Morphometric and gut microbial evaluation of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on different levels of Moringa oleifera

Abstract In current study, different feeding levels of Moringa oleifera formulated diet was compared to analyze the growth performance, feed conversion ratio, feed conversion efficiency and gut microbiology of Oreochromis niloticus. The study was comprised of four treatment groups including 4%, 8% and 12% Moringa oleifera and one control group which was devoid of Moringa leaves. The experimental trial was conducted at the Zoology laboratory of Pakistan Institute of Applied and Social Sciences, (PIASS) Kasur. The physicochemical parameters of water such as temperature, dissolve oxygen, pH, total dissolved solids and salinity in all aquaria were found non-significantly different from each other. In control condition T1, the average weight gain was 14.89±16.90a grams, while average length gain was 11.52±7.444a cm. However, the total viable count on Eosin methylene blue was 7.4×107, 5.8×107 on Tryptic soy agar and 5.8×107on Nutrient agar. In T2, the average weight gain was 16.22±16.09b grams and average length gain was 12.97±7.79b cm. The total viable count on Eosin methylene blue was 7×107, 5.5×107 on Tryptic soy agar and 5.8×107on Nutrient agar. In T3, the average weight gain was 37.88±27.43c grams, while the average length gain was recorded as 16.48±12.56c cm. However, the total viable count for treatment 3 was 6.4×10 on Eosin methylene blue, 4.8×107 on Tryptic soy agar and 5.2×107on Nutrient agar. In T4, the average weight gain was 44.22±31.67d grams, while the average length gain was 15.25±10.49d cm. The total viable count was 4.3×107on Eosin methylene blue, 3.1×107 on Tryptic soy agar and 3.8×107 on Nutrient agar. The effect of Moringa oleifera on the growth of Oreochromis niloticus was found to be significant and 12% Moringa extract showed maximum length and weight gain and minimum feed conversion ratio with the least microbial count in fish intestine.

Morphological and Metabolic Criteria of COVID-19 Vaccine Associated Axillary Nodes on 18-Fluorodeouxyglucose PET/CT Imaging in Breast Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

 In the current era vaccine-associated lymphadenopathy (VAL) is not an uncommon presentation on 18F-FDG PET/CT examinations in patients inoculated with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. In this study, we are presenting data of VAL on 18F-FDG PET/CT regarding its prevalence, temporal response to vaccination and imaging characteristics of VAL.

METHODS

Seventy-eight (78) consecutive vaccinated breast cancer (BC) patients who had 18FDG PET/CT were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had COVID-19 vaccine shots in contralateral arms and none in breast cancer site axilla (BSA).  In 35 patients 18FDG avid nodes were found in vaccine site axilla (VSA). In 25 patients 18FDG avid nodes were found in BSA. Morphological criteria on CT images like size, presence of fatty hila and fat stranding of axillary nodes were analyzed. Metabolic criteria on PET images like SUVmax of nodes and liver as reference were also measured.

RESULTS

Out of 78 patients, 35 had   positive nodes in VSA (45% prevalence) and 25/78 had BSA (33% prevalence). Mean duration of COVID-19 vaccination in each group was 8 ±04 week (non-significant p-value). On CT images, 18FDG avid nodes in VSA were significantly smaller (10 ± 03 mm) and with intact fatty hila without fat stranding than nodes in BSA with loss of fatty hila (25 ±10 mm; p <0.0001). Mean SUVmax of nodes in VSA was significantly lower (2.4 ±1.1) than nodes in BSA (10.2 ±5.5 - p-value <0.0001). Nodes in VSA showed a significant positive linear correlation between size and SUVmax (p-value 0.00001).  Similarly, nodes in VSA showed a significant negative linear correlation between duration and SUVmax (p-value 0.00003).  In VSA group, 03 patients having SUVmax >2 SD of Hepatic SUVmax were subjected to ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) and turned out to be metastatic in nature.

CONCLUSION

In COVID-19 vaccinated patients with BC, 18FDG avid nodes in VSA may pose diagnostic challenge. However, morphological (size < 10 mm short axis, intact fatty hila without fat stranding) and metabolic criteria (SUVmax <2.4 with negative correlation with time of inoculation) have higher diagnostic accuracy in resolving the dilemma. Nodes in VSA having SUVmax > 2 SD of hepatic SUVmax should be considered for FNA to rule out possible metastasis.

18FDG PET/CT and Lung Cancer: Beaconhouse for Treating Oncologists

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Intense Fluorodeoxyglucose Uptake in Aggressive Systemic Mastocytosis without Associated Hematological Neoplasm: Unusual Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Presentation

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a relatively rare heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and accumulation of clonal mast cells in one or more organs. Indolent SM is the most common variety. Less common variety is aggressive systemic mastocytosis (aSM) type with or without associated hematological neopalsm (AHN). Fludeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography has a limited role in aSM without AHN as these exhibit low FDG avidity. We are presenting a biopsy-proven case of aSM without AHN showing abnormally high FDG uptake in lesions involving skin, nodes, marrow, and muscles.

Physical performance among post-COVID and non-COVID individuals: a comparative study

In this comparative cross-sectional study, we compare the physical performance among post-COVID and non-COVID subjects. A sample of 64 subjects recovered from COVID-19 and 64 subjects who were not infected with COVID-19 were recruited for the study. Both groups were tested for physical performance by 30-s sit-to-stand test, 6-min walk test, and HUMAC balance system. The findings of the present study reveal that there was a significant difference in physical performance between both the groups. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that physical performance is impaired in the post-COVID subjects as compared to the matched non-COVID subjects. Therefore, physical therapy exercise program/regimen should be a part of recovery from COVID-19.

