not been well investigated. This study aimed to perform a functional analysis of reconstruction using high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM).

Materials and methods

The authors enroled 25 patients who underwent proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer between May 2015 and April 2020 and subsequently underwent HRIM postoperatively. Eligible questionnaires [Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale-37 (PGSAS-37)] were retrieved from 16 patients. The association between HRIM data and PGSAS-37 was analyzed.

Results

The amplitudes of distal oesophageal peristaltic waves, contractile front velocity, and distal latency assessed by HRIM were almost normal after surgery. Most patient's lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure created by the hinged double flap was within normal limits. Conversely, LES residual pressure values during swallowing-induced relaxation were abnormally high in most patients, and the lower the values, the more severe the reflux and diarrhoea symptoms (P=0.038, P=0.041, respectively). In addition, even when the integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) was normal, lower values corresponded to more severe reflux symptoms (P=0.020). The required LES pressure may be higher after proximal gastrectomy because of the relatively higher intragastric pressure due to the reduced volume of the remnant stomach. This also suggests that swallowing-induced relaxation of the LES was considered a trigger for oesophageal reflux in post-proximal gastrectomy patients.

Conclusion

LES residual pressure and IRP values in HRIM correlated with reflux symptoms in patients after proximal gastrectomy.

Preoperative High C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio Predicts Short- and Long-Term Postoperative Outcomes in Elderly Gastric Cancer Patients

Individualized preoperative assessment of the general condition of elderly patients with gastric cancer is necessary for appropriate surgical treatment planning. This study investigated the efficacy of preoperative markers that could be easily calculated from preoperative peripheral blood to predict the short- and long-term postoperative outcomes of gastrectomy. In total, 571 patients who underwent R0 surgical resection for gastric cancer were enrolled. In the elderly patient group (≥65 years old), univariate analyses revealed that the incidence of postoperative complications was associated with poor performance status (p = 0.012), more comorbidities (p = 0.020), high C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR, p = 0.003), total gastrectomy (p = 0.003), open approach (p = 0.034), blood transfusion (p = 0.002), and advanced cancer (p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis showed that a high CAR was associated with a high incidence of postoperative complications (p = 0.046). High CAR was also associated with poor OS (p = 0.015) and RFS (p = 0.035). However, these trends were not observed among younger patients (<65 years old). Preoperative CAR may play a significant role in predicting short- and long-term surgical outcomes, particularly in elderly patients with gastric cancer.

Establishment of a novel overlay culture method that enables immune response assessment using gastric cancer organoids

Organoid technology, a novel 3D cell culture system, can reproduce a patient's cancer and may be a novel immunotherapy experimental model. However, currently no gastric cancer organoid (GCO) models in which the organoid and immune cells are in free contact and sufficiently react with each other exist. In this study, we aimed to create a coculture model in which immune cells can move freely and stay in contact with GCOs. We coated the bottom surface of the plate with Matrigel and adhered stem cells to the Matrigel surface, instead of completely embedding them in Matrigel to culture organoids. This method allowed GCOs to grow on the Matrigel surface while maintaining a three-dimensional structure and reproducing the characteristics of the patient's cancer. We cocultured GCOs and immune cells. Using this model, immune cells could freely move and were in sufficient contact with the cultured GCOs. Our model allowed real-time observation of the immune response and tumor destruction with time. In addition, the GCO killing assay was assessed with natural killer cells from the same patient. This organoid culture model enabled repeated evaluation of the GCO killing assay with various immune cells in vitro. We established a new experimental model that allowed free movement of immune cells and sufficient contact with GCOs. Using this model, it may be possible to predict the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors in vitro (using GCOs) before administering them to patients.

Factors associated with prolonged on-scene time in ambulance transportation among patients with minor diseases or injuries in Japan: a population-based observational study

BACKGROUND

Prolonged prehospital time is a major global problem in the emergency medical system (EMS). Although factors related to prolonged on-scene times (OSTs) have been reported in patients with trauma and critical medical conditions, those in patients with minor diseases or injuries remain unclear. We examined factors associated with prolonged OSTs in patients with minor diseases or injuries.

METHODS

This population-based observational study used the ambulance transportation and request call record databases of the Higashihiroshima Fire Department, Japan, between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2022. The participants were patients with minor diseases or injuries during the study period. We performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis with robust error variance to examine the association between patient age, sex, severity, accident type, date and time of ambulance call, and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with prolonged OSTs. Prolonged OST was defined as ≥ 30 min from the ambulance arrival at the scene to departure.

RESULTS

Of the 60,309 people transported by ambulance during the study period, 20,069 with minor diseases or injuries were included in the analysis. A total of 1,241 patients (6.2%) experienced prolonged OSTs. Fire accidents (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 7.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.82-15.79), natural disasters (aOR: 28.52, 95% CI: 2.09-389.76), motor vehicle accidents (aOR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.30-2.06), assaults (aOR: 2.91, 95% CI: 1.86-4.53), self-injuries (aOR: 5.60, 95% CI: 3.37-9.32), number of hospital inquiries ≥ 4 (aOR: 77.34, 95% CI: 53.55-111.69), and the COVID-19 pandemic (aOR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.62-2.50) were associated with prolonged OSTs. Moreover, older and female patients had prolonged OSTs (aOR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.01-1.36 and aOR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.08-1.18, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Older age, female sex, fire accidents, natural disasters, motor vehicle accidents, assaults, self-injuries, number of hospital inquiries ≥ 4, and the COVID-19 pandemic influenced prolonged OSTs among patients with minor diseases or injuries. To improve community EMS, we should reconsider how to intervene with potentially modifiable factors, such as EMS personnel performance, the impact of the presence of allied services, hospital patient acceptance systems, and cooperation between general emergency and psychiatric hospitals.

Effects of empagliflozin on progression of chronic kidney disease: a prespecified secondary analysis from the empa-kidney trial

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce progression of chronic kidney disease and the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in a wide range of patients. However, their effects on kidney disease progression in some patients with chronic kidney disease are unclear because few clinical kidney outcomes occurred among such patients in the completed trials. In particular, some guidelines stratify their level of recommendation about who should be treated with SGLT2 inhibitors based on diabetes status and albuminuria. We aimed to assess the effects of empagliflozin on progression of chronic kidney disease both overall and among specific types of participants in the EMPA-KIDNEY trial.

