Neurolymphomatosis diagnosed after a recurrence of facial palsy

Neurolymphomatosis (NL) is a rare complication of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, characterized by the infiltration of lymphoma cells into the peripheral nerves. A 54-year-old woman initially presented with right facial palsy without any other significant symptoms and was diagnosed with Bell's palsy. Despite initial improvement, her condition recurred, prompting further evaluation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed contrast enhancement from the tympanic segment to the surface of the masseter muscle along the right facial nerve and an adjacent mass lesion. Biopsy of the mass revealed a diagnosis of T-cell/histiocyte-rich large B-cell lymphoma. Chemotherapy resulted in complete resolution of facial palsy. Follow-up MRI confirmed the absence of contrast enhancement along the facial nerve. Facial palsy was considered to be caused by NL. This case was classified as that of primary NL because the facial palsy was the first manifestation of a hematologic malignancy. Recurrent facial palsy, which is atypical in Bell's palsy, led to further evaluation with MRI, which finally resulted in the diagnosis of malignant lymphoma. In cases of recurrent facial palsy, clinicians should consider various diagnoses, including that of NL, and advocate early imaging tests and biopsy, if possible, for accurate diagnosis and improved outcomes.

Monoclonal proliferation of B-cells with two integration sites of bovine leukemia virus proviral DNA in cattle with enzootic bovine leukosis

The present study analyzed B-cell clonality and bovine leukemia virus (BLV) provirus integration sites in cattle with enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) having BLV proviral copy numbers less or greater than the number of bovine nucleated cells. EBL cattle with BLV copy numbers less than the number of bovine nucleated cells showed monoclonal and biclonal proliferation of B-cells with one BLV provirus integration site. On the other hand, EBL cattle with BLV copy numbers greater than the number of bovine nucleated cells showed monoclonal proliferation of B-cells with two BLV provirus integration sites. These results suggest that superinfection of BLV can occur in EBL cattle.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with DNA copy number changes in a Japanese black calf

A 2-month-old Japanese Black calf exhibited mandibular and superficial cervical lymph node swelling. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the superficial cervical lymph node revealed large lymphoblast-like cells with mitoses. Hematological examination revealed remarkable lymphocytosis with atypical lymphocytes. Increased activities of serum total lactate dehydrogenase and thymidine kinase were detected. At necropsy, generalized swelling of lymph nodes was observed. Histopathological analysis revealed diffuse proliferation of medium-sized round centroblastic neoplastic cells that were positive for CD20, CD79α, PAX5, and BLA-36, and negative for CD3, CD5, CD10, and CD34. The calf was diagnosed with centroblastic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) based on these findings. Analysis of DNA copy number variation revealed an increased copy number for the GIMAP family relative to that in healthy cattle. Moreover, decreases in copy numbers of GBP-1, MIR3141, OR5P1E, and PTPRG relative to those in healthy cattle were also observed. Because DNA copy number variation represent a major contribution to the somatic mutation landscapes in human tumors, these findings suggest that DNA copy number changes might have contributed to the onset of DLBCL in the present case.

Expression profile analysis of the transient receptor potential (TRPM) channel, a possible target of praziquantel in Schistosoma japonicum

The WHO considers schistosomiasis, which is controlled by the mass administration of the drug praziquantel (PZQ), to be a neglected tropical disease. Despite its clinical use for over four decades, PZQ remains the only choice of chemotherapy against this disease. Regarding the previous studies that demonstrated that PZQ activates the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel in Schistosoma mansoni (Sm.TRPMPZQ), the expression profile of the ortholog of this channel gene (Smp_246790.5) in S. japonicum (EWB00_008853) (Sj.TRPMPZQ) was analyzed. The relative expression of this gene in various stages of the parasite lifecycle was analyzed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR), and the expression of Sj.TRPMPZQ was observed by immunohistochemical staining using anti-serum against the recombinant Sj.TRPMPZQ protein. qRT-PCR revealed the significantly lower mRNA expression in the snail stage in comparison to other stages (p < 0.01). The relative quantity of the Sj.TRPMPZQ expression for paired females, unpaired males, and eggs was 60%, 56%, and 68%, respectively, in comparison to paired males that showed the highest expression (p < 0.05). Interestingly, immunostaining demonstrated that Sj.TRPMPZQ is expressed in the parenchyma which contains muscle cells, neuronal cells and tegument cells in adult worms. This may support the two major effects of PZQ-worm paralysis and tegument disruption-induced by channel activation. Moreover, the channel was expressed in both the eggshell and the miracidia inside, but could not be observed in sporocyst. These results suggest that the expression of Sj.TRPMPQZ corresponds to the known sensitivity of S. japonicum to PZQ.

Patients Offer Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy for Early Breast Cancer as Local Therapy (PO-RAFAELO) Study under the Patient-proposed Health Services

Introduction

Due to the increase in the number of early-stage breast cancer patients, there is growing interest in minimally invasive local therapies for breast cancer. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy is one of the most promising minimally invasive treatments. The Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy for Early Breast Cancer as Local Therapy (RAFAELO) study, a multicenter collaborative study that aims to validate the efficacy and safety of RFA and to standardize its use for early-stage breast cancer, was conducted under the Advanced Medical Care B system in 2013. This study enrolled the expected number of patients in November 2017; moreover, it is currently in the follow-up period. Some patients with early-stage breast cancer who are eligible for RFA could not receive the RFA treatment, as it is still not covered by insurance. Therefore, the Patients Offer Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy for Early Breast Cancer as Local Therapy (PO-RAFAELO) study under the Patient-proposed Health Services (PPHS) was proposed and approved in March 2019.

Methods

The PPHS is a system that allows patients to receive prompt access to advanced medical care at a medical facility close to them, starting with their request. This system is considered a part of the specific and special medical coverage. The PO-RAFAELO study is the only study in the surgical field utilizing the PPHS, aiming to help in achieving regulatory approval and insurance coverage of RFA for breast cancer.

Results

As of January 2023, 120 patients have undergone RFA using the PPHS and no grade 3 or higher early adverse events have occurred.

Conclusions

A certain number of patients with early-stage breast cancer prefer nonsurgical treatment, and it is important to provide information regarding the availability of RFA for early-stage breast cancer under the PPHS.Trial registration: registered with Japan Registry of Clinical Trial on March 06, 2019 (Trial ID: jRCTs032180187).

LINE-1 Methylation Status in Canine Splenic Hemangiosarcoma Tissue and Cell-Free DNA

Splenic hemangiosarcoma is one of the most common malignant tumors in dogs, and early diagnosis is of great importance for achieving a good prognosis. DNA methylation plays an important role in cancer development. Long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1) is the most abundant repetitive element in the genome. LINE-1 hypomethylation has been shown to be related to carcinogenesis in humans, and it has been used as a novel cancer biomarker. This study aimed to evaluate the methylation status of LINE-1 in tumor tissue and circulating cell-free DNA and assess its clinical significance in canine splenic hemangiosarcoma. Genomic DNA was isolated from splenic masses of 13 dogs with hemangiosarcoma, 11 with other malignant tumors, and 15 with benign lesions. LINE-1 methylation was quantified using methylation-sensitive and -insensitive restriction enzyme digestion followed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, blood samples were collected from eight patients to isolate cell-free DNA to determine LINE-1 methylation status changes during the treatment course. LINE-1 methylation in tumor samples was significantly lower in patients with hemangiosarcoma than in those with other malignant tumors and benign lesions. Non-significant but similar results were observed for the cell-free DNA samples. Our results demonstrate that LINE-1 methylation status is a potential biomarker for splenic hemangiosarcoma.