18FDG PET/CT Imaging in Carcinoma Oesophagus

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Virtual Meetings during COVID-19 Pandemic: Is it time to say Goodbye to Physical Meetings?

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Impact of Primary Tumor Size, SUVmax of Primary Tumor and the Most Avid Neck Node on Baseline 18 FDG PET/CT upon Disease Recurrence in Head and Neck Oropharyngeal SCC Using Standardized Imaging Protocol

Objective  The purpose fo this prospective study was to find the impact of primary tumor size (Ts), standardized uptake values (SUVmax) of primary tumor, and the most avid neck node on disease recurrence in patients with head and neck oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HNOP-SCC). Material and methods  We included patients with HNOP-SCC (without distant metastasis-M0 disease) who had pre- and post-treatment F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography ( 18 FDG PET/CT) using strict standardized imaging protocol from 2017 to 2019. Based on follow-up ( 18 FDG PET/CT) findings, patients were categorized as disease free (no or minimal 18 FDG uptake ≤ background over surgical bed and no distant metastasis) and disease recurrence ( 18 FDG uptake > background over surgical bed with or without nodal and/or distant metastasis). Ts and SUVmax of primary tumor and the most avid neck node were compared and impact of these was studied upon disease recurrence. Results  Total 112 patients were included. No significant difference was seen in mean age (overall: 60 ± 14 years), gender distribution (overall M:F: 69:31%), body mass index (overall: 25.20 ± 5.82), and history of diabetes (overall: 19%) between disease-free and disease recurrence groups. Similarly, no significant difference was observed for fasting blood sugar (overall: 110 ± 28 mg%), 18 FDG dose (overall: 169 ± 37 MBq), and uptake period (overall: 70 ± 12 minutes) between two groups ensuring strict adherence to standardized imaging protocol. Significant difference ( p  < 0.05) was observed between disease-free and disease recurrence for Ts (25 ± 10 vs. 33 ± 14 mm), SUVmax of primary tumor (6.2 ± 6.8 vs. 9.3 ± 7.2) and the most avid neck node (2.1 ± 3.3 vs. 4.7 ± 5.9) and median follow-up (13 ± 12 vs. 08 ± 13 months), respectively. Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, Ts greater than 29 mm, baseline tumor SUVmax greater than 4.6, and nodal SUVmax greater than 6.2 were found independent predictors for disease recurrence. Nodal SUVmax greater than 6.2 was found an independent predictor of shortest disease-free survival (DFS) than Ts and tumor SUVmax. Conclusion  We conclude that in HNOP-SCC, primary Ts (> 29 mm), SUVmax of primary tumor (> 4.6), and the most avid neck node (> 6.2) in baseline 18 FDG PET/CT using standardized imaging protocol are the independent predictors of disease recurrence. Furthermore, SUVmax greater than 6.2 of the most avid node predicts the shortest DFS than primary Ts and SUVmax of primary tumor.

Phytochemical and biological attributes of Bauhinia variegata L. (Caesalpiniaceae)

Abstract Bauhinia variegata plant is a very popular and traditionally potent ethnomedicine. Therefore, it is need of hour to study ameliorative characteristics of B. variegata for novel secondary metabolites. The current study was designed to explore antiproliferative potential of B. variegata due to scant reports on this aspect. Extracts of various parts (flowers, leaves, bark, stem, and roots) were prepared by successive maceration using organic solvents in increasing order of polarity (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and water). The determination of polyphenolic contents was done by using colorimetric methods while antioxidant potential was measured using reducing power assay. Brine shrimp lethality assay was performed for determining preliminary cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activity against breast cancer MCF-7 cell line using MTT protocols. Moreover, antimicrobial activities were detected by using disc diffusion assay. The alpha-amylase assay was performed to monitor the antidiabetic potential of the plant. In case of phytochemical analysis methanolic extract of leaves and bark showed highest phenolic and flavonoids contents. n-Hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of stem and roots exhibited more than 90% mortality with LD50 ranges between 1-25 µg/mL when studied by brine shrimp lethality assay. n-Hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of roots and stem also showed antiproliferative activity against human breast cancer MCF-7 cell line with IC50 values ranges between 12.10-14.20 µg/mL. Most of the extracts displayed moderately high antibacterial and antifungal activities. The n-hexane extract of roots showed antidiabetic activity with 60.80 ± 0.20% inhibition of alpha-amylase. In sum, these preliminary results will be useful for further compound isolation from selected plant parts for the discovery of antibacterial, antidiabetic, and anticancer lead candidates.

Precise mapping of QTL for Hessian fly resistance in the hard winter wheat cultivar 'Overland'

A major QTL for Hessian fly resistance was precisely mapped to a 2.32 Mb region on chromosome 3B of the US hard winter wheat cultivar 'Overland'. The Hessian fly (HF, Mayetiola destructor) is a destructive insect pest of wheat in the USA and worldwide. Deploying HF-resistant cultivars is the most effective and economical approach to control this insect pest. A population of 186 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) was developed from 'Overland' × 'Overley' and phenotyped for responses to HF attack using the HF biotype 'Great Plains'. A high-density genetic linkage map was constructed using 1,576 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated by genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Two quantitative trait loci (QTLs) with a significant epistatic effect on HF resistance were mapped to chromosomes 3B (QHf.hwwg-3B) and 7A (QHf.hwwg-7A) in Overland, which are located in similar chromosome regions as found for H35 and H36 in the cultivar 'SD06165', respectively. QHf.hwwg-3B showed a much larger effect on HF resistance than QHf.hwwg-7A. Five and four GBS-SNPs, respectively, in the QHf.hwwg-3B and QHf.hwwg-7A QTL intervals were converted into Kompetitive allele specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) markers. QHf.hwwg-3B was precisely mapped to a 2.32 Mb interval (2,479,314-4,799,538 bp) using near-isogenic lines (NILs) and RILs that have recombination within the QTL interval. The US winter wheat accessions carrying contrasting alleles at KASP markers KASP-3B4525164, KASP-7A47772047 and KASP-7A65090410 showed significant difference in HF resistance. The combination of the two KASP markers KASP-3B3797431 and KASP-3B4525164 is near-diagnostic for the detection of QHf.hwwg-3B in a US winter wheat panel and can be potentially used for screening the QTL in breeding programs.

