POS0385 “EFFECTIVE LUNG AGE” IN SUBJECTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS-ASSOCIATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE (SSc-ILD) IN THE SENSCIS TRIAL

Background

FVC declines gradually with aging. The loss of lung function in patients with progressive SSc-ILD mimics an accelerated ageing process.

Objectives

Using reference equations, we estimated the “effective lung age” of subjects in the SENSCIS trial (i.e. the age of healthy individuals with the same FVC) and compared these estimates to their real age.

Methods

The SENSCIS trial enrolled subjects with SSc-ILD with first non-Raynaud symptom within the prior ≤7 years, extent of fibrotic ILD on HRCT ≥10%, FVC ≥40% predicted, DLco 30–89% predicted. Evidence of recent decline in FVC was not an inclusion criterion. Subjects were randomised to receive nintedanib or placebo. Using reference equations published by the European Respiratory Society Global Lung Function Initiative, based on FVC data from over 70,000 healthy individuals aged 3–95 years from 26 countries, [Quanjer et al. Eur Respir J 2012;40:1324–1343], we estimated the effective lung age of subjects at baseline and at week 52 based on their FVC, sex, ethnicity and height, and compared these effective lung ages with the subjects’ real ages. Three subjects aged <25 years were excluded. The upper limit of effective lung age was considered to be 95 years.

Results

Mean time since onset of first non-Raynaud symptom was 3.5 years in both the nintedanib and placebo groups. At baseline, mean (SD) effective lung age was 83.1 (14.4) years in the nintedanib group (n=287) and 82.9 (14.8) years in the placebo group (n=286). In these groups, respectively, the mean (SD) difference between effective lung age and real age was 28.4 (17.7) and 29.3 (18.5) years and the difference was >20 years in 71.4% and 72.4% of subjects. In the nintedanib and placebo groups, respectively, median (Q1, Q3) effective lung age was 88.4 (74.6, 95.0) and 88.5 (74.7, 95.0) years at baseline and 91.0 (75.2, 95.0) and 95.0 (75.9, 95.0) years at week 52.

Conclusion

At entry into the SENSCIS trial, subjects with SSc-ILD had an effective lung age that was much higher than their real age. Over 52 weeks, the increase in effective lung age was numerically lower in subjects treated with nintedanib than placebo. These data show that marked loss of lung function that can occur in the few years following onset of SSc-ILD and support a benefit of nintedanib in slowing the progression of SSc-ILD.

Acknowledgements

The SENSCIS trial was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim. Toby M Maher and Oliver Distler were members of the SENSCIS trial Steering Committee.

Disclosure of Interests

Toby Maher Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Galapagos, Genentech, Consultant of: AstraZeneca, Bayer, Blade Therapeutics, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Galapagos, Galecto, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, IQVIA, Pliant, Respivant, Roche, Theravance and Veracyte, Grant/research support from: AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Arnaud Bourdin Speakers bureau: Amgen, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Chiesi, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Regeneron, Sanofi, Paid instructor for: Amgen, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Chiesi, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Regeneron, Sanofi, Consultant of: Amgen, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Chiesi, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Regeneron, Sanofi, Grant/research support from: AstraZeneca and Boehringer Ingelheim, Elizabeth Volkmann Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, Forbius, Horizon, Kadmon, Serena Vettori Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim, Jörg H.W. Distler Shareholder of: 4D Science, Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Inventiva, Janssen, and UCB, Consultant of: AbbVie, Active Biotech, Anamar, ARXX, AstraZeneca, Bayer Pharma, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Galapagos, GlaxoSmithKline, Inventiva, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, and UCB, Grant/research support from: Anamar, ARXX, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Bayer Pharma, Boehringer Ingelheim, Cantargia, Celgene, CSL Behring, Galapagos, GlaxoSmithKline, Inventiva, Kiniksa, Sanofi-Aventis, RedX, UCB, Margarida Alves Employee of: Margarida Alves is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Christian Stock Employee of: Christian Stock is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Oliver Distler Speakers bureau: OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for systemic sclerosis and its complications in the last three calendar years:

Speaker fee: Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Medscape

, Consultant of: OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for systemic sclerosis and its complications in the last three calendar years:

Consultancy fee: Abbvie, Acceleron, Alcimed, Amgen, AnaMar, Arxx, AstraZeneca, Baecon, Blade, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, CSL Behring, 4P Science, Galapagos, Glenmark, Horizon, Inventiva, Kymera, Lupin, Miltenyi Biotec, Mitsubishi Tanabe, MSD, Novartis, Prometheus, Roivant, Sanofi and Topadur

OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for arthritides in the last three calendar years:

Consultancy fee: Abbvie

, Grant/research support from: OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for systemic sclerosis and its complications in the last three calendar years:

Research Grants: Boehringer Ingelheim, Kymera, Mitsubishi Tanabe

POS0853 EFFECTS OF NINTEDANIB ON CIRCULATING BIOMARKERS IN SUBJECTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS-ASSOCIATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE (SSc-ILD)

Background

In the SENSCIS trial in subjects with SSc-ILD, nintedanib reduced the rate of decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) over 52 weeks by 44% compared with placebo.

Objectives

To investigate the effects of nintedanib on circulating biomarkers of extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover, epithelial injury and inflammation in the SENSCIS trial.

Methods

Subjects had SSc with first non-Raynaud symptom in the prior ≤7 years, extent of fibrotic ILD on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) ≥10% and FVC ≥40% predicted. Patients were randomised to receive nintedanib or placebo stratified by anti-topoisomerase I antibody (ATA). Blood samples were taken at baseline and at weeks 4, 24 and 52. Fold changes in adjusted mean levels of circulating biomarkers were analyzed using a linear mixed model for repeated measures. Data were log10 transformed before analysis and estimates of change from baseline were back-transformed.

