Sample records for received multiple doses

  1. Pharmacokinetic profiles of repaglinide in elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes.

    PubMed

    Hatorp, V; Huang, W C; Strange, P

    1999-04-01

    Pharmacokinetic profiles of single- and multiple-dose regimens of repaglinide were evaluated in 12 elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes. On day 1, following a 10-hour fast, subjects received a single 2-mg dose of repaglinide. Starting on day 2 and continuing for 7 days, each subject received a 2-mg dose of repaglinide 15 minutes before each of the three main meals. On day 9, subjects received a single 2-mg dose of repaglinide. Pharmacokinetic profiles, including area under the curve (AUC), log(AUC), maximal concentration (Cmax), log(Cmax), time to maximal concentration (Tmax), and half-life (T(1/2)), were determined at completion of the single- and multiple-dose regimens (days 1 and 9, respectively). Trough repaglinide values were collected on days 2 through 7. The mean log(AUC) values after multiple dosing were significantly higher than the values obtained after a single dose. The mean values for log(Cmax), and Tmax were comparable after each dosing regimen. The T(1/2) of repaglinide after multiple dosing was 1.7 hours. The trough values for repaglinide were low. No hypoglycemic events were reported. The pharmacokinetic profiles of repaglinide after single- and multiple-dose regimens were similar, and repaglinide was well tolerated by elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes.

  2. TH-AB-207A-03: Skin Dose to Patients Receiving Multiple CTA and CT Exams of the Head

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nawfel, RD; Young, G

    Purpose: To measure patient skin dose from CT angiography (CTA) and CT exams of the head, and determine if patients having multiple exams could receive cumulative doses that approach or exceed deterministic thresholds. Methods: This study was HIPAA compliant and conducted with IRB approval. Patient skin doses were measured over a 4 month period using nanoDot OSL dosimeters placed on the head of 52 patients for two CT scanners. On each scanner, 26 patients received CT exams (scanner 1: 10 females, 16 males, mean age 64.2 years; scanner 2: 18 females, 8 males, mean age 61.2 years). CT exam dosemore » metrics, CTDIvol and dose-length product (DLP) were recorded for each exam. Additionally, skin dose was measured on an acrylic skull phantom in each scanner and on a neuro-interventional imaging system using clinical protocols. Measured dose data was used to estimate peak skin dose (PSD) for 4 patients receiving multiple exams including CTA, head CT, and cerebral angiography. Results: For scanner 1, the mean PSD for CTA exams (98.9 ± 5.3 mGy) and for routine head CT exams (39.2 ± 3.7 mGy) agreed reasonably well with the PSD measured on the phantom, 105.4 mGy and 40.0 mGy, respectively. Similarly for scanner 2, the mean PSD for CTA exams (98.8 ± 7.4 mGy) and for routine head CT exams (42.9 ± 9.4 mGy) compared well with phantom measurements, 95.2 mGy and 37.6 mGy, respectively. In addition, the mean PSD was comparable between scanners for corresponding patient exams, CTA and routine head CT respectively. PSD estimates ranged from 1.9 – 4.5 Gy among 4 patients receiving multiple exams. Conclusion: Patients having several exams including both CTA and routine head CT may receive cumulative doses approaching or exceeding the threshold for single dose deterministic effects.« less

  3. Human placenta-derived cells (PDA-001) for the treatment of adults with multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, multiple-dose study.

    PubMed

    Lublin, Fred D; Bowen, James D; Huddlestone, John; Kremenchutzky, Marcelo; Carpenter, Adam; Corboy, John R; Freedman, Mark S; Krupp, Lauren; Paulo, Corri; Hariri, Robert J; Fischkoff, Steven A

    2014-11-01

    Infusion of PDA-001, a preparation of mesenchymal-like cells derived from full-term human placenta, is a new approach in the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis. This safety study aimed to rule out the possibility of paradoxical exacerbation of disease activity by PDA-001 in patients with multiple sclerosis. This was a phase 1b, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-dose ranging study including patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis or secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. The study was conducted at 6 sites in the United States and 2 sites in Canada. Patients were randomized 3:1 to receive 2 low-dose infusions of PDA-001 (150×10(6) cells) or placebo, given 1 week apart. After completing this cohort, subsequent patients received high-dose PDA-001 (600×10(6) cells) or placebo. Monthly brain magnetic resonance imaging scans were performed. The primary end point was ruling out the possibility of paradoxical worsening of MS disease activity. This was monitored using Cutter׳s rule (≥5 new gadolinium lesions on 2 consecutive scans) by brain magnetic resonance imaging on a monthly basis for six months and also the frequency of multiple sclerosis relapse. Ten patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and 6 with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis were randomly assigned to treatment: 6 to low-dose PDA-001, 6 to high-dose PDA-001, and 4 to placebo. No patient met Cutter׳s rule. One patient receiving high-dose PDA-001 had an increase in T2 and gadolinium lesions and in Expanded Disability Status Scale score during a multiple sclerosis flare 5 months after receiving PDA-001. No other patient had an increase in Expanded Disability Status Scale score>0.5, and most had stable or decreasing Expanded Disability Status Scale scores. With high-dose PDA-001, 1 patient experienced a grade 1 anaphylactoid reaction and 1 had grade 2 superficial thrombophlebitis. Other adverse events were mild to moderate and included headache, fatigue, infusion site reactions, and urinary tract infection. PDA-001 infusions were safe and well tolerated in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis patients. No paradoxical worsening of lesion counts was noted with either dose. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Randomised clinical trial: a phase 1, dose-ranging study of the anti-matrix metalloproteinase-9 monoclonal antibody GS-5745 versus placebo for ulcerative colitis.

    PubMed

    Sandborn, W J; Bhandari, B R; Fogel, R; Onken, J; Yen, E; Zhao, X; Jiang, Z; Ge, D; Xin, Y; Ye, Z; French, D; Silverman, J A; Kanwar, B; Subramanian, G M; McHutchison, J G; Lee, S D; Shackelton, L M; Pai, R K; Levesque, B G; Feagan, B G

    2016-07-01

    Matrix metalloproteinase-9 is a proteolytic enzyme whose expression is increased in ulcerative colitis. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of GS-5745, a fully humanised anti-matrix metalloproteinase-9 monoclonal antibody, in moderately-to-severely active ulcerative colitis. We randomised 74 patients with ulcerative colitis to treatment with single or multiple ascending intravenous or subcutaneous doses of GS-5745 or placebo. Multiple-dose cohorts received either IV infusions (0.3, 1.0, 2.5 or 5.0 mg/kg GS-5745 or placebo) every 2 weeks (three total IV infusions) or five weekly SC injections (150 mg GS-5745 or placebo). The primary outcomes were the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of escalating single and multiple doses of GS-5745. Exploratory analyses in the multiple-dose cohorts included clinical response (≥3 points or 30% decrease from baseline in Mayo Clinic score and ≥1 point decrease in the rectal bleeding subscore or a rectal bleeding subscore ≤1) and clinical remission (a complete Mayo Clinic score ≤2 with no subscore >1) at Day 36. Biological effects associated with a clinical response to GS-5745 were explored using histological and molecular approaches. Twenty-three of the 42 patients (55%) receiving multiple doses of GS-5745 had adverse events, compared with 5/8 patients (63%) receiving placebo. GS-5745 showed target-mediated drug disposition, approximately dose-proportional increases in maximum plasma concentration and more than dose-proportional increases in the area under the plasma drug concentration-time curve. Clinical response occurred in 18/42 patients (43%) receiving GS-5745 compared with 1/8 patients (13%) receiving placebo. Clinical remission occurred in 6/42 patients (14%) receiving GS-5745 and 0/8 (0%) receiving placebo. Patients with a clinical response to GS-5745 had reductions in matrix metalloproteinase-9 tissue levels (mean 48.9% decrease from baseline compared with a mean 18.5% increase in nonresponders, P = 0.008) significant improvements in histopathology scores (confirmed with three separate histological disease activity indices), as well as changes in colonic gene expression that were consistent with reduced inflammation. This phase 1 trial provides preliminary evidence for the safety and therapeutic potential of GS-5745 in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. © 2016 The Authors. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  5. Multiple-, But Not Single-, Dose of Parecoxib Reduces Shoulder Pain after Gynecologic Laparoscopy

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Hufei; Shu, Haihua; Yang, Lu; Cao, Minghui; Zhang, Jingjun; Liu, Kexuan; Xiao, Liangcan; Zhang, Xuyu

    2012-01-01

    Background: The aim of this study was to investigate effect of single- and multiple-dose of parecoxib on shoulder pain after gynecologic laparoscopy. Methods: 126 patients requiring elective gynecologic laparoscopy were randomly allocated to three groups. Group M (multiple-dose): receiving parecoxib 40mg at 30min before the end of surgery, at 8 and 20hr after surgery, respectively; Group S (single-dose): receiving parecoxib 40mg at 30min before the end of surgery and normal saline at the corresponding time points; Group C (control): receiving normal saline at the same three time points. The shoulder pain was evaluated, both at rest and with motion, at postoperative 6, 24 and 48hr. The impact of shoulder pain on patients' recovery (activity, mood, walking and sleep) was also evaluated. Meanwhile, rescue analgesics and complications were recorded. Results: The overall incidence of shoulder pain in group M (37.5%) was lower than that in group C (61.9%) (difference=-24.4%; 95% CI: 3.4~45.4%; P=0.023). Whereas, single-dose regimen (61.0%) showed no significant reduction (difference with control=-0.9%; 95% CI: -21.9~20.0%; P=0.931). Moreover, multiple-dose regimen reduced the maximal intensity of shoulder pain and the impact for activity and mood in comparison to the control. Multiple-dose of parecoxib decreased the consumption of rescue analgesics. The complications were similar among all groups and no severe complications were observed. Conclusions: Multiple-, but not single-, dose of parecoxib may attenuate the incidence and intensity of shoulder pain and thereby improve patients' quality of recovery following gynecologic laparoscopy. PMID:23136538

  6. A new fully human recombinant FSH (follitropin epsilon): two phase I randomized placebo and comparator-controlled pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic trials.

    PubMed

    Abd-Elaziz, Khalid; Duijkers, Ingrid; Stöckl, Lars; Dietrich, Bruno; Klipping, Christine; Eckert, Kelvin; Goletz, Steffen

    2017-08-01

    What are the differences and similarities of pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) characteristics of the novel recombinant human FSH follitropin epsilon expressed in the human cell line GlycoExpress compared with a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) derived compound and a urinary derived product? Overall follitropin epsilon, with a fully human glycosylation, shows a comparable PK profile at single-dose as well as multiple-dose administration compared to recombinant CHO-derived FSH as well as urinary derived FSH, whereas the PD properties differ from product to product with follitropin epsilon being most active in PD parameters. Recombinant FSH produced in CHO and FSH obtained from the urine of postmenopausal women show comparable PK and PD properties. However, more recently a comparative study of a recombinant FSH produced in the human cell line PerC6 and a CHO-derived FSH preparation revealed differences in PK and PD properties of the molecule. Both studies were randomized, placebo- and comparator-controlled, single-blind phase I studies in healthy pituitary-suppressed female volunteers aged 18 and 40 years. The single-dose, dose escalation study included 19 women (April 2011 to September 2011) with three ascending dose levels per subject or placebo/comparators with a 14-day washout phase between dosings. The multiple-dose study included 57 women (October 2011 to April 2012) in five cohorts with three dose levels versus placebo and two comparators. Randomization to the respective treatment was performed after successful downregulation of the pituitary gland prior to Investigational Medicinal Product dosing. In the single-dose study, 12 subjects received follitropin epsilon (25, 75, 150 and 300 IU) in three of four possible ascending doses and seven subjects received one dose of two comparators (150 IU Bravelle and 150 IU Gonal-f) and placebo in random order in each treatment period. In the multiple-dose study, 30 subjects received follitropin epsilon (75 IU or 150 IU once daily [QD], or 150 IU every other day [QAD], 10 subjects each) and 27 subjects received 150 IU Gonal-f, 150 IU Bravelle, or placebo for 7 days (11/10/6 subjects). Blood samples for measuring PK as well as PD parameters were collected systematically before, during and after dosing. Adverse events (AEs) and other relevant safety parameters were recorded. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. The single- and multiple-dose PK parameters maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC0-last) increased in a linear fashion with increasing dose levels of follitropin epsilon. Follitropin epsilon showed PK characteristics comparable to the comparators indicating that well established treatment schemes could be applied. There was a dose-response effect of single and multiple doses of follitropin epsilon on follicular growth, which was shown for the biomarker inhibin B as well as for the mean number and size of follicles. Multiple doses of 75 IU follitropin epsilon given daily, as well as 150 IU follitropin epsilon every second day, showed a follicle growth comparable with 150 IU Gonal-f given daily, while in case of daily administration of 150 IU Bravelle only weak follicle stimulation was observed. Multiple doses of 150 IU follitropin epsilon induced a much higher follicle growth compared to the same dose of Gonal-f. All single and multiple follitropin epsilon doses tested were safe and well tolerated, and overall there were no relevant differences between follitropin epsilon and the comparators in terms of safety. The average number of AEs increased with increasing dose levels. No clinically relevant abnormalities were reported for any of the other safety parameters assessed. No follitropin epsilon anti-drug antibodies were observed. The studies were conducted as a single-blind design. Hormone levels or other parameters assessed in serum are generally not considered as being subject to bias. Other assessments directly performed by the investigators, such as transvaginal ultrasound assessments, may have been subject to personal bias. No prospective calculations of statistical power had been made, as is common practice for first in human and early phase I studies in healthy volunteers. These early development studies showed that follitropin epsilon exhibits comparable PK characteristics, as well as inducing stronger PD effects in terms of follicle growth and serum inhibin B, than the comparators. Follitropin epsilon induced a dose-dependent increase in follicular growth. The results warrant further studies with this new fully human recombinant FSH. The studies were sponsored by GLYCOTOPE GmbH, Berlin, Germany. K.A-E. is an employee of QPS-Netherlands, B.V., which received funding for the studies from Glycotope GmbH; I.D. and C.K. are employees of Dinox B.V., which received funding for the studies from Glycotope GmbH; L.S. and S.G. are employees and shareholders of Glycotope GmbH; B.D. and K.E. are employees of Glycotope GmbH. www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01354886 (single-dose); NCT01477073 (multiple-dose). The single-dose trial was registered on 11 May 2011 while the multiple-dose trial was registered on 09 November 2011. First subject was enroled in the single-dose trial in 27 April 2011 and in the multiple-dose trial in 02 October 2011. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

  7. Hypersensitivity reactions associated with L-asparaginase administration in 142 dogs and 68 cats with lymphoid malignancies: 2007-2012.

    PubMed

    Blake, Mary Kay; Carr, Brittany J; Mauldin, Glenna E

    2016-02-01

    Clinically significant hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to the chemotherapy drug L-asparaginase are reported in humans and dogs, but frequency in small animals is not well-defined. This study retrospectively evaluated the frequency of HSR to L-asparaginase given by IM injection to dogs and cats with lymphoid malignancies. The medical records of all dogs and cats treated with at least 1 dose of L-asparaginase chemotherapy over a 5-year period were reviewed. A total of 370 doses of L-asparaginase were administered to the dogs, with 88 of 142 dogs receiving multiple doses, and 6 dogs experiencing an HSR. A total of 197 doses were administered to the cats, with 33 of 68 cats receiving multiple doses, and no cats experiencing an HSR. Hypersensitivity reactions were documented in 4.2% of dogs, and in association with 1.6% of L-asparaginase doses administered. These results show that HSRs occur uncommonly among dogs and cats, even with repeated dosing.

  8. Hypersensitivity reactions associated with L-asparaginase administration in 142 dogs and 68 cats with lymphoid malignancies: 2007–2012

    PubMed Central

    Blake, Mary Kay; Carr, Brittany J.; Mauldin, Glenna E.

    2016-01-01

    Clinically significant hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to the chemotherapy drug L-asparaginase are reported in humans and dogs, but frequency in small animals is not well-defined. This study retrospectively evaluated the frequency of HSR to L-asparaginase given by IM injection to dogs and cats with lymphoid malignancies. The medical records of all dogs and cats treated with at least 1 dose of L-asparaginase chemotherapy over a 5-year period were reviewed. A total of 370 doses of L-asparaginase were administered to the dogs, with 88 of 142 dogs receiving multiple doses, and 6 dogs experiencing an HSR. A total of 197 doses were administered to the cats, with 33 of 68 cats receiving multiple doses, and no cats experiencing an HSR. Hypersensitivity reactions were documented in 4.2% of dogs, and in association with 1.6% of L-asparaginase doses administered. These results show that HSRs occur uncommonly among dogs and cats, even with repeated dosing. PMID:26834270

  9. Low-dose right unilateral electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): effectiveness of the first treatment.

    PubMed

    Lapidus, Kyle A B; Shin, Joseph S W; Pasculli, Rosa M; Briggs, Mimi C; Popeo, Dennis M; Kellner, Charles H

    2013-06-01

    Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a widely used, highly effective antidepressant treatment. Except for the most severely ill patients, right unilateral (RUL) electrode placement is the most frequent initial treatment choice. In current practice, RUL ECT is administered at several multiples of seizure threshold (ST) based on reports that lower stimulus intensity results in lower response/remission rates. Many patients, as part of an initial dose titration to determine ST, will receive a single treatment with low-dose RUL ECT and subsequent treatments with a stimulus at a multiple of ST. To assess response to the first ECT. A retrospective analysis of charts from clinical practice at Mount Sinai Medical Center was performed. A single treatment with low-dose (presumably near ST) RUL ECT had a significant and immediate antidepressant effect in our sample of patients with major depression. We determined that this response is similar to that of patients receiving a single initial treatment with high-dose RUL ECT (at a multiple of ST). These data suggest, contrary to commonly held belief, that RUL ECT may be effective at a low stimulus dose. This argues against restimulating at 6 times ST in the initial session, based on the belief that the near-threshold seizure has no antidepressant efficacy. Our findings suggest a need for further investigation of cases in which low-dose RUL ECT may be an effective antidepressant treatment. Further prospective studies, including larger numbers of patients who receive randomized treatment with low- or high-dose RUL with longer follow-up, are indicated.

  10. Phase I study on the pharmacokinetics and tolerance of ZT-1, a prodrug of huperzine A, for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

    PubMed Central

    Jia, Jing-ying; Zhao, Qian-hua; Liu, Yun; Gui, Yu-zhou; Liu, Gang-yi; Zhu, Da-yuan; Yu, Chen; Hong, Zhen

    2013-01-01

    Aim: Huperzine A isolated from the Chinese herb Huperzia serrata (Thunb) Trev is a novel reversible and selective AChE inhibitor. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and tolerance of single and multiple doses of ZT-1, a novel analogue of huperzine A, in healthy Chinese subjects. Methods: This was a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized, single- and multiple-dose study. For the single-dose study, 9 subjects were randomly divided into 3 groups receiving ZT-1 (0.5, 0.75 or 1 mg, po) according to a Three-way Latin Square Design. For the multiple-dose study, 9 subjects receiving ZT-1 (0.75 mg/d, po) for 8 consecutive days. In the tolerance study, 40 subjects were randomly divided into 5 groups receiving a single dose of ZT-1 (0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25 or 1.5 mg, po). Plasma and urine concentrations of ZT-1 and Hup A were determined using LC-MS/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters, including Cmax, AUC0–72 h and AUC0–∞ were calculated. Tolerance assessments were conducted throughout the study. Results: ZT-1 was rapidly absorbed and converted into huperzine A, thus the plasma and urine concentrations of ZT-1 were below the limit of quantification (<0.05 ng/mL). After single-dose administration of ZT-1, the mean tmax of huperzine A was 0.76–0.82 h; the AUC0–72 h and Cmax of huperzine A showed approximately dose-proportional increase over the dose range of 0.5–1 mg. After the multiple-dose administration of ZT-1, a steady-state level of huperzine A was achieved within 2 d. No serious adverse events were observed. Conclusion: ZT-1 is a pro-drug that is rapidly absorbed and converted into huperzine A, and ZT-1 is well tolerated in healthy Chinese volunteers. PMID:23624756

  11. A case control study of multiple myeloma at four nuclear facilities.

    PubMed

    Wing, S; Richardson, D; Wolf, S; Mihlan, G; Crawford-Brown, D; Wood, J

    2000-04-01

    Reported elevations of multiple myeloma among nuclear workers exposed to external penetrating ionizing radiation, based on small numbers of cases, prompted this multi-facility study of workers at US Department of Energy facilities. Ninety-eight multiple myeloma deaths and 391 age-matched controls were selected from the combined roster of 115,143 workers hired before 1979 at Hanford, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the Savannah River site. These workers were followed for vital status through 1990 (1986 for Hanford). Demographic, work history, and occupational exposure data were derived from personnel, occupational medicine, industrial hygiene, and health physics records. Exposure-disease associations were evaluated using conditional logistic regression. Cases were disproportionately African American, male, and hired prior to 1948. Lifetime cumulative whole body ionizing radiation dose was not associated with multiple myeloma, however, there was a significant effect of age at exposure, with positive associations between multiple myeloma and doses received at older ages. Dose response associations increased in magnitude with exposure age (from 40 to 50) and lag assumption (from 5 to 15 years), while a likelihood ratio goodness of fit test reached the highest value for cumulative doses received at ages above 45 with a 5-year lag (X2=5.43,1 df; relative risk = 6.9% per 10 mSv). Dose response associations persisted with adjustment for potential confounders. Multiple myeloma was associated with low level whole body penetrating ionizing radiation doses at older ages. The exposure age effect is at odds with interpretations of A-bomb survivor studies but in agreement with several studies of cancer among nuclear workers.

  12. Repaglinide pharmacokinetics in healthy young adult and elderly subjects.

    PubMed

    Hatorp, V; Huang, W C; Strange, P

    1999-04-01

    In this open-label, single-center, pharmacokinetic study of repaglinide, 12 healthy volunteers (6 men, 6 women) were enrolled in each of 2 groups (total, 24 volunteers). One group consisted of young adult subjects (18 to 40 years), and the other group consisted of elderly subjects (> or = 65 years). On day 1, after a 10-hour fast, all 24 subjects received a single 2-mg dose of repaglinide. Starting on day 2 and continuing for 7 days, subjects received a 2-mg dose of repaglinide 15 minutes before each of 3 meals. On day 9, subjects received a single 2-mg dose of repaglinide. Pharmacokinetic profiles, including area under the curve, maximum concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax, and half-life, were determined at completion of the single-dose and multiple-dose regimens (days 1 and 9, respectively). Trough repaglinide values were collected on days 2 through 7 to assess steady state. The single-dose and multiple-dose pharmacokinetic variables of serum repaglinide were not significantly different between young adult and elderly subjects. Repaglinide was well tolerated in both groups. Hypoglycemic events occurred in 5 young adult and 5 elderly subjects. This study demonstrates that the pharmacokinetics of repaglinide are similar in healthy young adult and elderly subjects.

  13. Evaluation of an every-other-day palonosetron schedule to control emesis in multiple-day high-dose chemotherapy.

    PubMed

    Mirabile, Aurora; Celio, Luigi; Magni, Michele; Bonizzoni, Erminio; Gianni, Alessandro Massimo; Di Nicola, Massimo

    2014-12-01

    Efficacy of intermittent palonosetron dosing in patients undergoing multiple-day, high-dose chemotherapy (HDC) was investigated. Fifty-eight patients received palonosetron (0.25 mg intravenous [iv.]) every other day plus daily dexamethasone (8 mg iv. twice daily) dosing. The primary end point was complete control (CC; no emesis, no rescue anti-emetics, and no more than mild nausea) in the overall acute-period (until 24 h after chemotherapy completion). Acute-period CC occurred in 81% and 50% of patients receiving palonosetron and ondansetron (historical control cohort), respectively. Palonosetron (odds ratio [OR]: 4.37; p = 0.001) and a longer duration of HDC regimen (OR: 3.47; p = 0.011) independently predicted a better anti-emetic outcome. Palonosetron every other day plus daily dexamethasone is an effective anti-emetic coverage in patients undergoing HDC.

  14. Pavor nocturnus: a complication of single daily tricyclic or neuroleptic dosage.

    PubMed

    Flemenbaum, A

    1976-05-01

    The author tested the hypothesis that a single bedtime dosage schedule of tricyclic or neuroleptic medication produces increased frequency of night terrors by administering a questionnaire to 30 medical patients who were not receiving such medications and 100 psychiatric patients on either multiple- or single-dosage schedules. Psychiatric patients on multiple-dosage schedules reported no more frightening dreams than the medical patients, whereas almost three-fourths of those receiving single bedtime doses had frightening dreams, a significant difference from the medical sample. This preliminary report is presented to call attention to the possible undesirable effects of a single dose schedule.

  15. Single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of apixaban in healthy Chinese subjects

    PubMed Central

    Cui, Yimin; Song, Yan; Wang, Jessie; Yu, Zhigang; Schuster, Alan; Barrett, Yu Chen; Frost, Charles

    2013-01-01

    Background The pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and safety of apixaban were assessed in healthy Chinese subjects in this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, single-sequence, single- and multiple-dose study. Subjects and methods Eighteen subjects 18–45 years of age were randomly assigned (2:1 ratio) to receive apixaban or matched placebo. Subjects received a single 10 mg dose of apixaban or placebo on day 1, followed by 10 mg apixaban or placebo twice daily for 6 days (days 4–9). The PK and PD of apixaban were assessed by collecting plasma samples for 72 hours following the dose on day 1 and the morning dose on day 9, and measuring apixaban concentration and anti-Xa activity. Safety was assessed via physical examinations, vital sign measurements, electrocardiograms, and clinical laboratory evaluations. Results PK analysis showed similar characteristics of apixaban after single and multiple doses, including a median time to maximum concentration of ~3 hours, mean elimination half-life of ~11 hours, and renal clearance of ~1.2 L/hour. The accumulation index was 1.7, consistent with twice-daily dosing and the observed elimination half-life. Single-dose data predict multiple-dose PK, therefore apixaban PK are time-independent. The relationship between anti-Xa activity and plasma apixaban concentrations appears to be linear. Apixaban was safe and well tolerated, with no bleeding-related adverse events reported. Conclusion Apixaban was safe and well tolerated in healthy Chinese subjects. Apixaban PK and PD were predictable and consistent with findings from previous studies in Asian and non-Asian subjects. The administration of apixaban does not require any dose modification based on race. PMID:24353445

  16. Short-term intravenous antimicrobial prophylaxis for elective rectal cancer surgery: results of a prospective randomized non-inferiority trial.

    PubMed

    Ishibashi, Keiichiro; Ishida, Hideyuki; Kuwabara, Kouki; Ohsawa, Tomonori; Okada, Norimichi; Yokoyama, Masaru; Kumamoto, Kensuke

    2014-04-01

    To investigate the non-inferiority of postoperative single-dose intravenous antimicrobial prophylaxis to multiple-dose intravenous antimicrobial prophylaxis in terms of the incidence of surgical site infections (SSIs) in patients undergoing elective rectal cancer surgery by a prospective randomized study. Patients undergoing elective surgery for rectal cancer were randomized to receive a single intravenous injection of flomoxef (group 1) or five additional doses (group 2) of flomoxef after the surgery. All the patients had received preoperative oral antibiotic prophylaxis (kanamycin and erythromycin) after mechanical cleansing within 24 h prior to surgery, and had received intravenous flomoxef during surgery. A total of 279 patients (including 139 patients in group 1 and 140 in group 2) were enrolled in the study. The incidence of SSIs was 13.7% in group 1 and 13.6% in group 2 (difference [95% confidence interval]: -0.2% [-0.9 to 0.7%]). The incidence of SSIs was not significantly different in patients undergoing elective rectal surgery who were treated using a single dose of postoperative antibiotics compared to those treated using multiple-dose antibiotics when preoperative mechanical and chemical bowel preparations were employed.

  17. Feasibility and Efficacy of Intra‐Arterial Administration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in an Animal Model of Double Toxin‐Induced Multiple System Atrophy

    PubMed Central

    Na Kim, Ha; Yeol Kim, Dong; Hee Oh, Se; Sook Kim, Hyung; Suk Kim, Kyung

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a sporadic neurodegenerative disease of the central and autonomic nervous system. Because no drug treatment consistently benefits MSA patients, neuroprotective strategy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has a lot of concern for the management of MSA. In this study, we investigated the safety and efficacy of intra‐arterial administration of MSCs via internal carotid artery (ICA) in an animal model of MSA. The study was composed of feasibility test using a ×10 and ×50 of a standard dose of MSCs (4 × 107 MSCs) and efficacy test using a ×0.2, ×2, and ×20 of the standard dose. An ultrasonic flow meter and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that no cerebral ischemic lesions with patent ICA blood flow was were observed in animals receiving a ×10 of the standard dose of MSCs. However, no MSA animals receiving a ×50 of the standard dose survived. In efficacy test, animals injected with a ×2 of the standard dose increased nigrostriatal neuronal survival relative to a ×0.2 or ×20 of the standard dose. MSA animals receiving MSCs at ×0.2 and ×2 concentrations of the standard dose exhibited a significant reduction in rotation behavior relative to ×20 of the standard dose of MSCs. Cerebral ischemic lesions on MRI were only observed in MSA animals receiving a ×20 of the standard dose. The present study revealed that if their concentration is appropriate, intra‐arterial injection of MSCs is safe and exerts a neuroprotective effect on striatal and nigral neurons with a coincidental improvement in motor behavior. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:1424–1433 PMID:28296268

  18. SU-E-T-79: Comparison of Doses Received by the Hippocampus in Patients Treated with Single Vs Multiple Isocenter Based Stereotactic Radiation Therapy to the Brain for Multiple Brain Metastases

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Algan, O; Giem, J; Young, J

    Purpose: To investigate the doses received by the hippocampus and normal brain tissue during a course of stereotactic radiotherapy utilizing a single isocenter (SI) versus multiple isocenter (MI) in patients with multiple intracranial metastases. Methods: Seven patients imaged with MRI including SPGR sequence and diagnosed with 2–3 brain metastases were included in this retrospective study. Two sets of stereotactic IMRT treatment plans, (MI vs SI), were generated. The hippocampus was contoured on SPGR sequences and doses received by the hippocampus and whole brain were calculated. The prescribed dose was 25Gy in 5 fractions. The two groups were compared using t-testmore » analysis. Results: There were 17 lesions in 7 patients. The median tumor, right hippocampus, left hippocampus and brain volumes were: 3.37cc, 2.56cc, 3.28cc, and 1417cc respectively. In comparing the two treatment plans, there was no difference in the PTV coverage except in the tail of the DVH curve. All tumors had V95 > 99.5%. The only statistically significant parameter was the V100 (72% vs 45%, p=0.002, favoring MI). All other evaluated parameters including the V95 and V98 did not reveal any statistically significant differences. None of the evaluated dosimetric parameters for the hippocampus (V100, V80, V60, V40, V20, V10, D100, D90, D70, D50, D30, D10) revealed any statistically significant differences (all p-values > 0.31) between MI and SI plans. The total brain dose was slightly higher in the SI plans, especially in the lower dose regions, although this difference was not statistically significant. Utilizing brain-sub-PTV volumes did not change these results. Conclusion: The use of SI treatment planning for patients with up to 3 brain metastases produces similar PTV coverage and similar normal tissue doses to the hippocampus and the brain compared to MI plans. SI treatment planning should be considered in patients with multiple brain metastases undergoing stereotactic treatment.« less

  19. Targeting L-Selectin to Improve Neurologic and Urologic Function After Spinal Cord Injury

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-10-01

    demonstrated locomotor recovery in mice receiving 40mg/kg DFA up to 3 hours following spinal cord injury -We demonstrated improved locomotor recovery...health, as evaluated by body weight -We identified no added locomotor recovery due to multiple, successive doses of DFA. Moreover, additional doses...bladder function Significance: We have identified robust locomotor recovery in both mild and severe spinal cord injured mice that received DFA up

  20. Efficacy of a single dose of milbemycin oxime/praziquantel combination tablets, Milpro(®), against adult Echinococcus multilocularis in dogs and both adult and immature E. multilocularis in young cats.

    PubMed

    Cvejic, Dejan; Schneider, Claudia; Fourie, Josephus; de Vos, Christa; Bonneau, Stephane; Bernachon, Natalia; Hellmann, Klaus

    2016-03-01

    Two single-site, laboratory, negatively controlled, masked, randomised dose confirmation studies were performed: one in dogs, the other in cats. After a period of acclimatisation, both the dogs and cats were orally infected with Echinococcus multilocularis protoscoleces. In the dog study, 10 dogs received a single dose of Milpro® tablets at a minimum dose of 0.5 mg/kg milbemycin oxime and 5 mg/kg praziquantel 18 days post-infection and 10 dogs received no treatment. In the cat study, 10 cats received a single dose of Milpro® tablets at a minimum dose of 2 mg/kg milbemycin oxime and 5 mg/kg praziquantel 7 days post-infection, 10 cats received a single dose of the treatment 18 days post-infection and 10 cats remained untreated. In both studies, intestinal worm counts were performed 23 days post-infection at necropsy. No worms were retrieved from any of the 30 treated animals. Nine of 10 control dogs had multiple worms (geometric mean 91, arithmetic mean 304) and all 10 control cats had multiple worms (geometric mean 216, arithmetic mean 481). The difference in worm counts between all three treated groups and their controls was highly significant (ANOVA p values of log transformed data <0.0001). Efficacy of 100 % was demonstrated for the elimination of adult E. multilocularis in dogs and cats as well as for elimination of immature E. multilocularis in cats as evidenced by the effectiveness of treatment 7 days post-infection. The treatments were well accepted and tolerated, and there were no adverse drug reactions observed.

  1. Antimalarial Activity of KAF156 in Falciparum and Vivax Malaria.

    PubMed

    White, Nicholas J; Duong, Tran T; Uthaisin, Chirapong; Nosten, François; Phyo, Aung P; Hanboonkunupakarn, Borimas; Pukrittayakamee, Sasithon; Jittamala, Podjanee; Chuthasmit, Kittiphum; Cheung, Ming S; Feng, Yiyan; Li, Ruobing; Magnusson, Baldur; Sultan, Marc; Wieser, Daniela; Xun, Xiaolei; Zhao, Rong; Diagana, Thierry T; Pertel, Peter; Leong, F Joel

    2016-09-22

    KAF156 belongs to a new class of antimalarial agents (imidazolopiperazines), with activity against asexual and sexual blood stages and the preerythrocytic liver stages of malarial parasites. We conducted a phase 2, open-label, two-part study at five centers in Thailand and Vietnam to assess the antimalarial efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetic profile of KAF156 in adults with acute Plasmodium vivax or P. falciparum malaria. Assessment of parasite clearance rates in cohorts of patients with vivax or falciparum malaria who were treated with multiple doses (400 mg once daily for 3 days) was followed by assessment of the cure rate at 28 days in a separate cohort of patients with falciparum malaria who received a single dose (800 mg). Median parasite clearance times were 45 hours (interquartile range, 42 to 48) in 10 patients with falciparum malaria and 24 hours (interquartile range, 20 to 30) in 10 patients with vivax malaria after treatment with the multiple-dose regimen and 49 hours (interquartile range, 42 to 54) in 21 patients with falciparum malaria after treatment with the single dose. Among the 21 patients who received the single dose and were followed for 28 days, 1 had reinfection and 7 had recrudescent infections (cure rate, 67%; 95% credible interval, 46 to 84). The mean (±SD) KAF156 terminal elimination half-life was 44.1±8.9 hours. There were no serious adverse events in this small study. The most common adverse events included sinus bradycardia, thrombocytopenia, hypokalemia, anemia, and hyperbilirubinemia. Vomiting of grade 2 or higher occurred in 2 patients, 1 of whom discontinued treatment because of repeated vomiting after receiving the single 800-mg dose. More adverse events were reported in the single-dose cohort, which had longer follow-up, than in the multiple-dose cohorts. KAF156 showed antimalarial activity without evident safety concerns in a small number of adults with uncomplicated P. vivax or P. falciparum malaria. (Funded by Novartis and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01753323 .).

  2. Urinary symptoms following external beam radiotherapy of the prostate: Dose-symptom correlates with multiple-event and event-count models.

    PubMed

    Yahya, Noorazrul; Ebert, Martin A; Bulsara, Max; House, Michael J; Kennedy, Angel; Joseph, David J; Denham, James W

    2015-11-01

    This study aimed to compare urinary dose-symptom correlates after external beam radiotherapy of the prostate using commonly utilised peak-symptom models to multiple-event and event-count models which account for repeated events. Urinary symptoms (dysuria, haematuria, incontinence and frequency) from 754 participants from TROG 03.04-RADAR trial were analysed. Relative (R1-R75 Gy) and absolute (A60-A75Gy) bladder dose-surface area receiving more than a threshold dose and equivalent uniform dose using exponent a (range: a ∈[1 … 100]) were derived. The dose-symptom correlates were analysed using; peak-symptom (logistic), multiple-event (generalised estimating equation) and event-count (negative binomial regression) models. Stronger dose-symptom correlates were found for incontinence and frequency using multiple-event and/or event-count models. For dysuria and haematuria, similar or better relationships were found using peak-symptom models. Dysuria, haematuria and high grade (⩾ 2) incontinence were associated to high dose (R61-R71 Gy). Frequency and low grade (⩾ 1) incontinence were associated to low and intermediate dose-surface parameters (R13-R41Gy). Frequency showed a parallel behaviour (a=1) while dysuria, haematuria and incontinence showed a more serial behaviour (a=4 to a ⩾ 100). Relative dose-surface showed stronger dose-symptom associations. For certain endpoints, the multiple-event and event-count models provide stronger correlates over peak-symptom models. Accounting for multiple events may be advantageous for a more complete understanding of urinary dose-symptom relationships. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Safety of multiple stereotactic radiosurgery treatments for multiple brain lesions.

    PubMed

    Hillard, Virany H; Shih, Lynn L; Chin, Shing; Moorthy, Chitti R; Benzil, Deborah L

    2003-07-01

    Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a widely used therapy for multiple brain lesions, and studies have clearly established the safety and efficacy of single-dose SRS. However, as patient survival has increased, the recurrence of tumors and the development of metastases to new sites within the brain have made it desirable to repeat treatments over time. The cumulative toxicity of multi-isocenter, multiple treatments has not been well defined. We have retrospectively studied 10 patients who received multiple SRS treatments for multiple brain lesions to assess the cumulative toxicity of these treatments. In a retrospective review of all patients treated with SRS using the X-knife (Radionics, Burlington, MA) at Westchester Medical Center/New York Medical College between December 1995 and December 2000, 10 patients were identified who received at least two treatments to at least 3 isocenters and had a minimum follow-up period of 6 months. Image fusion technique was used to determine cumulative doses to targeted lesions, whole brain and critical brain structures. Toxicities and complications were identified by chart and radiological review. The average of the maximum doses (cGy) to a point within the whole brain was 2402 (range 1617-3953); to the brainstem, 1059 (range 48-4126); to the right optic nerve, 223 (range 14-1012); to the left optic nerve, 159 (range 17-475); and to the optic chiasm, 219 (range 15-909). There were no focal neurological toxicities, including visual disturbances, cranial nerve palsies, or ataxia in any of the 10 patients. There were also no global toxicities, including cognitive decline or secondary tumors. Only one patient developed seizures that were difficult to control in association with radiation necrosis. Multiple SRS treatments at the cumulative doses used in our study are a safe therapy for patients with multiple brain lesions.

  4. Long-lasting behavioral effects in neonatal mice with multiple exposures to ketamine-xylazine anesthesia

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Lianyan; Hayes, Scott; Yang, Guang

    2016-01-01

    Anesthetic agents are often administered in the neonatal period, a time of rapid brain development and synaptogenesis. Mounting evidence suggests that anesthetics can disrupt neurocognitive development, particularly in cases of multiple or prolonged anesthetic exposure. Previous studies have shown that administering multiple doses of ketamine-xylazine (KX) anesthesia to neonatal mice can induce long-term changes to synaptic plasticity in the cortex, but the effect on neurocognitive function remains unclear. In this study, we exposed neonatal mice to single dose and multiple doses of KX anesthesia in the neonatal period (postnatal days 7, 9, 11), and conducted a series of behavioral tests in young adulthood (1 month of age). Mice receiving multiple doses of KX anesthesia showed deficits in novel object recognition, sociability, preference for social novelty and contextual fear response, but no effect on auditory-cued fear response. Single dose of KX anesthesia had no effect on these behaviors except for contextual fear response. We also observed that multiple exposures to KX anesthesia were associated with decreased CaMKII phosphorylation, which is known to play a role in synapse development and long-term potentiation, likely contributing to learning impairment. PMID:27622724

  5. Comparison of doses received by the hippocampus in patients treated with single isocenter– vs multiple isocenter–based stereotactic radiation therapy to the brain for multiple brain metastases

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Algan, Ozer, E-mail: oalgan@ouhsc.edu; Giem, Jared; Young, Julie

    To investigate the doses received by the hippocampus and normal brain tissue during a course of stereotactic radiation therapy using a single isocenter (SI)–based or multiple isocenter (MI)–based treatment planning in patients with less than 4 brain metastases. In total, 10 patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrating 2-3 brain metastases were included in this retrospective study, and 2 sets of stereotactic intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment plans (SI vs MI) were generated. The hippocampus was contoured on SPGR sequences, and doses received by the hippocampus and the brain were calculated and compared between the 2 treatment techniques. A totalmore » of 23 lesions in 10 patients were evaluated. The median tumor volume, the right hippocampus volume, and the left hippocampus volume were 3.15, 3.24, and 2.63 mL, respectively. In comparing the 2 treatment plans, there was no difference in the planning target volume (PTV) coverage except in the tail for the dose-volume histogram (DVH) curve. The only statistically significant dosimetric parameter was the V{sub 100}. All of the other measured dosimetric parameters including the V{sub 95}, V{sub 99}, and D{sub 100} were not significantly different between the 2 treatment planning techniques. None of the dosimetric parameters evaluated for the hippocampus revealed any statistically significant difference between the MI and SI plans. The total brain doses were slightly higher in the SI plans, especially in the lower dose region, although this difference was not statistically different. The use of SI-based treatment plan resulted in a 35% reduction in beam-on time. The use of SI treatments for patients with up to 3 brain metastases produces similar PTV coverage and similar normal tissue doses to the hippocampus and the brain when compared with MI plans. SI treatment planning should be considered in patients with multiple brain metastases undergoing stereotactic treatment.« less

  6. Comparison of doses received by the hippocampus in patients treated with single isocenter- vs multiple isocenter-based stereotactic radiation therapy to the brain for multiple brain metastases.

    PubMed

    Algan, Ozer; Giem, Jared; Young, Julie; Ali, Imad; Ahmad, Salahuddin; Hossain, Sabbir

    2015-01-01

    To investigate the doses received by the hippocampus and normal brain tissue during a course of stereotactic radiation therapy using a single isocenter (SI)-based or multiple isocenter (MI)-based treatment planning in patients with less than 4 brain metastases. In total, 10 patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrating 2-3 brain metastases were included in this retrospective study, and 2 sets of stereotactic intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment plans (SI vs MI) were generated. The hippocampus was contoured on SPGR sequences, and doses received by the hippocampus and the brain were calculated and compared between the 2 treatment techniques. A total of 23 lesions in 10 patients were evaluated. The median tumor volume, the right hippocampus volume, and the left hippocampus volume were 3.15, 3.24, and 2.63mL, respectively. In comparing the 2 treatment plans, there was no difference in the planning target volume (PTV) coverage except in the tail for the dose-volume histogram (DVH) curve. The only statistically significant dosimetric parameter was the V100. All of the other measured dosimetric parameters including the V95, V99, and D100 were not significantly different between the 2 treatment planning techniques. None of the dosimetric parameters evaluated for the hippocampus revealed any statistically significant difference between the MI and SI plans. The total brain doses were slightly higher in the SI plans, especially in the lower dose region, although this difference was not statistically different. The use of SI-based treatment plan resulted in a 35% reduction in beam-on time. The use of SI treatments for patients with up to 3 brain metastases produces similar PTV coverage and similar normal tissue doses to the hippocampus and the brain when compared with MI plans. SI treatment planning should be considered in patients with multiple brain metastases undergoing stereotactic treatment. Copyright © 2015 American Association of Medical Dosimetrists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Cumulative effective dose associated with radiography and CT of adolescents with spinal injuries.