Impact of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on the clinical outcomes of patients admitted for acute decompensated heart failure: an analysis of U.S national inpatient sample

Background

The cardiovascular manifestations of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) include heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac manifestations of drugs used to treat IPF. Cardiac disease can be worsened by hypoxia and pulmonary hypertension by IPF. The impact of IPF on the outcomes of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is not well studied.

Purpose

We aim to determine the outcomes of patients admitted for ADHF with co-morbid IPF.

Methods

Data were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2016 - 2018 Database. The NIS was searched for hospitalizations for adult patients with ADHF as principal discharge diagnosis with and without IPF as secondary diagnosis using ICD-10 codes. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality. Secondary outcomes are detailed in table 1. Multivariate logistic and linear regression analysis was used accordingly to adjust for confounders. A univariate screen was done to further confirm that these factors affected outcomes with variables having a p-value less than 0.2 included in the multivariate regression analysis. STATA software was used to for analysis.

Results

Of 1,007,824 patients admitted for ADHF, 1850 (0.2%) had IPF. Patients with IPF were significantly younger at the time of hospitalization for ADHF (71 years vs. 76 years, p&lt;0.001). There were 46% females in IPF group compared to 48% in the non-IPF group, p=0.451. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for inpatient mortality for ADHF with IPF compared to those without IPF was 2.82 (95% CI 1.897–4.215, p&lt;0.001). Patients with comorbid IPF had 1 day increase in mean length of stay (95% CI 0.475–1.525, p&lt;0.001). Detailed outcomes are listed in table 1.

Conclusions

Co-morbid IPF leads to higher inpatient mortality and higher length of hospitalization in patients with acute decompensated heart failure. It is prudent to risk stratify these patients to improve overall morbidity and mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Mortality among patients hospitalized with heart failure and type 2 diabetes mellitus: results from United States national inpatient sample 2008 to 2018

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an important risk factor for, and a frequent co-existing condition with heart failure (HF). With increasing prevalence of heart failure and type 2 diabetes, patients with concomitant HF and T2DM have worse clinical outcomes.

Purpose

We sought to determine the in-patient mortality for type 2 diabetics admitted for heart failure in the U.S hospitals from 2008 to 2018.

Methods

Data were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2008 to 2018 Database. The NIS was searched for hospitalizations for adult patients with heart failure as principal discharge diagnosis with type 2 diabetes mellitus as a secondary diagnosis using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used determine the impact of evolving demographic characteristics (age, sex and race/ethnicity) on in-hospital mortality. STATA software was used to for analysis.

Results

Hospitalization with a primary discharge diagnosis of heart failure steadily decreased from 1,011,094 in 2008 to 807,764 in 2016 and 139,315 in 2018. The patient characteristics of hospitalizations for heart failure in type 2 diabetics are shown in table 1. Adjusted in-hospital mortality in HF with T2DM decreased significantly from 2008 to 2018 (3.6% in 2008 to 2.0% in 2018, P trend 0.003) as shown in graph 1.

Conclusion

Hospitalization for heart failure decreased steadily from 2008 to 2018 in the United States. In-hospital mortality rate for type 2 diabetics admitted for heart failure decreased significantly from 2008 to 2018.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Interaction of tacrolimus through hedgehog signaling pathway: An in vitro evaluation using rat hepatocytes

Tacrolimus (TAC) is the drug of choice in immunosuppressive therapy for organ transplantation; however, adverse effects are still a major concern. The current study aims to decipher the short-term exposure of TAC on rat hepatocytes in relation to activation of hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway. Time dependent study was conducted using primary rat hepatocytes treated with TAC (36 µM) for 6, 12, 24 and 48 h. Western blot analysis was performed using cell lysate in order to analyze the regulation of HH pathway proteins including HHIP, SMO, PTCH, IHH, SHH, and GLI transcription factors. The study revealed change in protein expression of HH signaling molecules with activation of HH pathway, due to downregulation of HHIP, and enrichment of HH ligands with activation of SMO and GLI transcription factors. It is therefore, concluded that short term TAC exposure leads to upregulation of HH pathway in liver, which may initially act to repair the liver damage but can worsen the condition in case of prolonged immunosuppressive therapy. This insight could lead to understand association of off target effects of immunosuppressive drugs and occurrence of other liver diseases in transplant patients when it comes to long term immunosuppressive therapy. These findings also illuminate a novel direction that use of HH inhibitor might provide a therapeutic strategy for immune suppression related liver disorders.

Impact of Chronic kidney disease on the outcomes of hospitalizations for implantable cardioverter defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization defibrillator placement: An analysis of Inpatient Sample

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

1. Background

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) are indicated in primary and secondary prevention of dysrhythmias among other indications. We sought to determine the impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hospitalizations for ICD or CRT-D placement.