Enzootic bovine leukosis in a 21-month-old Japanese Black cow with high susceptibility

A 21-mo-old Japanese Black beef cow had swollen mandibular and superficial cervical lymph nodes. Fine-needle aspiration cytology of the superficial cervical lymph node revealed large lymphoblasts with mitoses present. The bovine leukemia virus (BLV) proviral load was relatively high, and phylogenetic analysis of the whole BLV genome classified the BLV strain as one with high viral replication activity. Genotyping of bovine leukocyte antigen genes indicated that the cow was susceptible to enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL). The bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP6) gene promoter region was hypermethylated. Monoclonal proliferation of B cells and monoclonal integration of the BLV provirus in the bovine genome were detected by a clonality test of B cells and an inverse PCR assay, respectively. At autopsy, generalized swelling of lymph nodes and spinal canal invasion by tumor tissue at vertebrae L5-6 were observed. Histologic analysis revealed diffuse proliferation of large round neoplastic cells that were positive for BLA36 and negative for CD3. The cow was definitively diagnosed with EBL based on these findings. Infection with a highly pathogenic strain of BLV, susceptibility of the BoLA-DRB3 alleles, and hypermethylation of the BMP6 gene may have contributed to the development of EBL in our case.

Equine nonneoplastic abnormal ovary in a draft mare with high serum anti-Müllerian hormone: a case study

We performed a standing hand-assisted laparoscopic ovariectomy in a draft mare that presented with high serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level and had an enlarged single cystic ovary. Histopathological examination revealed no tumor cell proliferation in the ovary, but the presence of a large ovarian cyst was confirmed. In the diagnosis of abnormal ovaries in mares, a comprehensive assessment should be performed, including the monitoring of ovarian morphology and biomarkers over time, to determine the disease prognosis and treatment plan. The case of this mare with a nonneoplastic abnormal ovary and increased serum AMH level was rare. We suggest that standing hand-assisted laparoscopic ovariectomy is useful for the removal of large ovaries in draft mares.

Clinical application of an intraoral scanner and CAD/CAM system for a Kennedy class I partially edentulous patient

Traditionally, removable partial dentures (RPDs) have been made by using an elastic impression material and casting from a framework wax pattern on a refractory cast. In this short communication, the procedures for digitally fabricating removable partial dentures using an intraoral scanner (IOS) and additive manufacturing system (AM) are described. The adaptation accuracy of the RPD using IOS and AM techniques was evaluated subjectively as good or satisfactory.

Acute myelomonocytic leukemia negative for alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase stain in a Holstein cow

A 4-year, 7-month-old Holstein cow presented with anorexia. Physical examination revealed masses in the interscapular region and vagina. Blast cells were detected in the masses and peripheral blood by fine needle aspiration cytology and hematological examination. By bone marrow aspiration, blast cells constituted up to 24.2% of all nucleated cells, and 22% and 2% of non-erythroid cells stained positive for myeloperoxidase and alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE), respectively. Pathological examination revealed the mass lesions consisted of a proliferation of tumor cells, which were positive for monocytic markers (HLA-DR and Iba-1). The cow was diagnosed with acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMML). Even when tumor cells are ANAE-negative, AMML cannot be completely ruled out and should be considered when diagnosing cattle with leukemia/lymphoma.

Analysis of the bone morphogenetic protein 6 gene promoter region in young beef cattle affected by enzootic bovine leukosis

Enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is typically observed in cattle over 3 years old. However, some cases of EBL onset in young beef cattle have been reported in Japan. The mechanism for early EBL onset is unclear. In Japan, beef cattle are given large amounts of concentrated feed with low vitamin A. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are regulators of cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and thought to represent one of the key players in tumor malignancy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differences in BMP-6 methylation status between EBL beef cattle under 3 years old and other cattle. We investigated the methylation status of the BMP-6 promoter region in 32 EBL beef cattle under 3 years old. We also compared the methylation status of EBL dairy cattle to that of healthy cattle. Median methylation rate of the BMP-6 promoter region in EBL beef cattle under 3 years old was 8.9%, which was significantly higher than that of other groups. Hypermethylation of the BMP-6 promoter region might contribute to early onset of EBL in beef cattle under 3 years old, and animal feeding management practices specific to beef cattle may affect the methylation status of the BMP-6 promoter region.

Oral care and oral assessment guide in breast cancer patients receiving everolimus and exemestane: subanalysis of a randomized controlled trial (Oral Care-BC)

Background

Oral mucositis is a clinically significant adverse event linked to cancer therapy; it reduces the quality of life of patients and may result in the discontinuation of treatment and a poorer prognosis. Based on level 3 evidence, the Mucositis Study Group of Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer and the International Society of Oral Oncology recommend oral care for all patients receiving cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy, although no data from large-scaled randomized controlled trials support the efficacy of oral care in preventing oral mucositis. Therefore, this randomized, controlled, multicenter, open-label, phase III study sought to determine whether professional oral care reduces oral mucositis in everolimus and exemestane-treated estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer patients.

Methods

Altogether, 169 patients were randomized into the professional oral care (n=82) and control (n=87) groups. The professional oral care group received oral health instruction, professional mechanical tooth and tongue cleaning, gargling with a benzethonium chloride mouthwash, and dexamethasone ointment when grade 1 mucositis manifested. The control group received oral health instruction and gargling. Eight weeks after the everolimus and exemestane administration, the oral status (Oral Assessment Guide criteria) and oral mucositis status (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events functional and clinical examinations) were evaluated.

Results

The incidence of oral mucositis of any grade and grade 2 severe mucositis was significantly lower in the professional oral care group, based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events functional and clinical examinations. The total Oral Assessment Guide score, total Oral Assessment Guide grade, and Oral Assessment Guide score of teeth/dentures and mucous membranes were significantly different between the two groups. The Oral Assessment Guide grade for swallow, lip, teeth/dentures, mucous membrane, tongue, and saliva significantly correlated to oral mucositis severity.

Conclusions

Professional oral care may prevent oral mucositis and improve teeth/denture conditions in patients receiving everolimus and exemestane.

A clinical case of acute myelomonocytic leukemia in a Holstein cow

A 2-year, 3-month-old Holstein cow presented with anorexia and enlarged superficial lymph nodes. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the superficial lymph nodes revealed large blast cells. Hematological examination revealed anemia, neutropenia, and blast cells in peripheral blood. Blast cells were the predominant cell type in bone marrow aspirates. Of the non-erythroid cells, 26%, 58%, and 18% were positive for myeloperoxidase, α-naphthyl acetate esterase, and naphthol AS-D chloroacetate esterase, respectively. Pathological examination revealed the proliferation of neoplastic cells, which were positive for monocytic markers, in the affected lymph nodes. The cow was diagnosed with acute myelomonocytic leukemia based on these findings. This report highlights the importance of performing bone marrow aspiration cytology and cytochemical staining when diagnosing bovine myeloid leukemia.

Prospective cohort study of febrile neutropenia in breast cancer patients administered with neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapies: CSPOR-BC FN study

Background

As Asians are more vulnerable to febrile neutropenia (FN) than Caucasians, evaluations of FN incidence and risk factors in Asians are important for the appropriate use of primary pegfilgrastim (PEG-G).