    PubMed

    Lemburg, Stefan P; Peters, Soeren A; Roggenland, Daniela; Nicolas, Volkmar; Heyer, Christoph M

    2010-12-01

    The purpose of this study was to analyze the quantity and distribution of cumulative effective doses in diagnostic imaging of adolescents with spinal injuries. At a level 1 trauma center from July 2003 through June 2009, imaging procedures during initial evaluation and hospitalization and after discharge of all patients 10-20 years old with spinal fractures were retrospectively analyzed. The cumulative effective doses for all imaging studies were calculated, and the doses to patients with spinal injuries who had multiple traumatic injuries were compared with the doses to patients with spinal injuries but without multiple injuries. The significance level was set at 5%. Imaging studies of 72 patients (32 with multiple injuries; average age, 17.5 years) entailed a median cumulative effective dose of 18.89 mSv. Patients with multiple injuries had a significantly higher total cumulative effective dose (29.70 versus 10.86 mSv, p < 0.001) mainly owing to the significantly higher CT-related cumulative effective dose to multiple injury patients during the initial evaluation (18.39 versus 2.83 mSv, p < 0.001). Overall, CT accounted for 86% of the total cumulative effective dose. Adolescents with spinal injuries receive a cumulative effective dose equal to that of adult trauma patients and nearly three times that of pediatric trauma patients. Areas of focus in lowering cumulative effective dose should be appropriate initial estimation of trauma severity and careful selection of CT scan parameters.

  8. Salicylate-induced enzymuria: comparison with other anti-inflammatory agents.

    PubMed

    Proctor, R A; Kunin, C M

    1978-12-01

    N-acetyl-beta glucosaminidase (NAG) enzymuria was used as a marker of renal injury in patients with rheumatic disease. An elevated NAG level was particularly common in patients receiving gold or aspirin therapy. The multiplicity of drugs received and the unknown role of underlying disease in these patients led to a study in healthy volunteers. Customary therapeutic doses of aspirin, choline salicylate, ibuprofen, indomethacin and acetaminophen did not produce enzymuria. Large single doses of salicylates equivalent to 6 tablets of aspirin consistently did produce enzymuria. The size of the individual dose in relation to body weight was more important than the total daily dose. NAG enzymuria appears to be a sensitive tool for identifying potentially nephrotoxic drugs.

  9. Pharmacodynamic Effects of Single and Multiple Doses of Empagliflozin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes.

    PubMed

    Heise, Tim; Jordan, Jens; Wanner, Christoph; Heer, Martina; Macha, Sreeraj; Mattheus, Michaela; Lund, Søren S; Woerle, Hans J; Broedl, Uli C

    2016-10-01

    Our aim was to investigate the effects of the sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor empagliflozin on urinary and serum glucose and electrolytes, urinary volume, osmolality, and the renin-angiotensin system in patients with type 2 diabetes. In an open-label study, 22 patients receiving metformin (median age 56 years; range 40-65 years) received empagliflozin 25 mg once daily for 5 days. Food, fluid, and sodium intake were standardized for 3 days before and during treatment. Twenty patients completed treatment. After single and multiple doses of empagliflozin, mean (SE) changes from baseline in 24-hour urinary glucose excretion were 463.3 (57.3) mmol/d and 599.5 (60.0) mmol/d, respectively (83.5 [10.3] g/d and 108.0 [10.8] g/d, respectively) (both P < 0.001), and in fasting serum glucose concentration were -1.8 (0.4) mmol/L and -1.1 (0.3) mmol/L, respectively (both P < 0.001). After a single dose, mean (SE) change from baseline in urine sodium excretion was 45.3 (9.6) mmol/d (P < 0.001), and in urine volume was 341.0 (140.5) g/d (P = 0.025), but there were no changes compared with baseline in either parameter after multiple doses. There were no changes in plasma renin or serum aldosterone with single or multiple doses of empagliflozin. There was a nonsignificant reduction in weight after a single dose of empagliflozin and a mean (SE) change of -1.4 (0.5) kg after multiple doses (P = 0.020). Empagliflozin 25 mg increased urinary glucose excretion and decreased serum glucose and weight with transient natriuresis and increases in urine volume, without significant changes in the renin-angiotensin system. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01276288. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Paraquat detoxication with multiple emulsions.

    PubMed

    Frasca, S; Couvreur, P; Seiller, M; Pareau, D; Lacour, B; Stambouli, M; Grossiord, J L

    2009-10-01

    In this study, we show that detoxifying W/O/W multiple emulsions, prepared with an appropriate extractant/trapping couple, represent a promising technology for quick and safe poisoning treatments, with application to the highly toxic herbicide Paraquat, responsible of poisonings from low-dose exposure leading to several deaths every year. In vitro tests led to the choice of an appropriate extractant/trapping couple system with significant detoxication performance. In vivo tests showed (i) that rats receiving high doses of Paraquat, then a detoxifying emulsion, presented an increase from 50% to 100% of the MST (median survival time) and (ii) that no mortality was observed during 30 days with rats dosed with emulsions initially loaded with Paraquat at a concentration much higher than the lethal dose, proving the stability and the inocuity of the detoxifying multiple emulsion in the gastrointestinal tract.

  11. Adverse event management in patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma taking pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone: A pooled analysis.

    PubMed

    Moreau, Philippe; Dimopoulos, Meletios A; Richardson, Paul G; Siegel, David S; Cavo, Michele; Corradini, Paolo; Weisel, Katja; Delforge, Michel; O'Gorman, Peter; Song, Kevin; Chen, Christine; Bahlis, Nizar; Oriol, Albert; Hansson, Markus; Kaiser, Martin; Anttila, Pekka; Raymakers, Reinier; Joao, Cristina; Cook, Gordon; Sternas, Lars; Biyukov, Tsvetan; Slaughter, Ana; Hong, Kevin; Herring, Jennifer; Yu, Xin; Zaki, Mohamed; San-Miguel, Jesus

    2017-09-01

    Heavily pretreated patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma are susceptible to treatment-related adverse events (AEs). Managing AEs are important to ensure patients continue therapy long enough to receive the best clinical benefit. Data from the MM-002, MM-003, and MM-010 trials were pooled to further characterize the safety profile of pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone and AE management. This analysis included 1088 patients who received ≥ 2 prior therapies, including lenalidomide and bortezomib, and progressed ≤ 60 days of last therapy. Patients received 28-day cycles of pomalidomide 4 mg/day on days 1-21 and low-dose dexamethasone 40 mg (20 mg if aged > 75 years) weekly until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Thromboprophylaxis was required. The most common grade 3/4 AEs were neutropenia (56.2%), anemia (32.3%), and thrombocytopenia (25.8%), which occurred within the first few cycles of treatment. Grade 3/4 infections occurred in 33.7% patients, of whom 13.9% had pneumonia, and 40.3% had neutropenia. Pomalidomide dose reductions or interruptions were reported in 24.2% and 66.0% of patients, respectively. AEs were managed by dose modifications and/or supportive care. Pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone showed an acceptable safety profile, and AEs were well managed according to study protocols and established guidelines. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. Multiple Testing, Cumulative Radiation Dose, and Clinical Indications in Patients Undergoing Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

    PubMed Central

    Einstein, Andrew J.; Weiner, Shepard D.; Bernheim, Adam; Kulon, Michal; Bokhari, Sabahat; Johnson, Lynne L.; Moses, Jeffrey W.; Balter, Stephen

    2013-01-01

    Context Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is the single medical test with the highest radiation burden to the US population. While many patients undergoing MPI receive repeat MPI testing, or additional procedures involving ionizing radiation, no data are available characterizing their total longitudinal radiation burden and relating radiation burden with reasons for testing. Objective To characterize procedure counts, cumulative estimated effective doses of radiation, and clinical indications, for patients undergoing MPI. Design, Setting, Patients Retrospective cohort study evaluating, for 1097 consecutive patients undergoing index MPI during the first 100 days of 2006 at Columbia University Medical Center, all preceding medical imaging procedures involving ionizing radiation undergone beginning October 1988, and all subsequent procedures through June 2008, at that center. Main Outcome Measures Cumulative estimated effective dose of radiation, number of procedures involving radiation, and indications for testing. Results Patients underwent a median (interquartile range, mean) of 15 (6–32, 23.9) procedures involving radiation exposure; 4 (2–8, 6.5) were high-dose (≥3 mSv, i.e. one year's background radiation), including 1 (1–2, 1.8) MPI studies per patient. 31% of patients received cumulative estimated effective dose from all medical sources >100mSv. Multiple MPIs were performed in 39% of patients, for whom cumulative estimated effective dose was 121 (81–189, 149) mSv. Men and whites had higher cumulative estimated effective doses, and there was a trend towards men being more likely to undergo multiple MPIs than women (40.8% vs. 36.6%, Odds ratio 1.29, 95% confidence interval 0.98–1.69). Over 80% of initial and 90% of repeat MPI exams were performed in patients with known cardiac disease or symptoms consistent with it. Conclusion In this institution, multiple testing with MPI was very common, and in many patients associated with very high cumulative estimated doses of radiation. PMID:21078807

  13. Radiation Dose-rate Reduction Pattern in Well-differentiated Thyroid Cancer Treated with I-131.

    PubMed

    Khan, Shahbaz Ahmad; Khan, Muhammad Saqib; Arif, Muhammad; Durr-e-Sabih; Rahim, Muhammad Kashif; Ahmad, Israr

    2015-07-01

    To determine the patterns of dose rate reduction in single and multiple radioiodine (I-131) therapies in cases of well differentiated thyroid cancer patients. Analytical series. Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiation Physics, Multan Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Radiotherapy (MINAR), Multan, Pakistan, from December 2006 to December 2013. Ninety three patients (167 therapies) with well differentiated thyroid cancer treated with different doses of I-131 as an in-patient were inducted. Fifty four patients were given only single I-131 therapy dose ranging from 70 mCi (2590 MBq) to 150 mCi (5550 MBq). Thirty nine patients were treated with multiple I-131 radioisotope therapy doses ranging from 80 mCi (2960 MBq) to 250 mCi (9250 MBq). T-test was applied on the sample data showed statistically significant difference between the two groups with p-value (p < 0.01) less than 0.05 taken as significant. There were 68 females and 25 males with an age range of 15 to 80 years. Mean age of the patients were 36 years. Among the 93 cases of first time Radio Active Iodine (RAI) therapy, 59 cases (63%) were discharged after 48 hours. Among 39 patients who received RAI therapy second time or more, most were discharged earlier after achieving acceptable discharge dose rate i.e 25 µSv/hour; 2 out of 39 (5%) were discharged after 48 hours. In 58% patients, given single I-131 therapy dose, majority of these were discharged after 48 hours without any major complications. For well differentiated thyroid cancer patients, rapid dose rate reduction is seen in patients receiving second or subsequent radioiodine (RAI) therapy, as compared to first time receiving RAI therapy.

  14. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of single and multiple doses of the glucagon receptor antagonist LGD-6972 in healthy subjects and subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

    PubMed

    Vajda, Eric G; Logan, Douglas; Lasseter, Kenneth; Armas, Danielle; Plotkin, Diane J; Pipkin, J D; Li, Yong-Xi; Zhou, Rong; Klein, David; Wei, Xiaoxiong; Dilzer, Stacy; Zhi, Lin; Marschke, Keith B

    2017-01-01

    To evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of single and multiple doses of a novel, oral glucagon receptor antagonist, LGD-6972, in healthy subjects and subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). In the single ascending dose study, LGD-6972 (2-480 mg) was administered to healthy subjects (n = 48) and T2DM subjects (n = 8). In the multiple ascending dose study, healthy subjects (n = 12) received a dose of 15 mg LGD-6972 and T2DM subjects (n = 36) received doses of 5, 10 or 15 mg of LGD-6972 daily for 14 days. LGD-6972 had linear plasma pharmacokinetics consistent with once-daily dosing that was comparable in healthy and T2DM subjects. Dose-dependent decreases in fasting plasma glucose were observed in all groups with a maximum of 3.15 mmol/L (56.8 mg/dL) on day 14 in T2DM subjects. LGD-6972 also reduced plasma glucose in the postprandial state. Dose-dependent increases in fasting plasma glucagon were observed, but glucagon levels decreased and insulin levels increased after an oral glucose load in T2DM subjects. LGD-6972 was well tolerated at the doses tested without dose-related or clinically meaningful changes in clinical laboratory parameters. No subject experienced hypoglycaemia. Inhibition of glucagon action by LGD-6972 was associated with decreases in glucose in both healthy and T2DM subjects, the magnitude of which was sufficient to predict improvement in glycaemic control with longer treatment duration in T2DM patients. The safety and pharmacological profile of LGD-6972 after 14 days of dosing supports continued clinical development. © 2016 The Authors. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  15. Single and Multiple Ascending-dose Studies of Oral Delafloxacin: Effects of Food, Sex, and Age.

    PubMed

    Hoover, Randall; Hunt, Thomas; Benedict, Michael; Paulson, Susan K; Lawrence, Laura; Cammarata, Sue; Sun, Eugene

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this report is describe the results of 2 studies that examined the pharmacokinetic parameters, safety profile, and tolerability of single and multiple ascending doses of oral delafloxacin and the effects of food, sex, and age on oral delafloxacin pharmacokinetic parameters, safety profile, and tolerability. The first study contained 3 parts and used unformulated delafloxacin in a capsule. Part 1 was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single (50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1200, and 1600 mg) ascending-dose study of oral delafloxacin in healthy men. Part 2 was a single-dose crossover study in which 20 men received 250 mg delafloxacin with or without food. Part 2 also included a parallel group, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 16 women and 16 elderly men and women who were randomized (3:1) to receive 250 mg delafloxacin or placebo. Part 3 was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple (100, 200, 400, 800, 1200 mg once daily for 5 days) ascending-dose study of oral delafloxacin in healthy men. The second study was a single-dose, randomized, 3-period crossover study in which participants received 900 mg delafloxacin (2 × 450-mg tablets) under fasted conditions, with a high-fat meal, or fasted with a high-fat meal 2 hours after dosing. Serial blood samples were collected, and plasma pharmacokinetic parameters of delafloxacin were determined. Delafloxacin Cmax and AUC0-∞ increased with increasing oral dose over the dose range of 50 to 1600 mg. The increases in delafloxacin AUC0-∞ were dose proportional at doses of ≥200 mg. Steady state was reached by day 3 of dosing with minimal accumulation of delafloxacin. The Cmax of delafloxacin was decreased slightly in the presence of food. No sex difference in delafloxacin pharmacokinetic parameters was observed. In the elderly men and women, mean delafloxacin Cmax and AUC0-∞ were 35% higher than observed for young adults, which could be partially explained by a decrease in the creatinine clearance in the elderly men and women. Delafloxacin was well tolerated at the tested doses, with gastrointestinal adverse effects observed more commonly at doses ≥1200 mg. Delafloxacin exhibits linear pharmacokinetic parameters that reached steady state after 3 days of daily oral dosing with minimal accumulation. Delafloxacin was well tolerated throughout both studies, with gastrointestinal effects observed at the higher doses (≥1200 mg). Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Comparison of two melphalan protocols and evaluation of outcome and prognostic factors in multiple myeloma in dogs

    PubMed Central

    Fernández, Ricardo

    2018-01-01

    Background Multiple myeloma (MM) in dogs typically is treated with melphalan. A daily melphalan dosing schedule reportedly is well tolerated and associated with favorable outcome. Although anecdotally a pulse dose regimen has resulted in successful responses, little long‐term outcome and safety data is available regarding this dosing regimen for dogs with MM. Hypothesis/objectives (1) To compare outcome and adverse event profiles between pulse dose and daily dose melphalan schedules and (2) to report prognostic factors in dogs with MM treated with melphalan. We hypothesized that both protocols would have similar outcomes and tolerability. Animals Thirty‐eight client‐owned dogs diagnosed with MM receiving pulse dose (n = 17) or daily dose (n = 21) melphalan. Methods Retrospective cohort study assessing outcome and adverse events in dogs receiving either protocol. Risk factors were evaluated for their prognostic relevance. Results Both regimens were well tolerated and similarly effective, with an overall median survival time of 930 days. Renal disease and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were negative prognostic factors, whereas hypercalcemia and osteolytic lesions were not prognostic factors in this study population. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Positive results support the use of either dosing regimen for the treatment of dogs with MM, and renal disease and NLR were negative prognostic factors. Prospective, controlled, and randomized studies are warranted to confirm these findings. PMID:29566439

  17. In vivo tumor targeting of gold nanoparticles: effect of particle type and dosing strategy.

    PubMed

    Puvanakrishnan, Priyaveena; Park, Jaesook; Chatterjee, Deyali; Krishnan, Sunil; Tunnell, James W

    2012-01-01

    Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have gained significant interest as nanovectors for combined imaging and photothermal therapy of tumors. Delivered systemically, GNPs preferentially accumulate at the tumor site via the enhanced permeability and retention effect, and when irradiated with near infrared light, produce sufficient heat to treat tumor tissue. The efficacy of this process strongly depends on the targeting ability of the GNPs, which is a function of the particle's geometric properties (eg, size) and dosing strategy (eg, number and amount of injections). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of GNP type and dosing strategy on in vivo tumor targeting. Specifically, we investigated the in vivo tumor-targeting efficiency of pegylated gold nanoshells (GNSs) and gold nanorods (GNRs) for single and multiple dosing. We used Swiss nu/nu mice with a subcutaneous tumor xenograft model that received intravenous administration for a single and multiple doses of GNS and GNR. We performed neutron activation analysis to quantify the gold present in the tumor and liver. We performed histology to determine if there was acute toxicity as a result of multiple dosing. Neutron activation analysis results showed that the smaller GNRs accumulated in higher concentrations in the tumor compared to the larger GNSs. We observed a significant increase in GNS and GNR accumulation in the liver for higher doses. However, multiple doses increased targeting efficiency with minimal effect beyond three doses of GNPs. These results suggest a significant effect of particle type and multiple doses on increasing particle accumulation and on tumor targeting ability.

  18. The role of single-shot metronidazole in the prevention of Clostridium difficile infection following ileostomy reversal surgery.

    PubMed

    Fernandes, Roland; Robinson, Paul; Rangarajan, Karan; Scott, Sophie; Angco, Laura

    2017-05-01

    Symptomatic infection with Clostridium difficile is strongly linked to antibiotic use and rates are higher for colorectal surgery. In February 2015, trust policy for antibiotic prophylaxis of ileostomy reversal surgery was changed from three doses of metronidazole plus cefuroxime to single-dose metronidazole, in a bid to reduce rates of Clostridium difficile infection. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single, large hospital trust between February 2014 and February 2016, before and after change in antimicrobial policy. Theatre data, clinical notes and pathology results were all reviewed. Outcome data, patient age, gender, length of operation and hospital stay were extracted. One hundred three patients underwent ileostomy reversal surgery between February 2014 and February 2015. All received cefuroxime together with metronidazole at induction of anaesthesia followed by two further post-operative doses as operative prophylaxis. Ninety-six patients underwent ileostomy reversal surgery between February 2015 and February 2016. All received single-dose metronidazole at induction as prophylaxis. Post-operative diarrhoea was significantly reduced in patients given single-dose metronidazole compared with patients managed with multiple dose, dual antibiotic therapy (32 vs 12.5%, P 0.001). Rates of CDI were also significantly reduced in patients given single-dose metronidazole (6.8 vs 1%, P 0.038). Single-dose, pre-operative metronidazole is effective at reducing post-operative diarrhoea and CDI in ileostomy reversal surgery compared with multiple-dose cefuroxime plus metronidazole. Metronidazole may be effective as a prophylactic antibiotic against CDI in colonic surgery.

  19. A phase I study to assess the single and multiple dose pharmacokinetics of THC/CBD oromucosal spray.

    PubMed

    Stott, C G; White, L; Wright, S; Wilbraham, D; Guy, G W

    2013-05-01

    A Phase I study to assess the single and multipledose pharmacokinetics (PKs) and safety and tolerability of oromucosally administered Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/cannabidiol (CBD) spray, an endocannabinoid system modulator, in healthy male subjects. Subjects received either single doses of THC/CBD spray as multiple sprays [2 (5.4 mg THC and 5.0 mg CBD), 4 (10.8 mg THC and 10.0 mg CBD) or 8 (21.6 mg THC and 20.0 mg CBD) daily sprays] or multiple doses of THC/CBD spray (2, 4 or 8 sprays once daily) for nine consecutive days, following fasting for a minimum of 10 h overnight prior to each dosing. Plasma samples were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for CBD, THC, and its primary metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC, and various PK parameters were investigated. Δ(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol and CBD were rapidly absorbed following single-dose administration. With increasing single and multiple doses of THC/CBD spray, the mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) increased for all analytes. There was evidence of dose-proportionality in the single but not the multiple dosing data sets. The bioavailability of THC was greater than CBD at single and multiple doses, and there was no evidence of accumulation for any analyte with multiple dosing. Inter-subject variability ranged from moderate to high for all PK parameters in this study. The time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax) was longest for all analytes in the eight spray group, but was similar in the two and four spray groups. THC/CBD spray was well-tolerated in this study and no serious adverse events were reported. The mean Cmax values (<12 ng/mL) recorded in this study were well below those reported in patients who smoked/inhaled cannabis, which is reassuring since elevated Cmax values are linked to significant psychoactivity. There was also no evidence of accumulation on repeated dosing.

  20. Inhibition of Interferon-beta Responses in Multiple Sclerosis Immune Cells Associated With High-Dose Statins

    PubMed Central

    Feng, Xuan; Han, Diana; Kilaru, Bharat K.; Franek, Beverly S.; Niewold, Timothy B.; Reder, Anthony T.

    2014-01-01

    Objective To determine whether statins affect type 1 interferon responses in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Design Study effects of atorvastatin on type 1 interferon responses in Jurkat cells, mononuclear cells (MNCs) from therapy-naive patients with RRMS in vitro, and MNCs from interferon-treated RRMS patients in vivo in 4 conditions: no drug, statin only, interferon-beta only, and statin added on to interferon-beta therapy. Patients The study examined clinically stable patients with RRMS: 21 therapy-naive patients and 14 patients receiving interferon-beta with a statin. Interventions Statin effects on in vitro and in vivo interferon-beta–induced STAT1 transcription factor activation, expression of interferon-stimulated proteins in MNCs, and serum type 1 interferon activity. Results In vitro, atorvastatin dose dependently inhibited expression of interferon-stimulated P-Y-STAT1 by 44% (P< .001), interferon regulatory factor 1 protein by 30% (P= .006), and myxovirus resistance 1 protein by 32% (P=.004) compared with no-statin control in MNCs from therapy-naive RRMS patients. In vivo, 9 of 10 patients who received high-dose statins (80 mg) had a significant reduction in interferon-beta therapy–induced serum interferon-α/β activity, whereas only 2 of 4 patients who received medium-dose statins (40 mg) had reductions. High-dose add-on statin therapy significantly blocked interferon-beta function, with less P-Y-STAT1 transcription factor activation, and reduced myxovirus resistance 1 protein and viperin protein production. Medium doses of statins did not change STAT1 activation. Conclusions High-dose add-on statin therapy significantly reduces interferon-beta function and type 1 interferon responses in RRMS patients. These data provide a putative mechanism for how statins could counteract the beneficial effects of interferon-beta and worsen disease. PMID:22801747

  1. Radiotherapy in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Bosch, A; Frias, Z

    1988-12-01

    Fifty-nine patients with multiple myeloma referred for treatment of painful bony lesions received irradiation to 95 local areas, and 16 of the 59 were irradiated using hemibody techniques. Pain relief was obtained in practically all of the irradiated regions. Most local areas were treated to doses of 3000 cGy in 10 to 15 fractions. Patients with generalized pain due to multiple site involvement were treated with single dose hemibody irradiation, to doses of 600 cGy to the upper hemibody, and of 800 cGy to the lower hemibody. This treatment was well tolerated and side effects minimal. Median survival from diagnosis was 30 months and the survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 80%, 42%, and 12% respectively. Key articles on radiation therapy of multiple myeloma are reviewed and discussed. Since all patients eventually relapse after chemotherapy, the role of radiotherapy using present techniques should be fully evaluated and considered as an alternative in the primary treatment of multiple myeloma.

  2. SU-E-T-395: Evaluation of Multiple Brain Metastases Stereotactic Treatment Planning in Cyberknife Versus Linac

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Vikraman, S; Rajesh, Thiyagarajan; Karrthick, Kp

    2015-06-15

    Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate multiple brain metastases stereotactic treatment planning of Cyberknife versus linac using dose volume based indices. Methods: Fifteen multiple brain metastases patients were taken for this study from Cyberknife Multiplan TPSv4.6.0. All these patients underwent stereotactic treatment in Cyberknife. For each patient VMAT stereotactic treatment plan was generated in MONACO TPSv5.0 using Elekta beam modulator MLC and matched the delivered plan. A median dose of 8.5Gy(range 7–12Gy) per fraction was prescribed. Tumor volume was in the range of 0.06–4.33cc. Treatment plan quality was critically evaluated by comparing DVH indices such as D98,more » D95, CI, and HI for target volumes. Maximum point doses and volume doses were evaluated for critical organs. Results: For each case, target coverage of D98 was achieved with 100% prescription dose with SD of 0.29% and 0.41% in Linac and Cyberknife respectively. The average conformity index(CI) of 1.26±0.0796 SD for Cyberknife and 1.92±0.60SD for linac were observed. Better homogeneity Index (HI) of 1.17±0.09SD was observed in linac as compared to Cyberknife HI of 1.24±0.05SD.All the critical organ doses were well within tolerance limit in both linac and Cyberknife plans. There is no significant difference of maximum point doses for brainstem and optic chiasm. Treatment time and number of monitor units are more in Cyberknife compared to linac. The average volume receiving 12Gy in whole brain was 6% and 12% for Cyberknife and linac respectively. 1000cc of whole brain received 60% lesser dose in Linac compared to Cyberknife in all cases. Conclusion: The study shows that dosimetrically comparable plans are achievable Cyberknife and Linac. However, a better conformity, target coverage, lesser OAR dose is achieved with Cyberknife due to greater degrees of freedom with robotic gantry and smaller collimator for multiple targets.« less

  3. [Attenuated rabies virus, ERA strain, in cattle and dogs vaccinated with multiple doses].

    PubMed

    Titoli, F; Pestalozza, S; Irsara, A; Palliola, E; Frescura, T; Civardi, A

    1982-01-01

    Investigation on the vaccination of 18 cattle and 5 dogs against rabies is reported. Each animal received multiple doses of ERA strain vaccine intramuscularly in the gluteal or masseter region. The saliva, the brain and salivary glands of the vaccinated animals were examined to detect the presence of ERA virus using immunofluorescent test and mouse inoculation. The virus was never found in the saliva and organs of treated animals. Circulating antibodies against ERA rabies virus were detected in all vaccinated cattle and dogs.

  4. Platelet Aggregation Inhibitory Effects and Pharmacokinetics of Prasugrel Used in Combination With Aspirin in Healthy Japanese Subjects.

    PubMed

    Umemura, Kazuo; Ikeda, Yasuhiko; Matsushima, Nobuko; Kondo, Kazunao

    2017-07-01

    We evaluated the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of prasugrel used in combination with aspirin in healthy Japanese subjects. All subjects received aspirin 100 mg/day. Subsequently, in the single-administration study, 23 subjects also received prasugrel 20 or 30 mg, and in the multiple-administration study, 20 subjects received a loading dose of prasugrel 20 or 30 mg on day 1, followed by a maintenance dose of prasugrel 5 or 7.5 mg/day, respectively, on days 2-5. In both studies, the plasma concentration of the active metabolite of prasugrel, R-138727, reached a maximum 0.5 hours after administration and rapidly decreased within 4 hours. In the single-administration study, the inhibitory effect on adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation was significantly higher in the prasugrel 20- and 30-mg groups than in the placebo group at all times (1-144 hours) after administration. In the multiple-administration study, a similar antiplatelet effect was found after both the loading dose and the maintenance dose and was maintained for 3-6 days after the last administration. There were study drug-related adverse events; however, all were mild, and none was clinically significant. © 2016 The Authors. Clinical Pharmacology in Drug Development Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

  5. Choleretic activity of Gentiana lutea ssp. symphyandra in rats.

    PubMed

    Oztürk, N; Herekman-Demir, T; Oztürk, Y; Bozan, B; Başer, K H

    1998-08-01

    Effects of an ethanolic extract prepared from G. lutea ssp. symphyandra roots on the bile production and liver in rats were investigated. Bile flows of rats which were treated by a single i.p. dose of CCl(4) 24 h prior to experiments were measured after the cannulation of bile duct under urethane anaesthesia. After an equilibration period of 1 h, the lyophilized extract were administered intraduodenally (500 mg/kg i.p.), while control animals received physiological saline only. To monitor the effect of multiple dose therapy, rats received the same dose of G. lutea ssp. symphyandra extract for 3 days (2 days prior to CCl(4) administration) and their bile flows were measured after the cannulation. In all groups, bile samples were collected for 3 h with 15 min intervals. After the completion of bile flow experiment, rat livers were removed and put in neutral formaldehyde solution (10%) for the histological examination. According to results obtained, multiple dose treatment of rats with the plant extract normalized the decreased bile flow due CCl(4), whereas single dose therapy was ineffective on the impaired bile flow. These data indicate that the extract prepared from Gentiana lutea ssp. symphyandra roots has a hepatoprotective activity. Copyright © 1998 Gustav Fischer Verlag. Published by Elsevier GmbH.. All rights reserved.

  6. Radiotherapy in the treatment of solitary plasmacytoma.

    PubMed

    Jyothirmayi, R; Gangadharan, V P; Nair, M K; Rajan, B

    1997-05-01

    Solitary plasmacytoma of bone (SPB) and extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) are rare. High local control rates are reported with radiotherapy, although the optimal dose and extent of radiotherapy portals remains controversial. Between 1983 and 1993, 30 patients with solitary plasmacytoma were seen at the Regional Cancer Centre, Trivandrum, India. 23 patients had SPB and seven EMP. The mean age was 52 years and the male to female ratio 3.2:1. Diagnosis of SPB was confirmed by biopsy in 16 patients and tumour excision in seven. 20 patients received megavoltage radiotherapy to the bone lesion with limited margins, and one received chemotherapy. Two patients who underwent complete tumour excision received no further treatment. All seven patients with EMP received megavoltage radiotherapy, four following biopsy and three after tumour excision. Local control was achieved in all patients with SPB. Nine progressed to multiple myeloma and one developed a solitary plasmacytoma in another bone. Six patients with EMP achieved local control. Three later progressed to multiple myeloma and one had local relapse. Median time to relapse was 28 months in SPB and 30 months in EMP. 5-year overall survival rates were 82% and 57% for patients with SPB and EMP, respectively. The corresponding progression free survival rates were 55% and 50%, respectively. Age, sex, site of tumour, serum M protein and haemoglobin levels did not significantly influence progression free survival. The extent of surgery, radiotherapy dose or time to relapse were not significant prognostic factors. Radiotherapy appears to be an effective modality of treatment of solitary plasmacytoma. No dose-response relationship is observed, and high local control rates are achieved with limited portals. Progression to multiple myeloma is the commonest pattern of failure, although no prognostic factors for progression are identified. The role of chemotherapy in preventing disease progression needs further evaluation.

  7. The use of a low dose hydrocortisone to prevent pulmonary embolism in patients with multiple trauma.

    PubMed

    Chaari, Anis; Ghadhoune, Hatem; Chakroune, Olfa; Abid, Hanen; Turki, Olfa; Bahloul, Mabrouk; Bouaziz, Mounir

    2013-08-01

    Venous thromboembolism events are common in trauma patients. Immediate acute inflammation following injury triggers coagulation cascade and may increase the risk of pulmonary embolism (PE) in this population. We aimed to evaluate whether early low-dose steroids prevent symptomatic PE onset in multiple trauma patients. The medical surgical intensive care unit of Habib Bourguiba University Hospital (Sfax--Tunisia). Comparative study of two cohorts: a retrospective cohort of patients who didn't receive early low-dose steroids (steroid (-) group) and a prospective cohort of patients who received hydrocortisone with a dose of 100 mg/8 h for a scheduled period of 7 days (steroid (+) group). All adult patients admitted in our intensive care unit (ICU) for multiple trauma with predicted duration of mechanical ventilation over 48 h were included. Evaluation of the impact of low-dose steroids on the incidence of symptomatic PE. We included 175 patients: 92 in the steroids (-) group and 83 in the steroids (+) group. PE was diagnosed in 15 patients (8.5 %). The incidence of PE was significantly lower in steroid (+) group (3.6 vs 13 %; p = 0.013). In multivariate analysis, independent factors predicting PE onset were meningeal hemorrhage [OR = 14.7; 95 % CI (2.2-96.3); p = 0.013] and pelvic ring trauma [OR = 8; 95 % CI (1.8-36.4); p = 0.007] whereas low-dose steroids were significantly associated with a protective effect [OR = 0.2; 95 % CI (0.05-0.77); p = 0.019]. There was no significant difference between steroids (+) and steroids (-) groups neither in terms of mean ICU length of stay (LOS) (respectively 11 ± 9.7 and 12.3 ± 10.7 days; p = 0.372) nor in terms of ICU mortality (respectively 29.3 and 24.1 %; p = 0.434). Steroids are effective in reducing the incidence of PE in multiple trauma patients. However, no significant benefice was found on ICU mortality.

  8. A quality improvement project to reduce the intraoperative use of single-dose fentanyl vials across multiple patients in a pediatric institution.

    PubMed

    Buck, David; Subramanyam, Rajeev; Varughese, Anna

    2016-01-01

    The use of a single-dose vial across multiple patients presents a risk to sterility and is against CDC guidelines. We initiated a quality improvement (QI) project to reduce the intraoperative use of single-dose vials of fentanyl across multiple patients at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC). The initial step of the improvement project was the development of a Key Driver Diagram. The diagram has the SMART aim of the project, key drivers inherent to the process we are trying to improve, and specific interventions targeting the key drivers. The number of patients each week receiving an IV dose of fentanyl, from a vial previously accessed for another patient was tracked in a high turnover operating room (OR). The improvement model used was based on the concept of building Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles. Tests of change included provider education, provision of an increased number of fentanyl vials, alternate wasting processes, and provision of single-use fentanyl syringes by the pharmacy. Prior to initiation of this project, it was common for a single fentanyl vial to be accessed for multiple patients. Our data showed an average percentage of failures of just over 50%. During the end of the project, after 7 months, the mean percentage failures had dropped to 5%. Preparation of 20 mcg single-use fentanyl syringes by pharmacy, combined with education of providers on appropriate use, was successful in reducing failures to below our goal of 25%. Appropriately sized fentanyl syringes prepared by pharmacy, education on correct use of single-dose vials, and reminders in the OR, reduced the percentage of patients receiving a dose of fentanyl from a vial previously accessed for another patient in a high-volume otolaryngology room. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  9. Multiple-dose ponezumab for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease: Safety and efficacy.

    PubMed

    Landen, Jaren W; Cohen, Sharon; Billing, Clare B; Cronenberger, Carol; Styren, Scot; Burstein, Aaron H; Sattler, Catherine; Lee, Jae-Hong; Jack, Clifford R; Kantarci, Kejal; Schwartz, Pamela F; Duggan, William T; Zhao, Qinying; Sprenger, Ken; Bednar, Martin M; Binneman, Brendon

    2017-09-01

    Multiple intravenous doses of ponezumab, an anti-amyloid antibody, were evaluated in subjects with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). In part A, 77 subjects were randomized to ponezumab 0.1, 0.5, or 1 mg/kg (75 treated) and 26 to placebo (24 treated). In part B, 63 subjects were randomized and treated with ponezumab 3 or 8.5 mg/kg and 32 with placebo. Subjects received 10 infusions over 18 months and were followed for 6 months thereafter. Ponezumab was generally safe and well tolerated. Most common adverse events were fall (16.7% ponezumab, 21.4% placebo), headache (13.8%, 21.4%), and cerebral microhemorrhage (13.8%, 19.6%). Plasma ponezumab increased dose-dependently with limited accumulation. Cerebrospinal fluid penetration was low. Plasma Aβ 1-x and Aβ 1-40 showed robust increases, but cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers showed no dose response. Ponezumab had no effects on cognitive/functional outcomes or brain volume. Multiple-dose ponezumab was generally safe, but not efficacious, in mild-to-moderate AD.

  10. A Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label, Pharmacokinetics and Safety Study of Pantoprazole Tablets in Children and Adolescents Aged 6 Through 16 Years With GERD

    PubMed Central

    Ward, Robert M.; Kearns, Gregory L.; Tammara, Brinda; Bishop, Phyllis; O’Gorman, Molly A.; James, Laura P.; Katz, Mitchell H.; Maguire, Mary K.; Rath, Natalie; Meng, Xu; Comer, Gail M.

    2011-01-01

    SUMMARY Children with GERD may benefit from gastric acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors such as pantoprazole. Effective treatment with pantoprazole requires correct dosing and understanding of the drug’s kinetic profile in children. The aim of these studies was to characterize the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of single and multiple doses of pantoprazole delayed-release tablets in pediatric patients with GERD aged ≥6 through 11 years (study 1) and 12 through 16 years (study 2). Patients were randomly assigned to receive pantoprazole 20 or 40 mg once daily. Plasma pantoprazole concentrations were obtained at intervals through 12 hours after the single dose, and at 2 and 4 hours after multiple doses for PK evaluation. PK parameters were derived by standard noncompartmental methods and examined as a function of both drug dose and patient age. Safety was also monitored. Pantoprazole PK was dose independent (when dose normalized) and similar toPK reported from adult studies. There was no evidence of accumulation with multiple dosing or reports of serious drug-associated adverse events. In children aged 6 to 16 years with GERD, currently available pantoprazole delayed-release tablets can be used to provide systemic exposure similar to that in adults. PMID:20852004

  11. A placebo-controlled, double-blind, dose-escalation study to assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of single and multiple intravenous infusions of AZD9773 in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Introduction Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), an early mediator in the systemic inflammatory response to infection, is a potential therapeutic target in sepsis. The primary objective of this study was to determine the safety and tolerability of AZD9773, an ovine, polyclonal, anti-human TNF-α Fab preparation, in patients with severe sepsis. Secondary outcomes related to pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters. Methods In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter Phase IIa study, patients were sequentially enrolled into five escalating-dose cohorts (single doses of 50 or 250 units/kg; multiple doses of 250 units/kg loading and 50 units/kg maintenance, 500 units/kg loading and 100 units/kg maintenance, or 750 units/kg loading and 250 units/kg maintenance). In each cohort, patients were randomized 2:1 to receive AZD9773 or placebo. Results Seventy patients received AZD9773 (n = 47) or placebo (n = 23). Baseline characteristics were similar across cohorts. Mean baseline APACHE score was 25.9. PK data demonstrated an approximately proportional increase in concentration with increasing dose and a terminal half-life of 20 hours. For the multiple-dose cohorts, serum TNF-α concentrations decreased to near-undetectable levels within two hours of commencing AZD9773 infusion. This suppression was maintained in most patients for the duration of treatment. AZD9773 was well tolerated. Most adverse events were of mild-to-moderate intensity and considered by the reporting investigator as unrelated to study treatment. Conclusions The safety, PK and PD data support the continued evaluation of AZD9773 in larger Phase IIb/III studies. PMID:22340283

  12. Ionizing diagnostic radiation exposure in patients with Crohn's disease: A retrospective study in a medium hospital and its predictive factors.