2. Purpose

Determine how CKD impacts in-patient mortality and cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing ICD or CRT-D placement while hospitalized.

3. Methods

Data were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2016 - 2018 Database. The NIS was searched for patients who underwent ICD or CRT-D placement. The patients were divided into two groups based on presence or absence of CKD as secondary diagnosis using ICD-10 codes. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality. Multivariate logistic and linear regression analysis was used accordingly to adjust for confounders (A univariate screen was done to confirm the confounders affected outcomes with variables having a p less than 0.2 were included in the multivariate regression analysis). STATA software was used to for analysis.

4. Results

Of 145,550 patients admitted for ICD or CRT-D placement, 47740 (32.8%) had CKD. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for inpatient mortality for patients undergoing ICD or CRT-D placement with co-morbid CKD compared to those without CKD was 1.66 (95% CI 1.194 – 2.329, p = 0.003). Patients with comorbid CKD had lower odds of developing cardiogenic shock (aOR: 0.83, 95% CI 0.718 – 0.948, p = 0.007) and cardiac arrest (aOR: 0.88, 95% CI 0.766 – 0.999, p = 0.048) compared to patients without CKD. Detailed outcomes are listed in table 1.

5. Conclusion

Chronic kidney disease is a risk factor associated with increased in-patient mortality in patients admitted for ICD or CRT-D placement.

Outcome Without CKD, % With CKD, % aOR (95% CI) p-value* Primary outcome In hospital mortality 0.6 1.9 1.66 (1.194 - 2.329) 0.003* Secondary outcomes Length of stay (days), mean 7.0 9.2 -0.01 (-0.345 - 0.322) # 0.945 Total hospital charges (US$), mean 218,962 241,679 -13047 (-20924 - -5171) # 0.001* Cardiogenic shock 6.8 8.0 0.83 (0.718 - 0.948) 0.007* IABP placement 1.7 1.7 0.52 (0.399 - 0.671) &lt;0.001* Cardiac arrest 12..1 8.5 0.88 (0.766 - 0.999) 0.048* Acute renal failure 17.9 48.1 2.89 (2.648 - 3.163) &lt;0.001* Abbreviations: *; statistically significant, #; adjusted mean difference, aOR: adjusted odds ratio, CI: confidence interval, IABP: Intra-aortic balloon placement.Adjusting factors: Age, Charlson comorbidity index, patient’s insurance, location and teaching status of the admitting hospital, dyslipidemia, old myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, smoking status and obesity.

Impact of obesity on the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing pacemaker insertion during hospitalization: An analysis of the United States National Inpatient Sample

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

1. Introduction

Obesity causes significant cardiovascular morbidity. Nonetheless, there is also evidence supporting obesity paradox particularly in heart failure patients. The impact of obesity on the outcomes of patients undergoing pacemaker insertion is not well studied.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine if obesity paradox exists for the patients who undergo pacemaker insertion.

3. Methods

Data were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2016 - 2018 Database. The NIS was searched for patients who underwent pacemaker insertion while hospitalized. The patients were divided into two groups based on presence or absence of obesity as secondary diagnosis using ICD-10 codes. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality. Multivariate logistic and linear regression analysis was used accordingly to adjust for confounders. STATA software was used to for analysis.

4. Results

Of 408,040 patients who underwent pacemaker insertion, 64185 (15.7%) were obese. The adjusted odds ratio for inpatient mortality for obese patient undergoing pacemaker insertion compared to non-obese patients was 0.65 (95% CI 0.516 – 0.821, p &lt; 0.001). Secondary outcomes are listed in table 1.

5. Conclusion

Obese patients who underwent pacemaker insertion had lower inpatient mortality compared to non-obese patients. Also, obese patients undergoing pacemaker insertion were less likely to have cardiac arrest but they were more likely to develop decompensated heart failure and acute renal failure compared to non-obese patients.

Outcome Without Obesity, % With Obesity, % aOR (95% CI) p-value* Primary outcome In hospital mortality 10.8 7.0 0.65 (0.516 - 0.821) &lt;0.001* Secondary outcomes Length of stay (days), mean 5.7 6.3 0.031 (-0.105 - 0.168) # 0.654 Total hospital charges (US$), mean 121250 134757 720 (-2307 - 3747) # 0.641 Decompensated heart failure 13.3 19.2 1.53 (1.451 - 1.629) &lt;0.001* Cardiogenic shock 2.3 2.7 1.00 (0.883 - 1.141) 0.954 IABP placement 0.5 0.6 0.98 (0.746 - 1.294) 0.898 Cardiac arrest 4.27 4.30 0.83 (0.753 - 0.920) &lt;0.001* Acute renal failure 20.7 25.4 1.17 (1.112 - 1.231) &lt;0.001* Abbreviations: *; statistically significant, #; adjusted mean difference, aOR: adjusted odds ratio, CI: confidence interval, IABP: Intra-aortic balloon pump.Adjusting factors: Age, race, Charlson comorbidity index, primary insurance, median household income for patient’s zip code, location and teaching status of the admitting hospital, dyslipidemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, liver disease and smoking status. Table 1: Clinical outcomes of hospitalizations for pacemaker insertion based on presence or absence of obesity, analysis of United States National Inpatient Sample from 2016 through 2018.