Patients and methods

Japanese breast cancer patients receiving standard adjuvant chemotherapies were prospectively enrolled in multicenter institutions from August 2015 to July 2017. FN was evaluated from 2 treatment policies: true FN (T-FN): ≥37.5 °C, grade 4 neutropenia, mandatory hospital visit (visiting); surrogate FN (S-FN): ≥37.5 °C, oral antibiotic, no mandatory visit (non-visiting). PEG-G was used at the physicians’ discretion. The primary endpoint was FN incidence during all cycles. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify T-FN risk factors.

Results

Of 1005 enrolled patients, 980 women treated with FEC, E(A)C, and TC were analyzed. The FN incidence proportions in all patients were 22.5%, 27.5%, and 33.9% for FEC, E(A)C, and TC, respectively. Those of T-FN were 27.7%, 22.4%, and 36.6%; those of S-FN were 17.3%, 32.4%, and 31.5% with more frequent primary PEG-G usage. The relative dose intensity (RDI) of the 3 regimens was ≥0.85 in both groups. In the analysis of risk factors, TC (odds ratio = 2.67), age ≥ 65 years (2.24), and pretreatment absolute neutrophil count (ANC)/1000 μl (0.8) remained significant.

Conclusions

FN incidences were above 20% in the 3 regimens, with TC showing the highest. RDI was maintained at a high level in both visiting and non-visiting groups. Patient-related risk factors were age and pretreatment ANC.

•

This study compared febrile neutropenia (FN) incidences of 3 breast cancer regimens.

•

FN incidences were >20% in the 3 regimens (FEC, E(A)C; TC); TC showed the highest.

•

The relative dose intensities in visiting and non-visiting groups were at high level.

•

Age and pretreatment absolute neutrophil count were found as significant FN factors.

A clinical case of single left ventricle in a Holstein calf

A 15-day-old Holstein calf with lethargy and tachypnea presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine for evaluation of suspected congenital heart defect. A Levine grade 6 systolic murmur was noted at right apical site auscultation and phonocardiogram also recorded systolic a murmur. Electrocardiography findings include increased R and S waves, R wave split, and negative T waves without arrhythmia. Echocardiography revealed a single ventricle with a trace of the right ventricular wall, atrioventricular valve regurgitation, and turbulent in a single ventricle. Arterial blood analysis showed a marked decrease in oxygen saturation of 78% and oxygen partial pressure of 44 mmHg. Post-mortem examination confirmed the diagnosis of a single left ventricle.

Secondary endpoints analysis in patients with estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer treated with everolimus and exemestane enrolled in Oral Care-BC

BACKGROUND

The Oral Care BC-trial reported that professional oral care (POC) reduces the incidence and severity of oral mucositis in patients receiving everolimus (EVE) and exemestane (EXE). However, the effect of POC on clinical response among patients receiving EVE and EXE was not established. We compared outcomes for estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer patients who received POC to those who had not, and evaluated clinical prognostic factors. All patients simultaneously received EVE and EXE.

METHODS

Between May 2015 and Dec 2017, 174 eligible patients were enrolled in the Oral Care-BC trial. The primary endpoint was the comparative incidence of grade 1 or worse oral mucositis, as evaluated for both the groups over 8 weeks by an oncologist. The secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Data were collected after a follow-up period of 13.9 months.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in PFS between the POC and Control Groups (P = 0.801). A BMI <  25 mg/m2 and non-visceral metastasis were associated with longer PFS (P = 0.018 and P = 0.003, respectively) and the use of bone modifying agents (BMA) was associated with shorter PFS (P = 0.028). The PFS and OS between the POC and control groups were not significantly different in the Oral-Care BC trial.

CONCLUSIONS

POC did not influence the prognosis of estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer patients. Patients with non-visceral metastasis, a BMI <  25 mg/m2, and who did not receive BMA while receiving EVE and EXE may have better prognoses.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study protocol was registered online at the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN), Japan (protocol ID 000016109), on January 5, 2015 and at ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT02376985 ).

Dysbiosis in the Salivary Microbiome Associated with IgA Nephropathy-‍A‍ ‍Japanese Cohort Study

IgA nephropathy is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease in Japan. Since the origin and mechanisms by which IgA nephropathy develops currently remain unclear, a confirmed disease diagnosis is currently only possible by highly invasive renal biopsy. With the background of the salivary microbiome as a rich source of biomarkers for systemic diseases, we herein primarily aimed to investigate the salivary microbiome as a tool for the non-invasive diagnosis of IgA nephropathy. In a comparison of salivary microbiome profiles using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, significant differences were observed in microbial diversity and richness between IgA nephropathy patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, recent studies reported that patients with IgA nephropathy are more likely to develop inflammatory bowel diseases and that chronic inflammation of the tonsils triggered the recurrence of IgA nephropathy. Therefore, we compared the salivary microbiome of IgA nephropathy patients with chronic tonsillitis and ulcerative colitis patients. By combining the genera selected by the random forest algorithm, we were able to distinguish IgA nephropathy from healthy controls with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.90, from the ulcerative colitis group with AUC of 0.88, and from the chronic tonsillitis group with AUC of 0.70. Additionally, the genus Neisseria was common among the selected genera that facilitated the separation of the IgA nephropathy group from healthy controls and the chronic tonsillitis group. The present results indicate the potential of the salivary microbiome as a biomarker for the non-invasive diagnosis of IgA nephropathy.

A clinical case of presumed cerebellar medulloblastoma in a Japanese Black calf with increased neuron-specific enolase in cerebrospinal fluid

A 2-day-old Japanese Black male calf that presented with opisthotonos with spastic extension of all four limbs and nystagmus was presented. Evaluation of cranial neurology revealed a horizontal slow nystagmus and absence of menace response in the left eye. Necropsy revealed a mass located between the posterior margin of the cerebrum and anterior margin of the cerebellum, and continuously with the cerebellar lesion. The brainstem was severely compressed by those lesions. Original structures of the cerebellum were mostly replaced by grayish-white and brownish tissues. Those lesions were diagnosed as presumed cerebellar medulloblastoma by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. As neuron-specific enolase in the cerebrospinal fluid which is a biomarker for neuronal damage was increased compared with healthy calves.

Characteristic imaging findings of the respiratory system in penguins with suspected aspergillosis in an aquarium

Twenty penguins, including the King penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus), Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua), and African penguin (Spheniscus demersus), housed at an aquarium in Hokkaido, Japan, underwent regular health screening via blood test, and five penguins with suspected aspergillosis were extracted. In cases 1 and 2, a thickened membrane and/or fluid level and/or calcification in the air sac were observed on both radiography and computed tomography (CT). These two penguins died after 19 and 43 days, respectively. At the time the radiographic changes were observed, the disease had likely progressed to a point at which it was too late for recovery. Aspergillus fumigatus infection was confirmed by nucleotide sequence analysis in case 1. In case 3, infiltration in the pulmonary parenchyma was observed on CT, and the infiltration disappeared following oral administration of itraconazole as diagnostic therapy for 8 months. In case 4, defects in the pulmonary parenchyma were observed only on CT. These defects remained unchanged in size for 7 months despite the lack of any treatment, and were not considered clinically significant. However, the blood antigen level in case 5 was increased, both radiography and CT were unremarkable. The combination of a screening blood test and CT examination could be useful clues for an early diagnosis of aspergillosis as well as for initiating treatment.