    PubMed

    Merino Rodríguez, Esther; Carrera Alonso, Elisa; Torralba González de Suso, Miguel; Sánchez da Silva, Marta; Martínez López, María; Sánchez-Tembleque Zarandona, María Dolores

    2018-02-01

    It is estimated that diagnostic medical radiation exposure may be responsable for 0.5-2% of cancers worldwide. Because of the relapsing course of Crohn's disease (CD), these patients usually requiere multiple ionizing radiation test. Stimating the total cumulative effective dose received by our CD patients and identifying the risk factors associated with the exposure to a cumulative effective dose due to the disease (CEED) > 50mSv. Retrospective cohort study (2001-2014). patients with CD. Risk dose >50mSv. For calculating de cumulative effective dose and the CEED, all the ionizing test done were taken. For identifying predictive factors for receiving a CEDD >50mSv, an univariate and a multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using a >50mSv dose as dependent variable. Of the 267 patients analyzed the 24.6% of them received a cumulative effective dose > 50mSv and the 15.2% a CEED>50mSv. In the multivariate analysis, the following variables were identified as independent predictors associated with a CEDD >50mSv: major surgery (OR= 2.1; IC 95% [1.1-3.8]; p=.019) and severity (OR= 20.6; IC 95% [4.5-94.8]; p<.01). Patients with CD are more at risk of receiving risk CEED, so it would be advisable to monitor the cumulative effective dose received to anticipate our intervention in order to avoid reaching that dose. The ultrasounds and abdominal resonance enterography are alternatives in these cases, although their accessibility is limited in some centers. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  13. Pharmacokinetic Properties and Tolerability of Cycloserine Following Oral Administration in Healthy Chinese Volunteers: A Randomized, Open-Label, Single- and Multiple-Dose 3-Way Crossover Study.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Huili; Wu, Guolan; Hu, Xingjiang; Zhu, Meixiang; Zhai, You; Liu, Jian; Shentu, Jianzhong; Wu, Lihua

    2015-06-01

    A new generic formulation of cycloserine has been developed in China but the pharmacokinetic properties of cycloserine in the Chinese population have not been reported. The aim of our study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of single and multiple oral administrations of cycloserine capsules in healthy Chinese volunteers. This open-label, single- and multiple-dose 3-way crossover study was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. Subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of cycloserine (250, 500, or 1000 mg) in separate trial periods, with a 1-week washout between periods. Those allocated to the 250-mg dose continued into the multiple-dose phase, in which they received 250 mg BID for 5 consecutive days. During the single-dose phase, blood samples were collected at regular intervals from 0 to 72 hours after drug administration and the concentrations of cycloserine were determined using LC-MS/MS. During the multiple-dose phase, blood samples were obtained before drug administration on Days 4, 5, and 6 to determine the Cmin at steady state. On Day 6, blood samples were also collected from 0 to 72 hours after drug administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using noncompartmental methods. Tolerability was determined using clinical evaluation and monitoring of adverse events. The study enrolled 12 healthy Chinese volunteers (6 men: mean [SD] age = 23.0 [2.6] years, weight = 60.2 [6.2] kg, height = 170.0 [3.0] cm, and body mass index = 20.7 [1.7]; 6 women: mean [SD] age = 25.3 [1.4] years, weight = 51.5 [3.3] kg, height = 160.0 [4.0] cm, and body mass index = 20.1 [0.9]). After administration of a single dose, cycloserine was rapidly absorbed, reaching peak plasma concentrations approximately 0.84 hours after oral administration, and t½ in plasma was about 13.0 hours. The geometric mean (SD) Cmax value increased in proportion to cycloserine dose, from 19.42 (5.89) to 84.76 (21.74) mg/L, and the geometric mean (SD) AUC0-72h value increased from 264.16 (133.37) to 1153.87 (522.16) mg·h/L in the range of a 250- to 1000-mg dose. After administration of multiple doses of cycloserine 250 mg BID, the mean (SD) t½ was 13.56 (4.38) hours, the apparent total clearance of the drug from plasma after oral administration was 1.02 (0.42) L/h, and the apparent volume of distribution was 18.22 (5.25) L, which were comparable with those after single dosing. The accumulation index was 2.19 (0.51), and the fluctuation was 1.05 (0.35). Results of the t tests of Cmax and AUC found no significant differences between the male and female groups. No serious adverse events were reported, and there were no discontinuations due to adverse events. The pharmacokinetic properties of cycloserine were linear at doses from 250 mg to 1000 mg. After multiple doses, the pharmacokinetic properties of cycloserine were consistent with those after single doses. At the doses studied, cycloserine appears to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers. Chinese Clinical Trials registration: ChiCTR-TTRCC-13003982. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  14. No adaptive response is induced by chronic low-dose radiation from Ra-226 in the CHSE/F fish embryonic cell line and the HaCaT human epithelial cell line

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Shi, Xiaopei, E-mail: shix22@mcmaster.ca; Mothersi

    Purpose: To determine whether chronic low-dose α-particle radiation from Ra-226 over multiple cell generations can lead to an adaptive response in CHSE/F fish embryonic cells or HaCaT human epithelial cells receiving subsequent acute high-dose γ-ray radiation. Methods: CHSE/F and HaCaT cells were exposed to very low doses of Ra-226 in medium for multiple generations prior to being challenged by a higher dose γ-ray radiation. The clonogenic assay was used to test the clonogenic survival of cells with or without being pretreated by radiation from Ra-226. Results: In general, pretreatment with chronic radiation has no significant influence on the reaction ofmore » cells to the subsequent challenge radiation. Compared to unprimed cells, the change in clonogenic survival of primed cells after receiving challenge radiation is mainly due to the influence of the chronic exposure, and there's little adaptive response induced. However at several dose points, pretreatment of CHSE/F fish cells with chronic radiation resulted in a radiosensitive response to a challenge dose of γ-ray radiation, and pretreatment of HaCaT cells resulted in no effect except for a slightly radioresistant response to the challenge radiation which was not significant. Conclusion: The results suggest that chronic low-dose radiation is not effective enough to induce adaptive response. There was a difference between human and fish cells and it may be important to consider results from multiple species before making conclusions about effects of chronic or low doses of radiation in the environment. The term “radiosensitive” or “adaptive” make no judgment about whether such responses are ultimately beneficial or harmful. - Highlights: • No obvious adaptive response is induced by chronic low-dose radiation from Ra-226. • Priming radiation from Ra-226 sensitized CHSE/F cells to the challenge radiation. • Linear model is inconsistent with current work using chronic low-dose radiation.« less

  15. Single-Dose and Multiple-Dose Pharmacokinetics of Nicotine 6 mg Gum.

    PubMed

    Hansson, Anna; Rasmussen, Thomas; Kraiczi, Holger

    2017-04-01

    Under-dosing is a recognized problem with current nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). Therefore, a new 6mg nicotine gum has been developed. To compare the nicotine uptake from the 6mg gum versus currently available NRT products, two pharmacokinetic studies were performed. In one randomized crossover study, 44 healthy adult smokers received single doses of 6, 4, and 2mg nicotine gum, and 4mg nicotine lozenge on separate occasions. In a separate randomized crossover multiple-dose study over 11 hours, 50 healthy adult smokers received one 6mg gum every hour and 90 minutes, respectively, one 4mg gum every hour, and one 4mg lozenge every hour. In both studies, blood samples were collected over 12 hours to determine single-dose and multiple-dose pharmacokinetic variables. In the single-dose study, the amount of nicotine released from the 2, 4, and 6mg gums (1.44, 3.36, and 4.94mg) as well as the resulting maximum concentration and area under the curve (5.9, 10.1, and 13.8ng/mL, and 17.1, 30.7, 46.2ng/mL × h, respectively) increased with dose. The maximum concentration and area under the curve of the 6mg gum were 44% and 30% greater, respectively, than those for 4mg lozenge. Upon hourly administration, the steady-state average plasma nicotine concentration with 6mg gum (37.4ng/mL) was significantly higher than those for 4mg lozenge (28.3ng/mL) and 4mg gum (27.1ng/mL). Nicotine delivery via the 6mg gum results in higher plasma nicotine concentrations after a single dose and at steady state than with currently available oral NRT. Under-dosing is a recognized problem with current NRT. Therefore, a new 6mg nicotine gum has been developed. Our studies show that upon single-dose and multiple-dose administration, the 6mg gum releases and delivers more nicotine to the systemic circulation than 2mg gum, 4mg gum, and 4mg lozenge. Thus, each 6mg nicotine gum provides a higher degree of nicotine substitution and/or lasts for a longer period of time than currently available nicotine gums and lozenges. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  16. A Voxel-Based Approach to Explore Local Dose Differences Associated With Radiation-Induced Lung Damage

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Palma, Giuseppe; Monti, Serena; D'Avino, Vittoria

    Purpose: To apply a voxel-based (VB) approach aimed at exploring local dose differences associated with late radiation-induced lung damage (RILD). Methods and Materials: An interinstitutional database of 98 patients who were Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors treated with postchemotherapy supradiaphragmatic radiation therapy was analyzed in the study. Eighteen patients experienced late RILD, classified according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scoring system. Each patient's computed tomographic (CT) scan was normalized to a single reference case anatomy (common coordinate system, CCS) through a log-diffeomorphic approach. The obtained deformation fields were used to map the dose of each patient into the CCS. Themore » coregistration robustness and the dose mapping accuracy were evaluated by geometric and dose scores. Two different statistical mapping schemes for nonparametric multiple permutation inference on dose maps were applied, and the corresponding P<.05 significance lung subregions were generated. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC)-based test was performed on the mean dose extracted from each subregion. Results: The coregistration process resulted in a geometrically robust and accurate dose warping. A significantly higher dose was consistently delivered to RILD patients in voxel clusters near the peripheral medial-basal portion of the lungs. The area under the ROC curves (AUC) from the mean dose of the voxel clusters was higher than the corresponding AUC derived from the total lung mean dose. Conclusions: We implemented a framework including a robust registration process and a VB approach accounting for the multiple comparison problem in dose-response modeling, and applied it to a cohort of HL survivors to explore a local dose–RILD relationship in the lungs. Patients with RILD received a significantly greater dose in parenchymal regions where low doses (∼6 Gy) were delivered. Interestingly, the relation between differences in the high-dose range and RILD seems to lack a clear spatial signature.« less

  17. Microdose gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist flare-up protocol versus multiple dose gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol in poor responders undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transfer cycle.

    PubMed

    Kahraman, Korhan; Berker, Bulent; Atabekoglu, Cem Somer; Sonmezer, Murat; Cetinkaya, Esra; Aytac, Rusen; Satiroglu, Hakan

    2009-06-01

    To compare the efficacy of microdose GnRH agonist (GnRH-a) flare-up and multiple dose GnRH antagonist protocols in patients who have a poor response to a long luteal GnRH-a protocol. Prospective, randomized, clinical study. University hospital. Forty-two poor responder patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)-embryo transfer cycle. Twenty-one patients received microdose leuprolide acetate (LA) (50 microg twice daily) starting on the second day of withdrawal bleeding. The other 21 patients received 0.25 mg of cetrorelix daily when the leading follicle reached 14 mm in diameter. Serum E(2) levels, number of growing follicles and mature oocytes, embryo quality, dose of gonadotropin used, cancellation, fertilization, implantation rate and pregnancy rate (PR). The mean serum E(2) concentration on the day of hCG administration was significantly higher in the microdose GnRH-a group than in the GnRH antagonist group (1,904 vs. 1,362 pg/mL). The clinical PRs per started cycle of microdose GnRH-a and GnRH antagonist groups were 14.2% and 9.5%, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in the other ovulation induction characteristics, fertilization and implantation rates. Microdose GnRH-a flare-up protocol and multiple dose GnRH antagonist protocol seem to have similar efficacy in improving treatment outcomes of poor responder patients.

  18. Normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) modelling using spatial dose metrics and machine learning methods for severe acute oral mucositis resulting from head and neck radiotherapy.

    PubMed

    Dean, Jamie A; Wong, Kee H; Welsh, Liam C; Jones, Ann-Britt; Schick, Ulrike; Newbold, Kate L; Bhide, Shreerang A; Harrington, Kevin J; Nutting, Christopher M; Gulliford, Sarah L

    2016-07-01

    Severe acute mucositis commonly results from head and neck (chemo)radiotherapy. A predictive model of mucositis could guide clinical decision-making and inform treatment planning. We aimed to generate such a model using spatial dose metrics and machine learning. Predictive models of severe acute mucositis were generated using radiotherapy dose (dose-volume and spatial dose metrics) and clinical data. Penalised logistic regression, support vector classification and random forest classification (RFC) models were generated and compared. Internal validation was performed (with 100-iteration cross-validation), using multiple metrics, including area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration slope, to assess performance. Associations between covariates and severe mucositis were explored using the models. The dose-volume-based models (standard) performed equally to those incorporating spatial information. Discrimination was similar between models, but the RFCstandard had the best calibration. The mean AUC and calibration slope for this model were 0.71 (s.d.=0.09) and 3.9 (s.d.=2.2), respectively. The volumes of oral cavity receiving intermediate and high doses were associated with severe mucositis. The RFCstandard model performance is modest-to-good, but should be improved, and requires external validation. Reducing the volumes of oral cavity receiving intermediate and high doses may reduce mucositis incidence. Copyright © 2016 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  19. Pharmacokinetics and tolerability of intravenous ibuprofen injection in healthy Chinese volunteers: a randomized, open-label, single- and multiple-dose study
.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Huili; Xu, Wei; Wu, Guolan; Wu, Lihua; Shentu, Jianzhong; Pan, Zhengfei; Hu, Shuai; Liu, Yang

    2016-11-01

    Recently a formulation of intravenous (IV) ibuprofen was developed in China for management of mild to moderate pain in patients who could not take oral medications or where intravenous administration was preferable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of single and multiple doses of ibuprofen injection in healthy Chinese volunteers. This open-label, single- and multiple-dose study was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. In the single-dose phase, subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of ibuprofen injection 0.2, 0.4, or 0.8 g administered as a 30-minute IV infusion with a 1-week washout between periods. Blood samples were collected at regular intervals from 0 to 12.5 hours after drug administration and were analyzed using a validated LC-MS/MS method. In the multiple-dose phase, subjects received 0.4 g ibuprofen every 6 hours for 9 doses. Blood samples were obtained before the 7th, 8th, and 9th administration to determine the Cmin at steady state; on the 9th intravenous administration, blood samples were also collected for 12.5 hours after drug administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using a noncompartmental model. Tolerability was determined using clinical evaluation and monitoring of adverse events (AEs). A total of 12 healthy male (n = 6) and female (n = 6) Chinese volunteers were enrolled and completed the trial. After IV administration of single dose, the mean (SD) Cmax value increased from 35.77 (6.98) to 117.12 (19.78) µg/mL, and the mean (SD) AUC0-t value increased from 67.63 (10.30) to 230.50 (33.55) µg×h/mL in the range of 0.2-g to 0.8-g dose. The terminal half-life in plasma was ~ 2.0 hours. After IV administration of 9 doses of ibuprofen 400 mg every 6 hours, the mean (SD) Cmax was 66.49 (8.49) µg/mL, the AUC0-t was 135.65 (26.91) µg×h/mL, the t1/2 was 2.14 (0.34) hours, the Cl/F was 3.34 (0.68) L/h, and the Vz/F was 10.32 (2.69) L, which were comparable with those after single dosing. The accumulation index was 1.17 (0.06), and the fluctuation was 304.0 (57.7) %. Results of the t-tests of Cmax and AUC found no significant differences between the male and female groups. No serious AEs were reported, and there were no discontinuations due to AEs. The pharmacokinetics of ibuprofen exhibited dose-related kinetics from the 0.2- to the 0.8-g dose. After multiple doses, the pharmacokinetic parameters of ibuprofen were consistent with those after single doses. There was no accumulation in ibuprofen exposure in healthy Chinese between multiple doses and single dose. At the doses studied, ibuprofen appeared to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers.
.

  20. Intervention efficacy and intensity for children with speech sound disorder.

    PubMed

    Allen, Melissa M

    2013-06-01

    Clinicians do not have an evidence base they can use to recommend optimum intervention intensity for preschool children who present with speech sound disorder (SSD). This study examined the effect of dose frequency on phonological performance and the efficacy of the multiple oppositions approach. Fifty-four preschool children with SSD were randomly assigned to one of three intervention conditions. Two intervention conditions received the multiple oppositions approach either 3 times per week for 8 weeks (P3) or once weekly for 24 weeks (P1). A control (C) condition received a storybook intervention. Percentage of consonants correct (PCC) was evaluated at 8 weeks and after 24 sessions. PCC gain was examined after a 6-week maintenance period. The P3 condition had a significantly better phonological outcome than the P1 and C conditions at 8 weeks and than the P1 condition after 24 weeks. There were no significant differences between the P1 and C conditions. There was no significant difference between the P1 and P3 conditions in PCC gain during the maintenance period. Preschool children with SSD who received the multiple oppositions approach made significantly greater gains when they were provided with a more intensive dose frequency and when cumulative intervention intensity was held constant.

  1. Daclizumab in active relapsing multiple sclerosis (CHOICE study): a phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, add-on trial with interferon beta.

    PubMed

    Wynn, Daniel; Kaufman, Michael; Montalban, Xavier; Vollmer, Timothy; Simon, Jack; Elkins, Jacob; O'Neill, Gilmore; Neyer, Lauri; Sheridan, James; Wang, Chungchi; Fong, Alice; Rose, John W

    2010-04-01

    Daclizumab, a humanised monoclonal antibody, reduced multiple sclerosis disease activity in previous non-randomised studies. We aimed to assess whether daclizumab reduces disease activity in patients with active relapsing multiple sclerosis who are receiving interferon beta treatment. We did a phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study at 51 centres in the USA, Canada, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Patients with active relapsing multiple sclerosis who were taking interferon beta were randomly assigned to receive add-on subcutaneous daclizumab 2 mg/kg every 2 weeks (interferon beta and high-dose daclizumab group), daclizumab 1 mg/kg every 4 weeks (interferon beta and low-dose daclizumab group), or interferon beta and placebo for 24 weeks. The randomisation scheme was generated by Facet Biotech. All patients and assessors were masked to treatment with the exception of Facet Biotech bioanalysts who prepared data for the data safety monitoring board or generated pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic data, a drug accountability auditor, and the site pharmacist. The primary endpoint was total number of new or enlarged gadolinium contrast-enhancing lesions measured on brain MRI scans every 4 weeks between weeks 8 and 24. Effects of daclizumab on prespecified subsets of lymphocytes and quantitative T-cell proliferative response were assessed in an exploratory pharmacodynamic substudy. Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00109161. From May, 2005, to March, 2006, 288 patients were assessed for eligibility, and 230 were randomly assigned to receive interferon beta and high-dose daclizumab (n=75), interferon beta and low-dose daclizumab (n=78), or interferon beta and placebo (n=77). The adjusted mean number of new or enlarged gadolinium contrast-enhancing lesions was 4.75 in the interferon beta and placebo group compared with 1.32 in the interferon beta and high-dose daclizumab group (difference 72%, 95% CI 34% to 88%; p=0.004) and 3.58 in the interferon beta and low-dose daclizumab group (25%, -76% to 68%; p=0.51). In the pharmacodynamic substudy, daclizumab was not associated with significant changes in absolute numbers of T cells, B cells, or natural killer cells, or T-cell proliferative response compared with interferon beta alone. The number of CD56(bright) natural killer cells was seven to eight times higher in both daclizumab groups than in the interferon beta and placebo group (interferon beta and low-dose daclizumab group p=0.002; interferon beta and high-dose daclizumab group p<0.0001). Common adverse events were equally distributed across groups. Add-on daclizumab treatment reduced the number of new or enlarged gadolinium contrast-enhancing lesions compared with interferon beta alone and might reduce multiple sclerosis disease activity to a greater extent than interferon beta alone. Facet Biotech and Biogen Idec. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Pharmacokinetics and tolerability of febuxostat after oral administration in healthy Chinese volunteers: a randomized, open-label, singleand multiple-dose three-way crossover study.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Huili; Zheng, Yunliang; Wu, Guolan; Hu, Xingjiang; Zhai, You; Iv, Duo; Liu, Jian; Wu, Lihua; Shentu, Jianzhong

    2016-02-01

    Febuxostat is a novel non-purine selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase indicated for the chronic management of hyperuricemia in patients with gout. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of single and multiple oral administrations of febuxostat capsules in healthy Chinese volunteers. This openlabel, single- and multiple-dose three-way crossover study was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. Subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of febuxostat 40, 80, or 120 mg in separate trial periods, with a 1-week washout between periods. Those allocated to the 40 mg and 80 mg dose continued into the multiple-dose phase, in which they received 40 mg or 80 mg once daily for 6 consecutive days. During the course of the study, blood samples were collected and the concentrations of febuxostat were determined using LC-MS/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using a noncompartmental model. Tolerability was determined using clinical evaluation and monitoring of adverse events (AEs). 12 healthy Chinese volunteers were enrolled and completed 3 treatment periods. After oral administration of single doses of 40, 80, and 120 mg of febuxostat, the mean (SD) Cmax was 2,835.43 (1,136.41), 5,356.75 (1,711.33), and 7,718.21 (2,446.34) ng/mL, respectively; the AUC0-48h was 8,821.10 (3,018.35), 17,854.46 (5,113.28), and 30,832.05 (10,992.20) ng×h/ mL; the AUC0-∞ was 8,990.33 (3,046.14), 18,193.58 (5,160.80), and 31,466.93 (1,1074.74) ng×h/mL; the t1/2 was 5.95 (2.71), 9.41 (7.47), and 12.34 (10.34) hours; the Cl/F was 4.81 (1.18), 4.70 (1.21), and 4.18(1.19) L/h; and the Vz/F was 39.66 (16.69), 62.72 (51.41), and 73.41 (64.84) L. After administration of multiple doses of 40 and 80 mg febuxostat, the mean (SD) Cmax,ss was 2,762.38 (1,331.96) and 5,047.27 (1,456.57) ng/mL; the Cmin,ss was 124.10 (6.32) and 46.93 (15.86) ng/mL; the AUCss,0-τ was 8,525.49 (2,160.64) and 16,757.12 (4,223.17) ng×h /mL; the steadystate plasma concentration (Css) was 355.23 (90.03) and 698.21 (175.97) ng/mL; the t1/2 was 7.68 (3.30) and 11.33 (6.94) hours; the Cl/F was 4.99 (1.30) and 5.05 (1.22) L/h; and the Vz/F was 54.10 (24.10) and 85.51 (65.99) L. No serious AEs were reported, and there were no discontinuations due to AEs. The PK of febuxostat exhibited dose proportional kinetics from 40 to 120 mg dose. After multiple doses, the pharmacokinetic parameters of febuxostat were consistent with those after single doses. There was no accumulation in febuxostat exposure in healthy Chinese between multiple doses and single dose. At the doses studied, febuxostat appeared to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers.

  3. Safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of multiple oral doses of apixaban, a factor Xa inhibitor, in healthy subjects

    PubMed Central

    Frost, Charles; Nepal, Sunil; Wang, Jessie; Schuster, Alan; Byon, Wonkyung; Boyd, Rebecca A; Yu, Zhigang; Shenker, Andrew; Barrett, Yu Chen; Mosqueda-Garcia, Rogelio; LaCreta, Frank

    2013-01-01

    Aim Apixaban is an oral factor Xa inhibitor approved for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation and thromboprophylaxis in patients who have undergone elective hip or knee replacement surgery and under development for treatment of venous thromboembolism. This study examined the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of multiple dose apixaban. Method This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel group, multiple dose escalation study was conducted in six sequential dose panels – apixaban 2.5, 5, 10 and 25 mg twice daily and 10 and 25 mg once daily– with eight healthy subjects per panel. Within each panel, subjects were randomized (3:1) to oral apixaban or placebo for 7 days. Subjects underwent safety assessments and were monitored for adverse events (AEs). Blood samples were taken to measure apixaban plasma concentration, international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and modified prothrombin time (mPT). Results Forty-eight subjects were randomized and treated (apixaban, n = 36; placebo, n = 12); one subject receiving 2.5 mg twice daily discontinued due to AEs (headache and nausea). No dose limiting AEs were observed. Apixaban maximum plasma concentration was achieved ∼3 h post-dose. Exposure increased approximately in proportion to dose. Apixaban steady-state concentrations were reached by day 3, with an accumulation index of 1.3–1.9. Peak : trough ratios were lower for twice daily vs. once daily regimens. Clotting times showed dose-related increases tracking the plasma concentration–time profile. Conclusion Multiple oral doses of apixaban were safe and well tolerated over a 10-fold dose range, with pharmacokinetics with low variability and concentration-related increases in clotting time measures. PMID:23451769

  4. Glyphosate-resistant goosegrass from Mississippi

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    A glyphosate resistant population of goosegrass (Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.) was documented near Stoneville, Mississippi, USA, in an area which had received multiple applications of glyphosate each year for the previous eleven years. Resistance ratios based on dose response growth reduction assays...

  5. Real-life GH dosing patterns in children with GHD, TS or born SGA: a report from the NordiNet® International Outcome Study

    PubMed Central

    Snajderova, Marta; Blair, Jo; Pournara, Effie; Pedersen, Birgitte Tønnes; Petit, Isabelle Oliver

    2017-01-01

    Objective To describe real-life dosing patterns in children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD), born small for gestational age (SGA) or with Turner syndrome (TS) receiving growth hormone (GH) and enrolled in the NordiNet International Outcome Study (IOS; Nbib960128) between 2006 and 2016. Design This non-interventional, multicentre study included paediatric patients diagnosed with GHD (isolated (IGHD) or multiple pituitary hormone deficiency (MPHD)), born SGA or with TS and treated according to everyday clinical practice from the Czech Republic (IGHD/MPHD/SGA/TS: n = 425/61/316/119), France (n = 1404/188/970/206), Germany (n = 2603/351/1387/411) and the UK (n = 259/60/87/35). Methods GH dosing was compared descriptively across countries and indications. Proportions of patients by GH dose group (low/medium/high) or GH dose change (decrease/increase/no change) during years 1 and 2 were also evaluated across countries and indications. Results In the Czech Republic, GH dosing was generally within recommended levels. In France, average GH doses were higher for patients with IGHD, MPHD and SGA than in other countries. GH doses in TS tended to be at the lower end of the recommended label range, especially in Germany and the UK; the majority of patients were in the low-dose group. A significant inverse association between baseline height standard deviation score and GH dose was shown (P < 0.05); shorter patients received higher doses. Changes in GH dose, particularly increases, were more common in the second (40%) than in the first year (25%). Conclusions GH dosing varies considerably across countries and indications. In particular, almost half of girls with TS received GH doses below practice guidelines and label recommendations. PMID:28522645

  6. Non-linear relationship of cell hit and transformation probabilities in a low dose of inhaled radon progenies.

    PubMed

    Balásházy, Imre; Farkas, Arpád; Madas, Balázs Gergely; Hofmann, Werner

    2009-06-01

    Cellular hit probabilities of alpha particles emitted by inhaled radon progenies in sensitive bronchial epithelial cell nuclei were simulated at low exposure levels to obtain useful data for the rejection or support of the linear-non-threshold (LNT) hypothesis. In this study, local distributions of deposited inhaled radon progenies in airway bifurcation models were computed at exposure conditions characteristic of homes and uranium mines. Then, maximum local deposition enhancement factors at bronchial airway bifurcations, expressed as the ratio of local to average deposition densities, were determined to characterise the inhomogeneity of deposition and to elucidate their effect on resulting hit probabilities. The results obtained suggest that in the vicinity of the carinal regions of the central airways the probability of multiple hits can be quite high, even at low average doses. Assuming a uniform distribution of activity there are practically no multiple hits and the hit probability as a function of dose exhibits a linear shape in the low dose range. The results are quite the opposite in the case of hot spots revealed by realistic deposition calculations, where practically all cells receive multiple hits and the hit probability as a function of dose is non-linear in the average dose range of 10-100 mGy.

  7. Comparative Efficacy of Daratumumab Monotherapy and Pomalidomide Plus Low-Dose Dexamethasone in the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: A Matching Adjusted Indirect Comparison.

    PubMed

    Van Sanden, Suzy; Ito, Tetsuro; Diels, Joris; Vogel, Martin; Belch, Andrew; Oriol, Albert

    2018-03-01

    Daratumumab (a human CD38-directed monoclonal antibody) and pomalidomide (an immunomodulatory drug) plus dexamethasone are both relatively new treatment options for patients with heavily pretreated multiple myeloma. A matching adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) was used to compare absolute treatment effects of daratumumab versus pomalidomide + low-dose dexamethasone (LoDex; 40 mg) on overall survival (OS), while adjusting for differences between the trial populations. The MAIC method reduces the risk of bias associated with naïve indirect comparisons. Data from 148 patients receiving daratumumab (16 mg/kg), pooled from the GEN501 and SIRIUS studies, were compared separately with data from patients receiving pomalidomide + LoDex in the MM-003 and STRATUS studies. The MAIC-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for OS of daratumumab versus pomalidomide + LoDex was 0.56 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38-0.83; p  = .0041) for MM-003 and 0.51 (95% CI, 0.37-0.69; p  < .0001) for STRATUS. The treatment benefit was even more pronounced when the daratumumab population was restricted to pomalidomide-naïve patients (MM-003: HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.17-0.66; p  = .0017; STRATUS: HR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.21-0.79; p  = .0082). An additional analysis indicated a consistent trend of the OS benefit across subgroups based on M-protein level reduction (≥50%, ≥25%, and <25%). The MAIC results suggest that daratumumab improves OS compared with pomalidomide + LoDex in patients with heavily pretreated multiple myeloma. This matching adjusted indirect comparison of clinical trial data from four studies analyzes the survival outcomes of patients with heavily pretreated, relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma who received either daratumumab monotherapy or pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone. Using this method, daratumumab conferred a significant overall survival benefit compared with pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone. In the absence of head-to-head trials, these indirect comparisons provide useful insights to clinicians and reimbursement authorities around the relative efficacy of treatments. © AlphaMed Press 2017.

  8. Retreatment with bortezomib alone or in combination for patients with multiple myeloma following an initial response to bortezomib.

    PubMed

    Sood, Raman; Carloss, Harry; Kerr, Robert; Lopez, Jose; Lee, Martin; Druck, Mark; Walters, Ian B; Noga, Stephen J

    2009-10-01

    This clinical trial was conducted to determine the safety and efficacy of bortezomib retreatment in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who had previously responded to bortezomib. Patients with progressive MM who had previously tolerated bortezomib as a single agent or in combination with other drugs, with a minimum of partial response (PR; >or=50% M-protein reduction) for >or=4 months, who had not received intervening MM therapy, were retreated with bortezomib (days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of a 21-day cycle) with a starting dose being the dose at which the patient ended the initial treatment. Patients were allowed to receive bortezomib on retreatment in combination with dexamethasone, thalidomide, or doxorubicin. Thirty-two patients received bortezomib retreatment (most with added dexamethasone). The median treatment-free interval (last dose of initial bortezomib treatment to first dose of retreatment) was 9.9 (range 2.5-34.0) months. The median duration of retreatment was 2.8 (<1-7.9) months; median total duration of bortezomib treatment was 6.7 (2.5-19.8) months. Based on the investigators' assessment of best response, the overall response rate (complete plus PR) was 50%. The median time from start of retreatment to progressive disease (PD) was 6.6 (95% confidence interval: 5.1-9.6) months. Thirteen patients (41%) experienced PN; bortezomib-related SAEs were reported in four patients. Retreatment with bortezomib alone or in combination is effective and well tolerated in patients with MM who have responded to their initial bortezomib treatment. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  9. Flurbiprofen microgranules for relief of sore throat: a randomised, double-blind trial

    PubMed Central

    Russo, Marc; Bloch, Mark; de Looze, Fred; Morris, Christopher; Shephard, Adrian

    2013-01-01

    Background Many people with sore throat seek, and are often inappropriately prescribed, antibiotics. Aim The objective of this study was to determine the analgesic efficacy of flurbiprofen 8.75 mg microgranules versus placebo. These microgranules are a possible alternative treatment for patients with sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Design and setting Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-dose study conducted at eight primary care sites in Australia. Method Participants with sore throat of onset within the past 4 days received either flurbiprofen 8.75 mg microgranules or non-medicated placebo microgranules. Throat soreness, difficulty in swallowing, sore throat pain intensity, sore throat relief, oral temperature, and treatment benefits were all assessed at regular intervals. Result Of 373 patients from eight centres, 186 received flurbiprofen 8.75 mg microgranules and 187 received placebo microgranules (intent-to-treat population). Throat soreness was significantly reduced over the first 2 hours after the first dose. Reductions in difficulty in swallowing were observed at all time points from 5 to 360 minutes after the first dose, after taking flurbiprofen microgranules versus placebo. Sore throat relief was also evident at 1 minute and lasted for at least 6 hours. The multiple-dose efficacy results showed reduction of difficulty in swallowing at the end of days 1–3 and sore throat relief at the end of day 1. Conclusion Microgranules containing flurbiprofen 8.75 mg provided fast and effective relief from sore throat due to URTI and represent an alternative treatment option to antibiotic therapy. PMID:23561694

  10. Pharmacokinetics and Safety of MP-376 (Levofloxacin Inhalation Solution) in Cystic Fibrosis Subjects▿

    PubMed Central

    Geller, David E.; Flume, Patrick A.; Griffith, David C.; Morgan, Elizabeth; White, Dan; Loutit, Jeffery S.; Dudley, Michael N.

    2011-01-01

    The pharmacokinetics and tolerability of nebulized MP-376 (levofloxacin inhalation solution [Aeroquin]) were determined in cystic fibrosis (CF) subjects. Ten CF subjects received single 180-mg doses of two formulations of MP-376, followed by a multiple-dose phase of 240 mg once daily for 7 days. Serum and expectorated-sputum samples were assayed for levofloxacin content. Safety was evaluated following the single- and multiple-dose study phases. Nebulized MP-376 produced high concentrations of levofloxacin in sputum. The mean maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) ranged between 2,563 and 2,932 mg/liter for 180-mg doses of the 50- and 100-mg/ml formulations, respectively. After 7 days of dosing, the mean Cmax for the 240-mg dose was 4,691 mg/liter. The mean serum levofloxacin Cmax ranged between 0.95 and 1.28 for the 180-mg doses and was 1.71 for the 240-mg dose. MP-376 was well tolerated. Nebulized MP-376 produces high sputum and low serum levofloxacin concentrations. The pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability were similar for the two formulations. MP-376 240 mg (100 mg/ml) is being advanced into late-stage clinical development. PMID:21444699

  11. Single dose parenteral hyposensitization to poison ivy urushiol in guinea pigs.

    PubMed

    Walker, L A; Watson, E S; elSohly, M A

    1995-08-01

    Studies were carried out in guinea pigs to evaluate the potential for single dose hyposensitization to poison ivy urushiol dermatitis. Sensitization was induced by topical application of 1 mg of poison ivy urushiol to the back of the neck. In the first series of studies, three different analogs of poison ivy urushiol were studied: 1) a mixture of pentadecyl and heptadecyl catechols (PDC/HDC), the saturated side chain analog of the natural urushiol mixture; 2) a mixture of the diacetate esters of PDC and HDC (PDC/HDC Ac), the esterified form of the saturated sidechain analogs; 3) 2-n-pentadecyl hydroquinone diacetate (HQ Ac). Each of these compounds was administered as 5 mg of the free catechol i.m. each week for three weeks. A vehicle group received only corn oil injections. Reactivity to poison ivy urushiol (PIU) challenge was evaluated in skin tests at 1 and 5 weeks post-treatment. PDC/HDC Ac induced a marked reduction in both the incidence and the severity of lesions induced by PIU at both 1 and at 5 weeks post-treatment. Other analogs were ineffective at 5 weeks post-treatment, and were less effective than PDC/HDC Ac at 1 week post-treatment. In a second series of experiments, the efficacy of PDC/HDC Ac was evaluated in both single and multiple dose regiments. One treatment group received 5 mg of PDC/HDC Ac intramuscularly each week for 4 weeks, while another treatment group received a single dose of 20 mg PDC/HDC Ac i.m. Corresponding vehicle control groups were also included. At 1 week post-treatment in the single dose group, the PDC/HDC Ac was only modestly effective, with some reduction of severity of lesions at the higher challenge doses of PIU. However, at 4 and 7 weeks post-treatment, both the incidence and the severity of the lesions at all challenge doses were reduced. In the multiple dose group, the incidence and severity of lesions are reduced at 1 week and 4 weeks post-treatment (4 weeks and 7 weeks after the initial dose) but were not significantly different from the single dose group. These findings indicate that the diacetate ester of PDC/HDC is an effective hyposensitizer to poison ivy urushiol, and that this hyposensitization can be reasonably accomplished in a single dose treatment regimen.

  12. Safety and pharmacodynamics of venetoclax (ABT-199) in a randomized single and multiple ascending dose study in women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

    PubMed

    Lu, P; Fleischmann, R; Curtis, C; Ignatenko, S; Clarke, S H; Desai, M; Wong, S L; Grebe, K M; Black, K; Zeng, J; Stolzenbach, J; Medema, J K

    2018-02-01

    Objective The anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) may contribute to the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus. The safety, tolerability, and pharmacodynamics of the selective Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax (ABT-199) were assessed in women with systemic lupus erythematosus. Methods A phase 1, double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled study evaluated single ascending doses (10, 30, 90, 180, 300, and 500 mg) and multiple ascending doses (2 cycles; 30, 60, 120, 240, 400, and 600 mg for 1 week, and then 3 weeks off per cycle) of orally administered venetoclax. Eligible participants were aged 18-65 years with a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus for 6 months or more receiving stable therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus (which could have included corticosteroids and/or stable antimalarials). Results All patients (48/48) completed the single ascending dose, 25 continued into the multiple ascending dose, and 44/50 completed the multiple ascending dose; two of the withdrawals (venetoclax 60 mg and 600 mg cohorts) were due to adverse events. Adverse event incidences were slightly higher in the venetoclax groups compared with the placebo groups, with no dose dependence. There were no serious adverse events with venetoclax. The most common adverse events were headache, nausea, and fatigue. Venetoclax 600 mg multiple ascending dose treatment depleted total lymphocytes and B cells by approximately 50% and 80%, respectively. Naive, switched memory, and memory B-cell subsets enriched in autoreactive B cells exhibited dose-dependent reduction of up to approximately 80%. There were no consistent or marked changes in neutrophils, natural killer cells, hemoglobin, or platelets. Conclusions Venetoclax was generally well tolerated in women with systemic lupus erythematosus and reduced total lymphocytes and disease-relevant subsets of antigen-experienced B cells. Registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01686555.

  13. TU-AB-201-06: Evaluation of Electromagnetically Guided High- Dose Rate Brachytherapy for Ablative Treatment of Lung Metastases

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pinkham, D.W.; Shultz, D.; Loo, B.W.

    Purpose: The advent of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy has enabled minimally invasive access to peripheral lung tumors previously inaccessible by optical bronchoscopes. As an adjunct to Stereotactic Ablative Radiosurgery (SABR), implantation of HDR catheters can provide focal treatments for multiple metastases and sites of retreatments. The authors evaluate a procedure to deliver ablative doses via Electromagnetically-Guided HDR (EMG-HDR) to lung metastases, quantify the resulting dosimetry, and assess its role in the comprehensive treatment of lung cancer. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on ten patients, who, from 2009 to 2011, received a hypo-fractionated SABR regimen with 6MV VMAT to lesions inmore » various lobes ranging from 1.5 to 20 cc in volume. A CT visible pathway was delineated for EM guided placement of an HDR applicator (catheter) and dwell times were optimized to ensure at least 98% prescription dose coverage of the GTV. Normal tissue doses were calculated using inhomogeneity corrections via a grid-based Boltzmann solver (Acuros-BV-1.5.0). Results: With EMG-HDR, an average of 83% (+/−9% standard deviation) of each patient’s GTV received over 200% of the prescription dose, as compared to SABR where the patients received an average maximum dose of 125% (+/−5%). EMG-HDR enabled a 59% (+/−12%) decrease in the aorta maximum dose, a 63% (+/−26%) decrease in the spinal cord max dose, and 57% (+/−23%) and 70% (+/−17%) decreases in the volume of the body receiving over 50% and 25% of the prescription dose, respectively. Conclusion: EMG-HDR enables delivery of higher ablative doses to the GTV, while concurrently reducing surrounding normal tissue doses. The single catheter approach shown here is limited to targets smaller than 20 cc. As such, the technique enables ablation of small lesions and a potentially safe and effective retreatment option in situations where external beam utility is limited by normal tissue constraints.« less

  14. Multiple Rising Doses of Oral BI 425809, a GlyT1 Inhibitor, in Young and Elderly Healthy Volunteers: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Phase I Study Investigating Safety and Pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Moschetti, Viktoria; Schlecker, Christina; Wind, Sven; Goetz, Sophia; Schmitt, Holger; Schultz, Armin; Liesenfeld, Karl-Heinz; Wunderlich, Glen; Desch, Michael

    2018-05-30

    Schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease are characterised by abnormalities in glutamatergic pathways related to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor hypofunction. Glycine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor co-agonist; inhibition of glycine transporter 1 may improve N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor function. This phase I, randomised, two-part study evaluated the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic profile of BI 425809, a novel glycine transporter 1 inhibitor, in healthy male and female volunteers. Part 1 evaluated BI 425809 10, 25, 50 or 75 mg once daily or 75 mg twice daily in young subjects, and 25 mg or 50 mg once daily in elderly subjects. Each dose group comprised 12 subjects who received BI 425809 (n = 9) or placebo (n = 3) for 14 days (day 1: single dose; days 4-14: multiple dosing). Part 2 compared pharmacokinetic profiles in 12 subjects who received a single dose of BI 425809 25 mg in the morning and evening. Pharmacokinetic profiles were similarly shaped for all dose groups. Median time to maximum plasma concentration was 3.0-4.5 h with steady state being reached between days 6 and 10. Pharmacokinetic parameters demonstrated dose linearity at the predicted therapeutic exposure range of BI 425809 ≤ 25 mg once daily, but increased less than dose proportionally for ≥ 50 mg once daily. All reported adverse events were of mild-to-moderate intensity, 51/84 (61%; part 1) subjects had one or more treatment-related adverse event, no serious adverse events occurred and no dose dependency was observed. Pharmacokinetic properties support both morning and evening dosing. BI 425809 was generally well tolerated at all tested doses. CLINICALTRIALS. NCT02337283.

  15. Management of Venetoclax-Posaconazole Interaction in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients: Evaluation of Dose Adjustments.

    PubMed

    Agarwal, Suresh K; DiNardo, Courtney D; Potluri, Jalaja; Dunbar, Martin; Kantarjian, Hagop M; Humerickhouse, Rod A; Wong, Shekman L; Menon, Rajeev M; Konopleva, Marina Y; Salem, Ahmed Hamed

    2017-02-01

    The effect of posaconazole, a strong cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) inhibitor and commonly used antifungal agent, on the pharmacokinetic properties of venetoclax, a CYP3A substrate, was evaluated in patients with acute myeloid leukemia to determine the dose adjustments needed to manage this potential interaction. Twelve patients received 20- to 200-mg ramp-up treatment with oral venetoclax and 20 mg/m 2 of intravenous decitabine on days 1 through 5, followed by 400 mg of venetoclax alone on days 6 through 20. On days 21 through 28, patients received 300 mg of posaconazole plus reduced doses of venetoclax (50 or 100 mg) to account for expected increases in venetoclax plasma concentrations. Blood samples were collected before dosing and up to 24 hours after the venetoclax dose on days 20 and 28. Compared with a venetoclax dose of 400 mg when administered alone (day 20), coadministration of venetoclax at a 50-mg dose with multiple doses of posaconazole increased mean venetoclax C max and AUC 0-24 by 53% and 76%, respectively, whereas coadministration of venetoclax at a 100-mg dose with posaconazole increased mean venetoclax C max and AUC 0-24 by 93% and 155%, respectively. When adjusted for different doses and nonlinearity, posaconazole was estimated to increase venetoclax C max and AUC 0-24 by 7.1- and 8.8-fold, respectively. Both the 50- and 100-mg venetoclax doses administered with posaconazole were well tolerated. The results are consistent with inhibition of CYP3A-mediated metabolism of venetoclax. Posaconazole can be used for antifungal prophylaxis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia receiving venetoclax after reducing the venetoclax dose by at least 75%. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02203773. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Effect of lacosamide on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of digoxin: results from a phase I, multiple-dose, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover trial.

    PubMed

    Cawello, Willi; Mueller-Voessing, Christa; Andreas, Jens-Otto

    2014-05-01

    Recent data suggest that P-glycoprotein may be involved in cellular transport of lacosamide. To investigate potential drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between lacosamide and digoxin, this phase I, multiple-dose, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial assessed the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety and tolerability of digoxin administered in combination with lacosamide or placebo. Twenty healthy White male volunteers were randomised. After receiving digoxin 0.25 mg three times daily on day 1 (loading dose), participants received digoxin 0.25 mg once daily on days 2-22. Participants received either lacosamide (200 mg twice daily) or placebo on days 8-11 and vice versa on days 18-21, after a 6-day washout. The steady-state area under concentration-time curve over the dosing interval (AUC(24,ss)) and maximum steady-state plasma concentration (C(max,ss)) of digoxin were measured; ratios of these parameters for co-administration of digoxin + lacosamide versus digoxin alone were used to evaluate potential DDIs. Interaction was excluded if the 90 % confidence interval (CI) for the geometric mean ratio of AUC24,ss and C max,ss fell within the acceptance range for bioequivalence (0.8-1.25). The point estimates (90 % CI) of the geometric mean ratios for co-administration of digoxin with lacosamide versus digoxin alone for AUC(24,ss) [1.024 (0.979-1.071)] and C(max,ss) [1.049 (0.959-1.147)] were within the acceptance range for bioequivalence. Digoxin and lacosamide co-administration was generally well-tolerated. A small numerical increase in the mean PR interval following co-administered digoxin + lacosamide was observed versus digoxin alone and versus pre-treatment baseline values (178.5 vs. 170.4 or 166.8 ms, respectively). The RR interval increased in parallel. The change was not considered clinically relevant. Co-administration of steady-state digoxin (0.25 mg/day) with multiple-dose lacosamide (400 mg/day) versus digoxin alone revealed no differences in digoxin disposition.

  17. Hematological toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of lomustine in 20 tumor-bearing cats: critical assessment of a practical dosing regimen.