METHODS

EMPA-KIDNEY, a randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial, was conducted at 241 centres in eight countries (Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the UK, and the USA), and included individuals aged 18 years or older with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 20 to less than 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2, or with an eGFR of 45 to less than 90 mL/min per 1·73 m2 with a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) of 200 mg/g or higher. We explored the effects of 10 mg oral empagliflozin once daily versus placebo on the annualised rate of change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR slope), a tertiary outcome. We studied the acute slope (from randomisation to 2 months) and chronic slope (from 2 months onwards) separately, using shared parameter models to estimate the latter. Analyses were done in all randomly assigned participants by intention to treat. EMPA-KIDNEY is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03594110.

FINDINGS

Between May 15, 2019, and April 16, 2021, 6609 participants were randomly assigned and then followed up for a median of 2·0 years (IQR 1·5-2·4). Prespecified subgroups of eGFR included 2282 (34·5%) participants with an eGFR of less than 30 mL/min per 1·73 m2, 2928 (44·3%) with an eGFR of 30 to less than 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2, and 1399 (21·2%) with an eGFR 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2 or higher. Prespecified subgroups of uACR included 1328 (20·1%) with a uACR of less than 30 mg/g, 1864 (28·2%) with a uACR of 30 to 300 mg/g, and 3417 (51·7%) with a uACR of more than 300 mg/g. Overall, allocation to empagliflozin caused an acute 2·12 mL/min per 1·73 m2 (95% CI 1·83-2·41) reduction in eGFR, equivalent to a 6% (5-6) dip in the first 2 months. After this, it halved the chronic slope from -2·75 to -1·37 mL/min per 1·73 m2 per year (relative difference 50%, 95% CI 42-58). The absolute and relative benefits of empagliflozin on the magnitude of the chronic slope varied significantly depending on diabetes status and baseline levels of eGFR and uACR. In particular, the absolute difference in chronic slopes was lower in patients with lower baseline uACR, but because this group progressed more slowly than those with higher uACR, this translated to a larger relative difference in chronic slopes in this group (86% [36-136] reduction in the chronic slope among those with baseline uACR <30 mg/g compared with a 29% [19-38] reduction for those with baseline uACR ≥2000 mg/g; ptrend<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

Empagliflozin slowed the rate of progression of chronic kidney disease among all types of participant in the EMPA-KIDNEY trial, including those with little albuminuria. Albuminuria alone should not be used to determine whether to treat with an SGLT2 inhibitor.

FUNDING

Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly.

Impact of primary kidney disease on the effects of empagliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease: secondary analyses of the EMPA-KIDNEY trial

BACKGROUND

The EMPA-KIDNEY trial showed that empagliflozin reduced the risk of the primary composite outcome of kidney disease progression or cardiovascular death in patients with chronic kidney disease mainly through slowing progression. We aimed to assess how effects of empagliflozin might differ by primary kidney disease across its broad population.

METHODS

EMPA-KIDNEY, a randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial, was conducted at 241 centres in eight countries (Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the UK, and the USA). Patients were eligible if their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 20 to less than 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2, or 45 to less than 90 mL/min per 1·73 m2 with a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) of 200 mg/g or higher at screening. They were randomly assigned (1:1) to 10 mg oral empagliflozin once daily or matching placebo. Effects on kidney disease progression (defined as a sustained ≥40% eGFR decline from randomisation, end-stage kidney disease, a sustained eGFR below 10 mL/min per 1·73 m2, or death from kidney failure) were assessed using prespecified Cox models, and eGFR slope analyses used shared parameter models. Subgroup comparisons were performed by including relevant interaction terms in models. EMPA-KIDNEY is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03594110.

FINDINGS

Between May 15, 2019, and April 16, 2021, 6609 participants were randomly assigned and followed up for a median of 2·0 years (IQR 1·5-2·4). Prespecified subgroupings by primary kidney disease included 2057 (31·1%) participants with diabetic kidney disease, 1669 (25·3%) with glomerular disease, 1445 (21·9%) with hypertensive or renovascular disease, and 1438 (21·8%) with other or unknown causes. Kidney disease progression occurred in 384 (11·6%) of 3304 patients in the empagliflozin group and 504 (15·2%) of 3305 patients in the placebo group (hazard ratio 0·71 [95% CI 0·62-0·81]), with no evidence that the relative effect size varied significantly by primary kidney disease (pheterogeneity=0·62). The between-group difference in chronic eGFR slopes (ie, from 2 months to final follow-up) was 1·37 mL/min per 1·73 m2 per year (95% CI 1·16-1·59), representing a 50% (42-58) reduction in the rate of chronic eGFR decline. This relative effect of empagliflozin on chronic eGFR slope was similar in analyses by different primary kidney diseases, including in explorations by type of glomerular disease and diabetes (p values for heterogeneity all >0·1).

INTERPRETATION

In a broad range of patients with chronic kidney disease at risk of progression, including a wide range of non-diabetic causes of chronic kidney disease, empagliflozin reduced risk of kidney disease progression. Relative effect sizes were broadly similar irrespective of the cause of primary kidney disease, suggesting that SGLT2 inhibitors should be part of a standard of care to minimise risk of kidney failure in chronic kidney disease.

FUNDING

Boehringer Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, and UK Medical Research Council.

Role of echocardiography in patients treated with immune checkpoints inhibitors

Immune-related adverse events occurring in the heart (cardiac immune-related adverse events; irAEs) by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) include myocarditis, arrhythmia, conduction disturbance, pericardial diseases, and takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Cardiac irAEs are rare but life-threatening. In cardio-oncology, the study of cardiac disorders caused by cancer treatment has recently attracted attention, and such studies may elucidate the pathophysiology of cardiac irAEs and contribute to management strategies. This review discusses the pathogenic mechanisms underlying cardiac irAEs and the role of echocardiography in patients treated with ICIs.