Acute monoblastic leukemia in a feline leukemia virus-negative cat

A 12-year-old female domestic short-haired cat was presented due to weight loss, anorexia, and tachypnea. Complete blood count revealed severe anemia, leukocytosis with massive undifferentiated blast cells, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow aspiration showed acute myeloid leukemia, subclassified as monoblastic leukemia (M5a) based on the outcomes of the cytochemistry examinations. The SNAP feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) test using whole blood was negative. In addition, FeLV/FIV proviral polymerase chain reaction test using bone marrow aspirate was also negative. Although the cat was treated with doxorubicin, cytosine arabinoside, and prednisolone, anemia did not improve without blood transfusion. The owner declined further treatment after 2 months, and the cat died a few days later.

Intramedullary spinal nephroblastoma in a mixed breed dog

A 1-year-old male mixed breed dog presented for the evaluation of progressive hindlimb paresis. Neurological examination indicated a spinal cord lesion between the 3rd thoracic and 3rd lumbar vertebrae. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an intramedullary spinal cord lesion located at the level of the 1st and 2nd lumbar vertebrae. Following cytoreductive surgery of the mass, palliative radiation therapy was administered. A diagnosis of nephroblastoma was made based on histological examination. After radiation therapy, the disappearance of the spinal lesion was confirmed by MRI. The dog was improved from gait abnormality and alive at 16 months postoperatively, with slight signs of neurological dysfunction.

Molecular diagnosis of bovine B-cell lymphoma using polymerase chain reaction for immunoglobulin heavy chain gene

We performed a clonality analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene rearrangement, specifically with regard to its utility as a method to diagnose bovine B-cell lymphoma. PCR for IgH gene rearrangement indicated monoclonal proliferation of B-cells in 24 of 35 cattle with B-cell lymphoma. In contrast, PCR for IgH gene rearrangement in lymph nodes and tumor tissues from 65 cattle diagnosed with tumors other than B-cell lymphoma and non-tumors revealed polyclonal population of B-cells. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for PCR for IgH gene rearrangement for bovine B-cell lymphoma were 68.6%, 100%, 100%, and 85.5%, respectively. Clonality analysis using PCR for IgH gene rearrangement may be useful for adjunctive diagnosis of bovine B-cell lymphoma.

Disseminated thymic B-cell lymphoma in a Holstein heifer

A 19-mo-old Holstein heifer was inactive and dyspneic. Physical examination revealed wheezing, exophthalmos, a cervical mass, and lymphadenopathy. Cytology of the cervical mass and lymph nodes showed predominantly large atypical lymphocytes. Lactate dehydrogenase and thymidine kinase activities were elevated. Although nested PCR for bovine leukemia virus (BLV) using blood was positive, quantitative PCR showed a low number of provirus copies. Autopsy revealed enlargement of most lymph nodes examined, as well as white masses of various sizes in muscles of the left hindlimb and thoracic and abdominal organs. Histopathology revealed severe infiltration with neoplastic lymphocytes in these organs. The cervical mass was immune-positive for B-cell markers. The final diagnosis was thymic B-cell lymphoma with BLV infection.

Chronic Inflammatory and Proliferative Lesions of the Gallbladder in Aged Pigs

Primary epithelial tumors of the gallbladder are rarely reported in animals. In this study, 9 aged pigs (6-12 years old) were histopathologically examined for gallbladder proliferative lesions. At necropsy, a large gallstone occupied the lumen of the gallbladder of 3 pigs. Histopathological examination revealed chronic cholecystitis in all 9 pigs, mucosal hyperplasia in 2 pigs, adenoma in 1 pig, and adenocarcinoma in 2 pigs. Bacilli were detected in the gallbladder lumen of 6 pigs by Warthin-Starry stain. Mucosal hyperplasia, adenoma, and adenocarcinoma were characterized by papillary projections of the mucosa with occasional acinar structures. Tumor invasion of the surrounding tissue was observed in the cases of adenocarcinoma. On Alcian blue and periodic acid-Schiff double-stained sections, the acinar structure of gallbladder mucosa in chronic cholecystitis and mucosal hyperplasia was stained in a mosaic pattern, indicating pyloric gland metaplasia. The results of immunohistochemistry revealed a CD10-positive epithelial brush border and mucin (MUC) 2-positive goblet cells in chronic cholecystitis, adenoma, and adenocarcinomas, indicating intestinal metaplasia. Immunoreactivity of MUC5 AC and cytokeratin 19 was weaker in adenoma and adenocarcinomas compared with the normal and hyperplastic gallbladder mucosa. The number of p53-positive nuclei and the Ki-67 index were higher in adenocarcinomas compared with benign lesions. These results suggest that chronic cholecystitis associated with gallstones and/or bacterial infections may contribute to metaplastic changes and development of gallbladder tumors in aged pigs. Alteration of mucin, cytokeratin, and p53 profiles in gallbladder proliferative lesions in pigs were similar to that in humans, suggesting a common pathogenesis in tumor development.

Endarterectomy Using the Lateral Approach with an Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator Device for Heavily Calcified Peripheral Arterial Occlusive Disease

Objective: To present a new and easy technique for performing endarterectomy in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD) having dollop calcification at the common femoral artery (CFA).

Materials and Methods: We developed a procedure for angioplasty for PAD using a supersonic surgical suction device, based on the new concept of “to create a new lumen to dig tunnel in calcification.” Ultrasonic surgical aspiration device was inserted into the intravascular space from outside the area of the target lesion and only internal calcification was removed.

Results: We performed this technique in three patients who had PAD with dollop calcification at CFA. We succeeded in performing endarterectomy easily and safely. This method does not require vascular wall closure suture at calcified lesion or intimal fixation suture of dollop calcification.

Conclusion: We address the technical difficulty in treating highly calcified lesions that could not be dealt with conventional endarterectomy. Our new method is one of the options for revascularization of heavily calcified lesions.

Polyradiculoneuropathy in dourine-affected horses

Dourine is an equine protozoan disease caused by Trypanosoma equiperdum. Dourine-afflicted animals die after developing neurological clinical signs, such as unilateral paresis. The disease has been a problem for many years; however, the pathogenesis regarding the neurological clinical signs of dourine has been unclear. In the present study, we conducted a histopathological examination in order to investigate the mechanisms by which dourine-afflicted horses develop the accompanying neurological clinical signs. Four dourine-afflicted horses in Mongolia were evaluated. An apparently healthy horse exhibited multifocal neuritis without axonal or myelin degeneration. The other horses, which had obvious neurological clinical signs, also exhibited multifocal neuritis. In particular, the nerves that innervated areas associated with neurological clinical signs exhibited neuritis with demyelination in the latter horses. Inflamed, non-demyelinating nerves were infiltrated with B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes; while inflamed, demyelinating nerves were infiltrated with mononuclear phagocytes. Our observations revealed lesion progression in the nerves, such that polyradiculoneuropathy could explain the accompanying neurological clinical signs of dourine. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe a pathogenic mechanism for the development of the neurological clinical signs found in dourine-afflicted horses.