    PubMed

    Fan, Timothy M; Kitchell, Barbara E; Dhaliwal, Ravinder S; Jones, Pamela D; Hintermeister, John G; Paria, Biman C

    2002-01-01

    Twenty cats with spontaneously arising tumors received oral lomustine at a dose range of 32 to 59 mg/m2 every 21 days. Due to biohazard concerns associated with lomustine capsule reformulation, a standardized 10-mg capsule dosage was used for all cats regardless of body weight. Severe hematological toxicity was infrequent, with the incidence of either grade III or IV neutropenia and thrombocytopenia being 4.1% and 1.0%, respectively. Cats receiving higher cumulative doses of lomustine trended toward a greater likelihood for progressive neutropenia (P=0.07). Two cats with lymphoma, two cats with fibrosarcoma, and one cat with multiple myeloma achieved a measurable partial response to lomustine therapy. Cats treated with higher dosages of lomustine trended toward statistically significant higher response rates (P=0.07).

  18. VANTAGE 095: An International, Multicenter, Open-Label Study of Vorinostat (MK-0683) in Combination With Bortezomib in Patients With Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma.

    PubMed

    Siegel, David S; Dimopoulos, Meletios; Jagannath, Sundar; Goldschmidt, Hartmut; Durrant, Simon; Kaufman, Jonathan L; Leleu, Xavier; Nagler, Arnon; Offner, Fritz; Graef, Thorsten; Eid, Joseph E; Houp, Jennifer; Gause, Christine; Vuocolo, Scott; Anderson, Kenneth C

    2016-06-01

    The present global, open-label, single-arm, multicenter, phase IIb study was designed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of oral vorinostat combined with standard doses of bortezomib in patients with multiple myeloma considered refractory to novel myeloma agents. Eligible patients were age ≥ 18 years, had received ≥ 2 previous regimens, had disease refractory to ≥ 1 previous bortezomib-containing regimen, and had received ≥ 1 dose of an immunomodulatory drug (thalidomide or lenalidomide)-based regimen. The patients received 21-day cycles of bortezomib (1.3 mg/m(2) intravenously on days 1, 4, 8, and 11) plus oral vorinostat (400 mg/d on days 1-14). Oral dexamethasone, 20 mg, on the day of and the day after each dose of bortezomib could be added for patients with progressive disease after 2 cycles or no change after 4 cycles. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate. The objective response rate was 11.3% (95% confidence interval, 6.6%-17.7%), and the median duration of response was 211 days (range, 64-550 days). The median overall survival duration was 11.2 months (95% confidence interval, 8.5-14.4 months), with a 2-year survival rate of 32%. The frequently reported adverse events were thrombocytopenia (69.7%), nausea (57.0%), diarrhea (53.5%), anemia (52.1%), and fatigue (48.6%); the overall safety profile was consistent with that of bortezomib and vorinostat. The combination of vorinostat and bortezomib is active in patients with multiple myeloma refractory to novel treatment modalities and offers a new therapeutic option for this difficult-to-treat patient population (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT00773838). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Analysis of dose-volume parameters predicting radiation pneumonitis in patients with esophageal cancer treated with 3D-conformal radiation therapy or IMRT.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Gaurav; Rawat, Sheh; Puri, Abhishek; Sharma, Manoj Kumar; Chadha, Pranav; Babu, Anand Giri; Yadav, Girigesh

    2012-01-01

    Multimodality therapy for esophageal cancer can cause various kinds of treatment-related sequelae, especially pulmonary toxicities. This prospective study aims to investigate the clinical and dosimetric parameters predicting lung injury in patients undergoing radiation therapy for esophageal cancer. Forty-five esophageal cancer patients were prospectively analyzed. The pulmonary toxicities (or sequelae) were evaluated by comparing chest X-ray films, pulmonary function tests and symptoms caused by pulmonary damage before and after treatment. All patients were treated with either three-dimensional radiotherapy (3DCRT) or with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). The planning dose volume histogram was used to compute the lung volumes receiving more than 5, 10, 20 and 30 Gy (V5, V10, V20, V30) and mean lung dose. V20 was larger in the IMRT group than in the 3DCRT group (p = 0.002). V20 (>15%) and V30 (>20%) resulted in a statistically significant increase in the occurrence of chronic pneumonitis (p = 0.03) and acute pneumonitis (p = 0.007), respectively. The study signifies that a larger volume of lung receives lower doses because of multiple beam arrangement and a smaller volume of lung receives higher doses because of better dose conformity in IMRT plans. Acute pneumonitis correlates more with V30 values, whereas chronic pneumonitis was predominantly seen in patients with higher V20 values.

  20. Surgical site infection in lumbar surgeries, pre and postoperative antibiotics and length of stay: a case study.

    PubMed

    Khan, Inayat Ullah; Janjua, Muhammad Burhanuddin; Hasan, Shumaila; Shah, Shahid

    2009-01-01

    Postoperative wound infection also called as surgical site infection (SSI), is a trouble some complication of lumbar spine surgeries and they can be associated with serious morbidities, mortalities and increase resource utilization. With the improvement in diagnostic modalities, proper surgical techniques, antibiotic therapy and postoperative care, infectious complications can result in various compromises afterwards. The objective was to study the relation of surgical site infection in clean lumbar surgeries with the doses of antibiotics. This Retrospective study was conducted at Shifa International Hospital, from January 2006 to March 2008. Hundred post operated cases of lumber disc prolapse, lumbar stenosis or both studied retrospectively by tracing their operated data from hospital record section for the development of surgical site infection (SSI). The patients were divided into three groups depending upon whether they received single, three or more than three doses of antibiotics respectively. Complete data analyses and cross tabulation done with SPSS version 16. Of 100 cases, only 6% had superficial surgical site infection; only 1 case with co morbidity of hypertension was detected. Twenty-one cases had single dose of antibiotic (Group-I), 59 cases had 3 doses (Group-II) and 20 cases received multiple doses (Group-III). There was no infection in Group-I. Only one patient in Group-II and 5 patients in Group-III developed superficial SSI. While 4 in Group-II, 3 in Group-III, and none of Group-I had > 6 days length of stay (LOS). The dose of antibiotic directly correlates with the surgical site infection in clean lumbar surgeries. When compared with multiple doses of antibiotics a single preoperative shot of antibiotic is equally effective for patients with SSI.

  1. Cumulative effective radiation dose received by blunt trauma patients arriving to a military level I trauma center from point of injury and interhospital transfers.

    PubMed

    Van Arnem, Kerri A; Supinski, David P; Tucker, Jonathan E; Varney, Shawn

    2016-12-01

    Trauma patients sustaining blunt injuries are exposed to multiple radiologic studies. Evidence indicates that the risk of cancer from exposure to ionizing radiation rises in direct proportion to the cumulative effective dose (CED) received. The purpose of this study is to quantify the amount of ionizing radiation accumulated when arriving directly from point of injury to San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC), a level I trauma center, compared with those transferred from other facilities. A retrospective record review was conducted from 1st January 2010 through 31st December 2012. The SAMMC trauma registry, electronic medical records, and the digital radiology imaging system were searched for possible candidates. The medical records were then analyzed for sex, age, mechanism of injury, received directly from point of injury (direct group), transfer from another medical facility (transfer group), computed tomographic scans received, dose-length product, CED of radiation, and injury severity score. A diagnostic imaging physicist then calculated the estimated CED each subject received based on the dose-length product of each computed tomographic scan. A total of 300 patients were analyzed, with 150 patients in the direct group and 150 patients in the transfer group. Both groups were similar in age and sex. Patients in the transfer group received a significantly greater CED of radiation compared with the direct group (mean, 37.6 mSv vs 28 mSv; P=.001). The radiation received in the direct group correlates with a lifetime attributable risk (LAR) of 1 in 357 compared with the transfer group with an increase in LAR to 1 in 266. Patients transferred to our facility received a 34% increase in ionizing radiation compared with patients brought directly from the injury scene. This increased dose of ionizing radiation contributes to the LAR of cancer and needs to be considered before repeating imaging studies. III. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  2. Factors associated with higher oxytocin requirements in labor.

    PubMed

    Frey, Heather A; Tuuli, Methodius G; England, Sarah K; Roehl, Kimberly A; Odibo, Anthony O; Macones, George A; Cahill, Alison G

    2015-09-01

    To identify clinical characteristics associated with high maximum oxytocin doses in women who achieve complete cervical dilation. A retrospective nested case-control study was performed within a cohort of all term women at a single center between 2004 and 2008 who reached the second stage of labor. Cases were defined as women who had a maximum oxytocin dose during labor >20 mu/min, while women in the control group had a maximum oxytocin dose during labor of ≤20 mu/min. Exclusion criteria included no oxytocin administration during labor, multiple gestations, major fetal anomalies, nonvertex presentation, and prior cesarean delivery. Multiple maternal, fetal, and labor factors were evaluated with univariable analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Maximum oxytocin doses >20 mu/min were administered to 108 women (3.6%), while 2864 women received doses ≤20 mu/min. Factors associated with higher maximum oxytocin dose after adjusting for relevant confounders included maternal diabetes, birthweight >4000 g, intrapartum fever, administration of magnesium, and induction of labor. Few women who achieve complete cervical dilation require high doses of oxytocin. We identified maternal, fetal and labor factors that characterize this group of parturients.

  3. A prospective, randomized study of cryotherapy during administration of high-dose melphalan to decrease the severity and duration of oral mucositis in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation.

    PubMed

    Lilleby, K; Garcia, P; Gooley, T; McDonnnell, P; Taber, R; Holmberg, L; Maloney, D G; Press, O W; Bensinger, W

    2006-06-01

    Forty patients with multiple myeloma scheduled to receive melphalan 200 mg/m(2) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation were randomly assigned to receive oral cryotherapy or room temperature normal saline rinses 30 min before and for 6 h after high-dose therapy. Patients were evaluated for the development of mucositis using the National Cancer Institute grading system as well as evaluation of secondary measures such as days of total parenteral nutrition (TPN), narcotic use, hospitalization, weight loss and resumption of oral caloric intake for 28 days after transplant. Patients self-scored their pain, swallowing, drinking, eating, sleeping and taste alterations for 28 days. The primary end point of this trial was the incidence of grades 3-4 mucositis. Compared to the normal saline group, patients using cryotherapy experienced less grade 3-4 mucositis, 14 vs 74%, P=0.0005. Patients receiving cryotherapy also had statistically lower uses of narcotics and TPN, although there were no differences in length of hospitalization or weight loss. Patient-reported pain was significantly lower and activities were significantly better in the cryotherapy group.

  4. Prophylactic low-dose aspirin is effective antithrombotic therapy for combination treatments of thalidomide or lenalidomide in myeloma.

    PubMed

    Niesvizky, Ruben; Martínez-Baños, Déborah; Jalbrzikowski, Jessica; Christos, Paul; Furst, Jessica; De Sancho, Maria; Mark, Tomer; Pearse, Roger; Mazumdar, Madhu; Zafar, Faiza; Pekle, Karen; Leonard, John; Jayabalan, David; Coleman, Morton

    2007-12-01

    Multiple myeloma (MM) patients have a propensity for thromboembolic events (TE), and treatment with thalidomide/dexamethasone or lenalidomide/dexamethasone increases this risk. This report describes the use of low-dose aspirin (81 mg) as primary thromboprophylaxis in three series of MM patients receiving thalidomide or lenalidomide with other drugs. In the first regimen (clarithromycin, thalidomide, dexamethasone), initiation of low-dose aspirin negated the occurrence of any further TE. In a second study, prophylactic aspirin given with thalidomide/dexamethasone resulted in a rate of TE similar to that seen with dexamethasone alone (without aspirin). A third study (n = 72) evaluated thrombosis rates with aspirin and a lenalidomide-containing regimen (clarithromycin, lenalidomide, dexamethasone). Of nine occurrences of thromboembolism, five were associated with aspirin interruption or poor compliance. Low-dose aspirin appears to reduce the incidence of thrombosis with these regimens. Routine use of aspirin as antithrombotic prophylaxis in MM patients receiving immunomodulatory drugs with corticosteroids is warranted.

  5. G-CSF plus preemptive plerixafor vs hyperfractionated CY plus G-CSF for autologous stem cell mobilization in multiple myeloma: effectiveness, safety and cost analysis.

    PubMed

    Antar, A; Otrock, Z K; Kharfan-Dabaja, M A; Ghaddara, H A; Kreidieh, N; Mahfouz, R; Bazarbachi, A

    2015-06-01

    The optimal stem cell mobilization regimen for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) remains undefined. We retrospectively compared our experience in hematopoietic cell mobilization in 83 MM patients using fractionated high-dose CY and G-CSF with G-CSF plus preemptive plerixafor. All patients in the CY group (n=56) received fractionated high-dose CY (5 g/m(2) divided into five doses of 1 g/m(2) every 3 h) with G-CSF. All patients in the plerixafor group (n=27) received G-CSF and plerixafor preemptively based on an established algorithm. Compared with plerixafor, CY use was associated with higher total CD34+ cell yield (7.5 × 10(6) vs 15.5 × 10(6) cells/kg, P=0.005). All patients in both groups yielded ⩾4 × 10(6) CD34+ cells/kg. Conversely, CY use was associated with high frequency of febrile neutropenia, blood and platelet transfusions need and hospitalizations. The average total cost of mobilization in Lebanon was slightly higher in the plerixafor group ($7886 vs $7536; P=0.16). Our data indicate robust stem cell mobilization in MM patients with either fractionated high-dose CY and G-CSF or G-CSF alone with preemptive plerixafor. The chemo-mobilization approach was associated with twofold stem cell yield, slightly lower cost but significantly increased toxicity.

  6. MO-D-BRC-04: Multiple-Criteria Optimization Planning

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Donaghue, J.

    Treatment planning is a central part of radiation therapy, including delineation in tumor volumes and critical organs, setting treatment goals of prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs, and finally generation of treatment plans to meet the treatment goals. National groups like RTOG have led the effort to standardize treatment goals of the prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs based on accumulated knowledge from decades of abundant clinical trial experience. The challenge for each clinical department is how to achieve or surpass these set goals within themore » time constraints of clinical practice. Using fifteen testing cases from different treatment sites such as head and neck, prostate with and without pelvic lymph nodes, SBRT spine, we will present clinically utility of advanced planning tools, including knowledge based, automatic based, and multiple criteria based tools that are clinically implemented. The objectives of this session are: Understand differences among these three advanced planning tools Provide clinical assessments on the utility of the advanced planning tools Discuss clinical challenges of treatment planning with large variations in tumor volumes and their relationships with adjacent critical organs. Ping Xia received research grant from Philips. Jackie Wu received research grant from Varian; P. Xia, Research support by Philips and Varian; Q. Wu, NIH, Varian Medical.« less

  7. Pharmacokinetics of voriconazole after oral administration of single and multiple doses in African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus timneh).

    PubMed

    Flammer, Keven; Nettifee Osborne, Julie A; Webb, Donna J; Foster, Laura E; Dillard, Stacy L; Davis, Jennifer L

    2008-01-01

    To determine the pharmacokinetics and safety of orally administered voriconazole in African grey parrots. 20 clinically normal Timneh African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus timneh). In single-dose trials, 12 parrots were each administered 6, 12, and 18 mg of voriconazole/kg orally and plasma concentrations of voriconazole were determined via high-pressure liquid chromatography. In a multiple-dose trial, voriconazole (18 mg/kg) was administered orally to 6 birds every 12 hours for 9 days; a control group (2 birds) received tap water. Treatment effects were assessed via observation, clinicopathologic analyses (3 assessments), and measurement of trough plasma voriconazole concentrations (2 assessments). Voriconazole's elimination half-life was short (1.1 to 1.6 hours). Higher doses resulted in disproportional increases in the maximum plasma voriconazole concentration and area under the curve. Trough plasma voriconazole concentrations achieved in the multiple-dose trial were lower than those achieved after administration of single doses. Polyuria (the only adverse treatment effect) developed in treated and control birds but was more severe in the treatment group. In African grey parrots, voriconazole has dose-dependent pharmacokinetics and may induce its own metabolism. Oral administration of 12 to 18 mg of voriconazole/kg twice daily is a rational starting dose for treatment of African grey parrots infected with Aspergillus or other fungal organisms that have a minimal inhibitory concentration for voriconazole < or = 0.4 microg/mL. Higher doses may be needed to maintain plasma voriconazole concentrations during long-term treatment. Safety and efficacy of various voriconazole treatment regimens in this species require investigation.

  8. Long-term effects of intragastic instillations of BDNPF:BDNPA in male Sprague-Dawley rats and female Swiss-Webster mice

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Smith, D.M.; Drake, G.A.; London, J.E.

    1981-07-01

    Young male Sprague-Dawley rats were given a single dose of 1.3 g/kg body weight (BW) bis-dinitro-propyl-formal:bisdinitro-propyl-acetal (BDNPF:BDNPA) intragastrically (IG) and young female Swiss-Webster mice were given BDNPF:BDNPA either as a single dose (800 mg/kg/Bw) IG or a dose (500 mg/kg/BW) IG on each of 5 consecutive days. All animals were then maintained for the durations of their life spans and autopsied at death. The incidence of testicular Leydig cell tumors and subcutaneous fibrosarcomas in rats receiving the material was significantly elevated compared to controls, though treated animals' life spans were not significantly different from those of control animals. No significantmore » effects were seen in any of the mice receiving either a single dose or multiple doses of BDNPF:BDNPA compared to control animals. We suggest that another species of male Laboratory animals be treated with BDNPF:BDNPA to see if these findings can be replicated.« less

  9. Dose to the Developing Dentition During Therapeutic Irradiation: Organ at Risk Determination and Clinical Implications

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Thompson, Reid F., E-mail: Reid.Thompson@uphs.upenn.edu; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Schneider, Ralf A., E-mail: ralf.schneider@psi.ch

    Purpose: Irradiation of pediatric facial structures can cause severe impairment of permanent teeth later in life. We therefore focused on primary and permanent teeth as organs at risk, investigating the ability to identify individual teeth in children and infants and to correlate dose distributions with subsequent dental toxicity. Methods and Materials: We retrospectively reviewed 14 pediatric patients who received a maximum dose >20 Gy(relative biological effectiveness, RBE) to 1 or more primary or permanent teeth between 2003 and 2009. The patients (aged 1-16 years) received spot-scanning proton therapy with 46 to 66 Gy(RBE) in 23 to 33 daily fractions formore » a variety of tumors, including rhabdomyosarcoma (n=10), sarcoma (n=2), teratoma (n=1), and carcinoma (n=1). Individual teeth were contoured on axial slices from planning computed tomography (CT) scans. Dose-volume histogram data were retrospectively obtained from total calculated delivered treatments. Dental follow-up information was obtained from external care providers. Results: All primary teeth and permanent incisors, canines, premolars, and first and second molars were identifiable on CT scans in all patients as early as 1 year of age. Dose-volume histogram analysis showed wide dose variability, with a median 37 Gy(RBE) per tooth dose range across all individuals, and a median 50 Gy(RBE) intraindividual dose range across all teeth. Dental follow-up revealed absence of significant toxicity in 7 of 10 patients but severe localized toxicity in teeth receiving >20 Gy(RBE) among 3 patients who were all treated at <4 years of age. Conclusions: CT-based assessment of dose distribution to individual teeth is feasible, although delayed calcification may complicate tooth identification in the youngest patients. Patterns of dental dose exposure vary markedly within and among patients, corresponding to rapid dose falloff with protons. Severe localized dental toxicity was observed in a few patients receiving the largest doses of radiation at the youngest ages; however, multiple factors including concurrent chemotherapy confounded the dose-effect relationship. Further studies with larger cohorts and appropriate controls will be required.« less

  10. Evaluation of Rifampin's Transporter Inhibitory and CYP3A Inductive Effects on the Pharmacokinetics of Venetoclax, a BCL-2 Inhibitor: Results of a Single- and Multiple-Dose Study.

    PubMed

    Agarwal, Suresh K; Hu, Beibei; Chien, David; Wong, Shekman L; Salem, Ahmed Hamed

    2016-11-01

    Venetoclax is a selective, potent, first-in-class B-cell lymphoma-2 inhibitor that has demonstrated clinical efficacy in a variety of hematological malignancies. A single-dose and multiple-dose rifampin study was conducted to evaluate the effect of CYP3A induction and transporter inhibition on the pharmacokinetics of venetoclax. Subjects received a single dose of venetoclax 200 mg on day 1 of period 1 and days 1 and 14 of period 2, a single dose of rifampin 600 mg on day 1 of period 2, and rifampin 600 mg once daily on days 5 through 17 of period 2. Blood samples were collected up to 96 hours after each venetoclax dose on day 1 of period 1 and days 1 and 14 of period 2. Compared with venetoclax alone, coadministration with a single dose of rifampin increased venetoclax C max and AUC ∞ by 106% (90%CI, 73%-145%) and 78% (90%CI, 50%-111%), respectively, whereas coadministration with multiple doses of rifampin decreased venetoclax C max and AUC ∞ by 42% (90%CI, 31%-52%) and 71% (90%CI, 66%-76%), respectively. It was possible to isolate the net effect of chronic CYP3A induction from acute P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibition by comparing venetoclax exposures following coadministration with multiple doses of rifampin versus a single dose of rifampin, which showed that CYP3A induction decreased venetoclax C max and AUC by 72% and 84%, respectively. These results are consistent with venetoclax being a P-gp substrate and indicate that CYP3A plays a major role in venetoclax metabolism. Prescribers should consider agents with little or no CYP3A induction during treatment with venetoclax. © 2016, The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

  11. Topical administration of regorafenib eye drops: phase I dose‐escalation study in healthy volunteers

    PubMed Central

    Höchel, Joachim; Becka, Michael; Boettger, Michael K.; Rohde, Beate; Schug, Barbara; Kunert, Kathleen S.; Donath, Frank

    2018-01-01

    Aim Regorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor under investigation for use in neovascular age‐related macular degeneration. In this phase I study, regorafenib eye drops were administered to healthy volunteers to provide information on safety, tolerability and systemic exposure. Methods This was a single‐centre, randomized, double‐masked, parallel‐group, dose‐escalation, placebo‐controlled study. Subjects received regorafenib eye drops (30 mg ml−1, 25 μl) as a 0.75 mg single dose (Cohort 1), 0.75 mg twice daily (bid) or thrice daily (tid) over 14 days (Cohorts 2 and 3, respectively), 1.5 mg tid unilaterally for 3 days, then bilaterally for up to 14 days (Cohort 4), or placebo. Plasma samples were taken to estimate systemic exposure. Safety and functional assessments were performed throughout the study. Results Thirty‐six subjects received regorafenib and 12 received placebo. Regorafenib was safe and well tolerated over the dose range. No pathological changes occurred in the anterior, vitreous or posterior eye compartments. Mild eyelid redness, oedema and conjunctival hyperaemia were observed across all regorafenib cohorts; these were comparable with the effects seen with placebo. Predominant symptoms were blurred vision in the active and placebo groups. Systemic safety evaluations showed no clinically relevant findings. Absolute systemic exposure after multiple administrations of regorafenib eye drops at a dose of 0.75 mg was 600–700‐fold lower than after multiple oral administration of 160 mg day−1, the dose approved in cancer indications. Conclusion These results indicate a favourable safety and tolerability profile of regorafenib eye drops up to 30 mg ml−1 tid for use in clinical studies. PMID:29315699

  12. The role of radiation therapy in the management of plasma cell tumors.

    PubMed

    Mill, W B; Griffith, R

    1980-02-15

    A retrospective review is reported of 128 patients presenting with multiple myeloma and 16 patients presenting with solitary plasmacytoma. Ninety-one percent of 116 evaluable patients treated for palliation of painful bone disease received some degree of subjective pain relief. The radiation dose most frequently prescribed was between 1500 and 2000 rad. Of the 278 ports treated, only 17 (6.1%) were re-treated to the same area at a later date. There was no increase in incidence of re-treatment with lower radiation doses. Ten of the 13 patients treated for a solitary plasmacytoma with a minumum follow-up period of three years have local tumor control. The median survival in the solitary plasmacytomas is five and one-half years. Data from the literature on 27 additional solitary plasmacytomas combined with our data suggest an improved local control and a decrease in dissemination with doses greater than 5000 rad. It is concluded that low doses of radiation are usually adequate to treat painful bone lesions of multiple myeloma and doses of 5000-6500 rad in six to seven weeks are recommended for solitary plasmacytomas.

  13. Changes in magnetic resonance imaging disease measures over 3 years in mildly disabled patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis receiving interferon β-1a in the COGnitive Impairment in MUltiple Sclerosis (COGIMUS) study

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Background Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has improved the diagnosis and monitoring of multiple sclerosis (MS). In clinical trials, MRI has been found to detect treatment effects with greater sensitivity than clinical measures; however, clinical and MRI outcomes tend to correlate poorly. Methods In this observational study, patients (n = 550; 18-50 years; relapsing-remitting MS [Expanded Disability Status Scale score ≤4.0]) receiving interferon (IFN) β-1a therapy (44 or 22 µg subcutaneously [sc] three times weekly [tiw]) underwent standardized MRI, neuropsychological and quality-of-life (QoL) assessments over 3 years. In this post hoc analysis, MRI outcomes and correlations between MRI parameters and clinical and functional outcomes were analysed. Results MRI data over 3 years were available for 164 patients. T2 lesion and T1 gadolinium-enhancing (Gd+) lesion volumes, but not black hole (BH) volumes, decreased significantly from baseline to Year 3 (P < 0.0001). Percentage decreases (baseline to Year 3) were greater with the 44 μg dose than with the 22 μg dose for T2 lesion volume (-10.2% vs -4.5%, P = 0.025) and T1 BH volumes (-7.8% vs +10.3%, P = 0.002). A decrease in T2 lesion volume over 3 years predicted stable QoL over the same time period. Treatment with IFN β-1a, 44 μg sc tiw, predicted an absence of cognitive impairment at Year 3. Conclusion Subcutaneous IFN β-1a significantly decreased MRI measures of disease, with a significant benefit shown for the 44 µg over the 22 µg dose; higher-dose treatment also predicted better cognitive outcomes over 3 years. PMID:21999142

  14. Real-life GH dosing patterns in children with GHD, TS or born SGA: a report from the NordiNet® International Outcome Study.

    PubMed

    Blankenstein, Oliver; Snajderova, Marta; Blair, Jo; Pournara, Effie; Pedersen, Birgitte Tønnes; Petit, Isabelle Oliver

    2017-08-01

    To describe real-life dosing patterns in children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD), born small for gestational age (SGA) or with Turner syndrome (TS) receiving growth hormone (GH) and enrolled in the NordiNet International Outcome Study (IOS; Nbib960128) between 2006 and 2016. This non-interventional, multicentre study included paediatric patients diagnosed with GHD (isolated (IGHD) or multiple pituitary hormone deficiency (MPHD)), born SGA or with TS and treated according to everyday clinical practice from the Czech Republic (IGHD/MPHD/SGA/TS: n  = 425/61/316/119), France ( n  = 1404/188/970/206), Germany ( n  = 2603/351/1387/411) and the UK ( n  = 259/60/87/35). GH dosing was compared descriptively across countries and indications. Proportions of patients by GH dose group (low/medium/high) or GH dose change (decrease/increase/no change) during years 1 and 2 were also evaluated across countries and indications. In the Czech Republic, GH dosing was generally within recommended levels. In France, average GH doses were higher for patients with IGHD, MPHD and SGA than in other countries. GH doses in TS tended to be at the lower end of the recommended label range, especially in Germany and the UK; the majority of patients were in the low-dose group. A significant inverse association between baseline height standard deviation score and GH dose was shown ( P  < 0.05); shorter patients received higher doses. Changes in GH dose, particularly increases, were more common in the second (40%) than in the first year (25%). GH dosing varies considerably across countries and indications. In particular, almost half of girls with TS received GH doses below practice guidelines and label recommendations. © 2017 The authors.

  15. Repeated doses of cardiac mesenchymal cells are therapeutically superior to a single dose in mice with old myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Guo, Yiru; Wysoczynski, Marcin; Nong, Yibing; Tomlin, Alex; Zhu, Xiaoping; Gumpert, Anna M; Nasr, Marjan; Muthusamy, Senthikumar; Li, Hong; Book, Michael; Khan, Abdur; Hong, Kyung U; Li, Qianhong; Bolli, Roberto

    2017-03-01

    We have recently demonstrated that repeated administrations of c-kit POS cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) have cumulative beneficial effects in rats with old myocardial infarction (MI), resulting in markedly greater improvement in left ventricular (LV) function compared with a single administration. To determine whether this paradigm applies to other species and cell types, mice with a 3-week-old MI received one or three doses of cardiac mesenchymal cells (CMCs), a novel cell type that we have recently described. CMCs or vehicle were infused percutaneously into the LV cavity, 14 days apart. Compared with vehicle-treated mice, the single-dose group exhibited improved LV ejection fraction (EF) after the 1st infusion (consisting of CMCs) but not after the 2nd and 3rd (vehicle). In contrast, in the multiple-dose group, LV EF improved after each CMC infusion, so that at the end of the study, LV EF averaged 35.5 ± 0.7% vs. 32.7 ± 0.6% in the single-dose group (P < 0.05). The multiple-dose group also exhibited less collagen in the non-infarcted region vs. the single-dose group. Engraftment and differentiation of CMCs were negligible in both groups, indicating paracrine effects. These results demonstrate that, in mice with ischemic cardiomyopathy, the beneficial effects of three doses of CMCs are significantly greater than those of one dose, supporting the concept that multiple treatments are necessary to properly evaluate the full therapeutic potential of cell therapy. Thus, the repeated-treatment paradigm is not limited to c-kit POS CPCs or to rats, but applies to other cell types and species. The generalizability of this concept dramatically augments its significance.

  16. Propofol intravenous conscious sedation for anxious children in a specialist paediatric dentistry unit.

    PubMed

    Hosey, M T; Makin, A; Jones, R M; Gilchrist, F; Carruthers, M

    2004-01-01

    To report on both the use and dosage of propofol, as a new intravenous (IV) conscious sedative agent, for anxious children referred to a specialist paediatric dentistry service. Paediatric Dentistry Unit, Glasgow Dental Hospital and School. Thirty-four children, 25 females and 9 males, mean age 12 years 10 months, with a mean weight of 54.6 kg (range 30-110 kg). Report from 34 patients receiving intravenous sedation for the first time in respect of weight dose and amount of treatment completed. Thirty-two children successfully accepted operative dental care on their first visit, they received a mean total dose of 146.25 mg of propofol (range 10 mg to 356 mg); in relation to body weight, the mean was 2.5 mg/kg (range 0.2-5.4 mg/kg). The treatment that they received included fissure sealants, amalgam and adhesive restorations, root canal therapy and single and multiple extractions. Their sedation and recovery were uneventful. Sub-anaesthetic doses of propofol used for IV conscious sedation infusion facilitated operative dental treatment in anxious children.

  17. Intrathecal Baclofen Dosing Regimens: A Retrospective Chart Review.

    PubMed

    Clearfield, Jacob S; Nelson, Mary Elizabeth S; McGuire, John; Rein, Lisa E; Tarima, Sergey

    2016-08-01

    To examine dosing patterns in patients receiving baclofen via intrathecal baclofen pumps to assess for common patterns by diagnosis, ambulation ability, and affected limbs distribution. This trial study included 25 patients with baclofen pumps selected from the 356 patients enrolled in our center's baclofen pump program. Selection was done by splitting all patients into diagnostic categories of stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic/anoxic brain injury, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury, and then, five patients were randomly selected from each diagnosis.A systematic chart review was then conducted for each patient from Jan 1, 2008, through September 16, 2013, to look at factors including mean daily dose at end of study, and among those implanted during the study mean initial stable dose and time to initial stable dose. Analysis of mean daily dose across diagnoses found significant differences, with brain injury, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury patients having higher doses while multiple sclerosis and stroke patients required lower doses. Nonambulatory patients strongly trended to have higher daily doses than ambulatory patients. Similar trends of mean initial stable dose being higher in a similar pattern as that of end mean daily dose were seen according to diagnoses and ambulatory status, although statistical significance could not be achieved with the small sample size. Significant differences in dosing were found between diagnoses and trended to differ by ambulatory status at the end of the study, and similar trends could be observed in achieving initial stable dose. © 2015 International Neuromodulation Society.

  18. Inclisiran in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk with Elevated LDL Cholesterol.

    PubMed

    Ray, Kausik K; Landmesser, Ulf; Leiter, Lawrence A; Kallend, David; Dufour, Robert; Karakas, Mahir; Hall, Tim; Troquay, Roland P T; Turner, Traci; Visseren, Frank L J; Wijngaard, Peter; Wright, R Scott; Kastelein, John J P

    2017-04-13

    In a previous study, a single injection of inclisiran, a chemically synthesized small interfering RNA designed to target PCSK9 messenger RNA, was found to produce sustained reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels over the course of 84 days in healthy volunteers. We conducted a phase 2, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-ascending-dose trial of inclisiran administered as a subcutaneous injection in patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease who had elevated LDL cholesterol levels. Patients were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of placebo or 200, 300, or 500 mg of inclisiran or two doses (at days 1 and 90) of placebo or 100, 200, or 300 mg of inclisiran. The primary end point was the change from baseline in LDL cholesterol level at 180 days. Safety data were available through day 210, and data on LDL cholesterol and proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels were available through day 240. A total of 501 patients underwent randomization. Patients who received inclisiran had dose-dependent reductions in PCSK9 and LDL cholesterol levels. At day 180, the least-squares mean reductions in LDL cholesterol levels were 27.9 to 41.9% after a single dose of inclisiran and 35.5 to 52.6% after two doses (P<0.001 for all comparisons vs. placebo). The two-dose 300-mg inclisiran regimen produced the greatest reduction in LDL cholesterol levels: 48% of the patients who received the regimen had an LDL cholesterol level below 50 mg per deciliter (1.3 mmol per liter) at day 180. At day 240, PCSK9 and LDL cholesterol levels remained significantly lower than at baseline in association with all inclisiran regimens. Serious adverse events occurred in 11% of the patients who received inclisiran and in 8% of the patients who received placebo. Injection-site reactions occurred in 5% of the patients who received injections of inclisiran. In our trial, inclisiran was found to lower PCSK9 and LDL cholesterol levels among patients at high cardiovascular risk who had elevated LDL cholesterol levels. (Funded by the Medicines Company; ORION-1 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02597127 .).

  19. Phase I Trial of Anti-CS1 Monoclonal Antibody Elotuzumab in Combination With Bortezomib in the Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma

    PubMed Central

    Jakubowiak, Andrzej J.; Benson, Don M.; Bensinger, William; Siegel, David S.D.; Zimmerman, Todd M.; Mohrbacher, Ann; Richardson, Paul G.; Afar, Daniel E.H.; Singhal, Anil K.; Anderson, Kenneth C.

    2012-01-01

    Purpose To evaluate the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), safety, and efficacy of elotuzumab in combination with bortezomib in patients with relapsed or relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (MM). Patients and Methods Elotuzumab (2.5, 5.0, 10, or 20 mg/kg intravenously [IV]) and bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2 IV) were administered on days 1 and 11 and days 1, 4, 8, and 11, respectively, in 21-day cycles by using a 3 + 3 dose-escalation design. Patients with stable disease or better after four cycles could continue treatment until disease progression or unexpected toxicity. Responses were assessed during each cycle by using European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) criteria. Results Twenty-eight patients with a median of two prior therapies were enrolled; three patients each received 2.5, 5.0, and 10 mg/kg of elotuzumab and 19 received 20 mg/kg (six during dose escalation and 13 during an expansion phase). No dose-limiting toxicities were observed during cycle 1 of the dose-escalation phase, and the MTD was not reached up to the maximum planned dose of 20 mg/kg. The most frequent grade 3 to 4 adverse events (AEs) were lymphopenia (25%) and fatigue (14%). Two elotuzumab-related serious AEs of chest pain and gastroenteritis occurred in one patient. An objective response (a partial response or better) was observed in 13 (48%) of 27 evaluable patients and in two (67%) of three patients refractory to bortezomib. Median time to progression was 9.46 months. Conclusion The combination of elotuzumab and bortezomib was generally well-tolerated and showed encouraging activity in patients with relapsed/refractory MM. PMID:22291084

  20. Lack of Effect of Vortioxetine on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Ethanol, Diazepam, and Lithium.

    PubMed

    Chen, Grace; Nomikos, George G; Affinito, John; Zhao, Zhen

    2016-09-01

    Because the multimodal antidepressant vortioxetine is likely to be coadministered with other central nervous system (CNS)-active drugs, potential drug-drug interactions warrant examination. These studies evaluated whether there are pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic interactions between vortioxetine and ethanol, diazepam, or lithium. This series of phase I studies included healthy men and women (only men in the lithium study) aged 18-45 years. The ethanol study was a randomized, double-blind, two-parallel group, four-period crossover study in which subjects received a single dose of vortioxetine (20 or 40 mg) or placebo with or without ethanol, and the diazepam study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-sequence, two-period crossover study in which subjects received a single dose of diazepam following multiple doses of vortioxetine 10 mg/day or placebo. These two studies evaluated the effect of coadministration on standardized psychomotor parameters and on selected pharmacokinetic parameters of each drug. The lithium study was a single-blind, single-sequence study evaluating the effect of multiple doses of vortioxetine 10 mg/day on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of lithium. Concomitant administration of vortioxetine and single doses of either ethanol or diazepam had no significant effect on the psychomotor performance of subjects compared with administration of ethanol or diazepam alone. Vortioxetine had no significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of ethanol, diazepam, or lithium, and ethanol had no significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of vortioxetine. Concomitant administration of these agents with vortioxetine was generally well tolerated, with no clinically relevant drug-drug pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions identified.

  1. Atomoxetine pharmacokinetics in healthy Chinese subjects and effect of the CYP2D6*10 allele.

    PubMed

    Cui, Yi M; Teng, Choo H; Pan, Alan X; Yuen, Eunice; Yeo, Kwee P; Zhou, Ying; Zhao, Xia; Long, Amanda J; Bangs, Mark E; Wise, Stephen D

    2007-10-01

    To characterize atomoxetine pharmacokinetics, explore the effect of the homozygous CYP2D6*10 genotype on atomoxetine pharmacokinetics and evaluate the tolerability of atomoxetine, in healthy Chinese subjects. Twenty-four subjects, all CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers (EM), were randomized to receive atomoxetine (40 mg qd for 3 days, then 80 mg qd for 7 days) or matching placebo (2 : 1 ratio) in a double-blind fashion. Atomoxetine serum concentrations were measured following single (40 mg) and multiple (80 mg) doses. Adverse events, clinical safety laboratory data and vital signs were assessed during the study. Atomoxetine was rapidly absorbed with median time to maximum serum concentrations of approximately 1.5 h after single and multiple doses. Atomoxetine concentrations appeared to decrease monoexponentially with a mean apparent terminal half-life (t(1/2)) of approximately 4 h. The apparent clearance, apparent volume of distribution and t(1/2) following single and multiple doses were similar, suggesting linear pharmacokinetics with respect to time. Homozygous CYP2D6*10 subjects had 50% lower clearances compared with other EM subjects, resulting in twofold higher mean exposures. No clinically significant changes or abnormalities were noted in laboratory data and vital signs. The pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine in healthy Chinese subjects appears comparable to other ethnic populations. Multiple dosing of 80 mg qd atomoxetine was well tolerated in this study.

  2. Short-term, high-dose glucocorticoid treatment does not contribute to reduced bone mineral density in patients with multiple sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Olsson, A; Oturai, D B; Sørensen, P S; Oturai, P S; Oturai, A B

    2015-10-01

    Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at increased risk of reduced bone mineral density (BMD). A contributing factor might be treatment with high-dose glucocorticoids (GCs). The objective of this paper is to assess bone mass in patients with MS and evaluate the importance of short-term, high-dose GC treatment and other risk factors that affect BMD in patients with MS. A total of 260 patients with MS received short-term high-dose GC treatment and had their BMD measured by dual x-ray absorptiometry. BMD was compared to a healthy age-matched reference population (Z-scores). Data regarding GCs, age, body mass index (BMI), serum 25(OH)D, disease duration and severity were collected retrospectively and analysed in a multiple linear regression analysis to evaluate the association between each risk factor and BMD. Osteopenia was present in 38% and osteoporosis in 7% of the study population. Mean Z-score was significantly below zero, indicating a decreased BMD in our MS patients. Multiple linear regression analysis showed no significant association between GCs and BMD. In contrast, age, BMI and disease severity were independently associated with both lumbar and femoral BMD. Reduced BMD was prevalent in patients with MS. GC treatment appears not to be the primary underlying cause of secondary osteoporosis in MS patients. © The Author(s), 2015.

  3. Treatment Patterns and Early Outcomes of ALK-Positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Receiving Ceritinib: A Chart Review Study.

    PubMed

    Bendaly, Edmond; Dalal, Anand A; Culver, Kenneth; Galebach, Philip; Bocharova, Iryna; Foster, Rebekah; Sasane, Medha; Macalalad, Alexander R; Guérin, Annie

    2017-05-01

    This study aimed to provide the first real-world description of the characteristics, treatments, dosing patterns, and early outcomes of patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received ceritinib in US clinical practice. US oncologists provided data from medical charts of adult patients diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic ALK-positive NSCLC who received ceritinib following crizotinib. Patient characteristics, treatment patterns, ceritinib dosing, early outcomes, and occurrence of gastrointestinal adverse events (AEs) by dose and instructions on food intake were assessed, and Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to describe clinician-defined progression-free survival (PFS) on ceritinib. Medical charts of 58 ALK-positive NSCLC patients treated with ceritinib were reviewed (median age 63 years; 41% male; 21% with prior chemotherapy experience). At ceritinib initiation, 44 patients had multiple distant metastases, most commonly in the liver (60%), bone (53%), and brain (38%). Initial ceritinib dose varied: 71% received 750 mg, 19% 600 mg, and 10% 450 mg. Although median follow-up after ceritinib initiation was short (3.8 months), most patients achieved either a complete or partial response (69%) on ceritinib, regardless of metastatic sites present at initiation or initial dose. Median PFS on ceritinib was 12.9 months. 17% of patients had a gastrointestinal AE reported during follow-up. The majority of events occurred in patients instructed to fast; no patients instructed to take a lower dose of ceritinib with food reported gastrointestinal AEs. These early findings of ceritinib use in clinical practice suggest that ceritinib is effective at treating crizotinib-experienced ALK-positive NSCLC patients, regardless of metastatic sites or initial dose, and dosing ceritinib with food may lead to fewer gastrointestinal AEs. Future studies with larger sample size and longer follow-up are warranted, including an ongoing randomized trial to assess the gastrointestinal tolerability of ceritinib 450 and 600 mg with low-fat meals. Novartis Pharmaceutical Corporation.

  4. Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of doravirine, a novel HIV non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, after single and multiple doses in healthy subjects.

    PubMed

    Anderson, Matt S; Gilmartin, Jocelyn; Cilissen, Caroline; De Lepeleire, Inge; Van Bortel, Luc; Dockendorf, Marissa F; Tetteh, Ernestina; Ancona, June K; Liu, Rachael; Guo, Ying; Wagner, John A; Butterton, Joan R

    2015-01-01

    Doravirine is a novel non-nucleoside inhibitor of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase with potent activity against wild-type virus (95% inhibitory concentration 19 nM, 50% human serum). Doravirine has low potential to cause drug-drug interactions since it is primarily eliminated by oxidative metabolism and does not inhibit or significantly induce drug-metabolizing enzymes. The pharmacokinetics and safety of doravirine were investigated in two double-blind, dose-escalation studies in healthy males. Thirty-two subjects received single doses of doravirine (6-1,200 mg) or matching placebo tablets; 40 subjects received doravirine (30-750 mg) or matching placebo tablets once daily for 10 days. In addition, the effect of doravirine (120 mg for 14 days) on single-dose pharmacokinetics of the CYP3A substrate midazolam was evaluated (10 subjects). The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of doravirine was achieved within 1-5 h with an apparent terminal half-life of 12-21 h. Consistent with single-dose pharmacokinetics, steady state was achieved after approximately 7 days of once daily administration, with accumulation ratios (day 10/day 1) of 1.1-1.5 in the area under the plasma concentration-time curve during the dosing interval (AUC0-24 h), Cmax and trough plasma concentration (C24 h). All dose levels produced C24 h>19 nM. Administration of 50 mg doravirine with a high-fat meal was associated with slight elevations in AUC time zero to infinity (AUC0-∞) and C24 h with no change in Cmax. Midazolam AUC0-∞ was slightly reduced by coadministration of doravirine (geometric mean ratio 0.82, 90% CI 0.70, 0.97). There was no apparent relationship between adverse event frequency or intensity and doravirine dose. No rash or significant central nervous system events other than headache were reported. Doravirine is generally well tolerated in single doses up to 1,200 mg and multiple doses up to 750 mg once daily for up to 10 days, with a pharmacokinetic profile supportive of once-daily dosing. Doravirine at steady state slightly reduced the exposure of coadministered midazolam, to a clinically unimportant extent.