Results

A total of 576 subjects received trial drug (288 nintedanib, 288 placebo). A transient increase in fold change from baseline in C-reactive protein (CRP) (a marker of inflammation) was observed in subjects who received nintedanib versus placebo at week 4. After an initial increase at week 4 in the fold change from baseline in CRP degraded by MMP-1/8 (CRPM) (a marker of ECM turnover), a trend to decreasing levels was observed in subjects who received nintedanib compared with placebo at week 52. Decreases in the fold change from baseline in collagen 3 degraded by MMP-9 (C3M) and N-terminal propeptide of type VI collagen (pro-C6) (markers of ECM turnover) were observed in subjects who received nintedanib compared with placebo from week 24 and week 4, respectively. A decrease in fold change from baseline in Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) (a marker of epithelial injury) was observed in subjects who received nintedanib versus placebo at week 52. A decrease in fold change from baseline in cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) (a marker of epithelial injury) was observed in subjects who received nintedanib versus placebo from week 4 (Figure 1).

Conclusion

Data from the SENSCIS trial suggest that nintedanib reduced circulating levels of markers of ECM turnover and epithelial injury in subjects with SSc-ILD.

Acknowledgements

The SENSCIS trial was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim. Masataka Kuwana, Toby M Maher and Oliver Distler were members of the SENSCIS trial Steering Committe.

Disclosure of Interests

Shervin Assassi Speakers bureau: On speaker bureau for Integrity Continuing Education, Consultant of: Abbvie, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, CSL Behring, Novartis, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Masataka Kuwana Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Asahi Kasei Pharma, Astellas, Boehringer Ingelheim, Chugai, Eisai, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen, Nippon Shinyaku, Tanabe-Mitsubishi, Ono Pharmaceuticals, Consultant of: AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, Mochida

Kissei, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, MBL, Ono Pharmaceuticals, Christopher P Denton Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Consultant of: Abbvie, Acceleron, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, CSL Behring, GlaxoSmithKline, Roche, Grant/research support from: ARXX Therapeutics, GlaxoSmithKline, Horizon Therapeutics, Servier, Toby Maher Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Galapagos, Genentech, Consultant of: AstraZeneca, Bayer, Blade Therapeutics, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Galapagos, Galecto, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, IQVIA, Pliant, Respivant, Roche, Theravance and Veracyte, Grant/research support from: AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Claudia Diefenbach Employee of: Claudia Diefenbach is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Carina Ittrich Employee of: Carina Ittrich is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Martina Gahlemann Employee of: Martina Gahlemann is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Oliver Distler Speakers bureau: OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for systemic sclerosis and its complications in the last three calendar years:

Speaker fee: Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Medscape, Consultant of: OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for systemic sclerosis and its complications in the last three calendar years:

Consultancy fee: Abbvie, Acceleron, Alcimed, Amgen, AnaMar, Arxx, AstraZeneca, Baecon, Blade, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, CSL Behring, 4P Science, Galapagos, Glenmark, Horizon, Inventiva, Kymera, Lupin, Miltenyi Biotec, Mitsubishi Tanabe, MSD, Novartis, Prometheus, Roivant, Sanofi and Topadur

OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for arthritides in the last three calendar years:

Consultancy fee: Abbvie, Grant/research support from: OD has/had relationships with the following companies in the area of potential treatments for systemic sclerosis and its complications in the last three calendar years:

Research Grants: Boehringer Ingelheim, Kymera, Mitsubishi Tanabe,

OP0157 EFFECT OF NINTEDANIB IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS-ASSOCIATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE (SSc-ILD) AND RISK FACTORS FOR RAPID DECLINE IN FORCED VITAL CAPACITY: FURTHER ANALYSES OF THE SENSCIS TRIAL

Background

In the SENSCIS trial conducted in a population of subjects with SSc-ILD with a mean time since first non-Raynaud symptom of 3.5 years and 52% with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc), nintedanib reduced the rate of decline in FVC (mL/year) over 52 weeks by 44% versus placebo. Risk factors for a rapid decline in FVC in patients with SSc include early SSc, elevated inflammatory markers, significant skin involvement, and dcSSc. Patients with SSc with these risk factors for rapid progression of ILD are typically given immunosuppressants but not nintedanib.

Objectives

To analyse the rate of decline in FVC and the effect of nintedanib on FVC decline in subjects with risk factors for a rapid decline in FVC in the SENSCIS trial.

Methods

In post-hoc analyses of data from the SENSCIS trial, we analysed the rate of decline in FVC (mL/year) over 52 weeks in all subjects and in those with early SSc (<18 months since first non-Raynaud symptom), elevated inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein ≥6 mg/L and/or platelets ≥330 x 109/L), or significant skin fibrosis using two approaches (modified Rodnan skin score [mRSS] 15-40 or mRSS >18) at baseline. We also analysed the rate of decline in FVC over 52 weeks in subjects with one of these risk factors and dcSSc.

Results

Of 575 subjects analysed, 79 (13.7%) had <18 months since first non-Raynaud symptom, 210 (36.5%) had elevated inflammatory markers, 172 (29.9%) had mRSS 15-40 and 118 (20.5%) had mRSS >18. Of 299 subjects with dcSSc, 29 (9.7%) had <18 months since onset of first non-Raynaud symptom, 129 (43.1%) had elevated inflammatory markers, 162 (54.2%) had mRSS 15-40 and 118 (39.5%) had mRSS >18. In the placebo group, the rate of decline in FVC over 52 weeks was numerically greater in subjects with these risk factors for rapid decline in FVC compared with all subjects (Figure 1). Across the subgroups, the rate of decline in FVC was numerically lower in subjects treated with nintedanib than placebo (Figure 1).

Figure 1.

Rate of decline in FVC (mL/year) over 52 weeks in (A) all patients and in patients with risk factors for rapid decline in FVC at baseline and (B) all patients and in patients with dcSSc and risk factors for rapid decline in FVC at baseline in the SENSCIS trial.

Conclusion

The SENSCIS trial included a broad range of subjects with a fibrotic ILD complicating SSc, including those with risk factors for a rapid decline in FVC. In the placebo group, subjects with these risk factors had a more rapid decline in FVC over 52 weeks compared with the overall trial population. By targeting fibrosis with nintedanib, the rate of decline in FVC in patients with risk factors for FVC decline was reduced in patients treated with nintedanib compared with placebo.

Acknowledgements

The SENSCIS trial was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim. Toby M Maher and Masataka Kuwana were members of the SENSCIS trial Steering Committee.