Thrombectomy and reconstruction of the left vertebral artery after total arch replacement: never give up on postoperative stroke

The patient was a 64-year-old man who had aortic regurgitation, ischemic heart disease, a transverse aortic aneurysm, and an abdominal-common iliac aneurysm. Concomitant operations including aortic valve replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting, and total aortic arch replacement with elephant trunk technique were performed successfully. The patient developed postoperative cardiac tamponade on the 5th postoperative day, resulting in bulbar palsy due to occlusion of the dominant left vertebral artery. Thrombectomy of the vertebral artery with reconstruction by a saphenous vein was performed. The patient's neurological symptoms improved after the operation. Revascularization of ischemic stroke may yield neurological improvement even in patients after cardiovascular surgery.

Histopathological study of encephalomalacia in neonatal calves and application of neuronal and axonal degeneration marker

Five calves that had shown neurological symptoms within 9 days after birth were histopathologically diagnosed as encephalomalacia. Two calves showed bilateral laminar cerebrocortical necrosis and neuronal necrosis in the corpus striatum and hippocampus. Since the distributional pattern of the lesions was consistent with that of global ischemia in other species, the lesions were probably hypoxic/ischemic encephalopathy consistent with the history of dystocia and perinatal asphyxia. One calf also showed bilateral laminar cerebrocortical necrosis. However, the lesions were chronic ones, because the calf had survived for long time and necropsied at postnatal day 118. Additionally, the lesions did not involve the corpus striatum and hippocampus. The other two calves showed multifocal necrosis with vascular lesions characterized by fibrin thrombi, perivascular edema and perivascular hyaline droplets in the cerebral cortex, corpus striatum, thalamus, brain stem and cerebellum. Considering the age of onsets and histopathological appearance, it was possible that latter three calves were also hypoxic/ischemic encephalopathy, however, exact cause of them was not revealed. In all calves, degenerated/necrotic neurons showed positive reactions for Fluoro-Jade C and degenerated axons showed immunoreactivity for Alzheimer precursor protein A4. Therefore, these markers were applicable to examination of brain injury in neonatal calves.

Bi-weekly eribulin therapy for metastatic breast cancer: a multicenter phase II prospective study (JUST-STUDY)

Background

This study aimed to investigate whether schedule modification is safe and effective in patients intolerant to the standard eribulin dose and schedule.

Methods

Patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) treated with both anthracycline and taxane and ≤ 3 prior regimens of chemotherapy for MBC received eribulin at the standard dose and schedule (1.4 mg/m² on days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle) in the first cycle; change of dosing schedule (1.4 mg/m² on days 1 and 15 of a 28-day cycle) was determined by change in neutrophil count, platelet count, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, serum creatinine, and non-hematological toxicity on day 8 of the first cycle or day 1 of the second cycle. Clinical benefit rate (CBR; primary endpoint), time to treatment failure (TTF), overall survival (OS), and safety were evaluated.

Results

Of the 88 patients who were enrolled and received standard eribulin therapy in the first cycle, 42 patients were moved to the bi-weekly therapy group and 40 continued standard therapy. In the bi-weekly and standard therapy groups, mean relative dose intensity was 62.7 and 90.9%, CBR was 31.0 and 25.0%, median TTF was 81.5 and 75 days, and OS was 523 and 412 days, respectively. Neither group reported severe adverse events.

Conclusion

This is the first study to show that a bi-weekly eribulin schedule is tolerable and has comparable efficacy in patients intolerant to the standard eribulin schedule.

Clinical trial registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Center (ID: UMIN 000008491).

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s12282-018-0843-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Variation of amino acid sequences of serum amyloid a (SAA) and immunohistochemical analysis of amyloid a (AA) in Japanese domestic cats

Amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis, a fatal systemic amyloid disease, occurs secondary to chronic inflammatory conditions in humans. Although persistently elevated serum amyloid A (SAA) levels are required for its pathogenesis, not all individuals with chronic inflammation necessarily develop AA amyloidosis. Furthermore, many diseases in cats are associated with the elevated production of SAA, whereas only a small number actually develop AA amyloidosis. We hypothesized that a genetic mutation in the SAA gene may strongly contribute to the pathogenesis of feline AA amyloidosis. In the present study, genomic DNA from four Japanese domestic cats (JDCs) with AA amyloidosis and from five without amyloidosis was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and direct sequencing. We identified the novel variation combination of 45R-51A in the deduced amino acid sequences of four JDCs with amyloidosis and five without. However, there was no relationship between amino acid variations and the distribution of AA amyloid deposits, indicating that differences in SAA sequences do not contribute to the pathogenesis of AA amyloidosis. Immunohistochemical analysis using antisera against the three different parts of the feline SAA protein—i.e., the N-terminal, central, and C-terminal regions—revealed that feline AA contained the C-terminus, unlike human AA. These results indicate that the cleavage and degradation of the C-terminus are not essential for amyloid fibril formation in JDCs.

Comparison of immune microenvironments between primary tumors and brain metastases in patients with breast cancer

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are reported to be effective in patients with brain metastases. However, detailed characteristics of the brain metastasis immune microenvironment remain unexplored.

Results

The median tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) category in brain metastases was 5% (1–70%). In 46 pair-matched samples, the percentages of TILs were significantly higher in primary breast tumors than in brain metastases (paired t-test, P < 0.01). The numbers of CD4/CD8/Foxp3-positive cells were significantly higher in primary breast tumors than in brain metastases (paired t-test, P < 0.05 for all antibodies). In patients with triple-negative breast cancer specifically, low TIL numbers were associated with significantly shorter overall survival compared to high TIL numbers (log-rank test, P = 0.04).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively identified 107 patients with breast cancer and brain metastases who had undergone surgery between 2001 and 2012 at 8 institutions, and collected 191 samples including brain metastases alone and primary tumors with pair-matched brain metastasis samples. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides were evaluated for TILs and categorized according to the extent of staining. Immunohistochemistry for CD4, CD8, Foxp3, PD-L1, PD-L2, and HLA class I was also performed.

Conclusions

There are significantly fewer TILs in brain metastases than in primary breast tumors.

Clinical and bacteriological differences of deep neck infection in pediatric and adult patients: Review of 123 cases

OBJECTIVES

Deep neck infections (DNIs) can lead to life-threatening disease. However, the detailed pathophysiology remains unclear due to its rarity and only a few reports have directly compared DNIs in children and adults. This study aimed to reveal the clinical differences between DNIs in children and adults.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 123 patients who suffered from DNIs at Tohoku University Hospital from August 2005 to July 2015. We extracted data on patient sex, age, antecedent illness, extension of infections, operative procedures, and bacteriology results. The patients were categorized into pediatric (≤18 years) and adult (>18 years) groups. Fisher's exact test was performed to determine significant differences between the two groups.

RESULTS

Fifteen children (6 males and 9 females) and 108 adults (71 males and 37 females) were identified. The most common antecedent illness in pediatric patients was lymphadenitis, which was the least common in adult patients (73% vs 7%, p < 0.0001). The incidence of DNIs extending below the hyoid bone was significantly lower in pediatric patients than in adult patients (20% vs 53%, p < 0.05). Regarding bacterial culture analysis, Staphylococcus species was the most common pathogen in children (60%), whereas only 9% of adults were positive for Staphylococcus (p < 0.001). Streptococcus species were significantly less common in children than in adults (27% vs 56%, p = 0.05). Anaerobes were also significantly less common in children than in adults (13% vs 45%, p < 0.01). Concerning surgical intervention, 53% of pediatric patients underwent external incision compared with 70% of adults. Specifically, tracheostomy was significantly less frequently performed in children than in adults (7% vs 54%, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

DNIs in children feature different characteristics from those in adults regarding severity, antecedent illness, bacteriology, and clinical management.