  5. OCCUPATIONAL RADIATION DOSES TO OPERATORS PERFORMING FLUOROSCOPICALLY-GUIDED PROCEDURES

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Kwang Pyo; Miller, Donald L.; de Gonzalez, Amy Berrington; Balter, Stephen; Kleinerman, Ruth A.; Ostroumova, Evgenia; Simon, Steven L.; Linet, Martha S.

    2012-01-01

    In the past 30 years, the numbers and types of fluoroscopically-guided (FG) procedures have increased dramatically. The objective of the present study is to provide estimated radiation doses to physician specialists, other than cardiologists, who perform FG procedures. We searched Medline to identify English-language journal articles reporting radiation exposures to these physicians. We then identified several primarily therapeutic FG procedures that met specific criteria: well-defined procedures for which there were at least five published reports of estimated radiation doses to the operator, procedures performed frequently in current medical practice, and inclusion of physicians from multiple medical specialties. These procedures were percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), vertebroplasty, orthopedic extremity nailing for treatment of fractures, biliary tract procedures, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation (TIPS), head/neck endovascular therapeutic procedures, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We abstracted radiation doses and other associated data, and estimated effective dose to operators. Operators received estimated doses per patient procedure equivalent to doses received by interventional cardiologists. The estimated effective dose per case ranged from 1.7 – 56μSv for PCNL, 0.1 – 101 μSv for vertebroplasty, 2.5 – 88μSv for orthopedic extremity nailing, 2.0 – 46μSv for biliary tract procedures, 2.5 – 74μSv for TIPS, 1.8 – 53μSv for head/neck endovascular therapeutic procedures, and 0.2 – 49μSv for ERCP. Overall, mean operator radiation dose per case measured over personal protective devices at different anatomic sites on the head and body ranged from 19 – 800 (median = 113) μSv at eye level, 6 – 1180 (median = 75)μSv at the neck, and 2 – 1600 (median = 302) μSv at the trunk. Operators’ hands often received greater doses than the eyes, neck or trunk. Large variations in operator doses suggest that optimizing procedure protocols and proper use of protective devices and shields might reduce occupational radiation dose substantially. PMID:22647920

  6. Methemoglobinemia Secondary to Topical Benzocaine Application to Gastrostomy Site.

    PubMed

    Lipton, Matthew; Szlam, Sarah M; Barker, Kim; Benitez, John G

    2016-05-01

    Benzocaine is a common topical anesthetic that has the ability to induce methemoglobinemia (MetHgb) in large doses. We describe a 4-year-old girl who received a standard dose of topical benzocaine to her gastrostomy mucosa that resulted in rapid, severe MetHgb. She required intubation, mechanical ventilation, and multiple doses of methylene blue for treatment. The resultant tissue hypoxia from MetHgb caused profound confusion, cyanosis, and myocardial infarction. Although the patient did not sustain any permanent disability, this case demonstrates the need for emergency providers to rapidly identify and treat MetHgb to reverse tissue hypoxia and prevent long-term sequelae.

  7. Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of sumatriptan suppositories following single and multiple doses in healthy volunteers.

    PubMed

    Kunka, R L; Hussey, E K; Shaw, S; Warner, P; Aubert, B; Richard, I; Fowler, P A; Pakes, G E

    1997-06-01

    A suppository formulation of the 5HT1 agonist sumatriptan could prove an important therapeutic option in migraine patients who dislike or poorly tolerate injectable therapy and where oral tablet administration is unsuitable because of severe migraine-related vomiting. Two independent double-blind, randomized clinical studies were conducted to evaluate the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of sumatriptan suppositories following ascending single doses (four different dose levels) and multiple doses. In the four-period, crossover, single-dose study, 24 healthy male subjects were randomized to receive a suppository containing 12.5, 25, 50, or 100 mg on separate occasions 3-14 days apart. The suppositories were generally well tolerated; transient asthenia, drowsiness, and headache were the most frequently reported adverse events, and these were not dose-related. Peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) of sumatriptan were proportional to dose from 25 to 100 mg; area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC infinity) values were proportional to dose except at the highest doses, when they were greater than those predicted from lower doses. For all doses, the tmax of sumatriptan occurred within 2.5 h, and the t1/2 was approximately 2 h. In the two-period, placebo-controlled, crossover, repeat-dose study, 12 healthy adult male subjects were randomized to receive either a 50-mg sumatriptan suppository or placebo suppository, administered rectally twice a day, for 11 doses (5 1/2 days). Adverse events were no more frequent with sumatriptan than with placebo, and stool guaiac, rectal examinations, and physical examinations remained normal. No significant differences were noted between Day 1 and Day 6 values in the AUC, Cmax, time of peak serum concentration (tmax), elimination half-life (t 1/2), fraction of the dose excreted in the urine (fe), or renal clearance (Clr) of sumatriptan or its pharmacologically inactive indole acetic acid metabolite. Serum metabolite concentrations were two to three-fold higher than corresponding sumatriptan concentrations. No clinically significant accumulation of sumatriptan or its metabolite occurred. Overall, these studies show that sumatriptan administration via a suppository formulation is well tolerated, allows rapid absorption of sumatriptan, results in sumatriptan Cmax values that are proportional to dose from 25 to 100 mg, and is not associated with accumulation of sumatriptan or its metabolite.

  8. Cardiovascular and Metabolic Effects of ANGPTL3 Antisense Oligonucleotides.

    PubMed

    Graham, Mark J; Lee, Richard G; Brandt, Teresa A; Tai, Li-Jung; Fu, Wuxia; Peralta, Raechel; Yu, Rosie; Hurh, Eunju; Paz, Erika; McEvoy, Bradley W; Baker, Brenda F; Pham, Nguyen C; Digenio, Andres; Hughes, Steven G; Geary, Richard S; Witztum, Joseph L; Crooke, Rosanne M; Tsimikas, Sotirios

    2017-07-20

    Epidemiologic and genomewide association studies have linked loss-of-function variants in ANGPTL3, encoding angiopoietin-like 3, with low levels of plasma lipoproteins. We evaluated antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) targeting Angptl3 messenger RNA (mRNA) for effects on plasma lipid levels, triglyceride clearance, liver triglyceride content, insulin sensitivity, and atherosclerosis in mice. Subsequently, 44 human participants (with triglyceride levels of either 90 to 150 mg per deciliter [1.0 to 1.7 mmol per liter] or >150 mg per deciliter, depending on the dose group) were randomly assigned to receive subcutaneous injections of placebo or an antisense oligonucleotide targeting ANGPTL3 mRNA in a single dose (20, 40, or 80 mg) or multiple doses (10, 20, 40, or 60 mg per week for 6 weeks). The main end points were safety, side-effect profile, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic measures, and changes in levels of lipids and lipoproteins. The treated mice had dose-dependent reductions in levels of hepatic Angptl3 mRNA, Angptl3 protein, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, as well as reductions in liver triglyceride content and atherosclerosis progression and increases in insulin sensitivity. After 6 weeks of treatment, persons in the multiple-dose groups had reductions in levels of ANGPTL3 protein (reductions of 46.6 to 84.5% from baseline, P<0.01 for all doses vs. placebo) and in levels of triglycerides (reductions of 33.2 to 63.1%), LDL cholesterol (1.3 to 32.9%), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (27.9 to 60.0%), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (10.0 to 36.6%), apolipoprotein B (3.4 to 25.7%), and apolipoprotein C-III (18.9 to 58.8%). Three participants who received the antisense oligonucleotide and three who received placebo reported dizziness or headache. There were no serious adverse events. Oligonucleotides targeting mouse Angptl3 retarded the progression of atherosclerosis and reduced levels of atherogenic lipoproteins in mice. Use of the same strategy to target human ANGPTL3 reduced levels of atherogenic lipoproteins in humans. (Funded by Ionis Pharmaceuticals; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02709850 .).

  9. Skin-sparing Helical Tomotherapy vs 3D-conformal Radiotherapy for Adjuvant Breast Radiotherapy: In Vivo Skin Dosimetry Study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Capelle, Lisa; Warkentin, Heather; MacKenzie, Marc

    Purpose: We investigated whether treatment-planning system (TPS)-calculated dose accurately reflects skin dose received for patients receiving adjuvant breast radiotherapy (RT) with standard three-dimensional conformal RT (3D-CRT) or skin-sparing helical tomotherapy (HT). Methods and Materials: Fifty patients enrolled in a randomized controlled trial investigating acute skin toxicity from adjuvant breast RT with 3D-CRT compared to skin-sparing HT, where a 5-mm strip of ipsilateral breast skin was spared. Thermoluminescent dosimetry or optically stimulated luminescence measurements were made in multiple locations and were compared to TPS-calculated doses. Skin dosimetric parameters and acute skin toxicity were recorded in these patients. Results: With HT theremore » was a significant correlation between calculated and measured dose in the medial and lateral ipsilateral breast (r = 0.67, P<.001; r = 0.44, P=.03, respectively) and the medial and central contralateral breast (r = 0.73, P<.001; r = 0.88, P<.001, respectively). With 3D-CRT there was a significant correlation in the medial and lateral ipsilateral breast (r = 0.45, P=.03; r = 0.68, P<.001, respectively); the medial and central contralateral breast (r = 0.62, P=.001; r = 0.86, P<.001, respectively); and the mid neck (r = 0.42, P=.04, respectively). On average, HT-calculated dose overestimated the measured dose by 14%; 3D-CRT underestimated the dose by 0.4%. There was a borderline association between highest measured skin dose and moist desquamation (P=.05). Skin-sparing HT had greater skin homogeneity (homogeneity index of 1.39 vs 1.65, respectively; P=.005) than 3D-CRT plans. HT plans had a lower skin{sub V50} (1.4% vs 5.9%, respectively; P=.001) but higher skin{sub V40} and skin{sub V30} (71.7% vs 64.0%, P=.02; and 99.0% vs 93.8%, P=.001, respectively) than 3D-CRT plans. Conclusion: The 3D-CRT TPS more accurately reflected skin dose than the HT TPS, which tended to overestimate dose received by 14% in patients receiving adjuvant breast RT.« less

  10. Sirolimus and tacrolimus trough concentrations and dose requirements after kidney transplantation in relation to CYP3A5 and MDR1 polymorphisms and steroids.

    PubMed

    Mourad, Michel; Mourad, Georges; Wallemacq, Pierre; Garrigue, Valérie; Van Bellingen, Christophe; Van Kerckhove, Valérie; De Meyer, Martine; Malaise, Jacques; Eddour, Djamila Chaib; Lison, Dominique; Squifflet, Jean Paul; Haufroid, Vincent

    2005-10-15

    CYP3A5 and MDR1 polymorphisms have been shown to influence tacrolimus blood concentrations and dose requirements. The aim is to determine whether these polymorphisms also affect sirolimus trough concentrations and dose requirements after kidney transplantation. Eighty-five renal transplant recipients receiving sirolimus were included. Twenty-four were treated with a combined sirolimus-tacrolimus regimen. Eighty-one patients received steroids. Sirolimus and tacrolimus were adjusted to a target therapeutic window. CYP3A5 (intron 3) and MDR1 (exons 12, 21, 26) genotypes were correlated to the adjusted trough concentrations and dose requirements for both sirolimus and tacrolimus. There were no significant correlation between adjusted sirolimus trough concentrations or dose requirements and genetic polymorphisms. In a multiple regression model, adjusted-prednisone dose was involved with a positive or negative effect when considering sirolimus dose requirements or adjusted concentrations, respectively. In the subgroup of patients treated by tacrolimus and sirolimus, adjusted tacrolimus doses were higher in patients carrying at least one CYP3A5 *1 allele (median 0.083 vs. 0.035 mg/kg for CYP3A5*3/*3 patients, P<0.05). Adjusted-prednisolone dose and CYP3A5 polymorphism explained up to 61% of the variability in tacrolimus dose requirements. Unlike tacrolimus, sirolimus adjusted trough concentrations and dose requirements seem not affected by CYP3A5 and MDR1 polymorphisms. Adjusted-prednisone dose has a significant impact on tacrolimus and sirolimus dose requirements.

  11. Safety and immunogenicity of ricin vaccine, RVEc™, in a Phase 1 clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Pittman, Phillip R; Reisler, Ronald B; Lindsey, Changhong Y; Güereña, Fernando; Rivard, Robert; Clizbe, Denise P; Chambers, Matthew; Norris, Sarah; Smith, Leonard A

    2015-12-16

    Ricin is a potent toxin and potential bioterrorism weapon for which no specific licensed countermeasures are available. We report the safety and immunogenicity of the ricin vaccine RVEc™ in a Phase 1 (N=30) multiple-dose, open-label, non-placebo-controlled, dose-escalating (20, 50, and 100μg), single-center study. Each subject in the 20- and 50-μg dose groups (n=10 for each group) received three injections at 4-week intervals and was observed carefully for untoward effects of the vaccine; blood was drawn at predetermined intervals after each dose for up to 1 year. RVEc™ was safe and well tolerated at the 20- and 50-μg doses. The most common adverse events were pain at the injection site and headache. Of the 10 subjects who received a single 100-μg dose, two developed elevated creatine phosphokinase levels, which resolved without sequelae. No additional doses were administered to subjects in the 100-μg group. Immunogenicity of the vaccine was evaluated by measuring antibody response using the well standardized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and toxin neutralization assay (TNA). Of the subjects in the 20- and 50-μg dose groups, 100% achieved ELISA anti-ricin IgG titers of 1:500 to 1:121,500 and 50% produced neutralizing anti-ricin antibodies measurable by TNA. Four subjects in the 50-μg group received a single booster dose of RVEc™ 20-21 months after the initial dose. The single booster was safe and well tolerated, resulting in no serious adverse events, and significantly enhanced immunogenicity of the vaccine in human subjects. Each booster recipient developed a robust anamnestic response with ELISA anti-ricin IgG titers of 1:13,500 to 1:121,500 and neutralizing antibody titers of 1:400 to 1:3200. Future studies will attempt to optimize dose, scheduling, and route of administration. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01317667 and NCT01846104). Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  12. Standard and Nonstandard Craniospinal Radiotherapy Using Helical TomoTherapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Parker, William, E-mail: william@medphys.mcgill.c; Brodeur, Marylene; Roberge, David

    2010-07-01

    Purpose: To show the advantages of planning and delivering craniospinal radiotherapy with helical TomoTherapy (TomoTherapy Inc., Madison, WI) by presenting 4 cases treated at our institution. Methods and Materials: We first present a standard case of craniospinal irradiation in a patient with recurrent myxopapillary ependymoma (MPE) and follow this with 2 cases requiring differential dosing to multiple target volumes. One of these, a patient with recurrent medulloblastoma, required a lower dose to be delivered to the posterior fossa because the patient had been previously irradiated to the full dose, and the other required concurrent boosts to leptomeningeal metastases as partmore » of his treatment for newly diagnosed MPE. The final case presented is a patient with pronounced scoliosis who required spinal irradiation for recurrent MPE. Results: The four cases presented were planned and treated successfully with Helical Tomotherapy. Conclusions: Helical TomoTherapy delivers continuous arc-based intensity-modulated radiotherapy that gives high conformality and excellent dose homogeneity for the target volumes. Increased healthy tissue sparing is achieved at higher doses albeit at the expense of larger volumes of tissue receiving lower doses. Helical TomoTherapy allows for differential dosing of multiple targets, resulting in very elegant dose distributions. Daily megavoltage computed tomography imaging allows for precision of patient positioning, permitting a reduction in planning margins and increased healthy tissue sparing in comparison with standard techniques.« less

  13. Evaluation of the Pharmacokinetics of Single- and Multiple-dose Buprenorphine Buccal Film in Healthy Volunteers.

    PubMed

    Bai, Stephen A; Xiang, Qinfang; Finn, Andrew

    2016-02-01

    Buprenorphine, a partial μ-receptor agonist, is approved for the management of moderate to severe pain, but it has low oral bioavailability. Two open-label studies were performed to determine the pharmacokinetic profile of buprenorphine from buccal film formulations of buprenorphine. Both studies enrolled healthy volunteers, aged 18 to 55 years, who received concurrent oral naltrexone to reduce adverse events (AEs); subjects with a history or evidence of substance abuse or current use of any product affecting cytochrome P450 3A4 activity were excluded. The first study (n = 25) was a 5-period crossover trial with 4 single doses (75 and 300 and 300 and 1200 μg) of 2 formulations (F14 and F24) of buccal buprenorphine (BBUP) and a 300-μg intravenous dose of buprenorphine with a 7-day washout between periods. In the second study, each subject (n = 10) received 6 doses of 4 BBUP strengths (60, 120, 180, and 240 μg BID) in a dose-escalation design. Plasma concentrations of buprenorphine and norbuprenorphine were assayed, and pharmacokinetics were summarized with descriptive statistics and analyzed by using a linear mixed effects model (single-dose study). AEs were recorded. In the single-dose study, the 2 formulations exhibited comparable bioavailability of 46% to 51% that was independent of dose, with a single buprenorphine peak concentration from each BBUP dose occurring at 2.5 to 3 hours. The mean buprenorphine Cmax across the doses ranged from 0.17 ng/mL for the 75-µg dose to 1.43 ng/mL for the 1200-µg dose. AUC0-∞, AUC0-last, and Cmax were proportional to the dose of BBUP administered. Cmax of norbuprenorphine after BBUP administration was approximately one tenth that of buprenorphine Cmax. In the multiple-dose study, steady state was reached within 3 days of BID dosing. There was a linear increase in exposure across the dose range from 60 to 240 μg BID. Treatment-emergent AEs in both studies were consistent with those reported with opiate administration to healthy volunteers. The absolute bioavailability of BBUP was 46% to 51% across a 16-fold dose range, with dose-proportional increases in systemic exposure. Apparent steady-state conditions occurred within 3 days of dosing. These pharmacokinetic results suggest that therapeutic buprenorphine plasma concentrations can be obtained with BBUP across a wide dose range in a shorter time than other (eg, transdermal) dosage forms. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Buckley, L; Lambert, C; Nyiri, B

    Purpose: To standardize the tube calibration for Elekta XVI cone beam CT (CBCT) systems in order to provide a meaningful estimate of the daily imaging dose and reduce the variation between units in a large centre with multiple treatment units. Methods: Initial measurements of the output from the CBCT systems were made using a Farmer chamber and standard CTDI phantom. The correlation between the measured CTDI and the tube current was confirmed using an Unfors Xi detector which was then used to perform a tube current calibration on each unit. Results: Initial measurements showed measured tube current variations of upmore » to 25% between units for scans with the same image settings. In order to reasonably estimate the imaging dose, a systematic approach to x-ray generator calibration was adopted to ensure that the imaging dose was consistent across all units at the centre and was adopted as part of the routine quality assurance program. Subsequent measurements show that the variation in measured dose across nine units is on the order of 5%. Conclusion: Increasingly, patients receiving radiation therapy have extended life expectancies and therefore the cumulative dose from daily imaging should not be ignored. In theory, an estimate of imaging dose can be made from the imaging parameters. However, measurements have shown that there are large differences in the x-ray generator calibration as installed at the clinic. Current protocols recommend routine checks of dose to ensure constancy. The present study suggests that in addition to constancy checks on a single machine, a tube current calibration should be performed on every unit to ensure agreement across multiple machines. This is crucial at a large centre with multiple units in order to provide physicians with a meaningful estimate of the daily imaging dose.« less

  15. HIV-1 Expression Within Resting CD4+ T Cells After Multiple Doses of Vorinostat

    PubMed Central

    Archin, Nancy M.; Bateson, Rosalie; Tripathy, Manoj K.; Crooks, Amanda M.; Yang, Kuo-Hsiung; Dahl, Noelle P.; Kearney, Mary F.; Anderson, Elizabeth M.; Coffin, John M.; Strain, Matthew C.; Richman, Douglas D.; Robertson, Kevin R.; Kashuba, Angela D.; Bosch, Ronald J.; Hazuda, Daria J.; Kuruc, Joann D.; Eron, Joseph J.; Margolis, David M.

    2014-01-01

    Background. A single dose of the histone deacetylase inhibitor vorinostat (VOR) up-regulates HIV RNA expression within resting CD4+ T cells of treated, aviremic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–positive participants. The ability of multiple exposures to VOR to repeatedly disrupt latency has not been directly measured, to our knowledge. Methods. Five participants in whom resting CD4+ T-cell–associated HIV RNA (rc-RNA) increased after a single dose of VOR agreed to receive daily VOR Monday through Wednesday for 8 weekly cycles. VOR serum levels, peripheral blood mononuclear cell histone acetylation, plasma HIV RNA single-copy assays, rc-RNA, total cellular HIV DNA, and quantitative viral outgrowth assays from resting CD4+ T cells were assayed. Results. VOR was well tolerated, with exposures within expected parameters. However, rc-RNA measured after dose 11 (second dose of cycle 4) or dose 22 (second dose of cycle 8) increased significantly in only 3 of the 5 participants, and the magnitude of the rc-RNA increase was much reduced compared with that after a single dose. Changes in histone acetylation were blunted. Results of quantitative viral outgrowth and other assays were unchanged. Conclusions. Although HIV latency is disrupted by an initial VOR dose, the effect of subsequent doses in this protocol was much reduced. We hypothesize that the global effect of VOR results in a refractory period of ≥24 hours. The optimal schedule for VOR administration is still to be defined. PMID:24620025

  16. Experimental Design for Multi-drug Combination Studies Using Signaling Networks

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Hengzhen; Fang, Hong-Bin; Tan, Ming T.

    2017-01-01

    Summary Combinations of multiple drugs are an important approach to maximize the chance for therapeutic success by inhibiting multiple pathways/targets. Analytic methods for studying drug combinations have received increasing attention because major advances in biomedical research have made available large number of potential agents for testing. The preclinical experiment on multi-drug combinations plays a key role in (especially cancer) drug development because of the complex nature of the disease, the need to reduce development time and costs. Despite recent progresses in statistical methods for assessing drug interaction, there is an acute lack of methods for designing experiments on multi-drug combinations. The number of combinations grows exponentially with the number of drugs and dose-levels and it quickly precludes laboratory testing. Utilizing experimental dose-response data of single drugs and a few combinations along with pathway/network information to obtain an estimate of the functional structure of the dose-response relationship in silico, we propose an optimal design that allows exploration of the dose-effect surface with the smallest possible sample size in this paper. The simulation studies show our proposed methods perform well. PMID:28960231

  17. Gadolinium Accumulation in the Deep Cerebellar Nuclei and Globus Pallidus After Exposure to Linear but Not Macrocyclic Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents in a Retrospective Pig Study With High Similarity to Clinical Conditions.

    PubMed

    Boyken, Janina; Frenzel, Thomas; Lohrke, Jessica; Jost, Gregor; Pietsch, Hubertus

    2018-05-01

    The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the gadolinium (Gd) concentration in different brain areas in a pig cohort that received repeated administration of Gd-based contrast agents (GBCAs) at standard doses over several years, comparable with a clinical setting. Brain tissue was collected from 13 Göttingen mini pigs that had received repeated intravenous injections of gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd-DTPA; Magnevist) and/or gadobutrol (Gadovist). The animals have been included in several preclinical imaging studies since 2008 and received cumulative Gd doses ranging from 7 to 129 mmol per animal over an extended period. Two animals with no history of administration of GBCA were included as controls. Brain autopsies were performed not earlier than 8 and not later than 38 months after the last GBCA application. Tissues from multiple brain areas including cerebellar and cerebral deep nuclei, cerebellar and cerebral cortex, and pons were analyzed for Gd using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Of the 13 animals, 8 received up to 48 injections of gadobutrol and Gd-DTPA and 5 received up to 29 injections of gadobutrol only. In animals that had received both Gd-DTPA and gadobutrol, a median (interquartile range) Gd concentration of 1.0 nmol/g tissue (0.44-1.42) was measured in the cerebellar nuclei and 0.53 nmol/g (0.29-0.62) in the globus pallidus. The Gd concentration in these areas in gadobutrol-only animals was 50-fold lower with median concentrations of 0.02 nmol/g (0.01-0.02) for cerebellar nuclei and 0.01 nmol/g (0.01-0.01) for globus pallidus and was comparable with control animals with no GBCA history. Accordingly, in animals that received both GBCAs, the amount of residual Gd correlated with the administered dose of Gd-DTPA (P ≤ 0.002) but not with the total Gd dose, consisting of Gd-DTPA and gadobutrol. The Gd concentration in cortical tissue and in the pons was very low (≤0.07 nmol/g tissue) in all animals analyzed. Multiple exposure to macrocyclic gadobutrol is not associated with Gd deposition in brain tissue of healthy pigs. A single additional administration of linear Gd-DTPA is sufficient for Gd accumulation in the nucleus dentatus and globus pallidus, underlining the importance of obtaining a complete GBCA history in clinical studies.

  18. Characterization of the disposition of fostamatinib in Japanese subjects including pharmacokinetic assessment in dry blood spots: results from two phase I clinical studies.

    PubMed

    Martin, Paul; Cheung, S Y Amy; Yen, Mark; Han, David; Gillen, Michael

    2016-01-01

    The aims of the present study were to characterize the pharmacokinetics of fostamatinib in two phase I studies in healthy Japanese subjects after single- and multiple-dose administration, and to evaluate the utility of dried blood spot (DBS) sampling. In study A, 40 Japanese and 16 white subjects were randomized in a double-blind parallel group study consisting of seven cohorts, which received either placebo or a fostamatinib dose between 50 and 200 mg after single and multiple dosing. Pharmacokinetics of R406 (active metabolite of fostamatinib) in plasma and urine was assessed, and safety was intensively monitored. Study B was an open-label study that assessed fostamatinib 100 and 200 mg in 24 Japanese subjects. In addition to plasma and urine sampling (as for study A), pharmacokinetics was also assessed in blood. Mean maximum plasma concentration (C max) and area under total plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) increased with increasing dose in Japanese subjects. Steady state was achieved in 5–7 days for all doses. C max and AUC were both higher in Japanese subjects administered a 150-mg single dose than in white subjects. This difference was maintained for steady state exposure by day 10. Overall, R406 blood concentrations were consistent and ∼2.5-fold higher than in plasma. Minimal (<0.1 %) R406 was excreted in urine. Fostamatinib was well tolerated at all doses. Fostamatinib pharmacokinetics following single- and multiple-dose administration was approximately dose proportional at all doses ≤150 mg and greater than dose proportional at 200 mg in Japanese subjects. Japanese subjects administered fostamatinib 150 mg had higher exposure than white subjects. R406 could be measured in DBS samples and distributed into red blood cells, and DBS sampling was a useful method for assessing R406 pharmacokinetics.

  19. Multicenter, Phase I, Dose-Escalation Trial of Lenalidomide Plus Bortezomib for Relapsed and Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma

    PubMed Central

    Richardson, Paul G.; Weller, Edie; Jagannath, Sundar; Avigan, David E.; Alsina, Melissa; Schlossman, Robert L.; Mazumder, Amitabha; Munshi, Nikhil C.; Ghobrial, Irene M.; Doss, Deborah; Warren, Diane L.; Lunde, Laura E.; McKenney, Mary; Delaney, Carol; Mitsiades, Constantine S.; Hideshima, Teru; Dalton, William; Knight, Robert; Esseltine, Dixie-Lee; Anderson, Kenneth C.

    2009-01-01

    Purpose Lenalidomide and bortezomib are active in relapsed and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM). In preclinical studies, lenalidomide sensitized MM cells to bortezomib and dexamethasone. This phase I, dose-escalation study (ie, NCT00153933) evaluated safety and determined the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) of lenalidomide plus bortezomib in patients with relapsed or with relapsed and refractory MM. Patients and Methods Patients received lenalidomide 5, 10, or 15 mg/d on days 1 through 14 and received bortezomib 1.0 or 1.3 mg/m2 on days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of 21-day cycles. Dexamethasone (20mg or 40 mg on days 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, and 12) was added for progressive disease after two cycles. Primary end points were safety and MTD determination. Results Thirty-eight patients were enrolled across six dose cohorts. The MTD was lenalidomide 15 mg/d plus bortezomib 1.0 mg/m2. Dose-limiting toxicities (n = 1 for each) were grade 3 hyponatremia and herpes zoster reactivation and grade 4 neutropenia. The most common treatment-related, grades 3 to 4 toxicities included reversible neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, and leukopenia. Among 36 response-evaluable patients, 61% (90% CI, 46% to 75%) achieved minimal response or better. Among 18 patients who had dexamethasone added, 83% (90% CI, 62% to 95%) achieved stable disease or better. Median overall survival was 37 months. Conclusion Lenalidomide plus bortezomib was well tolerated and showed promising activity with durable responses in patients with relapsed and relapsed/refractory MM, including patients previously treated with lenalidomide, bortezomib, and/or thalidomide. The combination of lenalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone is being investigated in a phase II study in this setting and in newly diagnosed MM. PMID:19786667

  20. Dose optimization of total or partial skin electron irradiation by thermoluminescent dosimetry.

    PubMed

    Schüttrumpf, Lars; Neumaier, Klement; Maihoefer, Cornelius; Niyazi, Maximilian; Ganswindt, Ute; Li, Minglun; Lang, Peter; Reiner, Michael; Belka, Claus; Corradini, Stefanie

    2018-05-01

    Due to the complex surface of the human body, total or partial skin irradiation using large electron fields is challenging. The aim of the present study was to quantify the magnitude of dose optimization required after the application of standard fields. Total skin electron irradiation (TSEI) was applied using the Stanford technique with six dual-fields. Patients presenting with localized lesions were treated with partial skin electron irradiation (PSEI) using large electron fields, which were individually adapted. In order to verify and validate the dose distribution, in vivo dosimetry with thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD) was performed during the first treatment fraction to detect potential dose heterogeneity and to allow for an individual dose optimization with adjustment of the monitor units (MU). Between 1984 and 2017, a total of 58 patients were treated: 31 patients received TSEI using 12 treatment fields, while 27 patients underwent PSEI and were treated with 4-8 treatment fields. After evaluation of the dosimetric results, an individual dose optimization was necessary in 21 patients. Of these, 7 patients received TSEI (7/31). Monitor units (MU) needed to be corrected by a mean value of 117 MU (±105, range 18-290) uniformly for all 12 treatment fields, corresponding to a mean relative change of 12% of the prescribed MU. In comparison, the other 14 patients received PSEI (14/27) and the mean adjustment of monitor units was 282 MU (±144, range 59-500) to single or multiple fields, corresponding to a mean relative change of 22% of the prescribed MU. A second dose optimization to obtain a satisfying dose at the prescription point was need in 5 patients. Thermoluminescent dosimetry allows an individual dose optimization in TSEI and PSEI to enable a reliable adjustment of the MUs to obtain the prescription dose. Especially in PSEI in vivo dosimetry is of fundamental importance.

  1. Cardiac dose reduction with deep inspiration breath hold for left-sided breast cancer radiotherapy patients with and without regional nodal irradiation.

    PubMed

    Yeung, Rosanna; Conroy, Leigh; Long, Karen; Walrath, Daphne; Li, Haocheng; Smith, Wendy; Hudson, Alana; Phan, Tien

    2015-09-22

    Deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) reduces heart and left anterior descending artery (LAD) dose during left-sided breast radiation therapy (RT); however there is limited information about which patients derive the most benefit from DIBH. The primary objective of this study was to determine which patients benefit the most from DIBH by comparing percent reduction in mean cardiac dose conferred by DIBH for patients treated with whole breast RT ± boost (WBRT) versus those receiving breast/chest wall plus regional nodal irradiation, including internal mammary chain (IMC) nodes (B/CWRT + RNI) using a modified wide tangent technique. A secondary objective was to determine if DIBH was required to meet a proposed heart dose constraint of Dmean < 4 Gy in these two cohorts. Twenty consecutive patients underwent CT simulation both free breathing (FB) and DIBH. Patients were grouped into two cohorts: WBRT (n = 11) and B/CWRT + RNI (n = 9). 3D-conformal plans were developed and FB was compared to DIBH for each cohort using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for continuous variables and McNemar's test for discrete variables. The percent relative reduction conferred by DIBH in mean heart and LAD dose, as well as lung V20 were compared between the two cohorts using Wilcox rank-sum testing. The significance level was set at 0.05 with Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. All patients had comparable target coverage on DIBH and FB. DIBH statistically significantly reduced mean heart and LAD dose for both cohorts. Percent reduction in mean heart and LAD dose with DIBH was significantly larger in the B/CWRT + RNI cohort compared to WBRT group (relative reduction in mean heart and LAD dose: 55.9 % and 72.1 % versus 29.2 % and 43.5 %, p < 0.02). All patients in the WBRT group and five patients (56 %) in the B/CWBRT + RNI group met heart Dmean <4 Gy with FB. All patients met this constraint with DIBH. All patients receiving WBRT met Dmean Heart < 4 Gy on FB, while only slightly over half of patients receiving B/CWRT + RNI were able to meet this constraint in FB. DIBH allowed a greater reduction in mean heart and LAD dose in patients receiving B/CWRT + RNI, including IMC nodes than patients receiving WBRT. These findings suggest greatest benefit from DIBH treatment for patients receiving regional nodal irradiation.

  2. Treatment of candidosis in severely injured adults with short-course, low-dose amphotericin B.

    PubMed

    Rosemurgy, A S; Drost, T F; Murphy, C G; Kearney, R E; Albrink, M H

    1990-12-01

    Thirty-three (0.7%) of 4,818 trauma patients admitted between January 1, 1987, and July 1, 1989, developed invasive candidosis requiring IV antifungal therapy. All patients were seriously traumatized. Before developing candidosis, all patients had documented bacterial infections. These infections were generally polymicrobial and were treated with multiple broad-spectrum antibiotics (an average of 5.4 antibiotics for 17.2 days). Twenty-eight (85%) of 33 patients received enteral feedings for an average of 11 days +/- 1.5 (SEM) before developing candidosis and 24 (73%) received NG/oral nystatin for an average of 7.6 days +/- 0.9 before developing candidosis. All patients with candidosis were treated with intravenous amphotericin B: cumulative dose of 157.3 mg +/- 31.3 mg given over 10 days +/- 1.1. One patient developed recurrent candidosis despite NG/oral prophylaxis and enteral feedings. Six patients (18%) died due to sepsis and multiple organ failure. The patients who died did not objectively differ from the survivors. Candidosis is an infrequent infection in severely injured patients. Candidosis was invariably preceded by treatment with multiple broad-spectrum antibiotics for a variety of polymicrobial bacterial infections. NG/oral nystatin and enteral feedings did not prevent candidosis, in contrast to widely accepted beliefs. Amphotericin B therapy was safe. Recurrent candidosis was unusual. Candida infections had a high mortality rate associated with multiple blood transfusions and prolonged hospitalization. Candidosis represents a sign of severe injury and illness but can be amenable to prompt, aggressive treatment.

  3. Immediate-Release Methylphenidate for ADHD in Children with Comorbid Chronic Multiple Tic Disorder

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gadow, Kenneth D.; Sverd, Jeffrey; Nolan, Edith E.; Sprafkin, Joyce; Schneider, Jayne

    2007-01-01

    Objective: To examine the safety and efficacy of immediate-release methylphenidate (MPH-IR) for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children (ages 6-12 years) with Tourette's syndrome (96%) or chronic motor tic disorder (4%). Method: Two cohorts of prepubertal children (N = 71) received placebo and three doses of…

  4. Pharmacokinetic characteristics of telaprevir in healthy Korean male subjects and comparisons with Japanese.

    PubMed

    Choi, Yewon; Yoon, Seonghae; Matsumoto, Kyoko; Ohta, Yoshiyasu; Lee, SeungHwan; Yu, Kyung-Sang; Jang, In-Jin

    2018-01-01

    Telaprevir, a reversible selective inhibitor of viral protease and a potential blocker of viral replication, is indicated for the treatment of hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection. In this study, the pharmacokinetic profile, safety, and tolerability of telaprevir and the effect of food on telaprevir exposure were evaluated in healthy Korean subjects, and compared with data from a previous study in Japanese male subjects. The single ascending dose study was conducted in 3 dose-based groups (500, 750, and 1,250 mg, six subjects each) in a fasted state. In the multiple dose study, eight subjects in the fed state received 750 mg of telaprevir once on Day 1 and every 8 hours from Day 2 until the morning of Day 6. Serial blood samples for pharmacokinetic analysis were collected for up to 24 hours in the single ascending dose study and for 6 days in the multiple dose study. Individual pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a non-compartmental analysis method. Safety and tolerability profiles were evaluated throughout the study. Following multiple administrations of telaprevir, maximum plasma concentrations (C max ), area under the concentration-time curve (AUC 0-8 ), and C trough (concentration at 8 h after drug administration) increased by ~2.41-fold. Compared to fasted state values, mean C max and AUC 0-24 increased by 4.92- and 4.81-fold, respectively, after food intake. The C max and AUC inf of Korean subjects were 26%-34% higher than those of Japanese subjects; however, these differences were not clinically significant. All observed adverse events were mild and there was no discontinuation due to AEs. In conclusion, the telaprevir's pharmacokinetic characteristics were similar in Korean and Japanese subjects. Telaprevir was well tolerated in a single dose of up to 1,250 mg and in multiple doses of 750 mg.

  5. Transfer of interferon alfa into human breast milk.

    PubMed

    Kumar, A R; Hale, T W; Mock, R E

    2000-08-01

    Originally assumed to be antiviral substances, the efficacy of interferons in a number of pathologies, including malignancies, multiple sclerosis, and other immune syndromes, is increasingly recognized. This study provides data on the transfer of interferon alfa (2B) into human milk of a patient receiving massive intravenous doses for the treatment of malignant melanoma. Following an intravenous dose of 30 million IU, the amount of interferon transferred into human milk was only slightly elevated (1551 IU/mL) when compared to control milk (1249 IU/mL). These data suggest that even following enormous doses, interferon is probably too large in molecular weight to transfer into human milk in clinically relevant amounts.

  6. Immunomodulatory effects of the Agaricus blazei Murrill-based mushroom extract AndoSan in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation: a randomized, double blinded clinical study.

    PubMed

    Tangen, Jon-Magnus; Tierens, Anne; Caers, Jo; Binsfeld, Marilene; Olstad, Ole Kristoffer; Trøseid, Anne-Marie Siebke; Wang, Junbai; Tjønnfjord, Geir Erland; Hetland, Geir

    2015-01-01

    Forty patients with multiple myeloma scheduled to undergo high dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell support were randomized in a double blinded fashion to receive adjuvant treatment with the mushroom extract AndoSan, containing 82% of Agaricus blazei Murrill (19 patients) or placebo (21 patients). Intake of the study product started on the day of stem cell mobilizing chemotherapy and continued until the end of aplasia after high dose chemotherapy, a period of about seven weeks. Thirty-three patients were evaluable for all study endpoints, while all 40 included patients were evaluable for survival endpoints. In the leukapheresis product harvested after stem cell mobilisation, increased percentages of Treg cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells were found in patients receiving AndoSan. Also, in this group, a significant increase of serum levels of IL-1ra, IL-5, and IL-7 at the end of treatment was found. Whole genome microarray showed increased expression of immunoglobulin genes, Killer Immunoglobulin Receptor (KIR) genes, and HLA genes in the Agaricus group. Furthermore, AndoSan displayed a concentration dependent antiproliferative effect on mouse myeloma cells in vitro. There were no statistically significant differences in treatment response, overall survival, and time to new treatment. The study was registered with Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00970021.

  7. Immunomodulatory Effects of the Agaricus blazei Murrill-Based Mushroom Extract AndoSan in Patients with Multiple Myeloma Undergoing High Dose Chemotherapy and Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation: A Randomized, Double Blinded Clinical Study

    PubMed Central

    Tierens, Anne; Caers, Jo; Binsfeld, Marilene; Olstad, Ole Kristoffer; Trøseid, Anne-Marie Siebke; Wang, Junbai; Tjønnfjord, Geir Erland; Hetland, Geir

    2015-01-01

    Forty patients with multiple myeloma scheduled to undergo high dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell support were randomized in a double blinded fashion to receive adjuvant treatment with the mushroom extract AndoSan, containing 82% of Agaricus blazei Murrill (19 patients) or placebo (21 patients). Intake of the study product started on the day of stem cell mobilizing chemotherapy and continued until the end of aplasia after high dose chemotherapy, a period of about seven weeks. Thirty-three patients were evaluable for all study endpoints, while all 40 included patients were evaluable for survival endpoints. In the leukapheresis product harvested after stem cell mobilisation, increased percentages of Treg cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells were found in patients receiving AndoSan. Also, in this group, a significant increase of serum levels of IL-1ra, IL-5, and IL-7 at the end of treatment was found. Whole genome microarray showed increased expression of immunoglobulin genes, Killer Immunoglobulin Receptor (KIR) genes, and HLA genes in the Agaricus group. Furthermore, AndoSan displayed a concentration dependent antiproliferative effect on mouse myeloma cells in vitro. There were no statistically significant differences in treatment response, overall survival, and time to new treatment. The study was registered with Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00970021. PMID:25664323

  8. First-in-human study of the toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of CG200745, a pan-HDAC inhibitor, in patients with refractory solid malignancies.

    PubMed

    Kim, Kyu-pyo; Park, Seong Joon; Kim, Jeong-Eun; Hong, Yong Sang; Lee, Jae-Lyun; Bae, Kyun-Seop; Cha, Hyunju; Kwon, Sool-Ki; Ro, Seonggu; Cho, JoongMyung; Kim, Tae Won

    2015-10-01

    The aim of the present study was to assess the safety, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and efficacy of single and multiple doses of intravenous CG200745, a novel histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, in patients with advanced solid malignancies. Two to six patients received intravenous CG200745 according to the 2 + 4 dose-escalating method. This first-in-human trial was comprised of two parts: Part 1 was a single ascending dose, and Part 2 was multiple ascending doses weekly for 3 weeks, and then 1 week off. For the first cycle, pharmacokinetic sampling for CG200745 and pharmacodynamic sampling for acetylated histone H4 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were performed on day 1 for Part 1 and on days 1 and 15 for Part 2. Examination of acetylated histone H4 in pre- and post-biopsy samples was performed in accessible patients. In all, 28 patients were treated at 13 dose levels (1.8-250 mg/m(2)) and received a total of 71 cycles of CG200745. Hematologic toxicities included grade 3/4 neutropenia (22.2 %) that did not last a week and non-hematologic toxicities included fatigue (22.2 %) and anorexia (16.7 %) that did not exceed grade 2. No dose-limiting toxic effects were noted. Dose proportionality was observed for both the maximum concentration and area under the curve. The elimination half-life was 5.67 ± 2.69 h (mean ± standard deviation). An increase in PBMC acetylated histone H4 was observed at dose levels up to 51 mg/m(2), which plateaued at higher dose levels. At 24 h, 75 % of patients (6/8) showed higher relative acetylation in tumor tissue compared to PBMCs. Although there was no partial or complete response, 57.1 % of patients (16/28) had stable disease that lasted at least 6 weeks. CG200745 can be safely administered at effective dose levels that inhibit HDAC in PBMCs and tumor tissue. Although MTD was not reached, further escalation was not performed because acetylated histone H4 plateaued at dose levels higher than 51 mg/m(2). Additional phase II trials are recommended at 250 mg/m(2).