The influence of partial gastrectomy for gastric cancer on the spontaneous disappearance of Helicobacter pylori: A single-center prospective study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication is recommended after endoscopic treatment of early gastric cancer (EGC). Cases of spontaneous HP resolution after partial gastrectomy due to environmental changes have been reported; however, there is no evidence for the efficacy of HP eradication in suppressing carcinogenesis and also no reports on the natural history of HP after partial gastrectomy in gastric cancer (GC). To report the natural history of HP in patients with GC and HP infection after partial gastrectomy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We prospectively studied the rate of spontaneous disappearance of HP after partial gastrectomy in patients with GC. From April 2016 to May 2020, 80 patients underwent partial gastrectomy, including 9 cases of proximal gastrectomy (PG), and 71 cases of distal gastrectomy (DG). The presence of HP was confirmed in the stool antigen test 1 year after operation, HP infection persisted in 46 patients (57.5%) and disappeared in 34 patients (42.5%). In univariate analysis, only proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use was a significant contributing factor for the spontaneous resolution of HP infection, especially in the DG group. However, there was no difference in the rates of HP disappearance between Billroth-I and Roux-en-Y reconstructions in the DG group.

CONCLUSION

The HP spontaneously disappeared in 42.5% of the GC patients within 1 year after partial gastrectomy. Further investigation in a larger cohort is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

The involvement of circulating CD69+ CD56bright natural killer cells in weight loss before bariatric surgery: A retrospective cohort study

As the impact of the immune system on weight loss prior to bariatric surgery has never been proven, we elucidated the clinical utility of the immune system as an indicator of preoperative weight loss before bariatric surgery. We examined the relationships between preoperative weight loss and biochemical and clinical data at the initial visit in 34 obese patients. Patients were divided according to preoperative weight loss, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were compared using flowcytometry. The Δpreoperative excess weight loss [Δpre-EWL: pre-EWL (%)/period of preoperative weight loss (days)] showed negative correlations with total and subcutaneous fat area (P = .02, r = -0.41, P = .02, r = -0.42 respectively). The Δpre-EWL and Δpreoperative total weight loss (Δpre-TWL) were negatively correlated with white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at the initial visit (Δpre-EWL; P = .02, r = -0.37, P = .01, r = -0.41, P = .008, r = -0.45, Δpre-TWL; P = .01, r = -0.40, P = .01, r = -0.42, P = .01, r = -0.42, respectively). Multivariate regression modeling showed that both Δpre-EWL and Δpre-TWL were significantly associated with lymphocyte count (Δpre-EWL; P = .01, Δpre-TWL; P = .01). A comparison between the high (Δ pre-EWL > 0.098) and low weight loss group (Δ pre-EWL < 0.098) demonstrated a significant difference in the expression of the activation marker CD69 on CD56bright Natural killer (NK) cells (P = .01), whereas there was no difference in the frequency of T cells, Natural killer T cells, or NK cells. Additionally, high CRP levels were associated with CD69 expression in CD56bright NK cells (P = .01, R = 0.57). Peripheral lymphocytes, especially CD69-positive CD56bright NK cells, are involved in preoperative weight loss after bariatric surgery, and systemic inflammation may inhibit weight loss before surgery.

Kinesin Family Member B18 Is Related to Gastric Mucin Phenotype and Contributes to Gastric Cancer Progression by Regulating Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

INTRODUCTION

Gastric cancer (GC) remains a common health concern worldwide and is the third leading cause of death in Japan. It can be broadly classified into gastric and intestinal mucin phenotypes using immunohistochemistry. We previously reported numerous associations of kinesin family member (KIF) genes and mucin phenotypes with GC. However, no previous studies have reported on the importance of KIF18B in GC using immunostaining. Thus, in this study, we investigated the expression and functions of KIF18B, which is highly expressed in gastric mucin phenotype GC.

METHODS

We performed RNA-seq of gastric and intestinal mucin type GCs, and clinicopathological studies of the KIF18B we found were performed using 96 GC cases. We also performed functional analysis using GC-derived cell lines.

RESULT

RNA-seq showed the upregulation of matrisome-associated genes in gastric mucin phenotype GC and a high expression of KIF18B. KIF18B was detected in 52 of the 96 GC cases (54%) through immunohistochemistry. Low KIF18B expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival (p < 0.01). Other molecules that were significantly associated with KIF18B were MUC5AC and claudin 18; these were also significantly associated with the gastric mucin phenotype. KIF18B small interfering RNA (siRNA)-transfected GC cells showed greater growth and spheroid colony formation than the negative control siRNA-transfected cells. Furthermore, expression of snail family transcriptional repressor 1 and cadherin 2 was significantly increased and that of cadherin 1 was significantly decreased in KIF18B siRNA-transfected GC cells.

CONCLUSION

These findings not only suggest that KIF18B may be a useful prognostic marker, but also provide insight into the pathogenesis of the GC phenotype.

Burr entrapment in a percutaneous coronary intervention during rotational atherectomy: An experience with 3195 cases

OBJECTIVES

Burr entrapment is a potentially life-threatening complication of rotational atherectomy (RA). However, owing to its infrequency, there have been no major reports on burr entrapment. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, treatment, and outcomes of burr entrapment.

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study analyzed patients who had undergone percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) and were treated by RA between May 2013 and March 2022.

RESULTS

Of the 22 640 PCI procedures, RA was performed in 3195 patients (14.1%), among whom burr entrapment occurred in 22 patients (0.69%). The mean patient age was 78 ± 8.7 years; 64% were male, and 32% were on dialysis. The entrapped burr size was 1.7 ± 0.2 mm, and the burr/artery ratio was 0.6 ± 0.1. In 20 patients (91%), the burr was extracted by strong manual pullback. The other patients underwent balloon angioplasty at the site of the entrapped burr, which might have provided space for successful burr withdrawal. Major adverse cardiac events occurred in 23% of patients. Tamponade requiring pericardiocentesis occurred in two patients (9%). No patients required emergency surgery or suffered an in-hospital death.

CONCLUSIONS

Burr entrapment occurred in 0.69% of patients who had undergone RA. Most burrs were extracted by a strong manual pullback. None required emergency surgery, and there were no in-hospital deaths. The results provide a treatment approach and prognosis for burr stuck in the use of RA.