Neurolymphomatosis - Rare presentation in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: The role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography and computerized tomography imaging

Neurolymphomatosis (NLS) is infiltration of lymphoma cells into the peripheral or cranial nervous system and is a rare manifestation of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Nerve biopsy is considered as the gold standard for diagnosis but not a preferred choice, and magnetic resonance imaging has lower reported sensitivity. ¹⁸F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸FDG) positron-emission tomography and computerized tomography (PET/CT) has a higher sensitivity for diagnosing and assessing the neurological and nonneurological metabolic tumor volume and response evaluation to therapy. We present the case of a lady, known to have NHL in remission. She presented with a short history of severe pain and weakness of the right lower limb. Baseline and interim ¹⁸FDG PET/CT played a crucial role in diagnosing and assessing the extent of NLS and nonneurological disease burden and also in evaluation of response to treatment.

Progression Free Survival and Predictor of Recurrence in DLBCL patients with Negative Interim 18FDG PET/CT Using Standardized Imaging and Reporting Protocols

Background:

To determine progression free survival (PFS) and predictor of recurrence in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with negative interim ¹⁸FDG PET/CT (iPET) using standardized imaging and reporting protocols.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study was conducted at PET/CT Section of a JCIA accredited healthcare facility from December 2015 till February 2020. Patients with DLBCL having complete metabolic response (CMR; Deauville score: 1-3) on iPET were selected and followed for a median period of 11 months (4-144 months). End point response on follow-up PET/CT (either end of treatment or surveillance) was categorized as sustained CMR (sCMR) and disease recurrence. Kaplan Meier survival curve was used to measure PFS and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) was plotted for age, largest lesion size, highest standardized uptake value (SUVmax), disease stage and body mass index (BMI) on baseline scan to find their impact on recurrence.

Results:

Total 185 patients with DLBCL who had achieved CMR on iPET with a median age 55 years (19 – 88 yr.) with male predominance (63% male) were selected. On follow-up, 123 (66%) had sCMR while recurrence was found in 34% (p <0.05). No significant difference in demographics was found between two groups. Median PFS time was 34 months (22.8 – 45.1 months). On ROC analysis, only baseline highest SUVmax was found as a significant independent predictor of disease recurrence at a cut off >22.6 (highest area under curve: 0.595; SE 0.046; p <0.05).

Conclusion:

We conclude that recurrence is found in 34% of DLBCL patients with a negative interim ¹⁸FDG PET/CT using standardized imaging and reporting protocols. Despite of early response, these patients need continued intensive follow-up especially those with a baseline SUVmax > 22.6.

Synergic effects of cancer stem cells markers, CD44 and embryonic stem cell transcription factor Nanog, on bladder cancer prognosis

Background: Therapy that targets cancer stem cells has the potential to eradicate cancer and prevent tumour recurrence. Therefore, we hypothesized the combined prognostic significance of stem cell markers CD44 (prevalent in basal layer of urothelial carcinoma) and Nanog (embryonic stem cell transcription factor) in bladder cancer.Material and Methods: CD44 and Nanog expression were determined by immunohistochemistry in 112 bladder cancer cases of which 79 were non-muscle invasive and 33 muscle invasive.Results: A significant correlation was found between CD44 and Nanog expression (r = 0.41, p < 0.001). The bladder cancer patients with high CD44 and Nanog expression had poor recurrence-free survival and poor overall survival (all p < 0.01). Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified lymph node positivity (hazard ratio; HR 3.81, 95% confidence interval; CI 1.66-8.75), CD44 (HR/95%CI 7.03 [3.04-16.22]) and Nanog (HR/95%CI 2.89 [1.23-6.77]) as independent prognostic biomarkers for recurrence-free survival, whilst a combined index of CD44 and Nanog expression (high expression group; HR/95%CI 25.45 [6.71-96.50] for recurrence-free survival) and lymph node positivity (HR/95%CI 3.68 [1.63-8.33] for recurrence-free survival) were independent prognostic biomarkers for recurrence-free survival and overall survival (all p < 0.001).Conclusions: A combined index of CD44 and Nanog expression is a promising prognostic predictor of recurrence-free survival and overall survival in bladder cancer. It may help identification of patients who will benefit from intensive treatment.

Detection efficiency of 18F-flourodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for primary tumors in patients with carcinoma of unknown primary

Carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) is defined as biopsy proven tumor metastases that remains unidentified after a thorough diagnostic evaluation. The purpose of this study was to find the detection efficiency of ¹⁸F-flourodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (¹⁸FDG PET/CT) in patients with CUP. This prospective study was conducted at PET/CT Section of Department of Radiology, Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi, Pakistan from August 2017 to January 2018. Patients with a history of CUP referred for ¹⁸FDG PET/CT scan for detection of primary sites during the study were recruited. ¹⁸FDG PET/CT scan was acquired using standardized protocol, and patients with suspected primary sites underwent biopsies. Scan findings and biopsy results were analyzed to find the detection rate, sensitivity, area under curve (AUC), and positive predictive value (PPV). As no biopsy was performed in negative scan, true negative, and specificity could not be calculated. During the study, 46 consecutive patients with CUP were included. Mean age of cohort was 58 ± 17 years (63% male and 37% female) having a mean body mass index of 24.70 ± 4.97 kg/m². Thirty-four patients (34/46) found to have a hypermetabolic focus suggestive of the primary tumor with known metastatic sites and subjected to biopsy which turned out to be positive in 26/34 patients (true positive). The primary tumor was detected in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary in 8 (17%), head and neck in 6 (13%), genitourinary 4 (09%), lung 3 (06%), and miscellaneous sites in 5 (11%) patients. Detection rate, sensitivity and PPV of ¹⁸FDG PET/CT were 57%, 68%, and 76%, respectively. Remaining 12/46 patients with negative ¹⁸FDG PET/CT for primary focus did not have biopsy. Receiver operating character curve revealed fair diagnostic strength of ¹⁸FDG PET/CT for detecting unknown primary (AUC 0.667; P = 0.054; standard error = 0.083; confidence interval: 0.504–0.830). We conclude that ¹⁸FDG PET/CT is an effective tool for detecting primary tumor in patients with CUP and its upfront use could preclude the use of many futile diagnostic procedures. Furthermore, higher resolution scanners and acquiring delayed images in patients with negative study could reduce false-negative results in patients with CUP.