Efficient synthesis of α-galactosyl oligosaccharides using a mutant Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron retaining α-galactosidase (BtGH97b)

The preparation of a glycosynthase, a catalytic nucleophile mutant of a glycosidase, is a well-established strategy for the effective synthesis of glycosidic linkages. However, glycosynthases derived from α-glycosidases can give poor yields of desired products because they require generally unstable β-glycosyl fluoride donors. Here, we investigate a transglycosylation catalyzed by a catalytic nucleophile mutant derived from a glycoside hydrolase family (GH) 97 α-galactosidase, using more stable β-galactosyl azide and α-galactosyl fluoride donors. The mutant enzyme catalyzes the glycosynthase reaction using β-galactosyl azide and α-galactosyl transfer from α-galactosyl fluoride with assistance of external anions. Formate was more effective at restoring transfer activity than azide. Kinetic analysis suggests that poor transglycosylation in the presence of the azide is because of low activity of the ternary complex between enzyme, β-galactosyl azide and acceptor. A three-dimensional structure of the mutant enzyme in complex with the transglycosylation product, β-lactosyl α-d-galactoside, was solved to elucidate the ligand-binding aspects of the α-galactosidase. Subtle differences at the β→α loops 1, 2 and 3 of the catalytic TIM barrel of the α-galactosidase from those of a homologous GH97 α-glucoside hydrolase seem to be involved in substrate recognitions. In particular, the Trp residues in β→α loop 1 have separate roles. Trp312 of the α-galactosidase appears to exclude the equatorial hydroxy group at C4 of glucosides, whereas the corresponding Trp residue in the α-glucoside hydrolase makes a hydrogen bond with this hydroxy group. The mechanism of α-galactoside recognition is conserved among GH27, 31, 36 and 97 α-galactosidases.

DATABASE

The atomic coordinates (code: 5E1Q) have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank.

A cutaneous mixed tumor in a dog

The atypical cutaneous tumor of a 9-year-old mixed breed female dog was examined. The tumor was well-demarcated and histologically composed of a trichoblastic area, tricholemmal area and apocrine glandular area. Neoplastic cells in trichoblastic area and tricholemmal area had PAS-positive granules in the cytoplasm and were positive for pan-cytokeratin, cytokeratin 5/6, 14 and 19 and p63. Neoplastic cells in trichoblastic area were also positive for cytokeratin 15 and CD34. Neoplastic cells in apocrine glandular area were positive for pan-cytokeratin and cytokeratin 7, 18 and 19. Myoepithelial cell proliferation with osteocartilaginous metaplasia was observed in this area. Since neoplastic cells showed multiphenotypic differentiation for hair follicles and apocrine glands, the present case was diagnosed as a cutaneous mixed tumor.

Evaluation of oral care to prevent oral mucositis in estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer patients treated with everolimus (Oral Care-BC): randomized controlled phase III trial

This is a randomized, multi-center, open-label, phase III study to evaluate the efficacy of professional oral care in preventing oral mucositis induced by everolimus in postmenopausal estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer. Patients will be randomized into professional oral care and control groups (1:1 ratio). All patients will receive everolimus with exemestane and will continue everolimus until disease progression. In the professional oral care group, patients will receive teeth surface cleaning, scaling and tongue cleaning before starting everolimus, and will continue to receive professional oral care weekly from oral surgeons throughout the 8 week treatment. In the control group, patients will brush their own teeth and gargle with 0.9% sodium chloride solution or water. The primary endpoint is the incidence of all grades of oral mucositis. Target accrual is 200 patients with a two-sided type I error rate of 5% and 80% power to detect 25% risk reduction.

Different Patterns of Acetylation and Dimethylation of Histone H3 between Young and Aged Cases with Chronic Tonsillitis: Influences of Inflammation and Aging

INTRODUCTION

Epigenetics is now considered to be crucially involved in normal genetics and differentiation and in pathological conditions, such as cancer, aging, and inflammation. Epigenetic mechanisms involve DNA methylation and histone modifications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of inflammation on epigenetics in young subjects and the effect of aging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The palatine tonsils were extracted from child and adult patients with chronic tonsillitis. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to examine the morphology of the palatine tonsils. A fluorescence immunological examination was also performed to detect acetyl-histone H3 or dimethyl-histone H3. Confocal scanning microscopy was used for observations.

RESULTS

Acetylated histone H3 was detected in tonsils from child patients but not from adult patients. Dimethylated histone H3 was not detected in tonsils from either group of patients. Degeneration of the tonsillar structures was apparent in tonsils from adult patients.

DISCUSSION

The differential expression of acetylated histone H3 Lys9 may reflect immunological differences between young and aged tonsils. The decrease observed in the activity of histone methyltransferase induced the down-regulated expression of methylated histone H3.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that epigenetic changes participate in chronic inflammation and aging in the palatine tonsils. Although the results do not lead to a direct treatment, the epigenetic pathogenesis of chronic inflammation, such as immunoglobulin A nephropathy, by focal infections will be described in greater detail in future studies, which will lead to new treatments being developed.

Identification of false-negative and false-positive diagnoses of lymph node metastases in non-small cell lung cancer patients staged by integrated (18F-)fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography: A retrospective cohort study

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of integrated ¹⁸ F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG‐PET/CT) in hilar and mediastinal lymph node (HMLN) staging of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and to investigate potential risk factors for false‐negative and false‐positive HMLN metastases.

Methods

We examined the data of 388 surgically resected NSCLC patients preoperatively staged by integrated FDG‐PET/CT. Risk factors for false‐negative and false‐positive HMLN metastases were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses of clinicopathological factors.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of integrated FDG‐PET/CT in detecting HMLN metastases were 47.4%, 91.0%, 56.3%, 87.7%, and 82.5%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of the tumor (P = 0.042), adenocarcinoma (P = 0.003), and tumor size (P = 0.017) were risk factors for false‐negative HMLN metastases, and history of lung disease (P = 0.006) and tumor location (central; P = 0.025) were risk factors for false‐positive HMLN metastases.

Conclusions

The present study identified risk factors for false‐negative and false‐positive HMLN metastases in NSCLC patients staged by preoperative integrated FDG‐PET/CT. These findings would be helpful in selecting appropriate candidates for mediastinoscopy or endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration.

Solitary pulmonary metastasis from occult papillary thyroid carcinoma

Pulmonary metastases from thyroid carcinoma typically cause a micronodular or miliary pattern throughout both lungs. Metastasis consisting of a solitary pulmonary nodule measuring 20 mm in diameter is rare. Here we report a case of a 66‐year‐old woman without a history of papillary thyroid carcinoma who presented with a pulmonary nodule measuring 20 mm in diameter, found on chest computed tomography during a health checkup. The patient underwent a right lobectomy. Microscopic examination showed well‐differentiated papillary adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical findings were consistent with a diagnosis of pulmonary metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma. Solitary metastasis to the lung from occult thyroid carcinoma is quite rare, but if a pulmonary nodule is encountered in a patient without a history of thyroid carcinoma, the possibility must be considered.