Indications for Percutaneous Drainage in Patients with Huang Class 3B Emphysematous Pyelonephritis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe urinary tract infection common in patients with diabetes. Nephrectomy is recommended when the Huang classification is ≥3B. We herein report a case in which nephrectomy was avoided using antimicrobial agents and percutaneous drainage (PCD). A 59-year-old man was diagnosed with EPN (Huang classification 3B). The causative bacteria were Escherichia coli. Despite high-risk factors, EPN was cured with kidney preservation and PCD because the emphysema and abscess were not extensive. Thus, PCD should be considered in patients with Huang Class 3B EPN and high-risk factors if emphysema and abscess are not extensive.

Cardiac Reversibility and Survival After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Patients With Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis

Background Prognostic implications of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in low-gradient (LG) aortic stenosis (AS) remain controversial. The authors hypothesized that differences in cardiac functional recovery may solve this ongoing controversy. The aim was to evaluate clinical outcomes and the response of left ventricular (LV) function following TAVI in patients with LG AS. Methods and Results This multicenter retrospective study included 1742 patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI between January 2015 and March 2019. Patients were subdivided into low-flow (LF) LG, normal-flow (NF) LG, LF high-gradient, and NF high-gradient AS groups according to the mean gradient of the aortic valve (LG <40 mm Hg) and LV stroke volume index (LF <35 mL/m2). Outcomes and changes in echocardiographic parameters after TAVI were compared between the groups. A total of 227 patients (13%) had reduced ejection fraction, and 486 patients (28%) had LG AS (LF-LG 143 [8%]; NF-LG 343 [20%]). During a median follow-up period of 747 days, 301 patients experienced a composite end point of cardiovascular death and rehospitalization for cardiovascular events, which was higher in the LF-LG and NF-LG groups than in the high-gradient groups. LG AS was independently associated with the primary outcome (hazard ratio, 1.69; P<0.001). Among 1239 patients with follow-up echocardiography, LG AS showed less improvement in the LV mass index and LV end-diastolic volume compared with high-gradient AS after 1 year, while LV recovery was similar between the LF AS and NF AS groups. Conclusions LG AS was associated with poorer outcomes and LV recovery, regardless of flow status after TAVI. Careful evaluation of AS severity may be required in LG AS to provide TAVI within the appropriate time and advanced care afterward.

Successful Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Approached Via a Simultaneously Implanted Y-graft Vascular Prosthesis

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is mainly performed using the transfemoral (TF) approach. If the TF approach is difficult, the transapical (TA) or transaortic (TAo) approach is used; however, the complication rate is higher in such cases. In this case, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) replacement and TAVR via artificial vessels were performed simultaneously because of anatomical difficulties in stent graft implantation and TF-TAVR for severe aortic stenosis (AS) associated with AAA. Performing TAVR simultaneously with AAA replacement avoids TA- or TAo-TAVR and allows for postoperative management in the absence of AS. Additionally, there is no need to create a new access for TAVR using artificial vessels. Since the long-term results of AAA are better with open surgery than with endovascular aneurysm repair and the age of indication for TAVR is expected to decrease due to valve-in-valve and other factors, simultaneous surgical AAA replacement and TAVR using a Y-graft vascular prosthesis is an effective treatment option when TF-TAVR is difficult to perform.

Long-term benefits of switching from oral to intravenous calcimimetics in patients on hemodialysis

AIM

In this study, we aimed to investigate the long-term benefits of switching from oral to intravenous calcimimetics in patients on hemodialysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients on maintenance hemodialysis at our institution who switched from oral to intravenous calcimimetics between March 1, 2017 and October 31, 2018 were enrolled. We compared tablet number; chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD)-related drug cost; and serum corrected calcium, serum phosphorous, and serum intact parathyroid hormone levels before and 1, 2, and 3 years after switching from oral to intravenous calcimimetics.

RESULTS

There were 15 patients (11 males and 4 females; mean age 60.9 ± 9.2 years). The tablet numbers and CKD-MBD-related drug cost before and 3 years after switching to calcimimetics were 12.1 ± 8.1 tablets/day vs. 8.4 ± 5.0 tablets/day (p = 0.0371) and 9,654.5 ± 6,206.8 yen (87.8 ± 56.4 U.S. dollars)/week vs. 7,231.7 ± 3,490.9 yen (65.7 ± 31.7 U.S. dollars)/week (p = 0.0406), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Switching from oral to intravenous calcimimetics decreased intact parathyroid hormone levels and reduced the tablet numbers and CKD-MBD-related drug cost for a long period without significant adverse effects.

Factors Influencing Acceptance of the Chairperson Position at Annual Scientific Meetings of the Japanese Circulation Society - A Questionnaire Survey in Chugoku District

Background: The Japanese Circulation Society survey revealed that Japanese female cardiologists exhibited a trend to refuse the chairperson position; however, the causal factors remain uncertain. Methods and Results: We distributed a questionnaire survey among chairpersons of the Chugoku regional meeting in November 2022. The rate of chair acceptance at the annual meeting tended to increase as the chairperson's experience grew (first time chairing a meeting, 25.0%; 2-3 times, 33.3%; 4-5 times, 53.8%; ≥6 times, 70.0%; P=0.021). Conclusions: Providing inexperienced members with the chance to perform the role of chairperson will lead to them accepting to chair annual meetings.

Cystatin C as a Potential Blood Biomarker for Sarcoidosis: A Case Report

Sarcoidosis is a multi-organ medical condition that is characterized by the formation of granulomas. We aimed to identify a correlation between each sarcoidosis blood biomarker and cystatin C (Cys-C) in sarcoidosis patients. We report a case of a 60-year-old man with sarcoidosis. The correlation between his Cys-C and each blood biomarker level and that between each blood biomarker and serum creatinine levels were determined using linear regression. Serum Cys-C correlated with each blood biomarker of sarcoidosis, while creatinine did not. These findings suggest that Cys-C is a potential blood biomarker for sarcoidosis.