Disclosure of Interests

Dinesh Khanna Shareholder of: Stocks - Eicos Sciences, Inc, Consultant of: AbbVie, Acceleron, Actelion, Amgen, AstraZeneca, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, CSL Behring, Galapagos NV, Genentech/Roche, Gilead, GlaxoSmithKline, Horizon Therapeutics, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Prometheus, Sanofi-Aventis, Theraly, United Therapeutics, Grant/research support from: Bayer, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Horizon Therapeutics, Immune Tolerance Network, National Institutes of Health, Pfizer, Employee of: Leadership/Equity position – Chief Medical Officer - CiviBioPharma/Eicos Sciences, Inc, Toby Maher Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Galapagos, Genentech, Consultant of: AstraZeneca, Bayer, Blade Therapeutics, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Galapagos, Galecto, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, IQVIA, Pliant, Respivant, Roche, Theravance and Veracyte, Grant/research support from: AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Elizabeth Volkmann Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, Forbius, Horizon, Kadmon, Yannick Allanore Consultant of: AbbVie, AstraZeneca, Bayer, Boehringer, Mylan, Janssen, Medsenic, Prometheus, Sanofi, Roche, Grant/research support from: Alpine Immunosciences, Medsenic, OSE Immunotherapeutics, Vanessa Smith Speakers bureau: Actelion Pharmaceuticals, Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharma GmbH&Co, Janssen-Cilag NV, UCB Biopharma Sprl

, Consultant of: Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharma GmbH&Co, Janssen-Cilag NV

, Grant/research support from: Belgian Fund for Scientific Research in Rheumatic diseases (FWRO), Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharma GmbH&Co, Janssen-Cilag NV, Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO), Shervin Assassi Speakers bureau: On speaker bureau for Integrity Continuing Education, Consultant of: Abbvie, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, CSL Behring, Novartis, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Michael Kreuter Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim and Roche, Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim and Roche, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim and Roche, Anna-Maria Hoffmann-Vold Speakers bureau: Actelion, Boehringer Ingelheim, Lilly, Medscape, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Roche, Paid instructor for: Boehringer Ingelheim, Consultant of: Actelion, ARXX, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Lilly, Medscape, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Roche, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, Masataka Kuwana Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Asahi Kasei Pharma, Astellas, Boehringer Ingelheim, Chugai, Eisai, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen, Nippon Shinyaku, Ono Pharmaceuticals, Tanabe-Mitsubishi

, Consultant of: AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, Kissei, Mochida

, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, MBL, Ono Pharmaceuticals

, Christian Stock Employee of: Christian Stock is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Margarida Alves Employee of: Margarida Alves is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Steven Sambevski Employee of: Steven Sambevski is an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Christopher P Denton Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Consultant of: Abbvie, Acceleron, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, CSL Behring, GlaxoSmithKline, Roche, Grant/research support from: ARXX Therapeutics, GlaxoSmithKline, Horizon Therapeutics, Servier

POS1449 SEGMENTED SHORT-FORMAT ONLINE EDUCATION SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASES PREDICTION, PROGNOSIS, AND MANAGEMENT OF FIBROSING INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE ASSOCIATED WITH CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE

Background:

Identifying fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) at the earliest opportunity remains one of the most urgent challenges for the effective management of this potentially rapidly progressive and burdensome condition, which is frequently associated with several connective tissue diseases (CTDs). However, knowledge on how to identify early hallmarks and predictors of fibrosing ILD, as well as knowing which steps to take next is frequently lacking in clinical practice.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to determine whether online independent medical education could improve rheumatologists’ and pulmonologists’ knowledge and competence in identifying and managing progressive fibrosing ILDs earlier in the disease course.

Methods:

Rheumatologists and pulmonologists participated in five ~10-min presentations about the early identification of fibrosing ILD in patients with or without CTDs and completed all pre- and post-questions.1 The effects of the education on knowledge and competence were assessed using a 3-question, repeated pairs, pre-assessment/post-assessment study design. For all questions combined, the chi-square test assessed differences from pre- to post-assessment. P values <.05 are statistically significant. The activity launched on October 9, 2020, and data were collected through December 18, 2020.

Results:

Overall significant improvements were seen after participation for both rheumatologists (average correct response rate of 28% at pre-assessment vs 74% at post-assessment; P<.001, representing a 165% relative percentage change [RPC]; N=39), and pulmonologists (average correct response rate of 39% at pre-assessment vs 67% at post-assessment; P<.001, representing a 72% RPC; N=102). Specifically, significant improvements were observed in clinicians’ knowledge of predictors of fibrosing ILD in patients with CTD, as well as competence in selecting the right HRCT parameters to assess prognosis and select a treatment approach to reduce the risk of disease progression (Figure 1).

Figure 1.

After participating in the activity, 59% of rheumatologists and 50% of pulmonologists had measurable improved confidence related to identifying early disease progression in patients with progressive fibrosing ILDs.

Given the very low rates of correct responses at baseline regarding predictors of fibrosing ILD and assessing prognosis, it will be important to continue to reinforce these learnings in ongoing educational programs.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates the success of segmented online education in improving rheumatologists’ and pulmonologists’ knowledge and competence in evaluating risk and prognosis of fibrosing ILD and managing patients with CTD-ILDs. This could lead to earlier changes in therapeutic approach for those with signs of progression and result in improved overall outcomes for these patients.

References:

[1]Kolb M, Maher T, Smith V, Jacob J, Rimekasten G. Catching and Managing Progressive Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Disease Progression Earlier. Launched: Oct 9, 2020. Data as of Dec 18, 2020. Available at www.medscape.org/viewarticle/938826

Disclosure of Interests:

Christy Rohani-Montez: None declared, Marinella Calle: None declared, Chris Allen: None declared, Toby Maher Speakers bureau: Astra Zeneca, Bayer, Blade Therapeutics, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Galapagos, Galecto, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Indalo, IQVIA, Pliant, Respivant, Roche and Theravance, Consultant of: Astra Zeneca, Bayer, Blade Therapeutics, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Galapagos, Galecto, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Indalo, IQVIA, Pliant, Respivant, Roche and Theravance, Grant/research support from: Astra Zeneca and GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Vanessa Smith Speakers bureau: Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharma GmbH&Co and Janssen-Cilag NV, Consultant of: Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharma GmbH&Co, Grant/research support from: Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO), Belgian Fund for Scientific Research in Rheumatic diseases (FWRO), Boehringer-Ingelheim, Pharma GmbH&Co, and Janssen-Cilag NV, Joseph Jacob Speakers bureau: Boehringer-Ingelheim; Roche, Consultant of: Boehringer-Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: GlaxoSmithKline, Gabriela Riemekasten Speakers bureau: AbbVie; Actelion; Boehringer-Ingelheim, Consultant of: Actelion; CellTrend; Janssen, Grant/research support from: AbbVie; Actelion, Martin Kolb Speakers bureau: AstraZeneca; Boehringer-Ingelheim; Novartis; Roche, Consultant of: AbbVie Inc.; Algernon Pharma; AstraZeneca;, Boehringer-Ingelheim; Cipla; Covance; EPG Health; Galapagos NV; Gilead; GlaxoSmithKline; Indalo; MitoImmune Therapeutics Inc; Novartis; Pieris; Prometic (now Liminal Biosciences); Roche; Third Pole Inc.; TwoXAR Inc., Grant/research support from: Boehringer-Ingelheim; GlaxoSmithKline; Novartis; Prometic; Roche; Avalyn

POS0835 DECLINE IN FORCED VITAL CAPACITY (FVC) IN SUBJECTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS-ASSOCIATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE (SSC-ILD) IN THE SENSCIS TRIAL VERSUS HYPOTHETICAL REFERENCE SUBJECTS WITHOUT LUNG DISEASE

Background:

In the randomized SENSCIS trial in subjects with SSc-ILD, nintedanib reduced the rate of decline in FVC over 52 weeks (mL/year) by 44% compared to placebo. Healthy individuals have varied FVC depending on age, sex, ethnicity and height; expected values can be determined using internationally recognised reference equations.

Objectives:

To provide further context to the FVC declines observed in the SENSCIS trial, we compared the decline in FVC observed in subjects with SSc-ILD in the SENSCIS trial with the decline in FVC that would be expected in hypothetical subjects without ILD matched for age, sex, ethnicity and height.

Methods:

The SENSCIS trial enrolled subjects with SSc-ILD aged ≥18 years with first non-Raynaud symptom ≤7 years before screening, extent of fibrotic ILD ≥10% on HRCT, FVC ≥40% predicted and DLco 30–89% predicted. Baseline FVC (mL) and changes in FVC (mL) at week 52 were assessed in the nintedanib and placebo groups, with missing values at week 52 imputed using predictions from the primary analysis model (random slope and intercept model). Changes in FVC in the SENSCIS trial were compared to values in hypothetical healthy reference subjects matched to the SENSCIS subjects for age, sex, ethnicity and height. FVC values in these healthy reference subjects were derived from the equations published by the European Respiratory Society Global Lung Function Initiative in 2012, which were derived from data from over 70,000 subjects.1

Results:

In the nintedanib and placebo groups of the SENSCIS trial, respectively, mean (SD) time since onset of first non-Raynaud symptom was 3.5 (1.6) and 3.5 (1.8) years. In the nintedanib group, mean (SD) FVC at baseline was 2460 (737) mL, compared with 3403 (787) mL in the healthy reference subjects. In the placebo group, mean (SD) FVC at baseline was 2544 (817) mL compared with 3516 (887) mL in the healthy reference subjects. The difference in the change from baseline in FVC at week 52 between the nintedanib-treated subjects in the SENSCIS trial (n=287) and the healthy reference subjects was 26.6 mL ([95% CI: 1.2, 52.0]; p=0.04). The difference in the change from baseline in FVC at week 52 between the placebo-treated subjects in the SENSCIS trial (n=286) and the reference subjects was 77.5 mL ([95% CI: 51.4, 103.7]; p<0.001) (Figure 1).

Conclusion:

Subjects with SSc-ILD who participated in the SENSCIS trial had marked lung function impairment at baseline compared with healthy matched reference subjects, despite a mean duration of SSc of 3.5 years. Over 52 weeks, the decline in FVC in subjects with SSc-ILD who received placebo was 4-fold greater than in healthy reference subjects. Subjects with SSc-ILD who were treated with nintedanib had a decline in FVC that was only slightly greater than the decline observed in the matched healthy subjects. These data support the clinical relevance of the reduction in the rate of FVC decline provided by nintedanib in patients with SSc-ILD.

References:

[1]Quanjer et al. Eur Respir J 2012;40:1324−43.

Acknowledgements:

The SENSCIS trial was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim. Medical writing support was provided by FleishmanHillard Fishburn, London, UK. The authors meet criteria for authorship as recommended by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE).

Disclosure of Interests:

Toby Maher Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim and Roche/Genentech, Consultant of: Acelleron Pharma, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline and Roche/Genentech, Arnaud Bourdin Speakers bureau: Actelion/Janssen (personal fees and other), AstraZeneca (personal fees and other), Boeringher Ingelheim (personal fees and other), Chiesi (personal fees and other), GlaxoSmithKline (personal fees and other), Novartis (personal fees and other), Pulsar Therapeutics (other), Roche (personal fees and other), Sanofi Regeneron (personal fees and other), Teva (other) and United Therapeutics (other), Consultant of: Actelion/Janssen (personal fees and other), AstraZeneca (personal fees and other), Boeringher Ingelheim (personal fees and other), Chiesi (personal fees and other), GlaxoSmithKline (personal fees and other), Novartis (personal fees and other), Pulsar Therapeutics (other), Roche (personal fees and other), Sanofi Regeneron (personal fees and other), Teva (other) and United Therapeutics (other), Grant/research support from: Actelion/Janssen (grants and other), AstraZeneca (grants and other), Boeringher Ingelheim (grants and other), Chiesi (other), GlaxoSmithKline (grants and other), Novartis (other), Pulsar Therapeutics (other), Roche (other), Sanofi Regeneron (other), Teva (other) and United Therapeutics (other), Elizabeth Volkmann Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: Corbus and Forbius, Serena Vettori Paid instructor for: Boehringer Ingelheim, Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim, Jörg H.W. Distler Speakers bureau: Actelion, Active Biotech, AnaMar, Arxx Therapeutics, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Galapagos NV, GlaxoSmithKline, Inventiva, JB Therapeutics, Medac, Pfizer, RuiYi and UCB, Consultant of: AnaMar, Arxx Therapeutics, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Galapagos NV, Inventiva, JB Therapeutics and UCB, Grant/research support from: Active Biotech, AnaMar, Array BioPharma, Arxx Therapeutics, aTyr, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celgene, Galapagos NV, GlaxoSmithKline, Inventiva, Novartis, Sanofi-Aventis, Redx and UCB, Margarida Alves Employee of: Currently an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Christian Stock Employee of: Currently an employee of Boehringer Ingelheim, Oliver Distler Consultant of: AbbVie, Acceleron Pharma, Amgen, AnaMar, Arxx Therapeutics, Baecon Discovery, Bayer, Blade Therapeutics, Boehringer Ingelheim, ChemomAb, Corbus, CSL Behring, Galapagos NV, GlaxoSmithKline, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Horizon (Curzion) Pharmaceuticals, Inventiva, IQVIA, Italfarmaco, iQone, Kymera Therapeutics, Lilly, Medac, Medscape, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Sanofi, Serodapharm, Target Bioscience, Topadur Pharma and UCB, Grant/research support from: Kymera Therapeutics and Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma

Coconut oil has less satiating properties than medium chain triglyceride oil

It is well established that the consumption of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) can increase satiety and reduce food intake. Many media articles promote the use of coconut oil for weight loss advocating similar health benefits to that of MCT. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of MCT oil compared to coconut oil and control oil on food intake and satiety. Following an overnight fast, participants consumed a test breakfast smoothie containing 205kcal of either (i) MCT oil (ii) coconut oil or (iii) vegetable oil (control) on three separate test days. Participants recorded appetite ratings on visual analogue scales and were presented with an ad libitum lunch meal of preselected sandwiches 180min after consumption of the breakfast. The results showed a significant difference in energy and macronutrient intakes at the ad libitum meal between the three oils with the MCT oil reducing food intake compared to the coconut and control oil. Differences in food intake throughout the day were found for energy and fat, with the control having increased food intake compared to the MCT and coconut. The MCT also increased fullness over the three hours after breakfast compared to the control and coconut oils. The coconut oil was also reported as being less palatable than the MCT oil. The results of this study confirm the differences that exist between MCT and coconut oil such that coconut oil cannot be promoted as having similar effects to MCT oil on food intake and satiety.

The physicochemical characteristics and bioavailability of indomethacin from β-cyclodextrin, hydroxyethyl-β-cyclodextrin, and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin complexes

In an effort to improve the bioavailability of the insoluble drug indomethacin, three complexes were prepared with indomethacin and the soluble complexing agents beta-, hydroxyethyl-beta-, and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin. The indomethacin content was similar among the complexes (P</=0.05). To confirm complex formation, each complex was characterized by ultraviolet, infrared, nuclear-magnetic resonance, powder X-ray diffraction, and differential-scanning calorimetry techniques. Powder diffraction studies show the beta-cyclodextrin complex was polycrystalline, and the hydroxyethyl- and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin complexes were amorphous. Phase-solubility analysis confirmed the formation of complexes and suggested the three complexes were bound similarly. Solubility studies show complexation increased indomethacin solubility, and the hydroxyethyl- and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin complexes were more soluble than the beta-cyclodextrin complex in 0.1 N hydrochloric acid and distilled water. Dosage forms were prepared by encapsulating the complexes without the addition of excipients. Dissolution studies show the encapsulated beta- and hydroxyethyl-beta-cyclodextrin complexes had superior dissolution when compared to the hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin and Indocin (50 mg) capsules. Bioavailability studies were performed by administering the indomethacin complex or Indocin capsules to male-albino, New Zealand rabbits. Indomethacin plasma-time concentration data fit best to a compartment-independent model for all capsule formulations. Bioavailability comparisons by ANOVA show no significant difference (P</=0.10) in the peak-plasma time and peak concentration among the capsule formulations. The area-under-the-curve for the beta-cyclodextrin complex capsules was found to be significantly higher (P</=0.10) than all other capsule formulations. In conclusion, the bioavailabilty of indomethacin was improved by complexation with only beta-cyclodextrin. No correlations were found among the bioavailability, solubility, and dissolution results.

HIV Lipodystrophy Case Definition using Artificial Neural Network Modelling

Objective

A case definition of HIV lipodystrophy has recently been developed from a combination of clinical, metabolic and imaging/body composition variables using logistic regression methods. We aimed to evaluate whether artificial neural networks could improve the diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

The database of the case-control Lipodystrophy Case Definition Study was split into 504 subjects (265 with and 239 without lipodystrophy) used for training and 284 independent subjects (152 with and 132 without lipodystrophy) used for validation. Back-propagation neural networks with one or two middle layers were trained and validated. Results were compared against logistic regression models using the same information.

Results

Neural networks using clinical variables only (41 items) achieved consistently superior performance than logistic regression in terms of specificity, overall accuracy and area under the ROC curve. Their average sensitivity and specificity were 72.4 and 71.2%, as compared with 73.0 and 62.9% for logistic regression, respectively (area under the ROC curve, 0.784 vs 0.748). The discriminating performance of the neural networks was largely unaffected when built excluding 13 parameters that patients may not have readily available. The average sensitivity and specificity of the neural networks remained the same when metabolic variables were also considered (total 60 items) without a clear advantage against logistic regression (overall accuracy 71.8%). The performance of networks considering also body composition variables was similar to that of logistic regression (overall accuracy 78.5% for both).

Conclusions

Neural networks may offer a means to improve the discriminating performance for HIV lipodystrophy, when only clinical data are available and a rapid approximate diagnostic decision is needed. In this context, information on metabolic parameters is apparently not helpful in improving the diagnosis of HIV lipodystrophy, unless imaging and body composition studies are also obtained.