Abstract P6-16-08: Prognostic factor of HER2-positive breast cancer patients developed brain metastasis: A multicenter retrospective analysis

Background:

HER2-positive breast cancer has a high risk of developing brain metastasis compared to other subtypes of breast cancer. However, the clinical course and prognostic factors of HER2-positive breast cancer patients with brain metastases are not well known because of the relatively small population. The aim of this study was to determine clinicopathological factors associated with prognosis of HER2-positive patients developed brain metastasis.

Methods:

A retrospective large dataset of 432 HER2-positive patients who were diagnosed with brain metastases between 2001 and 2012 were collected from 24 institutions of the Japan Clinical Oncology Group: Breast Cancer Study Group. We assessed the clinicopathological factors associated with prognosis of these populations with brain metastases.

Results:

The median age of the 432 patients was 54 years (range, 20–86 years). Of the patients, 162 patients (37.5%) had ER-positive/HER2-positive (ER+HER2+) breast cancer and 270 patients (62.5%) had ER-negative/HER2-positive (ER-HER2+) breast cancer. Nineteen of the 162 patients with ER+HER2+ (12%) and 53 of the 270 patients with ER-HER2+ (20%) underwent surgery for brain metastases. After the diagnosis of brain metastasis, 108 patients with ER+HER2+ (63%) and 175 patients with ER-HER2+ (64%) received HER2-targeting agents, including trastsuzumab and/or lapatinib.

The median brain metastasis-free survival period from the diagnosis of primary breast cancer was 33.5 month in both subtypes. In 63.4% of patients with ER+HER2+subtype and 75.6% of patients with ER-HER2+, brain metastases were detected within 2 years after development of first distant metastasis. Eighty-four patients with ER+HER2+ subtype (52%) and 133 patients with ER-HER2+ (49%) had more than 3 brain metastases at the diagnosis.

The median survival period after developing brain metastasis was 16.5 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.9–21.1 months) in patients with ER+HER2+ and 11.5 months (95% CI, 9.1–13.8 months) in patients with ER-HER2+ (p = 0.117).

Patients with more than 3 brain metastases had significantly shorter OS period than patients with equal or less than 3 brain metastases in both of ER+HER2+ (p &lt; 0.001) and ER-HER2+ (p = 0.018). According to receiving HER2-targeting agents, patients receiving both of trastsuzumab and lapatinib had significantly longer survival period than patients who had received trastsuzumab alone, lapatinib alone, or no HER2-targeting agent (p &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions:

Our results showed that HER2-positive patients with more than 3 brain metastases at the diagnosis had poor prognosis regardless of ER-positivity, and receiving both of trastsuzumab and lapatinib might improve their survival. Further studies are needed to determine the best treatment strategy including these HER2-targeting agents for these populations.

Citation Format: Naoki Hayashi, Naoki Niikura, Norikazu Masuda, Seiki Takashima, Rikiya Nakamura, Ken-Ichi Watanabe, Chizuko Kanbayashi, Mayumi Ishida, Yasuo Hozumi, Michiko Tsuneizumi, Naoto Kondo, Yoichi Naito, Yayoi Honda, Akira Matsui, Tomomi Fujisawa, Risa Oshitanai, Hiroyuki Yasojima, Hideko Yamauchi, Shigehira Saji, Hiroji Iwata. Prognostic factor of HER2-positive breast cancer patients developed brain metastasis: A multicenter retrospective analysis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Seventh Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2014 Dec 9-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-16-08.

Bovine papillomavirus type 10 with a deletion associated with a lingual papilloma in a cow

Different types of papillomavirus usually cause papillomas in specific tissues. Previously, bovine papillomavirus (BPV) type 10 has been associated specifically with cutaneous papillomas in cattle. In this study, BPV-10 was detected in a papilloma on the tongue of a cow. Whole genome analysis demonstrated that the sequence of this BPV-10 strain had a 129 base pair deletion in the E1 open reading frame, which was confirmed by Southern blot analysis, PCR and reverse transcriptase-PCR.

Histone methylation and acetylation indicates epigenetic change in the aged cochlea of mice

It is currently accepted that epigenetics plays an important role in normal genetics and differentiation, and its failure triggers various diseases such as cancer, aging, metabolic diseases, and abnormal differentiations. The typical mechanism involves the modification of histones and the methylation of DNA. In this study, we investigated the modification of histones in the aged cochlea of mice using immunohistochemistry. Eight mice [C57BL/6(B6)] at the age of 8 weeks (young group) and 132 weeks (aged group) were used. Cochleas were fixed with paraformaldehyde and then decalcified. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed for the morphological study using a light microscope. After removing paraffin, the sections were incubated with the primary antibody to acetyl-histone H3 Lys9 or dimethyl-histone H3 Lys9. Confocal scanning microscopy was performed for observation. The degeneration was severest in the spiral ganglion cells and the organ of Corti of the basal turn as determined by light microscopy. Acetylated histone H3 was detected in the spiral ganglion cells and the organ of Corti of the young group, but not in those of the aged group. Dimethylated histone H3 was detected in the spiral ganglion cells and the organ of Corti of the aged group, but not in those of the young group. Acetylation was switched to methylation during ageing. Histone modification is known to have a critical role in neuro-degeneration. Our findings suggest that epigenetic change participates in the process of presbycusis.

Pathogenesis of experimental amyloid protein A amyloidosis in sore hocks-affected rabbits

Although the experimental transmission of amyloid protein A (AA) amyloidosis with amyloid-enhancing factor has been studied intensively, its pathogenesis remains obscure. We previously found that rabbits affected with 'sore hocks' (SH) uniquely developed AA amyloidosis in response to primary inflammatory stimulation followed by the administration of bovine AA fibrils. However, it is unknown why only the rabbits with preexisting SH developed experimental AA amyloidosis. There may be hidden factors in the SH status that stimulate the mechanism of cross-species transmission of AA amyloidosis. To examine the essential factors in the development of experimental AA amyloidosis in SH-affected rabbits, we studied the etiology of SH in rabbits pathologically and bacteriologically. In addition, we developed artificial SH symptoms in normal rabbits by use of an adjuvant prepared from Staphylococcus aureus (StA) isolated from a spontaneous SH-affected rabbit, and we evaluated the incidence of AA amyloidosis in rabbits with or without experimental SH symptoms. We found that StA administration was extremely efficient at stimulating the induction of experimental AA amyloidosis, and the influence of SH was required. We found that the persistent S. aureus infection in SH facilitates the development of experimental AA amyloidosis in rabbits and that the inflammatory stimulation provided by SH acts as an additional accelerator in experimental AA amyloidosis.

Emergency pulmonary embolectomy during the second trimester of pregnancy: report of a case

We report a case of acute massive pulmonary thromboembolism, which occurred during the second trimester of pregnancy in a 35-year-old woman with thrombocytopenia and anemia secondary to myelodysplastic syndrome. We performed successful emergency pulmonary embolectomy, under cardiopulmonary bypass, using argatroban as an anticoagulant. An intra-aortic balloon pump was used to maintain placental blood flow. The patient recovered completely and was later delivered of a healthy baby. Thus, pulmonary embolectomy saved both the mother and the fetus.