Staging and Response Evaluation to Neo-Adjuvant Chemoradiation in Esophageal Cancers Using 18FDG PET/ CT with Standardized Protocol

Background:

Precise staging of esophageal cancer (EC) is important for selection of optimal treatment option and prognostication. Aim of this study was to assess the role of ¹⁸FDG PET/CT in staging and response evaluation to neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCR) in EC patients using standardized imaging protocol.

Material and methods:

This prospective study was conducted at PET/CT Section of Department of Radiology, Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi, Pakistan from July 2017 till February 2018. We included 34 biopsy proven EC patients who had ¹⁸FDG PET/CT and CT of neck, chest and abdomen as part of initial staging. Eleven patients had post-nCR ¹⁸FDG PET/CT using standardized imaging protocol as per EANM guidelines. CT and PET/CT based staging was compared. Based on PERCIST criteria, response evaluation was assessed using change in highest SUVmax (%∆SUVmax) in baseline and follow-up scans (primary lesion, node or extra-nodal metastases).

Results:

Mean age of cohort was 57 ± 14 years (23 males and 11 females) having adenocarcinoma (AC) in 23 and squamous cell cancer (SCC) in 11 patients. Mean ¹⁸FDG dose, uptake time and hepatic SUVmean for baseline scans were 169 ±54 MBq, 65 ±10 minute and 1.91 ± 0.49 which were within ± 10%, ± 15% and ± 20% for follow-up scans in 11 patients respectively. Mean size (craniocaudal dimension in mm) and SUVmax of primary tumor was 56 ±27 mm and 13.4 ± 4.7. Based on ¹⁸FDG PET/CT findings, patients were categorized into N0 (10/34), N1 (09/34), N2 (11/34) and N3 (04/34) while 11/32 had stage IV disease. No significant difference was seen in AC and SCC groups. CT found stage IV disease in 3/34 (09%) while PET/CT found in 11/34 (32%; p value: 0.019) cases. PET/CT showed concordance with CT in 41% while discordance (all with upstaging) seen in 59%. On follow-up PET/CT, complete metabolic response was seen in 5/11 (45%) and partial metabolic response was noted in 6/11 (55% - p value non-significant) patients. Median %∆SUVmax over primary lesions was 49.84% (-32.69 -100%) while over nodal sites it was 41.18% (-82.60 -100%).

Conclusion:

We conclude that ¹⁸FDG PET/CT was found a sensitive tool in initial staging of EC. Compared with CT, it had higher diagnostic accuracy for distant nodal and extra-nodal metastasis. %∆SUVmax between baseline and post-nCR studies acquired with standardized protocol had changed management in more than half of our patients. For response evaluation in EC more studies with standardized ¹⁸FDG PET/CT imaging protocols are warranted.

Pure Uterine Lipoma on 18FDG PET/CT: Rare But Easy to Diagnose

Tumors of the uterus are extremely uncommon. Pure lipomas of the uterus are very rare, and only a few cases have been reported. We are presenting a case of a post-menopausal lady, a survivor of right breast cancer who had an 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (¹⁸FDG PET/CT) for evaluation of a suspected right lung nodule. The scan was negative for hypermetabolic abnormality. However, a hypodense and non-metabolic lesion was seen in the fundus of the uterus. On subsequent hysterectomy, it was found to be a pure lipoma.

Predictors of metabolic response in propensity-matched lymphoma patients on interim 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography/computed tomography using standardized imaging and reporting protocol: Do we really have one?

The purpose of this prospective study was to determine metabolic response predictor(s) in propensity-matched patients having lymphomas who had baseline and interim ¹⁸fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) using strict standardized imaging and reporting protocols. This prospective study was conducted at PET/CT section of a JCI-accredited healthcare facility from April 2017 to February 2018. Patients with baseline and interim ¹⁸FDG PET/CT scans using standardized protocol were selected. Interim scans were performed not earlier than 2^nd or later than 4^th chemotherapy. During the study period, 97 of 112 consecutive patients with lymphomas (Hodgkin-HL: 32/97 and Non-Hodgkin-NHL: 65/97) were included in the study. Mean age of cohort was 45 ± 19 years (71% male and 29% female) having a mean body mass index (BMI) of 25.57 ± 5.54 Kg/m² having Stage I (21%), Stage II (18%), Stage III (16%), and Stage IV (45%) disease. Bulky disease was found in 14% and ¹⁸FDG-avid marrow deposits in 33%. Standardized PET/CT imaging protocol as per EANM guidelines was strictly adopted for baseline and interim studies. %Δ changes in fasting blood sugar, ¹⁸FDG dose, uptake time, and liver SUV mean were 3.96%, 2.83%, 2.49%, and 12.15%, respectively. Based on Deauville's scoring, cohort was divided into responders having Score 1-3 (49/97) and nonresponders having Score 4-5 (48/97). The demographic analysis found no significant difference between responders and nonresponders for age, gender, BMI, staging, bulky disease or marrow involvement, and study protocol. No significant coefficient or odd ratios were found on multivariate analysis for age, gender, maximum standardized uptake value (SUV_max), size, BMI, NHL, and advance disease (Stage III and IV) in both groups (χ²: 5.12; receiver operating characteristic [95% confidence interval]: 0.616 [0.51-0.713]; P =0.528). Among responders, baseline SUV_max and tumor size had a direct correlation with a metabolic response on iPET, more pronounced in NHL than HL groups (SUV_max: 13.4 vs. 19.5 and size: 52 vs. 87 mm; P < 0.0001). We conclude that no significant predictor was found for response in propensity-matched patients with lymphomas (both HL and NHL) who had baseline and interim PET/CTs acquired with a standardized protocol. However, NHL responders were found to have higher baseline median SUV_max and larger lesion size as compared to HL responders. Although, these data are not in concordance with published findings but need to be validated with larger studies using standardized imaging and reporting protocols in propensity-matched patients with lymphomas.