Modulation of pressor response to muscle contraction via monoamines following AMPA-receptor blockade in the ventrolateral medulla

We hypothesized that cardiovascular responses to static muscle contraction are mediated via changes in extracellular concentrations of monoamines (norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin) following the administration of 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX, an AMPA-receptor antagonist) into the rostral (RVLM) or caudal (CVLM) ventrolateral medulla. For the RVLM experiments (n= 8), a 2-min static muscle contraction increased the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) by 23 +/- 2 mmHg and 28 +/- 8 bpm, respectively. During this contraction, the concentrations of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin within the RVLM increased by 278 +/- 52%, 213 +/- 23%, and 232 +/- 24%, respectively. Microdialysis of CNQX (1.0 microM) for 30 min into the RVLM attenuated the increases in MAP and HR ( 11 +/- 2 mmHg and 14 +/- 5 bpm) without a change in developed muscle tension. The levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin within the RVLM were also attenuated. In contrast, microdialysis of CNQX into the CVLM (n= 8) potentiated the contraction-evoked responses in MAP ( 21 +/- 2 vs 33 +/- 5 mmHg) and HR ( 25 +/- 5 vs 46 +/- 8 bpm) without any effect on the monoamine levels within the CVLM region. These results suggest that AMPA-receptor blockade within the RVLM and CVLM has opposing effects on cardiovascular responses during static muscle contraction. In addition, such receptor blockade modulates extracellular concentrations of monoamines within the RVLM but not in the CVLM. These results provide evidence that AMPA receptors within the ventrolateral medulla play a role in exercise pressor reflex.

Highly polymorphic short tandem repeat analyses clarify complex molecular test results

Judicious application of highly polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) analyses and modification of assay conditions readily distinguished nonparentage from true parentage, with occasional failure to transmit one parentally derived allele. These categories were resolved with a reliability of >99.9%, the standard applied to most DNA evidence presented in a U.S. court of law. While completing a single prenatal diagnosis submitted at 19 weeks gestation, the authors found that one polymorphic grandpaternal allele did not amplify, a duplicate control propositus' DNA sample had been switched by an outside laboratory, and recombination occurred in maternal meiosis within the mutant gene region. In two parentage cases with one available parent, a Y-linked STR or an autosomal STR was modified when transmitted to the offspring. In contrast, some apparently inconsistent results between parental DNA and offspring were resolved by purifying or diluting the original extracted DNA samples. Thus, the source of each complex molecular test result was characterized unambiguously by testing a sufficient number of highly polymorphic STR loci and by purifying or diluting troublesome DNA samples to diminish polymerase chain reaction amplification artifact.

Further evidence that extracellular serotonin in the rostral ventrolateral medulla modulates 5-HT(1A) receptor-mediated attenuation of exercise pressor reflex

We determined changes in extracellular levels of glutamate, serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and dopamine (DA) within rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) during 5-HT(1A)-receptor stimulation-mediated inhibition of cardiovascular responses to static muscle contraction using anesthetized rats. In ten rats, muscle contraction significantly increased (P<0.01) mean arterial pressure (MAP) by 29+/-4 mm Hg, heart rate (HR) by 25+/-3 bpm, and glutamate levels by 4.5+/-0.8 ng/5 microl. Microdialysis of a 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist, 8-OH-DPAT (10 mM), into the RVLM for 30 min attenuated cardiovascular responses to muscle contraction and had no effect on glutamate levels. A subsequent administration of 10 mM WAY100635, a 5-HT(1A) antagonist, into the RVLM antagonized the attenuating effects of 8-OH-DPAT. In another ten rats, muscle contraction significantly increased (P<0.01) MAP and HR by 20+/-2 mmHg and 25+/-8 bpm, respectively. In addition, levels of 5-HT, NE, and DA in the RVLM significantly increased (P<0.01) by 3.6+/-0.3, 3.2+/-0.3, and 3.3+/-0.4 pg/10 microl, respectively. Administration of 8-OH-DPAT (10 mM) into the RVLM for 30 min attenuated cardiovascular responses to muscle contraction and had no effects on NE and DA levels. However, the drug significantly attenuated 5-HT levels following a muscle contraction. Microdialysis of 10 mM WAY100635 into the RVLM reversed both cardiovascular and 5-HT changes. These results suggest that stimulation of 5-HT(1A)-receptors within the RVLM attenuates cardiovascular responses to static exercise via a reduction of extracellular 5-HT concentration and most likely not through changes in glutamate, NE or DA levels.

The Heartmate II: design and development of a fully sealed axial flow left ventricular assist system

Our group is developing the control and power transmission components required to implement a permanent and fully sealed left ventricular assist system (LVAS). Starting with the percutaneously powered HeartMate II blood pump, our development efforts are focused in the following areas: a complete redesign of the transcutaneous energy transmission system (TETS) to include a rectification network and autonomous voltage regulation within the secondary coil, a hermetically sealed electronics package containing a miniaturized implementation of the existing redundant drive and control electronics with several power-input options, an implanted rechargeable lithium ion battery pack capable of providing up to 1 h of untethered operation, implantable electrical connectors that allow components to be connected after placement in the body or to be replaced if needed, and a radio telemetry subsystem to transmit diagnostic information and to permit remote adjustment of selected parameters.

Substituting lifestyle management for pharmacological control of blood pressure: a pilot study in Australian general practice

The HEART project was conducted in general practice to determine whether lifestyle strategies, aimed at increasing physical activity and dietary modification, can be substituted for drug therapy in patients who have been well controlled on antihypertensive medication. In addition to blood pressure (BP) and risk factor outcomes, lifestyle behaviours, quality of life of patients, and the acceptability of the approach to both general practitioners (GPs) and patients involved in the trial were assessed. Patients (n = 45) with a history of hypertension and who had been well controlled for at least the past 6 months (BP < 160/ 95 mmHg) were randomised to a continued medication (C) group (n = 24) or a withdrawal (W) group (n = 21). Subjects had received antihypertensive therapy for an average of 7.8 years (range 1-28 years). Drug therapy in the W group was recommenced if BP exceeded 160/95 mmHg on two consecutive visits. Both groups were counselled regarding lifestyle behaviour change by their GP throughout the study and were provided with specifically developed self-help materials. Subjects were reviewed at least monthly over a 9-month period. Following randomisation, there were no significant differences between the two groups for BP, heart rate, age, duration of therapy, total cholesterol or body mass index. All but three subjects (one from the W and two from the C group) completed 9 months of monitoring following randomisation and there were no cardiovascular events; 71% of subjects remained off drug therapy and were well controlled at the 9-month follow-up (15/21) with mean BP of 141/85 mmHg (W) and 139/ 86 mmHg (C). Systolic BP tended to increase during the study period in both W and C groups, however, no significant differences were observed in mean systolic or diastolic BP either between the two groups or within each group in comparison to baseline values. Resting heart rate, body mass index and cholesterol levels remained unchanged in both W and C groups after 9 months follow-up. There were no changes attributable to the lifestyle intervention in the subjects continuing drug therapy in BP or lifestyle variables over the study period. However, the group stopping therapy had a 6% reduction in body mass index after 9 months. These data suggest that a proportion of motivated patients willing to trial a lifestyle approach can cease drug therapy and be adequately maintained by the prescription of lifestyle advice via their GP for at least a 9-month period. Cessation of drug therapy may be an important motivating factor to achieve weight loss in this group.