Regulation of FcγR-stimulated phagocytosis by the 72-kDa inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase: SHIP1, but not the 72-kDa 5-phosphatase, regulates complement receptor 3–mediated phagocytosis by differential recruitment of these 5-phosphatases to the phagocytic cup

Macrophages phagocytose particles to resolve infections and remove apoptotic cells. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase generates phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate [PtdIns(3,4,5)P3] is restricted to the phagocytic cup, promoting phagocytosis. The PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 5-phosphatase (5-ptase) Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) inhibits phagocytosis. We report here that another PtdIns(3,4,5)P3-5-ptase, the 72-kDa-5-phosphatase (72-5ptase), inhibits Fcγ receptor (FcγR)– but not complement receptor 3 (CR3)–mediated phagocytosis, affecting pseudopod extension and phagosome closure. In contrast, SHIP1 inhibited FcγR and CR3 phagocytosis with greater effects on CR3-stimulated phagocytosis. The 72-5ptase and SHIP1 were both dynamically recruited to FcγR-stimulated phagocytic cups, but only SHIP1 was recruited to CR3-stimulated phagocytic cups. To determine whether 5-ptases focally degrade PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 at the phagocytic cup after specific stimuli, time-lapse imaging of specific biosensors was performed. Transfection of dominant-negative 72-5ptase or 72-5ptase small interfering RNA (siRNA) resulted in amplified and prolonged PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 at the phagocytic cup in response to FcγR- but not CR3-stimulation. In contrast, macrophages from Ship1−/−/AktPH-GFP transgenic mice exhibited increased and sustained PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 at the cup in response to CR3 activation, with minimal changes to FcγR activation. Therefore, 72-5ptase and SHIP1 exhibit specificity in regulating FcγR- versus CR3-stimulated phagocytosis by controlling the amplitude and duration of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 at the phagocytic cup.

Isolated unilateral absence of a pulmonary artery treated by pneumonectomy in an adult: report of a case

Congenital unilateral absence of a pulmonary artery (UAPA) is a rare anomaly usually diagnosed in childhood. We report a case of isolated UAPA in an adult without any other cardiovascular anomaly. The patient was admitted for repeated progressive hemoptysis, which we treated with embolization of the bronchial artery three times, despite which the hemoptysis kept recurring. Finally, the patient was treated successfully by right pneumonectomy. Thus, we think that surgical intervention is indicated for recurrent hemoptysis in patients with isolated UAPA.

Prognostic significance of [(18)F]fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on positron emission tomography in patients with pathologic stage I lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

[(18)F]Fluoro-2-deoxyglucose uptake on positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) has been frequently used for diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The prognostic significance of FDG uptake on PET was evaluated in patients with pathologic Stage I lung adenocarcinoma (tumor stages were based on the TNM classification of the International Union Against Cancer).

METHODS

Disease-free survival of 98 patients with pathologic Stage I lung adenocarcinoma who were treated by curative resection was examined in relation to sex, age, histologic grade of differentiation, surgical procedure, tumor stage, and FDG uptake measured as the maximum standardized uptake value (SUV).

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients were had Stage IA disease and 35 patients had Stage IB disease. Six patients each with Stage IA and Stage IB disease developed disease recurrence after a mean postsurgical follow-up period of 31 months. Ten (23%) of the 43 patients with SUV > or = 3.3 developed a recurrence compared with 2 (4%) of the 55 patients with SUV < 3.3 (P = .020). Ten (20%) of the 51 patients with moderately or poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma developed disease recurrence, compared with 2 (4%) of the 47 patients with well-differentiated adenocarcinoma (P = .056). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that histologic grade of differentiation was not correlated with the frequency of tumor recurrence (P = .286), whereas SUV was found to be marginally correlated (P = .079).

CONCLUSIONS

FDG uptake appears to be predictive of disease-free survival in patients with Stage I lung adenocarcinoma. FDG uptake could yield important information for determining the likely value of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy in such patients.

Obstructive subglottic granuloma after removal of a minitracheostomy tube

We report herein a patient with subglottic granuloma after removal of a minitracheostomy tube (Minitrach II, SIMS Portex Inc., Hythe, Kent, UK). The patient underwent pulmonary resection for lung cancer followed by insertion of the minitracheostomy tube for prevention of sputum retention. The tube was removed 4 days after insertion. Twelve weeks later, the patient developed severe dyspnea and stridor. Bronchoscopy showed an obstructive subglottic granuloma arising from the anterior wall. The granuloma was removed by coring out using a conventional tracheal tube, followed by local injection of methylprednisolone acetate. The patient is now asymptomatic without regrowth of the granulation tissue 12 weeks after the treatment. With complication in mind, attention should be paid to patients suffering dyspnea or stridor after removal of a minitracheostomy tube.

A clinicopathological study of resected pulmonary nodules with focal pure ground-glass opacity

OBJECTIVE

Pulmonary lesions with focal ground-glass opacity (GGO) have been detected increasingly by low-dose helical computed tomography (CT). However, the strategy of treatment for focal pure GGO lesions is still undecided. This study evaluates clinicopathological characteristics of resected pulmonary nodules with focal pure ground-glass opacity.

METHODS

Between January 1997 and December 2005, 26 patients (35 lesions) with pure GGO lesions underwent pulmonary resection. The data on patient age, lesion size, pathology, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level and palpability of the tumor in the resected specimen were evaluated.

RESULTS

The histological diagnosis was bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (BAC) in 10 patients (12 lesions), atypical adenomatous hyperplasia (AAH) in 15 patients (22 lesions), and focal scar in 1 patient (1 lesion). There were no significant differences in age, sex, tumor size, and CEA level between the patients with BAC, AAH, and focal scar. However, the lesions >10mm in size were all BAC. Palpability of the tumor in the resected specimen was significantly more frequent in BAC cases than in AAH cases (p<0.01). For BAC, lobectomy was performed for four lesions, and limited resection for eight. None of the BACs showed lymphatic or vascular invasion upon pathological examination. At the median follow-up point of 44 months (range: 4-84 months), no recurrences were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

BAC and AAH cannot be discriminated by their size. In the resected specimen, BAC lesions are more frequently palpable than AAH lesions. Thoracoscopic surgery is recommended for focal pure GGO after repeated CT even if the GGO lesion is small. Partial resection is a sufficient treatment for pure GGO.

Functional implication of p73 protein stability in neuronal cell survival and death

p73, a newly identified member of p53 family, locates at human chromosome 1p36.2-3, a region which is frequently deleted in a wide variety of human tumors including neuroblastoma. p73 is induced to be accumulated in response to a subset of DNA damaging agents such as cisplatin, and thereby promoting G1/S cell cycle arrest and/or apoptosis. Since the expression levels of p73 are kept extremely low under normal conditions, stabilization of p73 is critical for its effects on cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. Indeed, p73 is induced at protein level in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells exposed to cisplatin. Several lines of evidence indicate that stress-induced post-translational modifications of p73 such as phosphorylation and acetylation lead to a marked extension of its half-life. p73 stability is regulated at least in part by proteasome-dependent degradation pathway, however, MDM2 which mediates ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of p53 by the 26S proteasome, does not promote the proteolytic degradation of p73, implying that the protein stability of p73 is regulated through a pathway distinct from that of p53. Although little is known about the regulation of p73 turnover, we are now beginning to understand the regulatory mechanisms by which p73 is induced to be stabilized in response to apoptotic stimuli, and exerts its pro-apoptotic activity. In this review, we discuss about the cellular proteins implicated in the stability control of p73.