Successful management of multiple liver metastasis from gastric cancer with second conversion surgery: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Most conversion surgeries for patients with stageIV gastric cancer are performed on patients who have responded to first-line chemotherapy. Although conversion surgery after third-line chemotherapy with nivolumab has been reported, there are no cases wherein second conversion surgery was performed after third-line chemotherapy with nivolumab.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 72-year-old man presented with gastric cancer and an enlarged regional lymph node, and early esophageal cancer was identified after endoscopic submucosal dissection. After S-1 plus oxaliplatin as first-line chemotherapy, staging laparoscopy was performed, and liver metastasis was confirmed. The patient underwent a total gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy, hepatic left lateral segmentectomy, and partial hepatectomy. One year after conversion surgery, new liver metastases appeared. He received nab-paclitaxel plus ramucirumab and nivolumab as the second and third-line chemotherapy, respectively. Liver metastases were significantly reduced following these courses of chemotherapy. The patient underwent partial hepatectomy as second conversion surgery. Although nivolumab was continued after the second conversion surgery, new para-aortic lymph node metastasis and bilateral hilar lymph node metastasis appeared. However no new metastasis appeared in the liver and he survived for 60 months after first-line chemotherapy.

DISCUSSION

A second conversion surgery with stageIV gastric cancer after third-line chemotherapy with nivolumab is rare. Multiple hepatectomy as conversion surgery may be an option to control liver metastases.

CONCLUSION

Multiple hepatectomy as conversion surgery may be effective in controlling liver metastases. However, when to perform conversion surgery and the adequate selection of the patient are the most difficult and important.

Occurrence of fever in cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy is not related to the primary disease or nature of ascites

Cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy (CART) is a treatment for refractory ascites wherein filtered and concentrated ascitic fluid is reinfused. Although fever is one of the side effects of CART, its cause is not clear. Patients who underwent at least one CART session between June 2011 and May 2021 at our medical center were retrospectively enrolled in the study. They were classified according to the primary disease and nature of ascites. Ninety patients were included in this study. Increase in body temperature (BT) after CART was observed, regardless of the primary disease and nature of ascites. The difference in temperature before and after CART did not differ based on the primary disease [cancerous (including hepatocellular carcinoma, ovarian cancer) and non-cancerous] and nature of ascites. Elevated BT and fever after CART are not related to the primary disease and nature of the ascites.

Incidence of Mid-Term Prognostic Events in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome During the Late 2010s in 2 Tertiary Hospitals in a Rural Area of Japan - A Temporal Comparison

Background: Data on the incidence of mid-term prognostic events in patients who developed acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the late 2010s are scarce. Methods and Results: We retrospectively included and collected data for 889 patients with ACS (ST-elevation myocardial infarction [STEMI]/non-ST-elevation ACS [NSTE-ACS]) discharged alive from 2 tertiary hospitals in Izumo City, in rural Japan, between August 2009 and July 2018. Patients were divided into 3 time groups (T1: August 2009-July 2012; T2: August 2012-July 2015; T3: August 2015-July 2018). The cumulative incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; comprising all-cause death, recurrent ACS, and stroke), major bleeding, and heart failure hospitalization within 2 years of discharge was compared among the 3 groups. The incidence of freedom from MACE was significantly higher in the T3 group than in the T1 and T2 groups (93 [95% confidence interval {CI} 90-96%] vs. 86% [95% CI 83-90] and 89% [95% CI 90-96], respectively; P=0.03). There was a tendency for a higher incidence of STEMI among patients in T3 (P=0.057). The incidence of NSTE-ACS was comparable among the 3 groups (P=0.31), as was the incidence of major bleeding and hospitalization for heart failure. Conclusions: The incidence of mid-term MACE in patients who developed ACS during the late 2010 s (2015-2018) was lower than that in prior periods (2009-2015).

Effect of Four Main Gastrectomy Procedures for Proximal Gastric Cancer on Patient Quality of Life: A Nationwide Multi-Institutional Study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to examine the effects of 4 main types of gastrectomy for proximal gastric cancer on postoperative symptoms, living status, and quality of life (QOL) using the Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale-45 (PGSAS-45).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We surveyed 1,685 patients with upper one-third gastric cancer who underwent total gastrectomy (TG; n=1,020), proximal gastrectomy (PG; n=518), TG with jejunal pouch reconstruction (TGJP; n=93), or small remnant distal gastrectomy (SRDG; n=54). The 19 main outcome measures (MOMs) of the PGSAS-45 were compared using the analysis of means (ANOM), and the general QOL score was calculated for each gastrectomy type.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent TG experienced the lowest postoperative QOL. ANOM showed that 10 MOMs were worse in patients with TG. Four MOMs improved in patients with PG, while 1 worsened. One MOM was improved in patients with TGJP versus 8 MOMs in patients with SRDG. The general QOL scores were as follows: SRDG (+39 points), TGJP (+6 points), PG (+3 points), and TG (-1 point).

CONCLUSIONS

The TG group experienced the greatest decline in postoperative QOL. SRDG and PG, which preserve part of the stomach without compromising curability, and TGJP, which is used when TG is required, enhance the postoperative QOL of patients with proximal gastric cancer. When selecting the optimal gastrectomy method, it is essential to understand the characteristics of each and actively incorporate guidance to improve postoperative QOL.

Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery for an esophageal hiatal hernia with incarcerated transverse colon presenting after laparoscopic gastrectomy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Esophageal hiatal hernia (EHH) presenting after gastrectomy for carcinoma is a type of internal hernia and very rare. There have been no published reports on the use of hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) for the treatment of an incarcerated EHH that presented after a gastrectomy. Herein, we report a rare case of HALS performed for an incarcerated EHH presenting after a laparoscopic gastrectomy.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case report presents the case of a 66-year-old man who underwent hernia repair for an incarcerated hernia that presented after he underwent a laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction for cancer in the esophagogastric junction. Emergency laparoscopic hernia repair was performed and herniation of the transverse colon into the left thoracic cavity through a hiatal defect was confirmed. Since it was difficult to return the transverse colon into the abdominal cavity using forceps, the procedure was converted to HALS and the transverse colon was pulled back into the abdominal cavity. The hernia defect was closed using a non-absorbable suture. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the fourth postoperative day.

CONCLUSIONS

The HALS approach provides the tactile experience of an open surgery combined with the benefits of a laparoscopic procedure such as good visualization and low invasiveness. In this case, when the transverse colon that had herniated into the left hemithorax was returned to the abdominal cavity, damage to the transverse colon was avoided by using the hand. Hence, HALS was safely performed to repair an incarcerated EHH after gastrectomy.