  9. Higher serotonin transporter occupancy after multiple dose administration of escitalopram compared to citalopram: an [123I]ADAM SPECT study.

    PubMed

    Klein, Nikolas; Sacher, Julia; Geiss-Granadia, Thomas; Mossaheb, Nilufar; Attarbaschi, Trawat; Lanzenberger, Rupert; Spindelegger, Christoph; Holik, Alexander; Asenbaum, Susanne; Dudczak, Robert; Tauscher, Johannes; Kasper, Siegfried

    2007-04-01

    Previous studies have investigated the occupancy of the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) after clinical doses of citalopram and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In the present study, the occupancies of SERT after multiple doses of escitalopram and citalopram were compared using the radioligand [(123)I]ADAM and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Fifteen healthy subjects received escitalopram 10 mg/day (n = 6) or citalopram 20 mg/day (n = 9) for a total of 10 days. SERT occupancies in midbrain were determined with SPECT and [(123)I]ADAM at three different time points: at baseline (no medication) and at 6 and 54 h after last drug intake. At 6 h after the last dose, mean SERT occupancies were 81.5 +/- 5.4% (mean+/-SD) for escitalopram and 64.0 +/- 12.7% for citalopram (p < 0.01). At 54 h after the last dose, mean SERT occupancies were 63.3 +/- 12.1% for escitalopram and 49.0 +/- 11.7% for citalopram (p < 0.05). The plasma concentrations of the S-enantiomer were of the same magnitude in both substances. For both drugs, the elimination rate of the S-enantiomer in plasma was markedly higher than the occupancy decline rate in the midbrain. The significantly higher occupancy of SERT after multiple doses of escitalopram compared to citalopram indicates an increased inhibition of SERT by escitalopram. The results can also be explained by an attenuating effect of R-citalopram on the occupancy of S-citalopram at the SERT.

  10. Pharmacokinetics and safety of the selective progesterone receptor modulator vilaprisan in healthy postmenopausal women
.

    PubMed

    Schultze-Mosgau, Marcus-Hillert; Schuett, Barbara; Hafner, Frank-Thorsten; Zollmann, Frank; Kaiser, Andreas; Hoechel, Joachim; Rohde, Beate

    2017-01-01

    Vilaprisan is a novel, potent, and highly selective progesterone receptor modulator, which might offer a promising option for the treatment of uterine fibroids. In this randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group phase 1 study, the pharmacokinetics and safety of vilaprisan were investigated in healthy postmenopausal women. Subjects received a single oral dose of vilaprisan (1, 5, 15, or 30 mg) or placebo and - after a wash-out period - daily doses of the same strength over 28 days. Safety assessments included vital signs, ECGs, clinical laboratory tests, and adverse events. Blood samples for pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles were collected over 14 days after single dose (sd) and multiple dose (md; day 28). Vilaprisan was well tolerated. Mild to moderate adverse events occurred with similar frequency at all dose levels. Following single dose, maximum vilaprisan concentrations were observed 1 - 2 hours post-dose. Terminal half-lives ranged from 31 to 38 hours. Maximum concentrations of vilaprisan (Cmax) and exposure to vilaprisan (AUC) increased roughly dose-proportionally from 3.74 µg/L (1 mg) to 68.6 µg/L (30 mg) and 58.5 µg×h/L to 1,590 µg×h/L, respectively. With daily dosing, accumulation consistent with the long terminal half-life was observed (AUC(0-24)md/AUC(0-24)sd ratios: 1.9 to 3.2). The ratio AUC(0-24)md/AUCsd increased with dose from ~ 1 (1 mg) to 1.5 (30 mg). Exposure to vilaprisan increased roughly dose-proportionally in the dose range studied and accumulated after multiple dosing as expected based on t1/2, indicating linear pharmacokinetics of vilaprisan in the expected therapeutic dose range.
.

  11. Evaluation of multiple comparison correction procedures in drug assessment studies using LORETA maps.

    PubMed

    Alonso, Joan Francesc; Romero, Sergio; Mañanas, Miguel Ángel; Rojas, Mónica; Riba, Jordi; Barbanoj, Manel José

    2015-10-01

    The identification of the brain regions involved in the neuropharmacological action is a potential procedure for drug development. These regions are commonly determined by the voxels showing significant statistical differences after comparing placebo-induced effects with drug-elicited effects. LORETA is an electroencephalography (EEG) source imaging technique frequently used to identify brain structures affected by the drug. The aim of the present study was to evaluate different methods for the correction of multiple comparisons in the LORETA maps. These methods which have been commonly used in neuroimaging and also simulated studies have been applied on a real case of pharmaco-EEG study where the effects of increasing benzodiazepine doses on the central nervous system measured by LORETA were investigated. Data consisted of EEG recordings obtained from nine volunteers who received single oral doses of alprazolam 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg, and placebo in a randomized crossover double-blind design. The identification of active regions was highly dependent on the selected multiple test correction procedure. The combined criteria approach known as cluster mass was useful to reveal that increasing drug doses led to higher intensity and spread of the pharmacologically induced changes in intracerebral current density.

  12. Comparison of once-daily versus twice-daily combination of ropinirole prolonged release in Parkinson's disease.

    PubMed

    Yun, Ji Young; Kim, Han-Joon; Lee, Jee-Young; Kim, Young Eun; Kim, Ji Seon; Kim, Jong-Min; Jeon, Beom S

    2013-09-02

    Ropinirole prolonged release (RPR) is a once-daily formulation. However, there may be individual pharmacokinetic differences so that multiple dosing may be preferred in some individuals. This study compares once-daily and twice-daily RPR in patients with Parkinson's disease. This study was an open-label crossover study. We enrolled Parkinson's disease patients on dopamine agonist therapy with unsatisfactory control such as motor fluctuation, dyskinesia and sleep-related problems. Agonists were switched into equivalent dose of RPR. Subjects were consecutively enrolled into either once-daily first or twice-daily first groups, and received the same amount of RPR in a single and two divided dosing for 8 weeks respectively in a crossover manner without a washout period.The primary outcome was a questionnaire of the preference completed by patients in the last visit. The secondary outcome measures included the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part 3 (mUPDRS), Hoehn and Yahr stage (H&Y); sleep questionnaire including overall quality of sleep, nocturnal off symptoms and early morning symptoms; Epworth Sleep Scale (ESS); compliances and patient global impression (PGI). A total of 82 patients were enrolled and 61 completed the study. 31 patients preferred twice-daily regimen, 17 preferred the once-daily regimen, and 13 had no preference. Their mean mUPDRS, H&Y, ESS, sleep quality, compliance and adverse events were not statistically different in both regimens. PGI-improvement on wearing off defined was better in twice-daily dosing regimen. RPR is a once-daily formulation, but multiple dosing was preferred in many patients. Multiple dosing of RPR might be a therapeutic option if once-daily dosing is unsatisfactory.

  13. Concizumab, an anti-tissue factor pathway inhibitor antibody, induces increased thrombin generation in plasma from haemophilia patients and healthy subjects measured by the thrombin generation assay.

    PubMed

    Waters, E K; Sigh, J; Friedrich, U; Hilden, I; Sørensen, B B

    2017-09-01

    Concizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), is being developed as a subcutaneously (s.c.) administered treatment for haemophilia. It demonstrated a concentration-dependent procoagulant effect in functional TFPI assays; however, global haemostatic assays, such as the thrombin generation assay (TGA), offer a more complete picture of coagulation. We investigated how concizumab affects thrombin generation following ex vivo spiking in plasma from haemophilia patients using the TGA, and if the assay can detect the effect of multiple s.c. concizumab doses in healthy subjects. For the ex vivo spiking study, platelet-poor plasma (PPP) from 18 patients with severe haemophilia was spiked with 0.001-500 nm concizumab. For the multiple-dosing study, four healthy males received concizumab 250 μg kg -1 s.c. every other day for eight doses; blood was collected before and after dosing and processed into PPP. In both studies, thrombin generation was measured using a Calibrated Automated Thrombogram ® system with 1 pm tissue factor. In spiked samples from haemophilia patients, peak thrombin and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) increased concentration dependently, reaching near-normal levels at concizumab concentrations >10 nm. Repeated s.c. doses of concizumab in healthy subjects increased both peak thrombin and ETP; these effects were sustained throughout the dosing interval. Thrombin generation assay demonstrated increased thrombin generation with concizumab after ex vivo spiking of haemophilia plasma and multiple s.c. doses in healthy subjects, supporting both the utility of the TGA in evaluating concizumab treatment and the potential of s.c. concizumab as a novel haemophilia therapy. © 2017 The Authors. Haemophilia Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  14. Antifungal activity of HWA-138 and amphotericin B in experimental systemic candidiasis.

    PubMed Central

    Wasan, K M; Vadiei, K; Luke, D R; Keyhani, A; White, R A; McQueen, T J; Mehta, R; Lopez-Berestein, G

    1991-01-01

    HWA-138, a pentoxifylline analog, has been shown to increase yeast urinary clearance and to reduce yeast counts in the kidneys of rats infected with Candida albicans. Furthermore, HWA-138 has also been shown to prevent amphotericin B-induced acute renal failure in rats. We report here on the effects of HWA-138 alone and in combination with amphotericin B in the treatment of systemic candidiasis in mice. When single doses of HWA-138 were administered intravenously (10, 25, or 50 mg/kg of body weight) into infected mice, no significant improvement in survival was observed. In infected mice treated intravenously with multiple doses of HWA-138 (10, 25, or 50 mg/kg once daily for 5 consecutive days), a significant increase in survival time was seen only in animals also receiving 25 mg of HWA-138 per kg (14 +/- 3 days test versus 9 +/- 1 days control; P less than 0.05). The coadministration of subtherapeutic doses of amphotericin B and HWA-138 resulted in increased survival time. Combination therapy with amphotericin B (0.1-mg/kg single dose) and HWA-138 (10-, 25-, or 50-mg/kg multiple doses) resulted in a significant increase in survival time over controls (19 +/- 4, 19 +/- 5, and 21 +/- 9 days, respectively, versus 9 +/- 3 days; P less than 0.05). Combination therapy with amphotericin B (0.2-mg/kg single dose) and HWA-138 (10-, 25-, or 50-mg/kg multiple doses) also resulted in a significant increase in survival time over controls (24 +/- 6, 24 +/- 6, and 24 +/- 6, respectively, versus 9 +/- 3 days; P less than 0.05). Combination therapy with amphotericin B (0.2-mg/kg single dose) and HWA-138 (10-, 25-, or 50-mg/kg multiple doses) also resulted in a significant increase in survival time over controls (24 +/- 6, 24 +/- 6, and 24 +/- 6, respectively, versus 9 +/- 3 days; P < 0.05). Variance analysis of these findings indicate synergistic activity between amphotericin B and HWA-138 in the treatment of experimental candidiasis in mice. PMID:1759826

  15. The pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of blonanserin in healthy Chinese volunteers after single fasting doses and single and multiple postprandial doses.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xia; Wang, Hongyun; Jiang, Ji; Chen, Rui; Zhou, Ying; Zhong, Wen; Liu, Hongzhong; Hu, Pei

    2014-03-01

    Blonanserin is a novel atypical antipsychotic drug acting as a mixed serotonin 5-HT2A and dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics and safety of blonanserin in healthy Chinese males. This was an open-label trial with two parts. Twenty-four subjects were enrolled in part A to receive a single fasting dose of 4 or 8 mg blonanserin (each n = 12); part B recruited 12 subjects and administered single and sequentially twice-daily multiple postprandial doses of blonanserin 2 mg for 9 days. Serial blood samples were taken for the bioassay of plasma blonanserin and its four metabolites during both sub-studies. Safety was assessed, including repeat measurements of fasting serum prolactin, insulin, triglyceride and cholesterol. Blonanserin was rapidly absorbed, accompanied with immediate plasma concentration elevation of the N-oxide form (M2) and gradual rises of the N-deethylated form (M1) and its downstream metabolites. The mean elimination half-life of blonanserin (7.7-11.9 h) was much longer than that of M2 (1.2-1.3 h) but shorter than that of M1 (26.4-31.4 h) after single fasting doses. After food intake, a single dose of 2 mg blonanserin resulted in total exposure and peak concentrations of blonanserin similar to those observed with a single fasting dose of blonanserin 4 mg. Moreover, the relationship of metabolite over parent compound ratio was different between M1 and M2 after single and multiple postprandial administrations (single dose vs multiple dose: M1, 0.33 vs 0.75; M2, 0.13 vs 0.067). Mild but transient increases of prolactin, insulin and triglyceride were observed. The pharmacokinetics of blonanserin in Chinese subjects were similar to those observed in Japanese subjects. This study suggested that food intake not only increases the bioavailability of blonanserin but differently affects the pharmacokinetics of its metabolites as well. The drug was safe and well tolerated in healthy Chinese males.

  16. Combined effects of depleted uranium and ionising radiation on zebrafish embryos.

    PubMed

    Ng, C Y P; Pereira, S; Cheng, S H; Adam-Guillermin, C; Garnier-Laplace, J; Yu, K N

    2015-11-01

    In the environment, living organisms are exposed to a mixture of stressors, and the combined effects are deemed as multiple stressor effects. In the present work, the authors studied the multiple stressor effect in embryos of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) from simultaneous exposure to alpha particles and depleted uranium (DU) through quantification of apoptotic signals at 24 h post-fertilisation (hpf) revealed by vital dye acridine orange staining. In each set of experiments, dechorionated zebrafish embryos were divided into 4 groups, each having 10 embryos: Group (C) in which the embryos did not receive any further treatment; Group (IU) in which the embryos received an alpha-particle dose of 0.44 mGy at 5 hpf and were then exposed to 100 µg l(-1) of DU from 5 to 6 hpf; Group (I) in which the embryos received an alpha-particle dose of 0.44 mGy at 5 hpf and Group (U) in which the dechorionated embryos were exposed to 100 µg l(-1) of DU from 5 to 6 hpf. The authors confirmed that an alpha-particle dose of 0.44 mGy and a DU exposure for 1 h separately led to hormetic and toxic effects assessed by counting apoptotic signals, respectively, in the zebrafish. Interestingly, the combined exposure led to an effect more toxic than that caused by the DU exposure alone, so effectively DU changed the beneficial effect (hormesis) brought about by alpha-particle irradiation into an apparently toxic effect. This could be explained in terms of the promotion of early death of cells predisposed to spontaneous transformation by the small alpha-particle dose (i.e. hormetic effect) and the postponement of cell death upon DU exposure. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  17. Toxicity evaluation of methoxy poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(ε-caprolactone) polymeric micelles following multiple oral and intraperitoneal administration to rats.

    PubMed

    Binkhathlan, Ziyad; Qamar, Wajhul; Ali, Raisuddin; Kfoury, Hala; Alghonaim, Mohammed

    2017-09-01

    Methoxy poly(ethylene oxide)- block -poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PEO- b -PCL) copolymers are amphiphilic and biodegradable copolymers designed to deliver a variety of drugs and diagnostic agents. The aim of this study was to synthesize PEO- b -PCL block copolymers and assess the toxic effects of drug-free PEO- b -PCL micelles after multiple-dose administrations via oral or intraperitoneal (ip) administration in rats. Assembly of block copolymers was achieved by co-solvent evaporation method. To investigate the toxicity profile of PEO- b -PCL micelles, sixty animals were divided into two major groups: The first group received PEO- b -PCL micelles (100 mg/kg) by oral gavage daily for seven days, while the other group received the same dose of micelles by ip injections daily for seven days. Twenty-four hours following the last dose, half of the animals from each group were sacrificed and blood and organs (lung, liver, kidneys, heart and spleen) were collected. Remaining animals were observed for further 14 days and was sacrificed at the end of the third week, and blood and organs were collected. None of the polymeric micelles administered caused any significant effects on relative organ weight, animal body weight, leucocytes count, % lymphocytes, liver and kidney toxicity markers and organs histology. Although the dose of copolymers used in this study is much higher than those used for drug delivery, it did not cause any significant toxic effects in rats. Histological examination of all the organs confirmed the nontoxic nature of the micelles.

  18. Impact of dose reductions on efficacy outcome in heart transplant patients receiving enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium or mycophenolate mofetil at 12 months post-transplantation.

    PubMed

    Segovia, Javier; Gerosa, Gino; Almenar, Luis; Livi, Ugolino; Viganò, Mario; Arizón, Jose Maria; Yonan, Nizar; Di Salvo, Thomas G; Renlund, Dale G; Kobashigawa, Jon A

    2008-01-01

    Mycophenolic acid (MPA) dose reduction is associated with increased risk of rejection and graft loss in renal transplantation. This analysis investigated the impact of MPA dose changes with enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in de novo heart transplant recipients. In a 12-month, single-blind trial, 154 patients (EC-MPS, 78; MMF, 76) were randomized to either EC-MPS (1080 mg bid) or MMF (1500 mg bid) in combination with cyclosporine and steroids. The primary efficacy variable was the incidence of treatment failure, comprising a composite of biopsy-proven (BPAR) and treated acute rejection, graft loss or death. Significantly fewer patients receiving EC-MPS required > or =2 dose reductions than patients on MMF (26.9% vs. 42.1% of patients, p = 0.048). Accordingly, the average daily dose of EC-MPS as a percentage of the recommended dose was significantly higher than for MMF (88.4% vs. 79.0%, p = 0.016). Among patients requiring > or =1 dose reduction, the incidence of treated BPAR grade > or =3A was significantly lower with EC-MPS compared with MMF (23.4% vs. 44.0%, p = 0.032). These data suggest that EC-MPS-treated heart transplant patients are less likely to require multiple dose reductions than those on MMF which may be associated with a significantly lower risk of treated BPAR > or =3A.

  19. Induction of anti-glioma NK cell response following multiple low-dose intracerebral CpG therapy

    PubMed Central

    Alizadeh, Darya; Zhang, Leying; Brown, Christine E.; Farrukh, Omar; Jensen, Michael C.; Badie, Behnam

    2010-01-01

    Purpose Stimulation of toll-like receptor-9 (TLR9) by CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN) has been shown to counteract the immunosuppressive microenvironment and to inhibit tumor growth in glioma models. These studies, however, have used high doses of CpG-ODN which can induce toxicity in a clinical setting. The goal of this study was to evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of multiple low-dose intratumoral CpG- ODN in a glioma model. Experimental Design Mice bearing four-day old intracranial GL261 gliomas received a single or multiple (two or four) intratumoral injections of CpG-ODN (3 μg) every 4 days. Tumor growth was measured by bioluminescent imaging, brain histology, and animal survival. Flow cytometry and cytotoxicity assays were used to assess anti-glioma immune response. Results Two and four intracranial injections of low-dose CpG-ODN, but not a single injection, eradicated gliomas in 70% of mice. Moreover, surviving animals exhibited durable tumor free remission (> 3 months), and were protected from intracranial rechallenge with GL21 gliomas, demonstrating the capacity for long-term anti-tumor immunity. Although most inflammatory cells appeared to increase, activated NK cells (i.e. NK+CD107a+) were more frequent than CD8+CD107a+ in the brains of rechallenged CpG-ODN-treated animals and demonstrated a stronger in vitro cytotoxicity against GL261 target cells. Leukocyte depletion studies confirmed that NK cells played an important role in the initial CpG-ODN anti-tumor response, but both CD8 and NK cells were equally important in long-term immunity against gliomas. Conclusions These findings suggest that multiple low-dose intratumoral injections of CpG-ODN can eradicate intracranial gliomas possibly through mechanisms involving NK mediated effector function. PMID:20570924

  20. Induction of anti-glioma natural killer cell response following multiple low-dose intracerebral CpG therapy.

    PubMed

    Alizadeh, Darya; Zhang, Leying; Brown, Christine E; Farrukh, Omar; Jensen, Michael C; Badie, Behnam

    2010-07-01

    Stimulation of toll-like receptor-9 by CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN) has been shown to counteract the immunosuppressive microenvironment and to inhibit tumor growth in glioma models. These studies, however, have used high doses of CpG-ODN, which can induce toxicity in a clinical setting. The goal of this study was to evaluate the antitumor efficacy of multiple low-dose intratumoral CpG-ODN in a glioma model. Mice bearing 4-day-old intracranial GL261 gliomas received a single or multiple (two or four) intratumoral injections of CpG-ODN (3 microg) every 4 days. Tumor growth was measured by bioluminescent imaging, brain histology, and animal survival. Flow cytometry and cytotoxicity assays were used to assess anti-glioma immune response. Two and four intracranial injections of low-dose CpG-ODN, but not a single injection, eradicated gliomas in 70% of mice. Moreover, surviving animals exhibited durable tumor-free remission (> 3 months) and were protected from intracranial rechallenge with GL261 gliomas, showing the capacity for long-term antitumor immunity. Although most inflammatory cells seemed to increase, activated natural killer (NK) cells (i.e., NK(+)CD107a(+)) were more frequent than CD8(+)CD107a(+) in the brains of rechallenged CpG-ODN-treated animals and showed a stronger in vitro cytotoxicity against GL261 target cells. Leukocyte depletion studies confirmed that NK cells played an important role in the initial CpG-ODN antitumor response, but both CD8 and NK cells were equally important in long-term immunity against gliomas. These findings suggest that multiple low-dose intratumoral injections of CpG-ODN can eradicate intracranial gliomas possibly through mechanisms involving NK-mediated effector function.

  1. Multiple indicators, multiple causes measurement error models

    DOE PAGES

    Tekwe, Carmen D.; Carter, Randy L.; Cullings, Harry M.; ...

    2014-06-25

    Multiple indicators, multiple causes (MIMIC) models are often employed by researchers studying the effects of an unobservable latent variable on a set of outcomes, when causes of the latent variable are observed. There are times, however, when the causes of the latent variable are not observed because measurements of the causal variable are contaminated by measurement error. The objectives of this study are as follows: (i) to develop a novel model by extending the classical linear MIMIC model to allow both Berkson and classical measurement errors, defining the MIMIC measurement error (MIMIC ME) model; (ii) to develop likelihood-based estimation methodsmore » for the MIMIC ME model; and (iii) to apply the newly defined MIMIC ME model to atomic bomb survivor data to study the impact of dyslipidemia and radiation dose on the physical manifestations of dyslipidemia. Finally, as a by-product of our work, we also obtain a data-driven estimate of the variance of the classical measurement error associated with an estimate of the amount of radiation dose received by atomic bomb survivors at the time of their exposure.« less

  2. Multiple Indicators, Multiple Causes Measurement Error Models

    PubMed Central

    Tekwe, Carmen D.; Carter, Randy L.; Cullings, Harry M.; Carroll, Raymond J.

    2014-01-01

    Multiple Indicators, Multiple Causes Models (MIMIC) are often employed by researchers studying the effects of an unobservable latent variable on a set of outcomes, when causes of the latent variable are observed. There are times however when the causes of the latent variable are not observed because measurements of the causal variable are contaminated by measurement error. The objectives of this paper are: (1) to develop a novel model by extending the classical linear MIMIC model to allow both Berkson and classical measurement errors, defining the MIMIC measurement error (MIMIC ME) model, (2) to develop likelihood based estimation methods for the MIMIC ME model, (3) to apply the newly defined MIMIC ME model to atomic bomb survivor data to study the impact of dyslipidemia and radiation dose on the physical manifestations of dyslipidemia. As a by-product of our work, we also obtain a data-driven estimate of the variance of the classical measurement error associated with an estimate of the amount of radiation dose received by atomic bomb survivors at the time of their exposure. PMID:24962535

  3. Multiple indicators, multiple causes measurement error models

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tekwe, Carmen D.; Carter, Randy L.; Cullings, Harry M.

    Multiple indicators, multiple causes (MIMIC) models are often employed by researchers studying the effects of an unobservable latent variable on a set of outcomes, when causes of the latent variable are observed. There are times, however, when the causes of the latent variable are not observed because measurements of the causal variable are contaminated by measurement error. The objectives of this study are as follows: (i) to develop a novel model by extending the classical linear MIMIC model to allow both Berkson and classical measurement errors, defining the MIMIC measurement error (MIMIC ME) model; (ii) to develop likelihood-based estimation methodsmore » for the MIMIC ME model; and (iii) to apply the newly defined MIMIC ME model to atomic bomb survivor data to study the impact of dyslipidemia and radiation dose on the physical manifestations of dyslipidemia. Finally, as a by-product of our work, we also obtain a data-driven estimate of the variance of the classical measurement error associated with an estimate of the amount of radiation dose received by atomic bomb survivors at the time of their exposure.« less

  4. Consolidation therapy with low-dose thalidomide and prednisolone prolongs the survival of multiple myeloma patients undergoing a single autologous stem-cell transplantation procedure.

    PubMed

    Spencer, Andrew; Prince, H Miles; Roberts, Andrew W; Prosser, Ian W; Bradstock, Kenneth F; Coyle, Luke; Gill, Devinder S; Horvath, Noemi; Reynolds, John; Kennedy, Nola

    2009-04-10

    Thalidomide is effective in the treatment of newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM). However, the role of thalidomide in the post-autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) context remains unclear. This study assessed whether the addition of thalidomide consolidation following ASCT would improve the durability of responses achieved and overall survival. Between January 2002 and March 2005, 269 patients with newly diagnosed MM who achieved disease stabilization or better with conventional induction chemotherapy received a single high-dose melphalan conditioned ASCT. Post-ASCT, 129 patients were randomly assigned to receive indefinite prednisolone maintenance therapy (control group) and 114 to receive the same in addition to 12 months of thalidomide consolidation (thalidomide group). The primary study end points were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The secondary end point was tolerability. After a median follow-up of 3 years, the postrandomization 3-year PFS rates were 42% and 23% (P < .001; hazard ratio [HR], 0.5; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.71) and the OS rates were 86% and 75% (P = .004; HR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.22 to 0.76) in the thalidomide and control groups, respectively. There was no difference in survival between groups 12 months after disease progression (79% v 77%; P = .237). Neurological toxicities were more common in the thalidomide arm but there were no differences between arms for thromboembolic events. Consolidation therapy with 12 months of thalidomide combined with prednisolone prolongs survival when used after a single high-dose therapy supported ASCT in patients with newly diagnosed MM. Furthermore, thalidomide consolidation therapy did not adversely impact on survival in the subsequent salvage setting.

  5. Pediatric Patients Demonstrate Progressive T1-Weighted Hyperintensity in the Dentate Nucleus following Multiple Doses of Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agent.

    PubMed

    Roberts, D R; Chatterjee, A R; Yazdani, M; Marebwa, B; Brown, T; Collins, H; Bolles, G; Jenrette, J M; Nietert, P J; Zhu, X

    2016-12-01

    While there have been recent reports of brain retention of gadolinium following gadolinium-based contrast agent administration in adults, a retrospective series of pediatric patients has not previously been reported, to our knowledge. We investigated the relationship between the number of prior gadolinium-based contrast agent doses and increasing T1 signal in the dentate nucleus on unenhanced T1-weighted MR imaging. We hypothesized that despite differences in pediatric physiology and the smaller gadolinium-based contrast agent doses that pediatric patients are typically administered based on weighted-adjusted dosing, the pediatric brain would also demonstrate dose-dependent increasing T1 signal in the dentate nucleus. We included children with multiple gadolinium-based contrast agent administrations at our institution. A blinded reader placed ROIs within the dentate nucleus and adjacent cerebellar white matter. To eliminate reader bias, we also performed automated ROI delineation of the dentate nucleus, cerebellar white matter, and pons. Dentate-to-cerebellar white matter and dentate-to pons ratios were compared with the number of gadolinium-based contrast agent administrations. During 20 years at our institution, 280 patients received at least 5 gadolinium-based contrast agent doses, with 1 patient receiving 38 doses. Sixteen patients met the inclusion/exclusion criteria for ROI analysis. Blinded reader dentate-to-cerebellar white matter ratios were significantly associated with gadolinium-based contrast agent doses (r s = 0.77, P = .001). The dentate-to-pons ratio and dentate-to-cerebellar white matter ratios based on automated ROI placement were also significantly correlated with gadolinium-based contrast agent doses (t = 4.98, P < .0001 and t = 2.73, P < .02, respectively). In pediatric patients, the number of prior gadolinium-based contrast agent doses is significantly correlated with progressive T1-weighted dentate hyperintensity. Definitive confirmation of gadolinium deposition requires tissue analysis. Any potential clinical sequelae of gadolinium retention in the developing brain are unknown. Given this uncertainty, we suggest taking a cautious stance, including the use, in pediatric patients, of higher stability, macrocyclic agents, which in both human and animal studies have been shown to be associated with lower levels of gadolinium deposition, and detailed documentation of dosing. Most important, a patient should not be deprived of a well-indicated contrasted MR examination. © 2016 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

  6. Opioid Overdose Outbreak - West Virginia, August 2016.

    PubMed

    Massey, Joel; Kilkenny, Michael; Batdorf, Samantha; Sanders, Sarah K; Ellison, Debra; Halpin, John; Gladden, R Matthew; Bixler, Danae; Haddy, Loretta; Gupta, Rahul

    2017-09-22

    On August 15, 2016, the Mayor's Office of Drug Control Policy in Huntington, West Virginia, notified the Cabell-Huntington Health Department (CHHD) of multiple calls regarding opioid overdose received by the emergency medical system (EMS) during 3 p.m.-8 p.m. that day. A public health investigation and response conducted by the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health (BPH) and CHHD identified 20 opioid overdose cases within a 53-hour period in Cabell County; all cases included emergency department (ED) encounters. EMS personnel, other first responders, and ED providers administered the opioid antidote naloxone to 16 (80%) patients, six of whom were administered multiple doses, suggesting exposure to a highly potent opioid. No patients received referral for recovery support services. In addition to the public health investigation, a public safety investigation was conducted; comprehensive opioid toxicology testing of clinical specimens identified the synthetic opioid fentanyl* and novel fentanyl analogs, including carfentanil, † which had been used by patients who overdosed in Huntington. Results of these two investigations highlight the importance of collaboration between public health and public safety agencies to provide in-depth surveillance data from opioid overdose outbreaks that involve high-potency fentanyl analogs. These data facilitated a public health response through increased awareness of powerful opioid substances requiring multiple naloxone doses for reversal, and improved patient linkage to recovery support services and a harm reduction program from the ED after opioid overdose.

  7. Sirolimus alternative to blood transfusion as a life saver in blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Ke-Ling; Ma, Shu-Fang; Pang, Ling-Yu; Zhang, Meng-Na; Hu, Lin-Yan; Liu, Meng-Jia; Zou, Li-Ping

    2018-01-01

    Abstract Rationale: Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare disease characterized by multiple venous malformations. The gastrointestinal bleeding and secondary iron deficiency anemia are the most common complications. There are currently no effective treatments for BRBNS. Here, we report a case of successful treatment with a small dose of sirolimus of a BRBN patient with a de novo gene mutation. Patient concerns: A 12-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with multiple hemangiomas for 12 years. The patient often displayed melena; she recently received transfusion of 2 units of red blood cells once every 2 weeks. Multiple fist-sized hemangiomas were piled up on both sides and back of the neck, and were also noted on the arms, legs, chest, back, and on the tip of the tongue. The laboratory findings demonstrated severe anemia. Blood sample sequencing detected a heterozygous de novo mutation c.2545C > Tin the TEK gene. Diagnoses: Based on these findings, final diagnosis of Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) was made. Interventions: After the diagnosis, low-dose sirolimus was orally administered. Outcomes: The patient's hemoglobin was increased after treatment with sirolimus for 1 month. Since the initial treatment with sirolimus, she had not received any blood transfusions. The skin and mucosal hemangioma decreased significantly, and new digestive tract hemorrhage, muscle hematoma, or adverse drug reactions were not observed. Lessons: we report a case of a mutation in exon 15 of the TEK gene leading to BRBN. It was successfully treated with a small dose of sirolimus as an alternative to blood transfusion in order to save the of BRBN patient's life. PMID:29465551

  8. Sirolimus alternative to blood transfusion as a life saver in blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome: A case report.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ke-Ling; Ma, Shu-Fang; Pang, Ling-Yu; Zhang, Meng-Na; Hu, Lin-Yan; Liu, Meng-Jia; Zou, Li-Ping

    2018-02-01

    Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare disease characterized by multiple venous malformations. The gastrointestinal bleeding and secondary iron deficiency anemia are the most common complications. There are currently no effective treatments for BRBNS. Here, we report a case of successful treatment with a small dose of sirolimus of a BRBN patient with a de novo gene mutation. A 12-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with multiple hemangiomas for 12 years. The patient often displayed melena; she recently received transfusion of 2 units of red blood cells once every 2 weeks. Multiple fist-sized hemangiomas were piled up on both sides and back of the neck, and were also noted on the arms, legs, chest, back, and on the tip of the tongue. The laboratory findings demonstrated severe anemia. Blood sample sequencing detected a heterozygous de novo mutation c.2545C > Tin the TEK gene. Based on these findings, final diagnosis of Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) was made. After the diagnosis, low-dose sirolimus was orally administered. The patient's hemoglobin was increased after treatment with sirolimus for 1 month. Since the initial treatment with sirolimus, she had not received any blood transfusions. The skin and mucosal hemangioma decreased significantly, and new digestive tract hemorrhage, muscle hematoma, or adverse drug reactions were not observed. we report a case of a mutation in exon 15 of the TEK gene leading to BRBN. It was successfully treated with a small dose of sirolimus as an alternative to blood transfusion in order to save the of BRBN patient's life.

  9. Dose dependency of time of onset of radiation-induced growth hormone deficiency

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Clayton, P.E.; Shalet, S.M.

    1991-02-01

    Growth hormone (GH) secretion during insulin-induced hypoglycemia was assessed on 133 occasions in 82 survivors of childhood malignant disease. All had received cranial irradiation with a dose range to the hypothalamic-pituitary axis of 27 to 47.5 Gy (estimated by a schedule of 16 fractions over 3 weeks) and had been tested on one or more occasions between 0.2 and 18.9 years after treatment. Results of one third of the GH tests were defined as normal (GH peak response, greater than 15 mU/L) within the first 5 years, in comparison with 16% after 5 years. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showedmore » that dose (p = 0.007) and time from irradiation (p = 0.03), but not age at therapy, had a significant influence on peak GH responses. The late incidence of GH deficiency was similar over the whole dose range (4 of 26 GH test results normal for less than 30 Gy and 4 of 25 normal for greater than or equal to 30 Gy after 5 years), but the speed of onset over the first years was dependent on dose. We conclude that the requirement for GH replacement therapy and the timing of its introduction will be influenced by the dose of irradiation received by the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.« less

  10. Dose-dependent acute liver injury with hypersensitivity features in humans due to a novel microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1 inhibitor.

    PubMed

    Jin, Yan; Regev, Arie; Kam, Jeanelle; Phipps, Krista; Smith, Claire; Henck, Judith; Campanale, Kristina; Hu, Leijun; Hall, D Greg; Yang, Xiao Yan; Nakano, Masako; McNearney, Terry Ann; Uetrecht, Jack; Landschulz, William

    2018-01-01

    LY3031207, a novel microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1 inhibitor, was evaluated in a multiple ascending dose study after nonclinical toxicology studies and a single ascending dose study demonstrated an acceptable toxicity, safety and tolerability profile. Healthy subjects were randomized to receive LY3031207 (25, 75 and 275 mg), placebo or celecoxib (400 mg) once daily for 28 days. The safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of LY3031207 were evaluated. The study was terminated when two subjects experienced drug-induced liver injury (DILI) after they had received 225 mg LY3031207 for 19 days. Liver biopsy from these subjects revealed acute liver injury with eosinophilic infiltration. Four additional DILI cases were identified after LY3031207 dosing had been stopped. All six DILI cases shared unique presentations of hepatocellular injury with hypersensitivity features and demonstrated a steep dose-dependent trend. Prompt discontinuation of the study drug and supportive medical care resulted in full recovery. Metabolites from metabolic activation of the imidazole ring were observed in plasma and urine samples from all subjects randomized to LY3031207 dosing. This study emphasized the importance of careful safety monitoring and serious adverse events management in phase I trials. Metabolic activation of the imidazole ring may be involved in the development of hepatotoxicity of LY3031207. © 2017 The British Pharmacological Society.

  11. Effect of Two Different Doses of Dexmedetomidine on Stress Response in Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty: A Randomized Prospective Controlled Study.

    PubMed

    Shamim, Rafat; Srivastava, Shashi; Rastogi, Amit; Kishore, Kamal; Srivastava, Aneesh

    2017-01-01

    Clonidine, opioids, β-blockers, and dexmedetomidine have been tried to attenuate stress responses during laparoscopic surgery. We evaluated the efficacy of dexmedetomidine in two different doses in attenuating stress responses on patients undergoing laparoscopic pyeloplasty. Ninety patients were assigned to one of the three groups: Group A, Group B, and Group C. Group B received dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg as loading dose, followed by 0.7 mcg/kg/h for maintenance; Group C received dexmedetomidine 0.7 mcg/kg as a loading dose, followed by 0.5 mcg/kg/h for maintenance. Group A received normal saline. Stress responses were assessed by the variations in heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), blood glucose levels, and serum cortisol levels. One-way analysis of variance test was applied. Multiple comparisons between groups were done with post hoc Bonferroni test. The HR and MAP were found to be higher in Group A. The difference was statistically significant ( P < 0.05) during intubation, carbon dioxide insufflation, and extubation when compared with Groups B and C. Blood glucose levels at postintubation and at extubation were higher in Group A and statistically significant ( P < 0.05) when compared with Groups B and C. Serum cortisol levels at postintubation, during midsurgery, and 2 h after extubation were higher in Group A and statistically significant ( P < 0.05) when compared with Groups B and C. However, HR, MAP, blood glucose levels, and serum cortisol levels were similar in dexmedetomidine groups. Dexmedetomidine decreases stress response and provides good condition for maintenance of anesthesia. Dexmedetomidine when used in lower dose in Group C decreases stress response comparable to higher dose in Group B.

  12. Is more better than less? An analysis of children's mental health services.

    PubMed Central

    Foster, E M

    2000-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To assess the dose-response relationship for outpatient therapy received by children and adolescents-that is, to determine the impact of added outpatient visits on key mental health outcomes (functioning and symptomatology). DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING: The results presented involve analyses of data from the Fort Bragg Demonstration and are based on a sample of 301 individuals using outpatient services. STUDY DESIGN: This article provides estimates of the impact of outpatient therapy based on comparisons of individuals receiving differing treatment doses. Those comparisons involve standard multiple regression analyses as well as instrumental variables estimation. The latter provides a means of adjusting comparisons for unobserved or unmeasured differences among individuals receiving differing doses, differences that would otherwise be confounded with the impact of treatment dose. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS: Using structured diagnostic interviews and behavior checklists completed by the child and his or her caretaker, detailed data on psychopathology, symptomatology, and psychosocial functioning were collected on individuals included in these analyses. Information on the use of mental health services was taken from insurance claims and a management information system. Services data were used to describe the use of outpatient therapy within the year following entry into the study. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS/CONCLUSIONS: Instrumental variables estimation indicates that added outpatient therapy improves functioning among children and adolescents. The effect is statistically significant and of moderate practical magnitude. These results imply that conventional analyses of the dose-response relationship may understate the impact of additional treatment on functioning. This finding is robust to choice of functional form, length of time over which outcomes are measured, and model specification. Dose does not appear to influence symptomatology. PMID:11130814

  13. Estimating the dose response relationship for occupational radiation exposure measured with minimum detection level.

    PubMed

    Xue, Xiaonan; Shore, Roy E; Ye, Xiangyang; Kim, Mimi Y

    2004-10-01

    Occupational exposures are often recorded as zero when the exposure is below the minimum detection level (BMDL). This can lead to an underestimation of the doses received by individuals and can lead to biased estimates of risk in occupational epidemiologic studies. The extent of the exposure underestimation is increased with the magnitude of the minimum detection level (MDL) and the frequency of monitoring. This paper uses multiple imputation methods to impute values for the missing doses due to BMDL. A Gibbs sampling algorithm is developed to implement the method, which is applied to two distinct scenarios: when dose information is available for each measurement (but BMDL is recorded as zero or some other arbitrary value), or when the dose information available represents the summation of a series of measurements (e.g., only yearly cumulative exposure is available but based on, say, weekly measurements). Then the average of the multiple imputed exposure realizations for each individual is used to obtain an unbiased estimate of the relative risk associated with exposure. Simulation studies are used to evaluate the performance of the estimators. As an illustration, the method is applied to a sample of historical occupational radiation exposure data from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

  14. No effect on QT intervals of mipomersen, a 2'-O-methoxyethyl modified antisense oligonucleotide targeting ApoB-100 mRNA, in a phase I dose escalation placebo-controlled study, and confirmed by a thorough QT (tQT) study, in healthy subjects.

    PubMed

    Yu, Rosie Z; Gunawan, Rudy; Li, Zhaoyang; Mittleman, Robert S; Mahmood, Asif; Grundy, John S; Singleton, Walter; Geary, Richard; Wang, Yanfeng

    2016-03-01

    The aim of this study to evaluate the effect of mipomersen on QT intervals in a phase I dose escalation, placebo-controlled study, and a thorough QT (tQT) study in healthy subjects. In the initial phase I study, 29 healthy subjects received either single or multiple (for 4 weeks) ascending doses of mipomersen (50-400 mg) administered subcutaneously (SC) or via a 2-h intravenous (IV) infusion, and 7 subjects received placebo. In the confirmative tQT study, 58 healthy subjects received placebo, 400 mg IV moxifloxacin, 200 mg SC, or 200 mg IV of mipomersen in a double-blind, 4-way crossover design with a minimum 5-day washout between treatments. ECG measurements were performed at baseline and selected time points (including Tmax). The correlation between QTcF intervals corrected for baseline and time-matched placebo when available with PK plasma exposure was evaluated by linear regression analysis. In the phase I study, no positive correlation between the PK exposure and ∆QTcF or ∆∆QTcF was observed within the wide dose or exposure range tested. Similar results were observed in the tQT study, where the predicted ΔΔQTcF and its upper bound of the 90% CI at Cmax of therapeutic and supratherapeutic dose were approximately -1.7 and 2.9 ms, respectively. Mipomersen showed no effect on QT intervals in both the phase I dose escalation study and the tQT study. These results support the proposal that QT assessment can be made in a phase I dose escalation study, and no tQT study may be necessary if the phase I dose escalation study showed a negative QT effect.

  15. Multiple oral dosing of ketoconazole increases dog exposure to ivermectin.

    PubMed

    Hugnet, Christophe; Lespine, Anne; Alvinerie, Michel

    2007-01-01

    The parasiticide ivermectin and the antimicrobial drug ketoconazole are macrolides that interact with P-glycoprotein. We investigated the effects of ketoconazole at a clinical dose on the pharmacokinetics of ivermectin, a CYP3A substrate with low hepatic clearance. Beagle dogs received a single subcutaneous injection of ivermectin at 0.05 mg/kg alone (n=6) or in combination with a daily oral dose of ketoconazole 10 mg/kg over 5 days before and after ivermectin administration (n=6). The plasma kinetics of ivermectin and its metabolite were followed over 15 days by HPLC analysis. Co-administered ketoconazole induced a higher plasma concentration and longer residence time of ivermectin in dogs, leading to a substantial increase in the overall exposure of the animal to the drug. Ketoconazole does not interfere with the production of the ivermectin metabolite but it may rather inhibit the elimination of the parental drug by interfering with P-gp transport. Multiple oral dosing of ketoconazole dramatically altered the pharmacokinetics of ivermectin in dogs leading to an increase in systemic exposure to the drug. Neurotoxicity of ivermectin means that inhibition of the P-gp function at the blood-brain barrier during polytherapy using P-gp inhibitors must be taken into consideration.