Discordant interpretation of serial bone mineral density measurements by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry using vendor's and institutional least significant changes: Serious impact on decision-making

Meaningful change in bone mineral density (BMD) should be equal or higher than institutional least significant change (LSC). But some facilities use vendor's LSC which is discouraged by International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). The aim of this study was to find the impact of scan interpretation upon interval BMD changes using vendors and institutional LSCs. This prospective study was conducted at Joint Commission International-accredited facility of Pakistan from April–June 2017 using Hologic Discovery-A scanner. As per ISCD recommendations, precision error and LSC of two technologists were measured. Serial BMD changes such as deterioration or improvement interpreted based on vendor's and institutional LSCs were compared. Serial BMD changes in 102 patients were included, having a mean age, male:female ratio, and mean body mass index of 63 years, 94%:06%, and 29.274 kg/m², respectively. Mean menopausal age was 47 years and mean duration between two dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) studies was 3 years. BMD changes over hip were found significant in 55% and 53% cases against vendor's and institutional LSCs, respectively (nonsignificant discordance in 2%). BMD changes using vendor's and institutional LSCs were found significant over L1-4 (62% vs. 46%; discordance: 14%) and distal forearm (77% vs. 35%; discordance: 41%), respectively. Interpretations based on vendor's LSCs revealed significantly overestimated deterioration over forearm and improvement over L1-4 BMD values. We conclude that vendor's provided LSC for interpretation of serial DXA is misleading and has a significant negative impact upon patients' management. Every DXA facility must use its own LSC as per ISCD guidelines. Furthermore, ISCD must consider publishing cutoff values for LSC for distal forearm measurement.

Metabolic Engineered Biocatalyst: A Solution for PLA Based Problems

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic polyester. In 2010, PLA became the second highest consumed bioplastic in the world due to its wide application. Conventionally, PLA is produced by direct condensation of lactic acid monomer and ring opening polymerization of lactide, resulting in lower molecular weight and lesser strength of polymer. Furthermore, conventional methods of PLA production require a catalyst which makes it inappropriate for biomedical applications. Newer method utilizes metabolic engineering of microorganism for direct production of PLA through fermentation which produces good quality and high molecular weight and yield as compared to conventional methods. PLA is used as decomposing packaging material, sheet casting, medical implants in the form of screw, plate, and rod pin, etc. The main focus of the review is to highlight the synthesis of PLA by various polymerization methods that mainly include metabolic engineering fermentation as well as salient biomedical applications of PLA.

Higher event rate in patients with high-risk Duke Treadmill Score despite normal exercise-gated myocardial perfusion imaging

This prospective study was carried out to find the negative predictive value of various Duke Treadmill Scores (DTSs) in patients with normal myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). This study was conducted from August 2012 to July 2015, and 603 patients having normal exercise MPIs were included. Patients were followed for 2 years for fatal myocardial infarction (FMI) and nonfatal myocardial infarction (NFMI). Follow-up was not available in 23 patients, leaving a cohort of 583 participants. DTS was low risk (≥5) in 286, intermediate risk (between 4 and − 10) in 211, and high risk (≤−11) in 86 patients. Patients with high- and intermediate-risk DTS were significantly elder than low-risk DTS cohort. Patients with high-risk DTS had significantly higher body mass index with male preponderance compared to other groups. No significant difference was found among three groups regarding modifiable or nonmodifiable risk factors and left ventricular ejection fraction. On follow-up, single FMI was observed in high-risk DTS group (log-rank test value = 5.779, P = 0.056). Five NFMI events were observed in high-risk DTS (94.2% survival; log-rank test value = 19.398, P = 0.0001; significant) as compared to two events each in low- and intermediate-risk DTS (nonsignificant). We conclude that patients with normal exercise MPI and low-to-intermediate risk DTS have significantly low NFMI. High-risk DTS despite normal exercise MPI had high NFMI. Further, validation studies to find the predictive value of symptomatic and asymptomatic ST deviation resulting in high-risk DTS in patients with normal exercise MPI are warranted.

Acute blood transfusion reactions in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan - an initiative towards haemovigilance

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we report acute blood transfusion reactions at our hospital, compare our analysis with the reported data and identify areas for improvement.

BACKGROUND

Haemovigilance programmes have been implemented in many countries, and adverse events associated with blood transfusion are published in their annual reports. Pakistan has no current established programme.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted, and all adverse reactions reported to the blood bank from January 2014 to March 2016 were included. An adverse response in the patient, related to administration of blood (within 24 h), was considered an immediate transfusion reaction.