Percutaneous Trans-Esophageal Gastrostomy for Oral Intake in a Case of Anastomotic Obstruction following Total Gastrectomy

Gastric cancer is one of the most common diseases globally. Total gastrectomy is often performed surgically. However, late-stage anastomotic passage obstruction after total gastrectomy is relatively rare. Here, we report a case involving a 73-year-old male patient who experienced repeated aspiration pneumonia due to anastomotic passage obstruction 22 years after a total gastrectomy for gastric cancer. He was eventually hospitalized in the Department of Gastroenterology at our hospital because of difficulty eating. Computed tomography revealed prominent dilation of the esophagus and the blind end of the elevated jejunum. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a poorly extended site on the main side of the elevated jejunum; however, the passage through the scope was good. A percutaneous trans-esophageal gastrostomy was performed for oral intake. The patient experienced decreased nausea and vomiting. He gained weight, and his general condition improved. He did not feel inconvenienced by percutaneous trans-esophageal gastrostomy and had no desire for surgery. Follow-up observations are currently being conducted, with tubes exchanged every 6 months. There are no reports of percutaneous trans-esophageal gastrostomy for oral intake for anastomotic passage obstruction following total gastrectomy; therefore, we report this as a reference when similar cases are encountered.

Utility of renal biopsy in differentiating idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease from IgG4-related disease

Idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD) is a subtype of human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8)-related Castleman disease that causes multi-organ damage, including kidney damage due to polyclonal lymphoproliferation and interleukin (IL)-6-induced cytokine storm. However, its renal pathological findings are unclear. We report the case of a woman in her 80 s who was diagnosed with iMCD based on renal pathological findings. Five years ago, hypergammaglobulinemia was detected, and her renal function declined. Renal biopsy revealed plasma cells infiltrating the stroma. Immunostaining revealed numerous IgG4-positive plasma cells. The serum IgG4 level was high, and she was initially diagnosed with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) and treated with steroids. However, the therapeutic effect was poor. On re-examination, computed tomography revealed lymphadenopathy around the aorta and spleen. Renal histopathology showed numerous IL-6-positive plasma cells. Anemia and C-reactive protein (CRP) positivity persisted despite steroid administration. HHV-8 was negative, and polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes syndrome was not suspected. Thus, iMCD was diagnosed. Based on previous reports, there is no significant difference in IgG4 levels between iMCD and IgG4-RD, and IgG4-positive plasma cell infiltrates were observed in iMCD-affected organs. Therefore, it may be difficult to distinguish iMCD from IgG4-RD. In this case, high-serum IL-6 and CRP were observed, which are usually not seen in IgG4-RD but are common findings in iMCD, leading to the diagnosis. Patients with deep lymphadenopathy may be diagnosed with iMCD based on renal pathological findings. Renal biopsy is recommended for patients with suspected iMCD and decreased renal function.

Deep sedation predicts pressure injury in patients admitted to intensive care units

BACKGROUND

Patients in intensive care units (ICU) are frequently prescribed sedatives, which might increase the risk for pressure injury (PI). Although the association between sedation and incidence of PI has been noted, the adequate sedation level to prevent the incidence of PI in patients admitted to ICU is still unclear.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the association between fluctuating sedation levels and the incidence of PI in patients admitted to ICU.

STUDY DESIGN

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 104 patients admitted to ICU. Data regarding the length of ICU stay (LOS) and comorbid infection were abstracted from medical records. The Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) was scored twice per day, and the standardized RASS (S-RASS, summation of RASS values divided by the number of samples) was used to evaluate changes in sedation levels.

RESULTS

Among the 104 included patients, 65 patients (62.5%) were male (median age: 68.0 years), and 13 patients (12.5%) had PI during ICU admission. S-RASS scores were lower in patients with PI than in those without PI (P = .0001) even after adjustment for confounders (OR [95%CI]: 0.14 [0.03-0.58], P = .006). The LOS and infections were higher in patients with PI than in those without PI (P < .0001 and P = .005, respectively). The cut-off value of S-RASS for PI incidence was -3.2 (sensitivity: 88%; specificity: 85%), and a significant predictor of PI incidence (HR [95%CI]: 20.07 [2.53-159.11], P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

Deeper sedation levels based on S-RASS scores, which account for the effects of fluctuating sedation levels, were a strong, highly accurate predictor of PI incidence in patients admitted to ICU.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Assessing fluctuations in the level of sedation using the S-RASS might help to identify sedative-induced PI in patients admitted to ICU.

Massive bleeding from gastric ulcer-induced splenic artery pseudoaneurysm successfully treated with transcatheter arterial embolization and surgery: a case report

BACKGROUND

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a routine medical emergency. The most common non-variceal cause is peptic ulcer disease, while a rare presentation is peptic ulcer-induced splenic artery pseudoaneurysm (SAP). Primary endoscopic treatment is generally attempted for UGIB; however, it sometimes fails when arterial etiology is present. In such cases, either transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) or surgery is necessary, but the choice of treatment is controversial. We present a case that illustrates the utility of both approaches in a gastric ulcer-induced SAP.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 33-year-old male presented with hemorrhagic shock secondary to UGIB. The source of bleeding was identified as an SAP that was caused by a gastric ulcer. TAE enabled temporary bleeding control despite the patient's poor overall condition and limited blood transfusion capability. However, rebleeding occurred soon after stabilization. Ultimately, we performed proximal gastrectomy and splenic artery ligation, and the patient survived.

CONCLUSIONS

SAP is an uncommon occurrence, and angiographic information is important for correctly identifying the source of bleeding. The treatment for SAP bleeding is basically the same as for endoscopically unmanageable non-variceal UGIB, since TAE and surgery each have a different utility, depending on the situation. If surgery is performed, especially SA ligation and gastrectomy, it is important to consider the circulation of the spleen and residual stomach. Using TAE and laparotomy, we managed to save the life of the patient with massive hemorrhage under limited circumstances.

Subacute stent thrombosis with spontaneously resolved secondary thrombi in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: a case report

Background

Stent thrombosis (ST) is a serious complication; however, a method to prevent ST in patients with thrombophilic diseases has not been established.

Case presentation

We report a case of subacute ST in a patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) who was receiving continuous heparin treatment in addition to the usual dual antiplatelet therapy for contrast defects at the proximal site of the occluded right coronary artery and the proximal site of the left circumflex artery. Despite the resolution of thrombi in secondary lesions, subacute ST occurred. After percutaneous coronary intervention for ST, triple therapy, including oral anticoagulation for PNH-related thrombosis, was initiated. The patient subsequently underwent craniotomy hematoma removal for hemorrhagic cerebral infarction.