Preventive health behaviour among general practitioners in Victoria

This study describes the preventive health behaviour of general practitioners in Victoria, with particular emphasis on hepatitis B prevention, and their use of medical services, and seeks to explain these behaviours.

METHODS

Cross sectional postal questionnaire survey of a 10% random sample (n = 544) of all GPs in Victoria, Australia.

RESULTS

A valid response rate of 58.5% was achieved. Only 4% of the sample smoked, 93% had a blood pressure check in the past 3 years, and 64% had a cholesterol check in the past 3 years. About half followed a 'healthy' diet and 20% took a high level of physical exercise. With regard to hepatitis B prevention, 87% had completed vaccination, and 49% had confirmed immunity. Needlestick injuries had been suffered by 49% in the previous year, and half of the respondents would take no action after such an event. Over two-thirds (69%) reported having no GP. Psychological factors were associated with preventive health behaviour independent of age and gender. Internal locus of control and health value were positively associated with whether the doctor would take any action after needlestick injury, had a blood pressure or cholesterol test in the past 3 years or had their own GP.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that GPs in Victoria have a relatively high level of preventive health activity although they have a low level of utilisation of their GP colleagues in service provision. There are measurable differences in psychological variables between doctors that are associated with their level of preventive care. Plans to improve their personal health care should concentrate on psychological well being.

Prenatal diagnosis for Schmid metaphyseal chondrodysplasia in twins

We report prenatal diagnostic studies for metaphyseal chondrodysplasia of the Schmid type. Identification of a specific COL10A1 gene mutation in an affected father allowed prenatal diagnosis by chorionic villus sampling in a twin pregnancy. Neither of the nonidentical twins received the abnormal COL10A1 gene from their affected father. This result was confirmed by postnatal DNA analysis. Prenatal diagnosis can be offered to all families with characterized COL10A1 gene mutations.

Survival following traumatic rupture of the heart in a child

Blunt force trauma to the chest can result in rupture of the heart. We report the youngest survivor of this injury, followed by a literature review, description of the epidemiology, and mechanism and guidelines for diagnosis and aggressive management.

Anticonvulsant effects of intracerebroventricular adenocard in theophylline-induced seizures

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the potential anticonvulsant effects of Adenocard in theophylline-induced seizures, we developed a rodent model of theophylline neurotoxicity with resultant convulsions. We used this model to investigate the actions of intracerebroventricular (ICV) Adenocard on seizure onset.

PARTICIPANTS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats.

INTERVENTIONS

Surgical cannulation of the jugular veins of the rats was followed by stereotaxic placement of a catheter in the right lateral ventricle. The rats then received 15 micrograms (5 microL) ICV Adenocard or an equivalent. Ten seconds later, continuous infusion of IV aminophylline was begun at a rate of 75 mg/minute until the appearance of generalized convulsions with maximal hindlimb extension.

RESULTS

Compared with vehicle-injected controls, rats that received ICV Adenocard had a significant delay in mean time to seizure (162.1 seconds versus 107.4 seconds; P < .001). There was a corresponding increase in the weight-adjusted convulsant dose of aminophylline after the ICV administration of Adenocard (311.4 mg/kg versus 470.4 mg/kg; P < .003).

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that ICV Adenocard ameliorates theophylline-induced seizures. Potential anticonvulsant benefits of Adenocard and other adenosinergic compounds for victims of severe theophylline poisoning should be investigated further.

Distressful events in the ICU as perceived by patients recovering from coronary artery bypass surgery

OBJECTIVE

To determine what events are perceived as most stressful to patients in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU).

DESIGN

Descriptive cross-sectional survey.

PATIENTS

One hundred twenty-seven patients who had undergone coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) at 48 hours after their transfer from the SICU.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Stressful events as perceived by patients while in the SICU determined by 25 specific items on a questionnaire rated on a Likert scale ranging from 1 (no distress) to 4 (extremely distressful).

RESULTS

Two stressors, being intubated and not being able to talk, were significantly more stressful, by Newman-Keuls multiple range test, than all the other stressors. The mean stressfulness score for all other stressors was between no distress and mild distress.

CONCLUSION

Overall stress associated with specific events during a short stay in the SICU was minimal. Intubation and inability to communicate were the most stressful experiences.

Phase II study of merbarone (NSC 336628) in patients with advanced gastric carcinoma

Merbarone, 5-(N-phenylcarboxamido)-2-thiobarbituric acid (NSC 336628), is a derivative of barbituric acid and represents a unique class of antineoplastic agents. We treated 16 patients with advanced gastric carcinoma in a phase II study of merbarone. All patients were previously untreated with chemotherapy or biological therapy. The starting dose of merbarone was 1000mg/m2 infused over 24 hr for 5 consecutive days every 21 days. A median of two courses (range, 1-7) was given. None of the patients achieved a complete or partial response; however, 3 patients achieved a transient minor response. Toxicity was mild to moderate in most patients, but 1 patient died of treatment-related neutropenia and sepsis. Our data suggest that merbarone at this dose and schedule is inactive against gastric carcinoma. The evidence of minor response suggests that analog research may be worthwhile to pursue.

Interleukin-2 activity in patients with extensive small-cell lung cancer: a phase II trial of Cancer and Leukemia Group B

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy may induce overall (complete plus partial) response rates of more than 50% and complete response rates up to 25% in extensive small-cell lung cancer (stage IIIB or IV), but survival is generally limited to 8-12 months. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) has demonstrated activity against this disease in vitro and has produced regression in melanoma and renal cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine in a prospective, nonblinded, phase II trial the activity of IL-2 in patients with extensive small-cell lung cancer who had not achieved complete remission with chemotherapy.