  16. Pretreatment with myo-inositol in non polycystic ovary syndrome patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for IVF: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Lisi, Franco; Carfagna, Piero; Oliva, Mario Montanino; Rago, Rocco; Lisi, Rosella; Poverini, Roberta; Manna, Claudio; Vaquero, Elena; Caserta, Donatella; Raparelli, Valeria; Marci, Roberto; Moscarini, Massimo

    2012-07-23

    Aim of this pilot study is to examine the effects of myo-inositol administration on ovarian response and oocytes and embryos quality in non PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation and in vitro insemination by conventional in vitro fertilization or by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. One hundred non-PCOS women aged <40 years and with basal FSH <10 mUI/ml were down-regulated with triptorelin acetate from the mid-luteal phase for 2 weeks, before starting the stimulation protocol for oocytes recovery. All patients received rFSH, at a starting dose of 150 IU for 6 days. The dose was subsequently adjusted according to individual response. Group B (n=50) received myo-inositol and folic acid for 3 months before the stimulation period and then during the stimulation itself. Group A (n-50) received only folic acid as additional treatment in the 3 months before and through treatment. Total length of the stimulation was similar between the two groups. Nevertheless, total amount of gonadotropins used to reach follicular maturation was found significantly lower in group B. In addition, the number of oocytes retrieved was significantly reduced in the group pretreated with myo-inositol. Clinical pregnancy and implantation rate were not significantly different in the two groups. Our findings suggest that the addition of myo-inositol to folic acid in non PCOS-patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for in-vitro fertilization may reduce the numbers of mature oocytes and the dosage of rFSH whilst maintaining clinical pregnancy rate. Further, a trend in favor of increased incidence of implantation in the group pretreated with myo-inositol was apparent in this study. Further investigations are warranted to clarify this pharmacological approach, and the benefit it may hold for patients.

  17. Immunogenicity and reactogenicity of alternative schedules of HPV vaccine in Vietnam: a cluster randomized noninferiority trial.

    PubMed

    Neuzil, Kathleen M; Canh, Do Gia; Thiem, Vu Dinh; Janmohamed, Amynah; Huong, Vu Minh; Tang, Yuxiao; Diep, Nguyen Thi Ngoc; Tsu, Vivien; LaMontagne, D Scott

    2011-04-13

    Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine programs may decrease the morbidity and mortality due to cervical cancer seen among women in low-resource countries. However, the 3-dose schedule over a 6-month period is a potential barrier to vaccine introduction in such settings. To determine the immunogenicity and reactogenicity of different dosing schedules of quadrivalent HPV vaccine in adolescent girls in Vietnam. Open-label, cluster randomized, noninferiority study (conducted between October 2007 and January 2010) assessing 4 schedules of an HPV vaccine delivered in 21 schools to 903 adolescent girls (aged 11-13 years at enrollment) living in northwestern Vietnam. Intramuscular injection of 3 doses of quadrivalent HPV vaccine delivered on a standard dosing schedule (at 0, 2, and 6 months) and 3 alternative dosing schedules (at 0, 3, and 9 months; at 0, 6, and 12 months; or at 0, 12, and 24 months). Serum anti-HPV geometric mean titers (GMT) measured 1 month after the third dose of the HPV vaccine was administered; GMT was determined by type-specific competitive immunoassay. Noninferiority of each alternative vaccination dosing schedule was achieved if the lower bound of the multiplicity-adjusted confidence interval (CI) of the type-specific GMT ratio for HPV-16 and HPV-18 was greater than 0.5 (primary outcome). Safety outcomes were immediate reactions, local reactions, fever within 7 days after each dose, and serious adverse events up to 30 days following the last dose. In the intention-to-treat analysis, 809 girls who received at least 1 HPV vaccine dose had valid serum measurements 1 month after the third dose. After the third dose, the GMTs for those in the standard schedule group who received doses at 0, 2, and 6 months were 5808.0 (95% CI, 4961.4-6799.0) for HPV-16 and 1729.9 (95% CI, 1504.0-1989.7) for HPV-18; 5368.5 (95% CI, 4632.4-6221.5) and 1502.3 (95% CI, 1302.1-1733.2), respectively, for those whose received doses at 0, 3, and 9 months; 5716.4 (95% CI, 4876.7-6700.6) and 1581.5 (95% CI, 1363.4-1834.6), respectively, for those who received doses at 0, 6, and 12 months; and 3692.5 (95% CI, 3145.3-4334.9) and 1335.7 (95% CI, 1191.6-1497.3), respectively, for those who received doses at 0, 12, and 24 months. Noninferiority criteria were met for the alternative schedule groups that received doses at 0, 3, and 9 months (HPV-16 GMT ratio: 0.92 [95% CI, 0.71-1.20]; HPV-18 GMT ratio: 0.87 [95% CI, 0.68-1.11]) and at 0, 6, and 12 months (HPV-16 GMT ratio: 0.98 [95% CI, 0.75-1.29]; HPV-18 GMT ratio: 0.91 [95% CI, 0.71-1.17]). Prespecified noninferiority criteria were not met for the alternative schedule group that received doses at 0, 12, and 24 months (HPV-16 GMT ratio: 0.64 [95% CI, 0.48-0.84]; HPV-18 GMT ratio: 0.77 [95% CI, 0.62-0.96]). Pain at the injection site was the most common adverse event. Among adolescent girls in Vietnam, administration of the HPV vaccine on standard and alternative schedules was immunogenic and well tolerated. The use of 2 alternative dosing schedules (at 0, 3, and 9 months and at 0, 6, and 12 months) compared with a standard schedule (at 0, 2, and 6 months) did not result in inferior antibody concentrations. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00524745.

  18. No effect of the novel antidiabetic agent nateglinide on the pharmacokinetics and anticoagulant properties of warfarin in healthy volunteers.

    PubMed

    Anderson, Denise M; Shelley, Sarah; Crick, Nina; Buraglio, Mauro

    2002-12-01

    The novel hypoglycemic agent nateglinide is pharmacologically distinct from oral hypoglycemic agents such as sulfonylureas and repaglinide. The present study investigated the effects in healthy volunteers of multiple doses of nateglinide on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of warfarin. The study comprised a randomized two-group, two-way crossover, open-label design in 12 healthy male subjects. One group of 6 subjects initially received a single oral dose of warfarin 30 mg and then, after a 7- to 14-day washout, received both warfarin and nateglinide (120 mgnateglinide, 10 min before meals for 4 days and a single dose of 30 mg warfarin on the second day). The alternate group of 6 subjects received treatments in the opposite order. Pharmacokinetic profiles were derived from plasma warfarin and nateglinide concentrations. Prothrombin measurements were evaluated in both periods as a measure of warfarin activity. When administered alone or in combination, there were no statistically significant differences in mean warfarin (R- and S-enantiomers) or nateglinide pharmacokinetic parameters. The concurrent administration of nateglinide and warfarin did not affect the maximal change in prothrombin time that follows warfarin administration. In this study, there was no evidence of an effect of coadministration of nateglinide on the pharmacodynamic action of warfarin or any pharmacokinetic interaction between warfarin and nateglinide.

  19. Evaluation of a 15-week CHOP protocol for the treatment of canine multicentric lymphoma.

    PubMed

    Burton, J H; Garrett-Mayer, E; Thamm, D H

    2013-12-01

    Dose intense CHOP protocols have been shown to improve outcome for people with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, but evaluation of dose intense CHOP protocols for canine lymphoma is currently limited. The hypothesis of this retrospective study was that a 15-week dose intense CHOP protocol would have shorter treatment duration with similar efficacy to other doxorubicin-based multidrug protocols. Thirty-one client owned dogs with multicentric lymphoma were treated with a 15-week CHOP chemotherapy protocol with an overall response rate of 100% and a median progression-free interval (PFI) of 140 days [95% confidence interval (CI) 91-335 days]. Dogs that had two or more treatment delays had significantly prolonged PFI and overall survival in multivariate analysis. Dose intensity did not correlate with patient outcome. Dogs experiencing multiple treatment delays secondary to adverse events may receive their individual maximally tolerated dose while dogs with no adverse events may be underdosed. Future studies should focus on individual patient dose optimization. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  20. Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modelling of the antihistaminic (H1) effect of bilastine.

    PubMed

    Jauregizar, Nerea; de la Fuente, Leire; Lucero, Maria Luisa; Sologuren, Ander; Leal, Nerea; Rodríguez, Mónica

    2009-01-01

    To model the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic relationship of bilastine, a new histamine H(1) receptor antagonist, from single- and multiple-dose studies in healthy adult subjects. The pharmacokinetic model was developed from different single-dose and multiple-dose studies. In the single-dose studies, a total of 183 subjects received oral doses of bilastine 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 120, 160, 200 and 220 mg. In the multiple-dose studies, 127 healthy subjects received bilastine 10, 20, 40, 50, 80, 100, 140 or 200 mg/day as multiple doses during a 4-, 7- or 14-day period. The pharmacokinetic profile of bilastine was investigated using a simultaneous analysis of all concentration-time data by means of nonlinear mixed-effects modelling population pharmacokinetic software NONMEM version 6.1. Plasma concentrations were modelled according to a two-compartment open model with first-order absorption and elimination. For the pharmacodynamic analysis, the inhibitory effect of bilastine (inhibition of histamine-induced wheal and flare) was assessed on a preselected time schedule, and the predicted typical pharmacokinetic profile (based on the pharmacokinetic model previously developed) was used. An indirect response model was developed to describe the pharmacodynamic relationships between flare or wheal areas and bilastine plasma concentrations. Finally, once values of the concentration that produced 50% inhibition (IC(50)) had been estimated for wheal and flare effects, simulations were carried out to predict plasma concentrations for the doses of bilastine 5, 10 and 20 mg at steady state (72-96 hours). A non-compartmental analysis resulted in linear kinetics of bilastine in the dose range studied. Bilastine was characterized by two-compartmental kinetics with a rapid-absorption phase (first-order absorption rate constant = 1.50 h(-1)), plasma peak concentrations were observed at 1 hour following administration and the maximal response was observed at approximately 4 hours or later. Concerning the selected pharmacodynamic model to fit the data (type I indirect response model), this selection is attributable to the presence of inhibitory bilastine plasma concentrations that decrease the input response function, i.e. the production of the skin reaction. This model resulted in the best fit of wheal and flare data. The estimates (with relative standard errors expressed in percentages in parentheses) of the apparent zero-order rate constant for flare or wheal spontaneous appearance (k(in)), the first-order rate constant for flare or wheal disappearance (k(out)) and bilastine IC(50) values were 0.44 ng/mL/h (14.60%), 1.09 h(-1) (15.14%) and 5.15 ng/mL (16.16%), respectively, for wheal inhibition, and 11.10 ng/mL/h (8.48%), 1.03 h(-1) (8.35%) and 1.25 ng/mL (14.56%), respectively, for flare inhibition. The simulation results revealed that bilastine plasma concentrations do not remain over the IC(50) value throughout the inter-dose period for doses of 5 and 10 mg. However, with a dose of 20 mg of bilastine administered every 24 hours, plasma concentrations remained over the IC(50) value during the considered period for the flare effect, and up to 20 hours for the wheal effect. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic relationships of bilastine were reliably described with the use of an indirect response pharmacodynamic model; this led to an accurate prediction of the pharmacodynamic activity of bilastine.

  1. Alternative methods for CYP2D6 phenotyping: comparison of dextromethorphan metabolic ratios from AUC, single point plasma, and urine.

    PubMed

    Chen, Rui; Wang, Haotian; Shi, Jun; Hu, Pei

    2016-05-01

    CYP2D6 is a high polymorphic enzyme. Determining its phenotype before CYP2D6 substrate treatment can avoid dose-dependent adverse events or therapeutic failures. Alternative phenotyping methods of CYP2D6 were compared to aluate the appropriate and precise time points for phenotyping after single-dose and ultiple-dose of 30-mg controlled-release (CR) dextromethorphan (DM) and to explore the antimodes for potential sampling methods. This was an open-label, single and multiple-dose study. 21 subjects were assigned to receive a single dose of CR DM 30 mg orally, followed by a 3-day washout period prior to oral administration of CR DM 30 mg every 12 hours for 6 days. Metabolic ratios (MRs) from AUC∞ after single dosing and from AUC0-12h at steady state were taken as the gold standard. The correlations of metabolic ratios of DM to dextrorphan (MRDM/DX) values based on different phenotyping methods were assessed. Linear regression formulas were derived to calculate the antimodes for potential sample methods. In the single-dose part of the study statistically significant correlations were found between MRDM/DX from AUC∞ and from serial plasma points from 1 to 30 hours or from urine (all p-values < 0.001). In the multiple-dose part, statistically significant correlations were found between MRDM/DX from AUC0-12h on day 6 and MRDM/DX from serial plasma points from 0 to 36 hours after the last dosing (all p-values < 0.001). Based on reported urinary antimode and linear regression analysis, the antimodes of AUC and plasma points were derived to profile the trend of antimodes as the drug concentrations changed. MRDM/DX from plasma points had good correlations with MRDM/DX from AUC. Plasma points from 1 to 30 hours after single dose of 30-mg CR DM and any plasma point at steady state after multiple doses of CR DM could potentially be used for phenotyping of CYP2D6.

  2. Radiation safety for anaesthesia providers in the orthopaedic operating room.

    PubMed

    Rhea, E B; Rogers, T H; Riehl, J T

    2016-04-01

    In many orthopaedic operating rooms, anaesthesia providers routinely wear lead aprons for protection from radiation, but some studies have questioned whether this is needed. We conducted a systematic review to identify studies that measured the amount of radiation that anaesthetists were exposed to in the orthopaedic operating room. Multiple studies have shown that at 1.5 m from the source of radiation, anaesthetists received no radiation, or amounts so small that a person would have to be present in an unreasonable number of operations to receive cumulative doses of any significance. Radiation doses at this distance were often at the limits of the sensitivity of the measuring dosimeter. We question the need to wear lead protection for anaesthesia providers who are routinely at 1.5 m or a greater distance from standard fluoroscopy units. © 2016 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

  3. Rolapitant: A Review in Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting.

    PubMed

    Heo, Young-A; Deeks, Emma D

    2017-10-01

    Oral rolapitant (Varubi™; Varuby ® ), a long-acting neurokinin-1 (NK 1 ) receptor antagonist (RA), is indicated in the USA and EU as part of an antiemetic regimen to prevent delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in adults receiving highly or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC or MEC). In randomized, phase III trials, a single oral dose of rolapitant 180 mg was effective in preventing delayed CINV compared with placebo, when each was used in combination with a 5-HT 3 RA plus dexamethasone, in adults receiving their first course of HEC or MEC. The benefits of rolapitant were maintained over multiple cycles of chemotherapy. The tolerability profile of rolapitant is similar to that of placebo and consistent with that of other NK 1 RAs. However, rolapitant differs from other existing NK 1 RAs in that it does not interact with CYP3A4, thereby negating the need for dexamethasone dose adjustments and potentially making rolapitant a more suitable option for patients receiving CYP3A4 substrates. Thus, oral rolapitant is an effective and well tolerated NK 1 RA that expands the treatment options for preventing delayed CINV in adults receiving HEC or MEC.

  4. Phase I/II study of the novel proteasome inhibitor delanzomib (CEP-18770) for relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Vogl, Dan T; Martin, Thomas G; Vij, Ravi; Hari, Parameswaran; Mikhael, Joseph R; Siegel, David; Wu, Ka Lung; Delforge, Michel; Gasparetto, Cristina

    2017-08-01

    Delanzomib (CEP-18770), a reversible P2 threonine boronic acid proteasome (β5/β1 subunits) inhibitor that showed promising anti-myeloma effects in preclinical studies, was investigated in a single-agent multicenter phase I/II study in patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma. Sixty-one patients (17 during dose escalation; 44 in the expansion cohort) received delanzomib on days 1, 8, and 15 in 28-d cycles; 47 received the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), 2.1 mg/m 2 . Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) at 2.4 mg/m 2 were rash and thrombocytopenia. At the MTD, the most prominent adverse events were nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, and pyrexia; grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia and neutropenia occurred in 53 and 23% of patients, respectively. Peripheral neuropathy (21%) was limited to grades 1/2. At the MTD, 26 patients (55%) had stable disease and four (9%) had a partial response (PR). Median time to progression (TTP) was 2.5 months across the cohort. Based upon the efficacy results, development of delanzomib for myeloma was discontinued.

  5. Protons and more: state of the art in radiotherapy.

    PubMed

    Hoskin, Peter J; Bhattacharya, Indrani S

    2014-12-01

    The purpose of modern radiotherapy is to deliver a precise high dose of radiation which will result in reproductive death of the cells. Radiation should transverse within the tumour volume whilst minimising damage to surrounding normal tissue. Overall 40% of cancers which are cured will have received radiotherapy. Current state of the art treatment will incorporate cross-sectional imaging and multiple high energy X-ray beams in processes called intensity modulated radiotherapy and image guided radiotherapy. Brachytherapy enables very high radiation doses to be delivered by the direct passage of a radiation source through or within the tumour volume and similar results can be achieved using rotational stereotactic X-ray beam techniques. Protons have the characteristics of particle beams which deposit their energy in a finite fixed peak at depth in tissue with no dose beyond this point - the Bragg peak. This has advantages in certain sites such as the spine adjacent to the spinal cord and particularly in children when the overall volume of tissue receiving radiation can be minimised. © 2014 Royal College of Physicians.

  6. Widespread Increases in Malondialdehyde Immunoreactivity in Dopamine-Rich and Dopamine-Poor Regions of Rat Brain Following Multiple, High Doses of Methamphetamine

    PubMed Central

    Horner, Kristen A.; Gilbert, Yamiece E.; Cline, Susan D.

    2011-01-01

    Treatment with multiple high doses of methamphetamine (METH) can induce oxidative damage, including dopamine (DA)-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, which may contribute to the neurotoxic damage of monoamine neurons and long-term depletion of DA in the caudate putamen (CPu) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). Malondialdehyde (MDA), a product of lipid peroxidation by ROS, is commonly used as a marker of oxidative damage and treatment with multiple high doses of METH increases MDA reactivity in the CPu of humans and experimental animals. Recent data indicate that MDA itself may contribute to the destruction of DA neurons, as MDA causes the accumulation of toxic intermediates of DA metabolism via its chemical modification of the enzymes necessary for the breakdown of DA. However, it has been shown that in human METH abusers there is also increased MDA reactivity in the frontal cortex, which receives relatively fewer DA afferents than the CPu. These data suggest that METH may induce neuronal damage regardless of the regional density of DA or origin of DA input. The goal of the current study was to examine the modification of proteins by MDA in the DA-rich nigrostriatal and mesoaccumbal systems, as well as the less DA-dense cortex and hippocampus following a neurotoxic regimen of METH treatment. Animals were treated with METH (10 mg/kg) every 2 h for 6 h, sacrificed 1 week later, and examined using immunocytochemistry for changes in MDA-adducted proteins. Multiple, high doses of METH significantly increased MDA immunoreactivity (MDA-ir) in the CPu, SNpc, cortex, and hippocampus. Multiple METH administration also increased MDA-ir in the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens. Our data indicate that multiple METH treatment can induce persistent and widespread neuronal damage that may not necessarily be limited to the nigrostriatal DA system. PMID:21602916

  7. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of multiple doses of BG00010, a neurotrophic factor with anti-hyperalgesic effects, in patients with sciatica.

    PubMed

    Okkerse, Pieter; Hay, Justin L; Versage, Eve; Tang, Yongqiang; Galluppi, Gerald; Ravina, Bernard; Verma, Ajay; Williams, Leslie; Aycardi, Ernesto; Groeneveld, Geert Jan

    2016-07-01

    BG00010 is a protein in the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family. It is a selective ligand for the GDNF family receptor alpha-3 (GFRα3) co-receptor that normalizes cellular changes resulting from damage or disease, and potentially alleviates neuropathic pain. The main objectives of this study were to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and safety profiles and to determine the effects on pain of ascending doses of intravenous injections of BG00010 in patients with sciatica. This was a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled multiple-dose study in subjects with sciatica. In Part I (16 patients), four IV dose levels were examined (50, 150, 400, 800 μg kg(-1) ) and in Part II (12 patients), three dose levels were examined (400, 600 and 1200 μg kg(-1) ). Safety and efficacy assessments were used as endpoints. The BG00010 concentration-time data indicated relatively low inter-patient variability and there was a dose-dependent (not dose-proportional) increase in serum exposure from 150 to 1200 μg kg(-1) . The effective half-life was between 40 and 60 h. The most frequently occurring adverse events (AEs) reported by patients receiving BG00010 were headache (67-83%), feeling hot (50-100%), and pruritus (42-67%). Most AEs were mild; no serious AEs or AEs leading to discontinuation occurred. Higher dose regimens of BG00010 resulted in greater pain reduction than placebo or lower dose regimens, although a clear dose-response relationship was not seen. The pharmacokinetic profile of BG00010 was characterized by low intra-patient variability. These data from a small sample suggest that BG00010 may have a benefit for patients with sciatica. © 2016 The British Pharmacological Society.

  8. Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of single doses of subcutaneous pegylated human G-CSF mutant (Ro 25-8315) in healthy volunteers: comparison with single and multiple daily doses of filgrastim.

    PubMed

    van Der Auwera, P; Platzer, E; Xu, Z X; Schulz, R; Feugeas, O; Capdeville, R; Edwards, D J

    2001-04-01

    Ro 25-8315 is produced by conjugation of rhG-CSF mutant with polyethylene glycol (PEG). The purpose of this study was to examine the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of Ro 25-8315 in comparison with Filgrastim (rhG-CSF). Subjects received single subcutaneous doses of Ro 25-8315 ranging from 10 to 150 microg/kg using a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design. Filgrastim was administered as a single dose (5 or 10 microg/kg) and, following a 14-day washout period, daily for 7 days. Ro 25-8315 increased absolute neutrophil count (ANC) by 6- to 8-fold and CD34+ cell count more than 30-fold at the highest doses tested. Single doses (60-150 microg/kg) of Ro 25-8315 and multiple doses of Filgrastim had similar effects on ANC and CD34+, although Ro 25-8315 had a greater effect on CFU-GM. The pharmacokinetics of Ro 25-8315 were dose-dependent, with peak concentrations and area under the serum concentration-time curve (AUC) increasing 100-fold over the range of doses studied. Time to reach peak concentration (T(max)) and half-life of Ro 25-8315 averaged 20-30 hr at all doses, approximately three times longer than with Filgrastim. Adverse events were not serious and occurred with similar frequency with both products. Pegylation of rhG-CSF mutant results in more desirable pharmacokinetic properties and a longer duration of action with effective increases in ANC and measures of peripheral blood progenitor cell mobilization for at least 1 week. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  9. Short-term Androgen-Deprivation Therapy Improves Prostate Cancer-Specific Mortality in Intermediate-Risk Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Dose-Escalated External Beam Radiation Therapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zumsteg, Zachary S.; Spratt, Daniel E.; Pei, Xin

    2013-03-15

    Purpose: We investigated the benefit of short-term androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) in patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer (PC) receiving dose-escalated external beam radiation therapy. Methods and Materials: The present retrospective study comprised 710 intermediate-risk PC patients receiving external beam radiation therapy with doses of ≥81 Gy at a single institution from 1992 to 2005, including 357 patients receiving neoadjuvant and concurrent ADT. Prostate-specific antigen recurrence-free survival (PSA-RFS) and distant metastasis (DM) were compared using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models. PC-specific mortality (PCSM) was assessed using competing-risks analysis. Results: The median follow-up was 7.9 years. Despite being more likelymore » to have higher PSA levels, Gleason score 4 + 3 = 7, multiple National Comprehensive Cancer Network intermediate-risk factors, and older age (P≤.001 for all comparisons), patients receiving ADT had improved PSA-RFS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.598; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.435-0.841; P=.003), DM (HR, 0.424; 95% CI, 0.219-0.819; P=.011), and PCSM (HR, 0.380; 95% CI, 0.157-0.921; P=.032) on univariate analysis. Using multivariate analysis, ADT was an even stronger predictor of improved PSA-RFS (adjusted HR [AHR], 0.516; 95% CI, 0.360-0.739; P<.001), DM (AHR, 0.347; 95% CI, 0.176-0.685; P=.002), and PCSM (AHR, 0.297; 95% CI, 0.128-0.685; P=.004). Gleason score 4 + 3 = 7 and ≥50% positive biopsy cores were other independent predictors of PCSM. Conclusions: Short-term ADT improves PSA-RFS, DM, and PCSM in patients with intermediate-risk PC undergoing dose-escalated external beam radiation therapy.« less

  10. Pharmacokinetic Interaction Between Rosuvastatin, Telmisartan, and Amlodipine in Healthy Male Korean Subjects: A Randomized, Open-label, Multiple-dose, 2-period Crossover Study.

    PubMed

    Son, Mijeong; Guk, Jinju; Kim, Yukyung; Woo Chae, Dong; Heo, Young-A; Soh, Dongjun; Park, Kyungsoo

    2016-08-01

    Rosuvastatin, a hydroxy methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor; telmisartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker; and amlodipine, a calcium channel inhibitor, are commonly prescribed together for the treatment of hypertension nonresponsive to monotherapy and accompanied by dyslipidemia. However, the pharmacokinetic interactions among these 3 substances are not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions among rosuvastatin, telmisartan, and amlodipine in a healthy Korean male population. In both parts of this randomized, open-label, multiple-dose, 2-part, 2-period crossover study, subjects aged 19 to 55 years were enrolled. In part 1, each subject received rosuvastatin 20 mg with and without 2 fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablets of telmisartan/amlodipine 40/5 mg, once daily for 9 consecutive days. In part 2, each subject received 2 FDC tablets of telmisartan/amlodipine 40/5 mg with and without rosuvastatin 20 mg, once daily for 9 consecutive days. In both parts, there was a 13-day washout period between treatments. Pharmacokinetic samples were collected up to 72 hours after the last dose in subjects who received rosuvastatin only, and up to 144 hours after the last dose in subjects who received telmisartan/amlodipine with or without rosuvastatin. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed via interviews and physical examinations. Forty-eight subjects were enrolled, of whom 19 in part 1 and 22 in part 2 completed the study. In Part 1, the 90% CIs of the geometric mean ratios (GMRs) (coadministration of rosuvastatin and telmisartan/amlodipine to monotherapy with rosuvastatin) of the primary pharmacokinetic parameters (AUCτ and Cmax,ss) were: rosuvastatin, 1.1436 to 1.3059 and 1.8970 to 2.3514, respectively; and N-desmethyl rosuvastatin, 0.8441 to 1.0200 and 1.1971 to 1.5457. In part 2, the 90% CIs of the GMRs (coadministration to monotherapy with telmisartan/amlodipine) were: telmisartan, 1.1204 to 1.4228 and 0.9940 to 1.5940; amlodipine, 0.9705 to 1.0636 and 0.9813 to 1.0779. There were no significant differences in the prevalences of AEs between the treatments, and all reported AEs were mild or moderate. These results demonstrate that when rosuvastatin, telmisartan, and amlodipine are coadministered to healthy male subjects, pharmacokinetic exposure increases with respect to rosuvastatin and telmisartan, whereas no change occurs with respect to amlodipine. However, based on previous analyses, the degree of increase in the exposure observed was not regarded as clinically significant. All treatments were well-tolerated. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. A Highly Durable RNAi Therapeutic Inhibitor of PCSK9

    PubMed Central

    Fitzgerald, Kevin; White, Suellen; Borodovsky, Anna; Bettencourt, Brian R.; Strahs, Andrew; Clausen, Valerie; Wijngaard, Peter; Horton, Jay D.; Taubel, Jorg; Brooks, Ashley; Fernando, Chamikara; Kauffman, Robert S.; Kallend, David; Vaishnaw, Akshay; Simon, Amy

    2018-01-01

    BACKGROUND Inclisiran (ALN-PCSsc) is a long-acting RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutic agent that inhibits the synthesis of proprotein convertase subtilisin–kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a target for the lowering of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. METHODS In this phase 1 trial, we randomly assigned healthy volunteers with an LDL cholesterol level of at least 100 mg per deciliter in a 3:1 ratio to receive a subcutaneous injection of inclisiran or placebo in either a single-ascending-dose phase (at a dose of 25, 100, 300, 500, or 800 mg) or a multiple-dose phase (125 mg weekly for four doses, 250 mg every other week for two doses, or 300 or 500 mg monthly for two doses, with or without concurrent statin therapy); each dose cohort included four to eight participants. Safety, the side-effect profile, and pharmacodynamic measures (PCSK9 level, LDL cholesterol level, and exploratory lipid variables) were evaluated. RESULTS The most common adverse events were cough, musculoskeletal pain, nasopharyngitis, headache, back pain, and diarrhea. All the adverse events were mild or moderate in severity. There were no serious adverse events or discontinuations due to adverse events. There was one grade 3 elevation in the γ-glutamyltransferase level, which was considered by the investigator to be related to statin therapy. In the single-dose phase, inclisiran doses of 300 mg or more reduced the PCSK9 level (up to a least-squares mean reduction of 74.5% from baseline to day 84), and doses of 100 mg or more reduced the LDL cholesterol level (up to a least-squares mean reduction of 50.6% from baseline). Reductions in the levels of PCSK9 and LDL cholesterol were maintained at day 180 for doses of 300 mg or more. All multiple-dose regimens reduced the levels of PCSK9 (up to a least-squares mean reduction of 83.8% from baseline to day 84) and LDL cholesterol (up to a least-squares mean reduction of 59.7% from baseline to day 84). CONCLUSIONS In this phase 1 trial, no serious adverse events were observed with inclisiran. Doses of 300 mg or more (in single or multiple doses) significantly reduced levels of PCSK9 and LDL cholesterol for at least 6 months. (Funded by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals and the Medicines Company; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02314442.) PMID:27959715

  12. Simultaneously optimizing dose and schedule of a new cytotoxic agent.

    PubMed

    Braun, Thomas M; Thall, Peter F; Nguyen, Hoang; de Lima, Marcos

    2007-01-01

    Traditionally, phase I clinical trial designs are based upon one predefined course of treatment while varying among patients the dose given at each administration. In actual medical practice, patients receive a schedule comprised of several courses of treatment, and some patients may receive one or more dose reductions or delays during treatment. Consequently, the overall risk of toxicity for each patient is a function of both actual schedule of treatment and the differing doses used at each adminstration. Our goal is to provide a practical phase I clinical trial design that more accurately reflects actual medical practice by accounting for both dose per administration and schedule. We propose an outcome-adaptive Bayesian design that simultaneously optimizes both dose and schedule in terms of the overall risk of toxicity, based on time-to-toxicity outcomes. We use computer simulation as a tool to calibrate design parameters. We describe a phase I trial in allogeneic bone marrow transplantation that was designed and is currently being conducted using our new method. Our computer simulations demonstrate that our method outperforms any method that searches for an optimal dose but does not allow schedule to vary, both in terms of the probability of identifying optimal (dose, schedule) combinations, and the numbers of patients assigned to those combinations in the trial. Our design requires greater sample sizes than those seen in traditional phase I studies due to the larger number of treatment combinations examined. Our design also assumes that the effects of multiple administrations are independent of each other and that the hazard of toxicity is the same for all administrations. Our design is the first for phase I clinical trials that is sufficiently flexible and practical to truly reflect clinical practice by varying both dose and the timing and number of administrations given to each patient.

  13. Can Multiple Lifestyle Behaviours Be Improved in People with Familial Hypercholesterolemia? Results of a Parallel Randomised Controlled Trial

    PubMed Central

    Broekhuizen, Karen; van Poppel, Mireille N. M.; Koppes, Lando L.; Kindt, Iris; Brug, Johannes; van Mechelen, Willem

    2012-01-01

    Objective To evaluate the efficacy of an individualised tailored lifestyle intervention on physical activity, dietary intake, smoking and compliance to statin therapy in people with Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH). Methods Adults with FH (n = 340) were randomly assigned to a usual care control group or an intervention group. The intervention consisted of web-based tailored lifestyle advice and face-to-face counselling. Physical activity, fat, fruit and vegetable intake, smoking and compliance to statin therapy were self-reported at baseline and after 12 months. Regression analyses were conducted to examine between-group differences. Intervention reach, dose and fidelity were assessed. Results In both groups, non-significant improvements in all lifestyle behaviours were found. Post-hoc analyses showed a significant decrease in saturated fat intake among women in the intervention group (β = −1.03; CI −1.98/−0.03). In the intervention group, 95% received a log on account, of which 49% logged on and completed one module. Nearly all participants received face-to-face counselling and on average, 4.2 telephone booster calls. Intervention fidelity was low. Conclusions Individually tailored feedback is not superior to no intervention regarding changes in multiple lifestyle behaviours in people with FH. A higher received dose of computer-tailored interventions should be achieved by uplifting the website and reducing the burden of screening questionnaires. Counsellor training should be more extensive. Trial Registration Dutch Trial Register NTR1899 PMID:23251355

  14. Efficacy of multiple micronutrient supplementation for improving anemia, micronutrient status, growth, and morbidity of Peruvian infants.

    PubMed

    López de Romaña, Guillermo; Cusirramos, Sandra; López de Romaña, Daniel; Gross, Rainer

    2005-03-01

    Anemia, micronutrient deficiencies, and growth faltering are still common in Peru. The study objective was to determine the efficacy of different micronutrient supplements in preventing growth failure, anemia, and micronutrient deficiencies in Peruvian infants. Three hundred and thirteen infants aged 6 to 12 mo participated in a double-blind, masked, controlled trial in which they were randomly assigned to receive either a daily dose of iron (DI), a daily dose of multiple micronutrients (DMM), a weekly dose of multiple micronutrients, or a placebo (P) for 6 mo. None of the supplements tested prevented growth faltering or the morbidities common during infancy. Anemia and plasma homocysteine concentrations fell significantly in all groups during the study, but the mean change of plasma homocysteine during the trial period was significantly smaller in the DI group than in other groups, and the increase in hemoglobin concentrations was smaller in the P group than the micronutrient treatment groups. Plasma ferritin concentrations decreased least in the groups taking daily micronutrient supplements containing iron (DI and DMM). There were no significant differences among groups in mean final values or changes in plasma zinc, retinol, tocopherol, or riboflavin. Although the DMM intervention was the most efficacious for preventing anemia, iron, and zinc deficiencies, 15%, 20%, and 50% of this group still remained anemic, zinc deficient, and iron deficient, respectively, at the end of the study. Further research thus should investigate whether higher doses of iron and zinc, together with infection control measures, are more efficacious.

  15. Dose-dependent fluoxetine effects on boldness in male Siamese fighting fish.

    PubMed

    Dzieweczynski, Teresa L; Campbell, Brennah A; Kane, Jessica L

    2016-03-01

    As the use of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) continues to rise, these compounds enter the environment in increasing frequency. One such PPCP, fluoxetine, has been found in detectable amounts in aquatic ecosystems worldwide, where it may interfere with the behavior of exposed organisms. Fluoxetine exposure has been found to influence boldness and exploration in a range of fish species; however, how it might alter behavior in multiple contexts or over time is rarely examined. To this end, the effects of fluoxetine on boldness over time were studied in male Siamese fighting fish. Three different groups of males (0, 0.5 and 5 µg l(-1) fluoxetine) were tested in multiple boldness assays (empty tank, novel environment and shoal) once a week for 3 weeks to collect baseline measures and then at three different time points post-exposure. The effects of these varying exposure amounts on behavior were then examined for overall response, consistency and across-context correlations. Unexposed males were bolder in all contexts, were more consistent within a context, and had stronger between-context correlations than exposed males. Fluoxetine had dose-dependent effects on behavior, as males that received the higher dose exhibited greater behavioral effects. This study stresses the potential fitness consequences of fluoxetine exposure and suggests that examining behavioral effects of PPCPs under different dosing regimens and in multiple contexts is important to gain an increased understanding of how exposure affects behavior. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  16. Phage idiotype vaccination: first phase I/II clinical trial in patients with multiple myeloma

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Multiple myeloma is characterized by clonal expansion of B cells producing monoclonal immunoglobulins or fragments thereof, which can be detected in the serum and/or urine and are ideal target antigens for patient-specific immunotherapies. Methods Using phage particles as immunological carriers, we employed a novel chemically linked idiotype vaccine in a clinical phase I/II trial including 15 patients with advanced multiple myeloma. Vaccines composed of purified paraproteins linked to phage were manufactured successfully for each patient. Patients received six intradermal immunizations with phage idiotype vaccines in three different dose groups. Results Phage idiotype was well tolerated by all study participants. A subset of patients (80% in the middle dose group) displayed a clinical response indicated by decrease or stabilization of paraprotein levels. Patients exhibiting a clinical response to phage vaccines also raised idiotype-specific immunoglobulins. Induction of a cellular immune response was demonstrated by a cytotoxicity assay and delayed type hypersensitivity tests. Conclusion We present a simple, time- and cost-efficient phage idiotype vaccination strategy, which represents a safe and feasible patient-specific therapy for patients with advanced multiple myeloma and produced promising anti-tumor activity in a subset of patients. PMID:24885819

  17. First-in-human testing of a wirelessly controlled drug delivery microchip.

    PubMed

    Farra, Robert; Sheppard, Norman F; McCabe, Laura; Neer, Robert M; Anderson, James M; Santini, John T; Cima, Michael J; Langer, Robert

    2012-02-22

    The first clinical trial of an implantable microchip-based drug delivery device is discussed. Human parathyroid hormone fragment (1-34) [hPTH(1-34)] was delivered from the device in vivo. hPTH(1-34) is the only approved anabolic osteoporosis treatment, but requires daily injections, making patient compliance an obstacle to effective treatment. Furthermore, a net increase in bone mineral density requires intermittent or pulsatile hPTH(1-34) delivery, a challenge for implantable drug delivery products. The microchip-based devices, containing discrete doses of lyophilized hPTH(1-34), were implanted in eight osteoporotic postmenopausal women for 4 months and wirelessly programmed to release doses from the device once daily for up to 20 days. A computer-based programmer, operating in the Medical Implant Communications Service band, established a bidirectional wireless communication link with the implant to program the dosing schedule and receive implant status confirming proper operation. Each woman subsequently received hPTH(1-34) injections in escalating doses. The pharmacokinetics, safety, tolerability, and bioequivalence of hPTH(1-34) were assessed. Device dosing produced similar pharmacokinetics to multiple injections and had lower coefficients of variation. Bone marker evaluation indicated that daily release from the device increased bone formation. There were no toxic or adverse events due to the device or drug, and patients stated that the implant did not affect quality of life.

  18. Intermittent preventive treatment of malaria during pregnancy in central Mozambique.

    PubMed

    Brentlinger, Paula E; Dgedge, Martinho; Correia, Maria Ana Chadreque; Rojas, Ana Judith Blanco; Saúte, Francisco; Gimbel-Sherr, Kenneth H; Stubbs, Benjamin A; Mercer, Mary Anne; Gloyd, Stephen

    2007-11-01

    New WHO strategies for control of malaria in pregnancy (MiP) recommend intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp), bednet use and improved case management. A pilot MiP programme in Mozambique was designed to determine requirements for scale-up. The Ministry of Health worked with a nongovernmental organization and an academic institution to establish and monitor a pilot programme in two impoverished malaria-endemic districts. Implementing the pilot programme required provision of additional sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP), materials for directly observed SP administration, bednets and a modified antenatal card. National-level formulary restrictions on SP needed to be waived. The original protocol required modification because imprecision in estimation of gestational age led to missed SP doses. Multiple incompatibilities with other health initiatives (including programmes for control of syphilis, anaemia and HIV) were discovered and overcome. Key outputs and impacts were measured; 92.5% of 7911 women received at least 1 dose of SP, with the mean number of SP doses received being 2.2. At the second antenatal visit, 13.5% of women used bednets. In subgroups (1167 for laboratory analyses; 2600 births), SP use was significantly associated with higher haemoglobin levels (10.9 g/dL if 3 doses, 10.3 if none), less malaria parasitaemia (prevalence 7.5% if 3 doses, 39.3% if none), and fewer low-birth-weight infants (7.3% if 3 doses, 12.5% if none). National-level scale-up will require attention to staffing, supplies, bednet availability, drug policy, gestational-age estimation and harmonization of vertical initiatives.

  19. Leukoencephalopathy in childhood hematopoietic neoplasm caused by moderate-dose methotrexate and prophylactic cranial radiotherapy - an MR analysis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Matsumoto, Ko; Takahashi, Shoki; Higano, Shuichi

    1995-07-15

    The main purpose of this study was to determine influential factors related to minor leukoencephalopathy (LEP) caused by moderate-dose methotrexate (MTX) and prophylactic cranial radiotherapy (CRT) in childhood hematopoietic malignancies. We also compared the incidence of LEP following this treatment to that reported in the literature following treatment with high-dose MTX alone. Thirty-eight pediatric patients of hematopoietic malignancies (37 acute lymphoblastic leukemias, 1 non-Hodgkin lymphoma) who were given CRT (18-24 Gy) as well as prophylactic intrathecal and per os MTX were studied for leukoencephalopathy by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. All the patients were free from grave neuropsychiatric disturbances. The datamore » were examined to elucidate the influential ones of five factors (patients` age, doses of intrathecal and per os MTX, dose of CRT, interval between treatment, and MR study) to develop LEP using multiple regression analysis. To compare the effect of moderate-dose MTX and prophylactic CRT on LEP to that of high-dose MTX alone, we conducted a literature review. Seven out of 38 patients (18%) developed LEP. From multiple regression analysis and partial correlation coefficients, the age and CRT dose seemed influential in the subsequent development of LEP. The incidence of LEP following treatment with moderate-dose MTX and prophylactic CRT appears to be less than that reported in the literature following treatment with intravenous high-dose MTX. However, even moderate-dose MTX in combination with CRT can result in a significant incidence of MR-detectable LEP, particularly in children 6 years of age or younger receiving 24 Gy. Leukoencephalopathy was caused by moderate-dose MTX and prophylactic CRT in pediatric patients, probably less frequently than by high-dose MTX treatment alone. The influential factors were patient`s age and CRT dose. 26 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs.« less

  20. Evaluation of volumetric modulated arc therapy for cranial radiosurgery using multiple noncoplanar arcs

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Audet, Chantal; Poffenbarger, Brett A.; Chang, Pauling

    2011-11-15

    Purpose: To evaluate a commercial volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), using multiple noncoplanar arcs, for linac-based cranial radiosurgery, as well as evaluate the combined accuracy of the VMAT dose calculations and delivery. Methods: Twelve patients with cranial lesions of variable size (0.1-29 cc) and two multiple metastases patients were planned (Eclipse RapidArc AAA algorithm, v8.6.15) using VMAT (1-6 noncoplanar arcs), dynamic conformal arc (DCA, {approx}4 arcs), and IMRT (nine static fields). All plans were evaluated according to a conformity index (CI), healthy brain tissue doses and volumes, and the dose to organs at risk. A 2D dose distribution was measuredmore » (Varian Novalis Tx, HD120 MLC, 1000 MU/min, 6 MV beam) for the {approx}4 arc VMAT treatment plans using calibrated film dosimetry. Results: The CI (0-1 best) average for all plans was best for {approx}4 noncoplanar arc VMAT at 0.86 compared with {approx}0.78 for IMRT and a single arc VMAT and 0.68 for DCA. The volumes of healthy brain receiving 50% of the prescribed target coverage dose or more (V{sub 50%}) were lowest for the four arc VMAT [RA(4)] and DCA plans. The average ratio of the V{sub 50%} for the other plans to the RA(4) V{sub 50%} were 1.9 for a single noncoplanar arc VMAT [RA(1nc)], 1.4 for single full coplanar arc VMAT [RA(1f)] and 1.3 for IMRT. The V{sub 50%} improved significantly for single isocenter multiple metastases plan when two noncoplanar VMAT arcs were added to a full single coplanar one. The maximum dose to 5 cc of the outer 1 cm rim of healthy brain which one may want to keep below nonconsequential doses of 300-400 cGy, was 2-3 times greater for IMRT, RA(1nc) and RA(1f) plans compared with the multiple noncoplanar arc DCA and RA(4) techniques. Organs at risk near (0-4 mm) to targets were best spared by (i) single noncoplanar arcs when the targets are lateral to the organ at risk and (ii) by skewed nonvertical planes of IMRT fields when the targets are not lateral to the organ at risk. The highest dose gradient observed between an organ at risk and a target at the edge of a VMAT arc plane or plane of IMRT fields was 17%/mm. The average absolute percent difference between the measured and calculated central axis dose for all the VMAT plans was 3.6 {+-} 2.2%. The measured perpendicular profile widths and shifts were on average within 0.5 mm of planned values. The average total MUs for VMAT plans was double the DCA average and similar to the IMRT average. Conclusions: For the aforementioned planning and delivery system and cranial lesions greater than 7 mm in diameter, multiple noncoplanar arc VMAT consistently provides accurate and high quality cranial radiosurgery dose distributions with low doses to healthy brain tissue and high dose conformity to the target. These qualities may make multiple noncoplanar arc VMAT suitable for a greater range of prescription doses or larger and more irregular lesions. For smaller and/or rounder lesions there are other clinically acceptable treatment techniques that may involve fewer couch angles or arcs and reduce treatment times.« less

  1. A randomized trial to determine the optimal dosage of multivitamin supplements to reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes among HIV-infected women in Tanzania.