RESULTS

During the study period, 20 956 blood components were issued. A total of 32 (0·15%) adverse reactions were documented. Allergic reactions were the most common adverse event observed in 15 (46·8%) of the cases. Febrile non-haemolytic transfusion reaction (FNHTR) was the second most common reaction seen in nine (28%) followed by bacterial contamination in four (12·5%) and acute haemolytic reaction in two (6·2%) of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The low incidence indicates underreporting and the need for a formal haemovigilance system. International benchmarking between different medical systems is helpful to identify areas in the transfusion process that have to be changed to improve transfusion safety.

Massive Tumor Thrombus in Left Renal Vein and Inferior Vena Cava in Renal Cell Carcinoma on 18-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/computerized Tomography: "Suspension Bridge Sign"

Tumor thrombosis is a relatively uncommon complication of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and its diagnosis has therapeutic and prognostic implication. Computerized tomography (CT) is the primary imaging modality for staging RCC, but it has low sensitivity to differentiate between tumor thrombus and bland or benign thrombus. 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT (PET/CT) has a limited role in diagnosis and staging of RCC, but its diagnostic accuracy is considerably high for detection of metabolically active tumor thrombus. We are presenting a case of metastatic left-sided RCC with massive hypermetabolic tumor thrombus extending from left kidney to left renal vein and inferior vena cava giving an interesting “Suspension Bridge” appearance on PET/CT images.

Diagnostic Challenges in Prostate Cancer and 68Ga-PSMA PET Imaging: A Game Changer?

Prostate cancer (PC) is the most frequent solid tumor in men and the third most common cause of cancer mortality among men in developed countries. Current imaging modalities like ultrasound (US), computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and choline based positron emission (PET) tracing have disappointing sensitivity for detection of nodal metastasis and small tumor recurrence. This poses a diagnostic challenge in staging of intermediate to high risk PC and restaging of patients with biochemical recurrence (PSA >0.2 ng/ml). Gallium-⁶⁸ labeled prostate specific membrane antigen (⁶⁸Ga-PSMA) PET imaging has now emerged with a higher diagnostic yield. ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT or PET/MRI can be expected to offer a one-stop-shop for staging and restaging of PC. PSMA ligands labeled with alpha and beta emitters have also shown promising therapeutic efficacy for nodal, bone and visceral metastasis. Therefore a PSMA based theranostics approach for detection, staging, treatment, and follow-up of PC would appear to be highly valuable to achieve personalized PC treatment.

Comparison of hemodynamic effects and negative predictive value of normal adenosine gated myocardial perfusion scan with or without caffeine abstinence

For vasodilator stress, myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) with at least 12-h caffeine abstinence is recommended, as it attenuates cardiovascular hyperemic response of adenosine and dipyridamole. However, many published conflicting results have shown no significant effect upon perfusion abnormalities in MPI performed without caffeine abstinence. The aim of this study was to compare the hemodynamic changes and negative predictive value (NPV) of normal MPIs with adenosine stress performed with or without caffeine abstinence. This was a prospective study that accrued 50 patients from May 2013 till September 2013 and followed till November 2014. These patients had a normal adenosine-gated MPI (GMPI) with technetium-99m methoxy isobutyl isonitrile (^99mTc-MIBI) after 12-h caffeine abstinence (no-caffeine). Next day, all patients had a repeat adenosine stress within 60 min after ingestion of a cup of coffee (about 80 mg of caffeine) followed by no MPI in 30 patients due to concern about radiation dose (prior-caffeine adenosine—no MPI; group A). Twenty patients opted for a repeat MPI (prior-caffeine adenosine—MPI; group B). Adenosine-induced hemodynamic response and NPV of the normal MPI with no-caffeine and prior-caffeine protocols were compared. The mean age of the study cohort was 57 ± 9 years with a male-to-female ratio of 76:24% and mean body mass index (BMI) of 26.915 ± 4.121 kg/m². Prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and positive family history were 76%, 20%, 22%, and 17%, respectively. Comparison of group A with group B revealed no significant difference in demographic parameters, hemodynamic or electrocardiography (ECG) parameters, or left ventricular (LV) function parameters during adenosine intervention with prior-caffeine and no-caffeine protocols. During the follow-up, no fatal myocardial infarction (MI) was reported but 6 nonfatal MIs were reported based upon the history of short hospitalization for chest pain but without biochemical or ECG criteria for infarction (3/30 in group A and 3/20 group B). Event-free survival (EFS) for fatal MI was 100% for both the groups while EFS for nonfatal MI was 90% for group A and 85% for group B (nonsignificant P values). Kaplan–Meier survival plot also depicted nonsignificant EFS for nonfatal MI. This study did not find any significant attenuation effect upon adenosine-induced hemodynamic response and similar NPV of a normal GMPI in patients with or without caffeine abstinence. We assume that better designed prospective studies are required to validate findings of our study and provide justification for revision of guidelines about caffeine abstinence.

Hybrid Imaging in Oncology

In oncology various imaging modalities play a crucial role in diagnosis, staging, restaging, treatment monitoring and follow up of various cancers. Stand-alone morphological imaging like computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide a high magnitude of anatomical details about the tumor but are relatively dumb about tumor physiology. Stand-alone functional imaging like positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission tomography (SPECT) are rich in functional information but provide little insight into tumor morphology. Introduction of first hybrid modality PET/CT is the one of the most successful stories of current century which has revolutionized patient care in oncology due to its high diagnostic accuracy. Spurred on by this success, more hybrid imaging modalities like SPECT/CT and PET/MR were introduced. It is the time to explore the potential applications of the existing hybrid modalities, developing and implementing standardized imaging protocols and train users in nuclear medicine and radiology. In this review we discuss three existing hybrid modalities with emphasis on their technical aspects and clinical applications in oncology.