METHODS

The 68 patients eligible for the study were initially treated with at least one dose of combination chemotherapy with cisplatin, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and etoposide (PACE). Of the 50 who did not obtain complete remission with PACE, 24 who had measurable or evaluable disease and whose medical condition allowed further therapy were treated with IL-2. Beginning 3 weeks after the last dose of PACE, IL-2 was administered intravenously at 4.5 million Nutley units/m2 per day as a continuous infusion for 96 hours, followed by a 3-day rest. The planned duration of therapy was 8 weeks.

RESULTS

Of the 24 patients eligible to receive IL-2, four (17%) with measurable disease or evaluable but not measurable disease obtained a complete response after IL-2 therapy; one (4%) patient had a partial response. The overall response rate was 21%. Complete responses continued for 8, 9, and more than 11 months in three patients; the remaining patient developed acute myelomonocytic leukemia while in complete remission approximately 8 months after the start of IL-2 therapy. Only five of the 24 patients were able to complete the planned 8 weeks of IL-2 therapy. Therapy was discontinued in 11 patients because of life-threatening side effects, in six because of disease progression, and in two who withdrew from the study, probably related to IL-2 toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that IL-2 has some activity in extensive small-cell lung cancer and suggest that IL-2 is not cross-resistant with PACE therapy.

IMPLICATIONS

Further studies are needed to define the optimum timing, dose, and schedule of IL-2 and to determine whether the agent has a role in the therapy of small-cell lung cancer.

Trisomy 12 mosaicism in phenotypically normal fetuses following prenatal detection

We report three cases of amniocentesis in which mosaicism for trisomy 12 was detected in two or more independent cultures. The parents elected to terminate the pregnancy in all three cases. Follow-up studies in two of the cases confirmed the mosaicism in fetal tissues (in subcutaneous tissue in one case; in fetal lung in the other), but not in blood. No fetal anomalies were evident by ultrasound or at autopsy. These results along with other reported cases demonstrate the difficulty in counselling for mosaic trisomy 12.

Surgical therapy for left ventricular aneurysms. A ten-year experience

We reviewed retrospectively the surgical results of left ventricular aneurysm reduction in 197 consecutive patients operated on in 1977-1987. There were 19 hospital deaths (9.6%) and 38 late deaths. The cumulative 5- and 10-year survival probabilities were 79% and 67%. Of the 140 late survivors, 130 underwent follow-up study in 1988 (mean, 5 years postsurgery). We analyzed preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative variables to evaluate the efficacy of surgical therapy. The risk of early mortality was increased by worsening preoperative New York Heart Association class, operation within 30 days of myocardial infarction, combinations of ventricular arrhythmia and congestive heart failure, renal failure, and preoperative cardiogenic shock. There was a trend toward increased early mortality with multivessel coronary artery disease. Late mortality and length of survival were not predicted by any variable examined.

Amelioration of metabolic acidosis by dietary potassium restriction in hyperkalemic patients with chronic renal insufficiency

Hyperkalemia has been implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic acidosis in chronic renal insufficiency because acidosis is ameliorated after administration of medications that correct hyperkalemia: mineralocorticoids, diuretics, intestinal K+-binding agents. However, the acidosis-ameliorating effect of these medications may be a consequence not of their ability to correct hyperkalemia, but of their ability to directly stimulate renal or intestinal excretion of acid. To investigate the specific effect of correcting hyperkalemia, balance studies were performed wherein hyperkalemia was corrected solely by restriction of dietary K+ in three patients with moderate chronic renal insufficiency (Ccreat 36, 44, and 58 ml/min/1.73 m2, respectively). Reduction of K+ intake was effected by substitution of Na+ for K+ in the electrolyte supplement to a whole-food diet of low K+ content. This maneuver resulted in correction of hyperkalemia and sustained amelioration of metabolic acidosis in each patient. Net acid excretion increased only transiently, and not enough to fully account for the magnitude of the increment in plasma [HCO3-], suggesting that an extrarenal mechanism of HCO3- input to the systemic circulation was the major factor that ameliorated the systemic acidosis. Evidence of an extrarenal mechanism was obtained only during the phase of decreasing plasma [K+]. Subsequently, during sustained normokalemia, the increased plasma [HCO3-] was maintained as a consequence of a sustained increase in total renal H+ secretion, evidenced by complete reabsorption of the increased filtered load of HCO3- and no reduction in net acid excretion from control values. These results indicate that in some patients with moderate chronic renal insufficiency, metabolic acidosis is ameliorated when hyperkalemia is corrected by restriction of dietary K+ (Na+ substitution) without otherwise changing diet composition and without administration of medication. Amelioration of the acidosis is predominantly effected by extrarenal mechanisms, and is sustained by an increase in the set point at which plasma [HCO3-] is regulated by the kidney.

Effect of diet on plasma acid-base composition in normal humans

Steady-state plasma and urine acid-base composition was assessed in 19 studies of 16 normal subjects who ingested constant amounts of one of three diets that resulted in different rates of endogenous noncarbonic acid production (EAP) within the normal range. Renal net acid excretion (NAE) was used to quantify EAP since the two variables are positively correlated in normal subjects. A significant positive correlation was observed between plasma [H+] and plasma PCO2, and between plasma [HCO3-] and plasma PCO2, among the subjects. Multiple correlation analysis revealed a significant interrelationship among plasma [H+], plasma PCO2, and NAE (r = 0.71, P less than 0.001), and among plasma [HCO3-], plasma PCO2, and NAE (r = 0.77, P less than 0.001). The partial correlation coefficients indicated a significant positive correlation between plasma [H+] and NAE, and a significant negative correlation between plasma [HCO3-] and NAE, when plasma PCO2 was held constant. These findings indicate that two factors influence the level at which plasma [H+] is maintained in normal subjects: (1) the steady-state rate of endogenous noncarbonic acid production, and (2) the setpoint at which plasma PCO2 is regulated by the respiratory system. Plasma [HCO3-] is also co-determined by these two factors. In disease states, therefore, both factors must be known before a disturbance in acid-base homeostasis can be excluded.