Conclusions

Reported cases of ST in patients with PNH are very few, and this case adds evidence with respect to antithrombotic therapy in patients with thrombotic tendencies. Both thrombosis and bleeding should be considered when administering antithrombotic therapy to patients with thrombotic diseases. If there are specific treatments for thrombophilic diseases, they should be initiated early.

Subintimal Tracking and Re-entry Technique for Stent-Jailed Side-Branch Occlusion

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and outcomes of treatment with the subintimal tracking and re-entry technique for stent-jailed side branch (SB-STAR). SB occlusion is a serious complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, conventional strategies may fail to recanalize the stent-jailed SB.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients who underwent elective PCI and were treated with SB-STAR at the Sapporo Cardiovascular Clinic in Japan. SB was treated for severe stenosis, reduced thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow grade, or ischemic signs after main vessel stenting. Technical success during the procedure and clinical and angiographic follow-up findings at 6 months were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 13,431 PCI procedures performed between January 2016 and June 2021, SB-STAR was performed in 10 patients. The angiographic success rate was 100%. At the 6-month follow-up, no deaths or target-vessel revascularizations had occurred. All patients underwent angiographic follow-up, and 8 of the 10 patients (80%) who underwent SB-STAR had confirmed patency.

CONCLUSIONS

SB-STAR can be a bailout strategy to improve the critical situation of stent-jailed SB occlusion. At 6-month follow-up, the SB-STAR had good patency as well as good clinical outcomes.

Occurrence of Torsade de Pointes prior to complete lead connection during pacemaker implantation

Torsade de Pointes (TdP) can be triggered by a pacing spike on the T-wave, due to pacemaker undersensing. However, it is not widely known that this phenomenon can occur even during pacemaker implantation. An 84-year-old woman underwent pacemaker implantation for the treatment of a complete atrioventricular block with dyspnea. During the procedure, immediately following ventricular lead insertion and before torque wrench tightening, TdP was observed. Ventricular pacing was initiated by inserting the lead into the header of the generator; however, sensing remained unstable. T-waves associated with undersensed PVCs and ventricular pacing occurred simultaneously, resulting in a spike on the T-wave and TdP.

Abstract 6186: Identification of MYOF as a novel biomarker by using oxaliplatin-resistant gastric cancer organoid model

Background: The prognosis of gastric cancer (GC) is improving due to the development of chemotherapy, however, intrinsic or acquired resistance to anti-cancer drugs is still a major clinical challenge. Oxaliplatin (L-OHP) is one of the anti-cancer drugs used as first-line treatment for GC. As with other anti-cancer drugs, although acquired resistance to L-OHP is a major problem, no biomarkers are clinically available for L-OHP response. Recently, cancer stem cells (CSCs) were shown to be involved in the acquisition of drug resistance. Hence, the major goal is to discover novel predictive biomarkers and overcome L-OHP resistance in GC in relation to CSCs.

Methods: We used the organoid model; a culture method that allows 3D in vitro culturing of tissue-like structures and is presumed to contain many stem/progenitor cells. We established three independent L-OHP-resistant gastric cancer organoids (GCOs) by adding increasing doses of L-OHP in the culture medium over time. Gene expression profiles of the pairs of parental and resistant organoids were evaluated using microarray analysis. We analyzed the microarray data of L-OHP-resistant GCOs with our previous study from 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-resistant GCOs (GSE154127). We validated the upregulated genes in the L-OHP-resistant GCOs by qRT-PCR. To confirm the use of upregulated genes as a novel biomarker, we immunohistochemically evaluated the expression levels in GC tissue samples. Furthermore, we analyzed the effects of knockdown using both GC cell lines and GCOs.

Results: Through the comparison of the data, we detected myoferlin (MYOF) to be a candidate gene responsible only for L-OHP resistance. qRT-PCR results confirmed the results of the microarray and found that high expression of MYOF correlated significantly with the IC50 of L-OHP in GCOs. Immunohistochemistry analysis for MYOF using 132 GC cases showed that high expression of MYOF was significantly associated with poor prognosis, T grade, N grade, and lymphatic invasion, and showed MYOF to be an independent prognostic indicator, especially in the GC patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy. The knockdown or inhibition of MYOF by WJ460 in GC cell line and GCOs enhanced L-OHP sensitivity while it reduced cell growth, spheroid/organoid formation, migration, invasion, and in vivo tumorigenesis.

Conclusion: We highlight that MYOF is highly involved in L-OHP resistance and tumor progression in GC. Our results indicate that MYOF could be a promising biomarker in GC to predict L-OHP sensitivity and tumor progression and a potential candidate gene as a therapeutic target.

Citation Format: Kenji Harada, Naoya Sakamoto, Shoichi Ukai, Tsuyoshi Takashima, Ryota Maruyama, Daiki Taniyama, Kazuaki Tanabe, Hideki Ohdan, Wataru Yasui. Identification of MYOF as a novel biomarker by using oxaliplatin-resistant gastric cancer organoid model [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 6186.

Assessing optimal Roux-en-Y reconstruction technique after total gastrectomy using the Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale-45

BACKGROUND

Following a total gastrectomy, patients suffer the most severe form of postgastrectomy syndrome. This is a significant clinical problem as it reduces quality of life (QOL). Roux-en-Y reconstruction, which is regarded as the gold standard for post-total gastrectomy reconstruction, can be performed using various techniques. Although the technique used could affect postoperative QOL, there are no previous reports regarding the same.

AIM

To investigate the effect of different techniques on postoperative QOL. The data was collected from the registry of the postgastrectomy syndrome assessment study (PGSAS).

METHODS

In the present study, we analyzed 393 total gastrectomy patients from those enrolled in PGSAS. Patients were divided into groups depending on whether antecolic or retrocolic jejunal elevation was performed, whether the Roux limb was “40 cm”, “shorter” (≤ 39 cm), or “longer” (≥ 41 cm), and whether the device used for esophageal and jejunal anastomosis was a circular or linear stapler. Subsequently, we comparatively investigated postoperative QOL of the patients.

RESULTS

Reconstruction route: Esophageal reflux subscale (SS) occurred significantly less frequently in patients who underwent antecolic reconstruction. Roux limb length: “Shorter” Roux limb did not facilitate esophageal reflux SS and somewhat attenuated indigestion SS and abdominal pain SS. Anastomosis technique: In terms of esophagojejunostomy techniques, no differences were observed.

CONCLUSION

The techniques used for total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction significantly affected postoperative symptoms. Our results suggest that elevating the Roux limb, which is not overly long, through an antecolic route may improve patients’ QOL.

Pericardial effusion caused by viral pericarditis in a patient receiving peritoneal dialysis

Background

Acute pericarditis causes acute inflammation of the pericardium. Although most cases of pericarditis are idiopathic with no identifiable cause, its etiology can be infectious, such as viral, bacterial, mycotic, and tuberculous infections, or non-infectious, including post-pericardiotomy, metastatic malignant tumor, connective tissue disease, or uremia. However, there has been no report of pericarditis caused by adenoviral infection in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Herein, we report a case of pericarditis and pericardial effusion caused by adenoviral infection in a patient undergoing PD.

Case presentation

A 59-year-old man who had been undergoing PD in our department for 3 years had a bout of acute enteritis. He was later admitted to the emergency department of our hospital because of malaise and loss of consciousness due to pericardial effusion. Testing after admission revealed elevated adenovirus antibody titers. Pericardial effusion improved although no changes in his PD prescription were made. The patient was hospitalized and admitted to maintain hemodynamics and prevent hypotension. Since insufficient dialysis volume was ruled out by peritoneal equilibrium tests and dialysis volume assessment, the patient was kept under observation, and no changes were made regarding the method of dialysis. Pericardial effusion and the C-reactive protein level both gradually declined, and the patient’s weight remained steady. The adenovirus antibody titer alone increased to 1:64 at approximately 2 weeks after hospitalization. The final diagnosis was acute pericarditis due to adenoviral infection rather than uremia or dialysis-associated pericarditis.

Conclusions

We treated a patient with a rare case of pericardial effusion caused by viral (adenoviral) pericarditis in a patient undergoing PD. In addition to testing for the usual causes, uremic and dialysis-associated pericarditis must always be ruled out in patients receiving dialysis. In cases of pericarditis with a viral origin, diagnosis and treatment must be comprehensive.

Very Late Stent Thrombosis after Discontinuation of Antiplatelet Agents during Anticoagulation Therapy in a Patient with Peri-stent Contrast Staining after Implantation of a Second-generation Drug-eluting Stent

A 54-year-old man was admitted to our hospital due to intermittent chest pain. He had a history of acute myocardial infarction, and peri-stent contrast staining had been observed at the stent implantation site. The patient previously underwent anticoagulation therapy for left ventricular thrombus and antiplatelet therapy to prevent stent thrombosis. More than one year after implantation of a drug-eluting stent, antiplatelet drugs were discontinued, and anticoagulant alone was prescribed according to the guidelines, which resulted in very late stent thrombosis. The risks of both bleeding and thrombosis must be fully considered when deciding whether or not to discontinue antiplatelet therapy during anticoagulation therapy.

Combinational Elastography

Heart failure (HF) can cause liver congestion and stiffness. Elastography is used to noninvasively measure organ stiffness. Liver fibrosis (LF) is monitored by shear wave and strain elastography. However, shear wave velocity (Vs) on shear wave elastography varies under the influence of fibrosis and congestion, and the LF index by strain elastography reflects only LF progression. Little is known about the usefulness of these methods in HF patients. This prospective study evaluated combined shear wave and strain elastography (i.e., combinational elastography) for assessing liver congestion. A total of 51 patients with HF (33 outpatients and 18 inpatients) and 10 healthy participants were included. Further, the relationships between combinational elastography and clinical characteristics in 51 patients with HF and the effects of medical treatment on these relationships in 18 inpatients with HF were investigated. Vs was significantly higher in the HF group than in the control group (1.68 ± 0.47 versus 1.21 ± 0.16, P = 0.002). The LF index did not significantly differ (1.39 ± 0.40 versus 1.33 ± 0.15, P = 0.680). Vs decreased after treatment (from 2.01 ± 0.61 to 1.62 ± 0.49 m/seconds; P = 0.026), while the LF index did not change (from 1.21 ± 0.29 to 1.26 ± 0.27; P = 0.664). Brain natriuretic peptide level (r = 0.343; P = 0.003) and composite congestion scores (r = 0.455; P < 0.001) were correlated with Vs. Combinational elastography is useful for assessing liver congestion, differentiating between liver congestion and fibrosis, and assessing therapeutic effects in HF patients.

Administration of retinoic acid to pregnant mice increases the number of fetal mouse glomeruli

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing worldwide, and CKD is a serious global health problem. Low glomerular number is one of the risk factors for CKD; therefore, the glomerular number is associated with the risk of CKD. Increasing the glomerular number above normal levels may reduce the risk of CKD. It has been reported that, in vitro, the addition of retinoic acid (RA) to the culture medium increases the glomerular number. However, there is no report of an increase in glomerular number above normal levels with the addition of RA in vivo. In this study, RA (20 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to pregnant mice once at embryonic day (E) 10.5, E12.5, E14.5, or E16.5. The fetuses were harvested at E18.5 and fetal mouse kidneys were evaluated. Fetal kidney volume and weight were significantly increased in the E16.5 group compared to the control group. The total glomerular number in the E16.5 group was also approximately 1.46 times higher than that in the control group. In summary, we established a method to increase the glomerular number in the fetal kidney by administration of RA to pregnant mice at E16.5. These results will facilitate the investigation of whether CKD risk is reduced when the glomerular number increases above normal.

Negative-Pressure Pulmonary Edema and Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy in the Older Adults

Negative-pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) is a non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema caused by a sudden drop in the intrathoracic pressure associated with upper airway obstruction. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) can often be triggered by intense stress and is more common in older women. In this case report, we describe a case of NPPE associated with upper airway obstruction and TCM associated with stress by upper airway obstruction in an 85-year-old woman. When encountering pulmonary edema associated with upper airway obstruction in older adults, the possibility of NPPE and TCM complications should be considered.