    PubMed

    Kawai, Kosuke; Kupka, Roland; Mugusi, Ferdinand; Aboud, Said; Okuma, James; Villamor, Eduardo; Spiegelman, Donna; Fawzi, Wafaie W

    2010-02-01

    We previously reported that supplementation with multivitamins (vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and vitamin E) at multiples of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) significantly decreased the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes among HIV-infected women. The minimum dosage of multivitamins necessary for optimal benefits is unknown. We investigated the efficacy of multivitamin supplements at single compared with multiple RDAs on decreasing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes among HIV-infected women. We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial among 1129 HIV-infected pregnant women in Tanzania. Eligible women between 12 and 27 gestational weeks were randomly assigned to receive daily oral supplements of either single or multiple RDA multivitamins from enrollment until 6 wk after delivery. Multivitamins at multiple and single doses of the RDA had similar effects on the risk of low birth weight (11.6% and 10.2%, respectively; P = 0.75). We found no difference between the 2 groups in the risk of preterm birth (19.3% and 18.4%, respectively; P = 0.73) or small-for-gestational-age (14.8% and 12.0%, respectively; P = 0.18). The mean birth weights were similar in the multiple RDA (3045 + or - 549 g) and single RDA multivitamins group (3052 + or - 534 g; P = 0.83). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in the risk of fetal death (P = 0.99) or early infant death (P = 0.19). Multivitamin supplements at a single dose of the RDA may be as efficacious as multiple doses of the RDA in decreasing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes among HIV-infected women. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00197678.

  2. Dose accumulation of multiple high dose rate prostate brachytherapy treatments in two commercially available image registration systems.

    PubMed

    Poder, Joel; Yuen, Johnson; Howie, Andrew; Bece, Andrej; Bucci, Joseph

    2017-11-01

    The purpose of this study was to assess whether deformable image registration (DIR) is required for dose accumulation of multiple high dose rate prostate brachytherapy (HDRPBT) plans treated with the same catheter pattern on two different CT datasets. DIR was applied to 20 HDRPBT patients' planning CT images who received two treatment fractions on sequential days, on two different CT datasets, with the same implant. Quality of DIR in Velocity and MIM image registration systems was assessed by calculating the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) and mean distance to agreement (MDA) for the prostate, urethra and rectum contours. Accumulated doses from each system were then calculated using the same DIR technique and dose volume histogram (DVH) parameters compared to manual addition with no DIR. The average DSC was found to be 0.83 (Velocity) and 0.84 (MIM), 0.80 (Velocity) and 0.80 (MIM), 0.80 (Velocity) and 0.81 (MIM), for the prostate, rectum and urethra contours, respectively. The average difference in calculated DVH parameters between the two systems using dose accumulation was less than 1%, and there was no statistically significant difference found between deformably accumulated doses in the two systems versus manual DVH addition with no DIR. Contour propagation using DIR in velocity and MIM was shown to be at least equivalent to inter-observer contouring variability on CT. The results also indicate that dose accumulation through manual addition of DVH parameters may be sufficient for HDRPBT treatments treated with the same catheter pattern on two different CT datasets. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Targeting BCL2 with Venetoclax in Relapsed Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.

    PubMed

    Roberts, Andrew W; Davids, Matthew S; Pagel, John M; Kahl, Brad S; Puvvada, Soham D; Gerecitano, John F; Kipps, Thomas J; Anderson, Mary Ann; Brown, Jennifer R; Gressick, Lori; Wong, Shekman; Dunbar, Martin; Zhu, Ming; Desai, Monali B; Cerri, Elisa; Heitner Enschede, Sari; Humerickhouse, Rod A; Wierda, William G; Seymour, John F

    2016-01-28

    New treatments have improved outcomes for patients with relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), but complete remissions remain uncommon. Venetoclax has a distinct mechanism of action; it targets BCL2, a protein central to the survival of CLL cells. We conducted a phase 1 dose-escalation study of daily oral venetoclax in patients with relapsed or refractory CLL or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) to assess safety, pharmacokinetic profile, and efficacy. In the dose-escalation phase, 56 patients received active treatment in one of eight dose groups that ranged from 150 to 1200 mg per day. In an expansion cohort, 60 additional patients were treated with a weekly stepwise ramp-up in doses as high as 400 mg per day. The majority of the study patients had received multiple previous treatments, and 89% had poor prognostic clinical or genetic features. Venetoclax was active at all dose levels. Clinical tumor lysis syndrome occurred in 3 of 56 patients in the dose-escalation cohort, with one death. After adjustments to the dose-escalation schedule, clinical tumor lysis syndrome did not occur in any of the 60 patients in the expansion cohort. Other toxic effects included mild diarrhea (in 52% of the patients), upper respiratory tract infection (in 48%), nausea (in 47%), and grade 3 or 4 neutropenia (in 41%). A maximum tolerated dose was not identified. Among the 116 patients who received venetoclax, 92 (79%) had a response. Response rates ranged from 71 to 79% among patients in subgroups with an adverse prognosis, including those with resistance to fludarabine, those with chromosome 17p deletions (deletion 17p CLL), and those with unmutated IGHV. Complete remissions occurred in 20% of the patients, including 5% who had no minimal residual disease on flow cytometry. The 15-month progression-free survival estimate for the 400-mg dose groups was 69%. Selective targeting of BCL2 with venetoclax had a manageable safety profile and induced substantial responses in patients with relapsed CLL or SLL, including those with poor prognostic features. (Funded by AbbVie and Genentech; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01328626.).

  4. A study of the biological receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand inhibitor, denosumab, in patients with multiple myeloma or bone metastases from breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Body, Jean-Jacques; Facon, Thierry; Coleman, Robert E; Lipton, Allan; Geurs, Filip; Fan, Michelle; Holloway, Donna; Peterson, Mark C; Bekker, Pirow J

    2006-02-15

    Receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) is essential for the differentiation, function, and survival of osteoclasts, which play a key role in establishment and propagation of skeletal disease in patients with multiple myeloma or bone metastases as well as many other skeletal diseases. Denosumab (AMG 162), a fully human monoclonal antibody to RANKL, was developed to treat patients with skeletal diseases. This was a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled, multicenter study to determine the safety and efficacy of denosumab in patients with breast cancer (n = 29) or multiple myeloma (n = 25) with radiologically confirmed bone lesions. Patients received a single dose of either denosumab (0.1, 0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 mg/kg s.c.) or pamidronate (90 mg i.v.). Bone antiresorptive effect was assessed by changes in urinary and serum N-telopeptide levels. Pharmacokinetics of denosumab also were assessed. Following a single s.c. dose of denosumab, levels of urinary and serum N-telopeptide decreased within 1 day, and this decrease lasted through 84 days at the higher denosumab doses. Pamidronate also decreased bone turnover, but the effect diminished progressively through follow-up. Denosumab injections were well tolerated. Mean half-lives of denosumab were 33.3 and 46.3 days for the two highest dosages. A single s.c. dose of denosumab given to patients with multiple myeloma or bone metastases from breast cancer was well tolerated and reduced bone resorption for at least 84 days. The decrease in bone turnover markers was similar in magnitude but more sustained than with i.v. pamidronate.

  5. Ocular lesions in canine mucopolysaccharidosis I and response to enzyme replacement therapy.

    PubMed

    Newkirk, Kim M; Atkins, Rosalie M; Dickson, Patti I; Rohrbach, Barton W; McEntee, Michael F

    2011-07-11

    Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) is an inherited metabolic disorder resulting from deficiency of α-L-iduronidase and lysosomal accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAG) in multiple tissues. Accumulation of GAG in corneal stromal cells causes corneal opacity and reduced vision. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of ocular GAG accumulation and investigate the effectiveness of intravenous enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on corneal GAG accumulation in dogs. Ocular tissues were obtained from 58 dogs with mucopolysaccharidosis I and four unaffected controls. Affected dogs received either low-dose ERT, high-dose ERT, or no treatment; some low-dose dogs also received intrathecal treatments. Histologic severity of corneal stromal GAG accumulation was scored. Accumulation of GAG was found in corneal stromal cells and scleral fibroblasts but not in corneal epithelium, endothelium, ciliary epithelium, choroid, retina, retinal pigment epithelium, or optic nerve. Corneal GAG accumulation increased in severity with increasing age. Although low-dose ERT did not significantly reduce corneal stromal GAG accumulation in comparison with untreated animals, high-dose ERT did result in significantly less GAG accumulation compared with the untreated dogs (adjusted P = 0.0143) or the low-dose ERT group (adjusted P = 0.0031). Intrathecal treatments did not significantly affect GAG accumulation. Dogs that began ERT shortly after birth also had significantly less (P < 0.0001) GAG accumulation in the corneal stroma than dogs with a later onset of treatment. These data suggest that high-dose, intravenous ERT is effective at preventing and/or clearing corneal stromal GAG accumulation, particularly if initiated early after birth.

  6. Pharmacokinetics of valerenic acid after single and multiple doses of valerian in older women.

    PubMed

    Anderson, Gail D; Elmer, Gary W; Taibi, Diana M; Vitiello, Michael V; Kantor, Eric; Kalhorn, Thomas F; Howald, William N; Barsness, Suzanne; Landis, Carol A

    2010-10-01

    Insomnia is a commonly reported clinical problem with as many as 50% of older adults reporting difficulty in falling and/or remaining asleep. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a commonly used herb that has been advocated for promoting sleep. Valerenic acid is used as a marker for quantitative analysis of valerian products with evidence of pharmacological activity relevant to the hypnotic effects of valerian. The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of valerenic acid in a group of elderly women after receiving a single nightly valerian dose and after 2 weeks of valerian dosing. There was not a statistically significant difference in the average peak concentration (C(max)), time to maximum concentration (T(max)) area under the time curve (AUC), elimination half-life (T(1/2)) and oral clearance after a single dose compared with multiple dosing. There was considerable inter- and intra-subject variability in the pharmacokinetic parameters. C(max) and AUC deceased and T(1/2) increased with increased body weight. The variability between the capsules was extremely low: 2.2%, 1.4% and 1.4%, for hydroxyvalerenic acid, acetoxyvalerenic acid and valerenic acid, respectively. In conclusion, large variability in the pharmacokinetics of valerenic acid may contribute to the inconsistencies in the effect of valerian as a sleep aid. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  7. Pharmacokinetics and safety of vitamin E δ-tocotrienol after single and multiple doses in healthy subjects with measurement of vitamin E metabolites.

    PubMed

    Mahipal, Amit; Klapman, Jason; Vignesh, Shivakumar; Yang, Chung S; Neuger, Anthony; Chen, Dung-Tsa; Malafa, Mokenge P

    2016-07-01

    Vitamin E delta-tocotrienol (VEDT) has demonstrated chemopreventive and antineoplastic activity in preclinical models. The aim of our study was to determine the safety and pharmacokinetics of VEDT and its metabolites after single- and multiple-dose administrations in healthy subjects. Thirty-six subjects received from 100 to 1600 mg of oral VEDT as a single dose or twice daily for 14 consecutive days. A 3 + 3 dose escalation design was utilized. Pharmacokinetic data were derived from high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assays. Serial blood and urine samples were collected before and during VEDT administration, with serum and urine metabolites assessed using HPLC. No drug-related adverse events were observed. Pharmacokinetic parameters for single and multiple doses were, respectively, as follows (shown as range): time to maximum concentration of 4-9.3 and 4.7-7.3 h, maximum concentration of 795.6-3742.6 and 493.3-3746 ng/mL, half-life of 1.7-5.9 and 2.3-6.9 h, and 0-12 h area under the curve of 4518.7-20,781.4 and 1987.7-22,171.2 ng h/mL. Plasma tocotrienols were significantly increased after VEDT administration, indicating oral bioavailability of VEDT in humans. Plasma and urine levels of metabolites, δ-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman, and δ-carboxymethylbutyl hydroxychroman were elevated after VEDT administration in a dose-dependent manner and were 30-60 times significantly higher than δ-tocotrienol levels. VEDT can be safely administered at doses up to 1600 mg twice daily. Plasma VEDT concentrations were comparable to those obtained in VEDT-treated mice in which tumor growth was delayed. Our results suggest that VEDT can be safely consumed by healthy subjects and achieve bioactive levels, supporting the investigation of VEDT for chemoprevention.

  8. Dose-escalation of human anti-interferon-α receptor monoclonal antibody MEDI-546 in subjects with systemic sclerosis: a phase 1, multicenter, open label study

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Introduction Type I interferons (IFNs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). MEDI-546 is an investigational human monoclonal antibody directed against the type I IFN receptor. This Phase 1 study evaluated the safety/tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), immunogenicity, and pharmacodynamics (PD) of single and multiple intravenous doses of MEDI-546 in adults with SSc. Methods Subjects (≥18 years) with SSc were enrolled in an open-label, dose-escalation study to receive single (0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, 10.0, or 20.0 mg/kg), or 4 weekly intravenous doses (0.3, 1.0, or 5.0 mg/kg/week) of MEDI-546. Subjects were followed for 12 weeks. Safety assessments included adverse events (AEs), laboratory results, and viral monitoring. Blood samples were collected from all subjects for determination of PK, presence of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs), and expression of type I IFN-inducible genes. Results Of 34 subjects (mean age 47.4 years), 32 completed treatment and 33 completed the study. Overall, 148 treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) were reported (68.9% mild, 27.7% moderate). TEAEs included one grade 1 infusion reaction (5.0 mg/kg/week multiple dose). Of 4 treatment-emergent serious AEs (skin ulcer, osteomyelitis, vertigo, and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)), only CML (1.0 mg/kg/week multiple dose) was considered possibly treatment-related. MEDI-546 exhibited non-linear PK at lower doses. ADAs were detected in 5 subjects; no apparent impact on PK was observed. Peak inhibition of the type I IFN signature in whole blood was achieved within 1 day and in skin after 7 days. Conclusion The safety/tolerability, PK, and PD profiles observed in this study support further clinical development of MEDI-546. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00930683 PMID:24559157

  9. SU-E-T-436: Accelerated Gated IMRT: A Feasibility Study for Lung Cancer Patients

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gilles, M; Boussion, N; Visvikis, D

    Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of delivering a gated Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment using multiple respiratory phases in order to account for all anatomic changes during free breathing and accelerate the gated treatment without increasing the dose per fraction. Methods: For 7 patients with lung cancer, IMRT treatment plans were generated on a full inspiration (FI) Computed Tomography (CT) and a Mid Intensity Position (MIP) CT. Moreover, in order to achieve an accelerated gated IMRT, multiple respiratory phase plans were calculated: 2-phase plans including the FI and the full expiration phases, and 3-phase plans by adding the mid-inspiration phase.more » In order to assess the tolerance limits, plans' doses were registered and summed to the FI-based plan. Mean dose received by Organs at Risk (OARs) and target volumes were used to compare obtained plans. Results: The mean dose differences between the FI plans and the multi-phase plans never exceeded 0.4 Gy (Fig. 1). Concerning the clinical target volume these differences were even smaller: less than 0.1 Gy for both the 2-phase and 3-phase plans. Regarding the MIP treatment plan, higher doses in different healthy structures were observed, with a relative mean increase of 0.4 to 1.5 Gy. Finally, compared to the prescribed dose, the FI as well as the multi-phase plans were associated with a mean difference of 0.4 Gy, whereas in the case of MIP a higher mean difference of 0.6 Gy was observed. Conclusion: The doses obtained while planning a multi-phase gated IMRT treatment were within the tolerance limits. Compared to MIP, a better healthy tissue sparing was observed in the case of treatment planning based on one or multiple phases. Future work will consist in testing the multi-phase treatment delivery while accounting for the multileaf collimator speed constraints.« less

  10. Effect of time to infusion of autologous stem cells (24 vs. 48 h) after high-dose melphalan in patients with multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Talamo, Giampaolo; Rakszawski, Kevin L; Rybka, Witold B; Dolloff, Nathan G; Malysz, Jozef; Berno, Tamara; Zangari, Maurizio

    2012-08-01

    High-dose melphalan (HD-Mel) is considered the current standard of care among the preparative regimens used in autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (SCT) for multiple myeloma (MM), but optimal time and schedule of administration is not defined. We retrospectively analyzed outcomes and toxicities of HD-Mel administered on day -2 vs. day -1 before autologous stem cells infusion. A total of 138 consecutive MM patients treated at Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute between 2007 and 2010 were included in this study. No difference in time to hematopoietic recovery, common SCT-related toxicities, and clinical outcomes was seen between patients who received HD-Mel on day -2 (group A, n = 47), and those who received it on day -1 (group B, n = 91). Prompt and full hematopoietic recovery occurred even when stem cells were infused between 8 and 24 h after completion of chemotherapy. In the absence of prospective and randomized data, we conclude that a single I.V. infusion of HD-Mel on day -1 is a safe and effective practice, and the so-called 'day of rest' before the transplant appears not to be necessary. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

  11. Identification of Differential Gene Expression Patterns after Acute Exposure to High and Low Doses of Low-LET Ionizing Radiation in a Reconstituted Human Skin Tissue

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tilton, Susan C.; Markillie, Lye Meng; Hays, Spencer

    Our goal here was to identify dose and temporal dependent radiation responses in a complex tissue, reconstituted human skin. Direct sequencing of RNA (RNA-seq) was used to quantify altered transcripts following exposure to 0.1, 2 and 10 Gy of ionizing radiation at 3 and 8 hours. These doses include a low dose in the range of some medical diagnostic procedures (0.1 Gy), a dose typically received during radiotherapy (2.0 Gy) and a lethal dose (10 Gy). These doses could be received after an intentional or accidental radiation exposure and biomarkers are needed to rapidly and accurately triage exposed individuals. Amore » total of 1701 genes were deemed to be significantly affected by high dose radiation exposure with the majority of genes affected at 10 Gy. A group of 29 genes including GDF15, BBC3, PPM1D, FDXR, GADD45A, MDM2, CDKN1A, TP53INP1, CYCSP27, SESN1, SESN2, PCNA, and AEN were similarly altered at both 2 and 10 Gy, but not 0.1 Gy, at multiple time points. A much larger group of up regulated genes, including those involved in inflammatory responses, was significantly altered only after a 10 Gy exposure. At high doses, down regulated genes were associated with cell cycle regulation and exhibited an apparent linear response between 2 and 10 Gy. While only a handful of genes were significantly affected by 0.1 Gy exposure using stringent statistical filters, groups of related genes regulating cell cycle progression and inflammatory responses consistently exhibited opposite trends in their regulation compared to the high dose exposures. Differential regulation of PLK1 signaling at low and high doses was confirmed using qRT-PCR. These results indicate that some alterations in gene expression are qualitatively different at low and high doses of radiation in this model system.« less

  12. Improved long-term survival after intra-operative single high-dose ATG-Fresenius induction in renal transplantation: a single centre experience.

    PubMed

    Kaden, Jürgen; May, Gottfried; Völp, Andreas; Wesslau, Claus

    2009-01-01

    In organ grafts donor-specific sensitization is initiated immediately after revascularization. Therefore, in 1990 we introduced the intra-operative single high-dose ATG-Fresenius (ATG-F) induction in addition to standard triple drug therapy (TDT) consisting of steroids, azathioprine and cyclosporin. A total of 778 first renal transplantations from deceased donors, performed between 1987 and 1998, were included in this evaluation. This retrospective analysis of clinic records and electronic databases presents data of all recipients of first kidney grafts who received two different ATG-F inductions (1(st) group: 9 mg/kg body weight as single high-dose intra-operatively, n=484; 2(nd) group: 3 mg/kg body weight on 7 or 8 consecutive days as multiple-dose starting also intra-operatively, n=78) and standard TDT alone (3(rd) group: TDT alone, n=216). The 10-year patient survival rates were 72.6+/-2.6% (TDT + ATG-F single high-dose), 79.5+/-5.1% (TDT + ATG-F multiple-dose) and 67.2+/-3.7%% (TDT alone; Kaplan-Meier estimates with standard errors; ATG-F vs TDT alone, p=0.001). The 10-year graft survival rates with censoring of patients that died with a functioning graft were 73.8+/-2.4%, 57.7+/-5.8% and 58.4+/-3.6% (Kaplan-Meier estimates with standard errors; 1(st) vs 2(nd )and 3(rd) group, respectively, p<0.001) and the 10-year graft survival rates with patient death counted as graft failure were 58.3+/-2.7%, 55.7+/-5.8% and 48.2+/-3.5% (Kaplan-Meier estimates with standard errors; ATG-F single high-dose vs TDT, p=0.023). In pre-sensitized recipients there were also significant differences in favour of ATG-F, more notably in the single high-dose ATG-F induction. A total of 69% of the patients in the two cohorts receiving ATG-F did not experience any transplant rejections compared to 56% in patients undergoing TDT alone (p=0.018). The incidence of infectious complications was comparable across all groups. According to evidence obtained from the routine documentation of 778 renal transplantations, ATG-F induction therapy administered as a part of immunosuppressive therapy significantly improves patient survival and reduces the risk of graft failure and transplant rejections.

  13. Effect of low-dose versus higher-dose antenatal iron supplementation on child health outcomes at 36 months of age in Viet Nam: longitudinal follow-up of a cluster randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Hanieh, Sarah; Ha, Tran T; Simpson, Julie A; Braat, Sabine; Thuy, Tran T; Tran, Thach D; King, Janet; Tuan, Tran; Fisher, Jane; Biggs, Beverley-Ann

    2017-01-01

    Intermittent iron-folic acid supplementation (IFA) is currently recommended for pregnant women in populations where anaemia prevalence among pregnant women is <20% or if daily iron is not acceptable. The effect of providing lower doses of antenatal elemental iron through intermittent regimes on longer-term health outcomes in childhood is unclear. A prospective cohort study conducted between May 2012 and May 2014 in Viet Nam among children of 36 months of age, born to women previously enrolled in a cluster randomised controlled trial of antenatal micronutrient supplementation (daily IFA (60 mg elemental iron) vs twice-weekly IFA (60 mg elemental iron) vs twice-weekly multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplementation (60 mg elemental iron)). Primary outcomes were height-for-age z-scores (HAZ), according to WHO growth standards and cognitive composite scores (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, third edition) at 36 months of age. A total of 1017 children born to mothers enrolled in the cluster randomised trial were assessed at 36 months of age. Adjusted mean differences (MDs) in HAZ were -0.14 (95% CI -0.28 to -0.01) and -0.15 (95% CI -0.29 to -0.01) in children born to mothers who received twice-weekly IFA or MMN compared with those who received daily IFA. Children born to mothers who received twice-weekly MMN had lower composite motor scores compared with those who received daily IFA (MD -2.07, 95% CI -4.11 to -0.03). There were no differences in composite cognitive scores in the twice-weekly compared with daily regimens. Low-dose antenatal IFA supplementation (120 mg elemental iron per week) resulted in lower HAZ and motor composite scores in children compared with higher-dose antenatal IFA supplementation (420 mg elemental iron per week). This highlights the importance of adequate iron stores during pregnancy and the need for careful monitoring when lower-dose antenatal iron regimens are used. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: 12610000944033.

  14. [Tandem transplantation with peripheral autologous hematopoietic blood stem cells in treatment of oncologic and hematologic malignancies. Initial results of the Donauspital, Vienna].

    PubMed

    Ruckser, R; Kier, P; Sebesta, C; Kittl, E; Kurz, M; Selleny, S; Höniger, S; Scherz, M; Habertheuer, K H; Zelenka, P

    1995-01-01

    10 patients were subjected to tandem transplantation for breast cancer (n = 3), ovarian cancer (n = 2) and multiple myeloma (n = 5), at the Second Department of Medicine, Donauspital, Vienna. The breast cancer patients were in stages 2 and 3, respectively, at diagnosis and entered complete remission thereafter. 2 of them developed lymph node metastasis and additional local recurrence, the 3rd patient presented with distant metastasis. The 2 patients with ovarian cancer were in stages Figo III and IV, respectively, at the time of diagnosis, and showed minimal residual disease at second-look-operation. 5 patients with multiple myeloma were in stage 3 pretransplant. Peripheral stem cells were obtained after either high-dose cyclophosphamide or FEC induction and application of cytokines. In 4 patients, tandem transplantation has been completed. 1 patient with multiple myeloma, who had received total body irradiation in combination with chemotherapy for the 2nd transplant, succumbed from idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. No severe clinical complications were observed in all other patients. All patients with solid tumors entered complete remission after the 1st transplantation. 3 of them completed tandem transplantation. Of these, 2 remain in continuous complete remission, the 3rd patient relapsed in lymph nodes day 485. In patients who received only 1 course of high dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplantation, relapses occurred on days 29 and 75, respectively. All patients with multiple myeloma entered only partial remission. We conclude that supralethal chemotherapy with peripheral blood stem cell support is a safe procedure that may at least induce prolonged remissions in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

  15. Safety and pharmacokinetics of NXN-188 after single and multiple doses in five phase I, randomized, double-blind, parallel studies in healthy adult volunteers.

    PubMed

    Vaughan, David; Speed, Joanne; Medve, Robert; Andrews, John S

    2010-01-01

    NXN-188 is a dual-action oral therapeutic being developed for the treatment of acute migraine. The mechanism of action of NXN-188 involves inhibition of both the neuronal nitric oxide synthase enzyme isoform and affinity for serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine1B/D) receptors. The aims of the initial Phase I clinical studies were to compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of NXN-188 administered as a single dose or multiple twice-daily doses to healthy adult volunteers and to determine the tolerability of NXN-188 in these individuals. Healthy adult male and female subjects were enrolled in 5 Phase I, randomized, double-blind studies, all of which (except for a fed/fasted trial) were placebo controlled. In the 4 single-dose studies, which differed with respect to feeding status and the formulation used (capsules or solution), subjects received NXN-188 at doses of 2 to 800 mg (0.027-11.2 mg/kg). In the repeat-dose study, subjects received 50-mg (0.71 mg/kg) doses twice daily for 4 days. Serum samples were analyzed for NXN-188 using validated HPLC-MS/MS methods. Standard clinical laboratory analyses (chemistry, hematology, and urinalysis) and measurements of serum creatine kinase and myoglobin levels were conducted at screening, admission, discharge, and follow-up. Baseline and postexposure values were compared to assess tolerability. Electrocardiography and physical examination were conducted at screening and at discharge and follow-up if any negative change occurred from the previous findings. Vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiration), including assessment for orthostatic changes, were measured at screening, check-in, and follow-up visits (1 hour before dosing, every 30 minutes for the first 4 hours, then every hour for the next 4 hours, then every 4 hours for the remainder of the 24-hour study). Adverse events were recorded, reviewed, and monitored throughout the study. Two hundred three subjects (102 women, 101 men) 18 to 50 years of age were enrolled in the 5 studies; 168 subjects received NXN-188 and 35 received placebo. Most (91%) of the subjects were white; weight ranged from 69.3 to 71.8 kg (body mass index, 24.5-25.8 kg/m(2)). The initial absorption phase of orally administered NXN-188 peaked at approximately 1 hour, followed by a second absorption phase with a T(max) of approximately 4 to 5 hours. Exposure (C(max) and AUC) increased in a slightly greater than dose-proportional manner across a dose range of 2 to 800 mg (0.027-11.2 mg/kg). Elimination was multiexponential, with an initial rapid plasma drug elimination (plasma concentrations decreased approximately 70%-90% from Cmax within 24 hours after dosing), followed by a prolonged clearance phase of very low NXN-188 concentrations ( approximately 1%-5% of Cmax) that persisted for several weeks. Clearance ranged from 70 to 130 L/h, and the NXN-188 halflife ranged from 11 to 178 hours. Neither food nor gender had any measurable effect on the PK properties of NXN-188. Overall, dizziness was reported more often in the NXN-188 groups than in the placebo groups (6.3% vs 2.9%, respectively). Frequently reported adverse events that occurred more often in the placebo groups than in the NXN-188 groups were somnolence (11.4% vs 6.3%, respectively), and headache (8.6% vs 6.9%). Incidences of orthostatic hypotension (6.3% vs 5.7%) and postural (orthostatic) tachycardia syndrome (6.3% vs 5.7%) were comparable in the NXN-188 and placebo groups, respectively. No serious adverse events were reported at any dose of NXN-188 up to the current maximum dose (800 mg or 11.2 mg/kg). NXN-188 exhibited linear pharmaco-kinetics over the dose range studied and appeared to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers.

  16. Impact of ritonavir dose and schedule on CYP3A inhibition and venetoclax clinical pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Freise, Kevin J; Hu, Beibei; Salem, Ahmed Hamed

    2018-04-01

    Venetoclax is a selective BCL-2 inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It is predominately metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A. The study objective was to determine the effect of different dosage regimens of ritonavir, a strong CYP3A inhibitor, on the pharmacokinetics of venetoclax in 20 healthy subjects. In cohorts 1 and 2, subjects received single 10 mg doses of venetoclax in periods 1 and 2 and a single 50- or 100-mg dose of ritonavir in period 2. In cohort 3, subjects received 10-mg venetoclax doses on day 1 of period 1 and days 1 and 11 of period 2, and 50 mg ritonavir daily on days 1 to 14 of period 2. Single doses of 50 and 100 mg ritonavir increased the venetoclax maximum concentration (C max ) 2.3- to 2.4-fold compared to venetoclax alone and the area under the curve (AUC) 6.1- and 8.1-fold, respectively. Daily 50 mg ritonavir resulted in a 2.4- and 7.9-fold increase in venetoclax C max and AUC, respectively. Administration of 50 mg ritonavir daily saturated CYP3A inhibition and completely inhibited the formation of the major venetoclax metabolite M27. Time-dependent CYP3A inhibition with daily 50 mg ritonavir was offset by ritonavir CYP3A induction, resulting in a limited net increase in CYP3A inhibition with multiple doses. After completion of the dose ramp-up, venetoclax dose reductions of at least 75% are recommended when administered concomitantly with strong CYP3A inhibitors to maintain venetoclax exposures within the established therapeutic window for CLL treatment.

  17. A Phase I Study of Sunitinib plus Bevacizumab in Advanced Solid Tumors

    PubMed Central

    Rini, Brian I.; Garcia, Jorge A.; Cooney, Matthew M.; Elson, Paul; Tyler, Allison; Beatty, Kristi; Bokar, Joseph; Mekhail, Tarek; Bukowski, R.M.; Budd, G. Thomas; Triozzi, Pierre; Borden, Ernest; Ivy, Percy; Chen, Helen X.; Dolwati, Afshin; Dreicer, Robert

    2009-01-01

    Purpose Bevacizumab is an antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); sunitinib is an inhibitor of VEGF and related receptors. The safety and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of sunitinib plus bevacizumab was assessed in this phase I trial. Experimental Design Patients with advanced solid tumors were treated on a 3+3 trial design. Patients received sunitinib daily (starting dose level 25 mg) for 4 weeks on followed by 2 weeks off and bevacizumab (starting dose level 5 mg/kg) on days 1, 15 and 29 of a 42-day cycle. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) during the first 6-week cycle were used to determine the MTD. Results Thirty-eight patients were enrolled. Pts received a median of 3 cycles of treatment (range, 1–17+). There was one DLT (grade 4 hypertension) at 37.5 mg sunitinib and 5 mg/kg bevacizumab. Grade 3 or greater toxicity was observed in 87% of patients including hypertension (47%), fatigue (24%), thrombocytopenia (18%), proteinuria (13%), and hand-foot syndrome (13%). Dose modifications and delays were common at higher dose levels. No clinical or laboratory evidence of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia was observed. Seven patients had a confirmed RECIST-defined PR (18%; 95% confidence interval: 8–34%). Nineteen of the 32 patients with a post-baseline scan (59%) had at least some reduction in overall tumor burden (median 32%, range 3–73%). Conclusions The combination of sunitinib and bevacizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors is feasible, albeit with toxicity at higher dose levels and requiring dose modification with continued therapy. Anti-tumor activity was observed across multiple solid tumors. PMID:19773375

  18. Investigational Aurora A kinase inhibitor alisertib (MLN8237) as an enteric-coated tablet formulation in non-hematologic malignancies: Phase 1 dose-escalation study

    PubMed Central

    Falchook, Gerald; Kurzrock, Razelle; Gouw, Launce; Hong, David; McGregor, Kimberly A.; Zhou, Xiaofei; Shi, Hongliang; Fingert, Howard; Sharma, Sunil

    2014-01-01

    Background This phase 1b study evaluated an enteric-coated tablet (ECT) formulation of the investigational Aurora A kinase inhibitor, alisertib (MLN8237). Methods Patients with advanced, non-hematologic malignancies received oral alisertib ECT for 7 days BID followed by 14 days treatment-free (21-day cycles; 3+3 dose escalation schema). Objectives were to assess safety, pharmacokinetics, and antitumor activity, and to define a recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of alisertib. Results 24 patients were treated. Median age was 57 years. Patients received a median of 2 cycles (range 1–12). The RP2D was determined as 50 mg BID for 7 days (21-day cycles). A cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicity of grade 4 febrile neutropenia was observed in 1 of 13 patients at RP2D. The most common drug-related adverse event (AE) was neutropenia (50%). At doses ≥40 mg BID, 7 patients had drug-related AEs that were serious but largely reversible/manageable by dose reduction and supportive care, including 3 with febrile neutropenia. Pharmacokinetic data were available in 24 patients. Following administration of alisertib ECT, the plasma peak concentration of alisertib was achieved at ~3 h; systemic exposure increased with increasing dose over 10–60 mg BID. Mean t½ was ~21 h following multiple dosing. Renal clearance was negligible. Nine patients achieved stable disease (3.98*, 5.59, 1.28*, 2.56, 5.45*, 3.48, 3.15, 8.31, and 6.93* months; *censored). Conclusions Alisertib ECT was generally well tolerated in adults with advanced, non-hematologic malignancies. The RP2D is 50 mg BID for 7 days and is being evaluated in ongoing phase 2 studies. PMID:24879333

  19. Rationale of technical requirements for NRG-BR001: The first NCI-sponsored trial of SBRT for the treatment of multiple metastases.

    PubMed

    Al-Hallaq, Hania A; Chmura, Steven; Salama, Joseph K; Winter, Kathryn A; Robinson, Clifford G; Pisansky, Thomas M; Borges, Virginia; Lowenstein, Jessica R; McNulty, Susan; Galvin, James M; Followill, David S; Timmerman, Robert D; White, Julia R; Xiao, Ying; Matuszak, Martha M

    In 2014, the NRG Oncology Group initiated the first National Cancer Institute-sponsored, phase 1 clinical trial of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for the treatment of multiple metastases in multiple organ sites (BR001; NCT02206334). The primary endpoint is to test the safety of SBRT for the treatment of 2 to 4 multiple lesions in several anatomic sites in a multi-institutional setting. Because of the technical challenges inherent to treating multiple lesions as their spatial separation decreases, we present the technical requirements for NRG-BR001 and the rationale for their selection. Patients with controlled primary tumors of breast, non-small cell lung, or prostate are eligible if they have 2 to 4 metastases distributed among 7 extracranial anatomic locations throughout the body. Prescription and organ-at-risk doses were determined by expert consensus. Credentialing requirements include (1) irradiation of the Imaging and Radiation Oncology Core phantom with SBRT, (2) submitting image guided radiation therapy case studies, and (3) planning the benchmark. Guidelines for navigating challenging planning cases including assessing composite dose are discussed. Dosimetric planning to multiple lesions receiving differing doses (45-50 Gy) and fractionation (3-5) while irradiating the same organs at risk is discussed, particularly for metastases in close proximity (≤5 cm). The benchmark case was selected to demonstrate the planning tradeoffs required to satisfy protocol requirements for 2 nearby lesions. Examples of passing benchmark plans exhibited a large variability in plan conformity. NRG-BR001 was developed using expert consensus on multiple issues from the dose fractionation regimen to the minimum image guided radiation therapy guidelines. Credentialing was tied to the task rather than the anatomic site to reduce its burden. Every effort was made to include a variety of delivery methods to reflect current SBRT technology. Although some simplifications were adopted, the successful completion of this trial will inform future designs of both national and institutional trials and would allow immediate clinical adoption of SBRT trials for oligometastases. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Radiation Oncology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. A comparative study of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prophylaxis in premature infants within the Canadian Registry of Palivizumab (CARESS).

    PubMed

    Paes, B; Mitchell, I; Li, A; Lanctôt, K L

    2012-10-01

    We examined the dosing regimens, compliance, and outcomes of premature infants who received palivizumab within the Canadian Registry of Palivizumab (CARESS). Infants receiving ≥1 dose of palivizumab during the 2006-2011 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) seasons were recruited across 30 sites. Respiratory illness events were captured monthly. Infants ≤32 completed weeks gestational age (GA) (Group 1) were compared to 33-35 completed weeks GA infants (Group 2) following prophylaxis. In total, 6,654 patients were analyzed (Group 1, n = 5,183; Group 2, n = 1,471). The mean GA was 29.9 ± 2.9 versus 34.2 ± 2.2 weeks for Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Group differences were significant (all p-values <0.05) for the following: proportion of males, Caucasians, siblings, multiple births, maternal smoking, smoking during pregnancy, household smokers, >5 household individuals, birth weight, and enrolment age. Overall, infants received 92.6 % of expected injections. Group 1 received significantly more injections, but a greater proportion of Group 2 received injections within recommended intervals. The hospitalization rates were similar for Groups 1 and 2 for respiratory illness (4.7 % vs. 3.7 %, p = 0.1) and RSV (1.5 % vs. 1.4 %, p = 0.3). Neither the time to first respiratory illness [hazard ratio = 0.9, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.7-1.2, p = 0.5] nor to first RSV hospitalization (hazard ratio = 1.3, 95 % CI 0.8-2.2, p = 0.3) were different. Compliance with RSV prophylaxis is high. Despite the higher number of palivizumab doses in infants ≤32 completed weeks GA, the two groups' respiratory illness and RSV-positive hospitalization rates were similar.

  1. A population-based study of dosing and persistence with anti-dementia medications.

    PubMed

    Brewer, Linda; Bennett, Kathleen; McGreevy, Cora; Williams, David

    2013-07-01

    Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are the mainstay of pharmacological intervention for the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study assessed the adequacy of dosing and persistence with AD medications and the predictors of these variables in the 'real world' (outside the clinical trial setting). The Health Service Executive-Primary Care Reimbursement Services prescription claims database in the Republic of Ireland contains prescription information for 1.6 million people. Patients aged >70 years who received at least two prescriptions for donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine and memantine between January 2006 and December 2010 were included in the study. Rates of dose-maximisation were recorded by examining the initiation dose of each AD drug commenced during the study period and any subsequent dose titrations. Non-persistence was defined by a gap in prescribing of more than 63 consecutive days. Predictors of dose-maximisation and non-persistence were also analysed. Between January 2006 and December 2010, 20,729 patients aged >70 years received a prescription for an AD medication. Despite most patients on donepezil and memantine receiving a prescription for the maximum drug dose, this dose was maintained for 2 consecutive months in only two-thirds of patients. Patients were significantly more likely to have their doses of donepezil and memantine maximised if prescribed in more recent years (2010 vs. 2007). Rates of non-persistence were 30.1 % at 6 months and 43.8 % at 12 months. Older age [75+ vs. <75 years; hazards ratio (HR) 1.16, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.27] and drug type (rivastigmine vs. donepezil; HR 1.15, 95 % CI 1.03-1.27) increased the risk of non-persistence. Non-persistence was lower for those commencing therapy in more recent years (2010 vs. 2007; HR 0.81, 95 % CI 0.73-0.89, p < 0.001) and for those on multiple anti-dementia medications (HR 0.59, 95 % CI 0.54-0.65, p < 0.001). Persistence was significantly higher when memantine was co-prescribed with donepezil (p < 0.0001). Future studies should explore the reasons underlying non-persistence and failure to maintain dose-maximisation in patients on AD medications. There may be scope to improve the dosing and persistence with these medications in the community.

  2. A randomized phase II trial evaluating different schedules of zoledronic acid on bone mineral density in patients with prostate cancer beginning androgen deprivation therapy.

    PubMed

    Lang, Joshua M; Wallace, Marianne; Becker, Jordan T; Eickhoff, Jens C; Buehring, Bjoern; Binkley, Neil; Staab, Mary Jane; Wilding, George; Liu, Glenn; Malkovsky, Miroslav; McNeel, Douglas G

    2013-12-01

    To assess the effects of timing and schedule of zoledronic acid (ZA) administration on bone mineral density (BMD) in patients beginning androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for the treatment of recurrent prostate cancer. In this randomized, 3-arm trial, we evaluated changes in BMD after 3 different ZA administration schedules in men with recurrent prostate cancer who were beginning ADT. Forty-four patients were enrolled and randomized to receive a single dose of ZA given 1 week before beginning ADT (arm 1), a single dose of ZA given 6 months after beginning ADT (arm 2), or monthly administration of ZA starting 6 months after beginning ADT, for a total of 6 doses (arm 3). Patients who received ZA before ADT had a significant improvement in BMD at the total proximal femur and trochanter after 6 months compared with the other groups. In addition, only patients in the arm that received multiple doses improved lumbar spine BMD while on ADT, with these findings persisting to 24 months. However, this group also experienced more grade 1 adverse events. Analysis of these data suggests that ZA administration before initiation of ADT was superior to treatment 6 months after starting ADT in maintaining BMD. In addition, monthly ZA administration can increase BMD above baseline but is associated with more adverse events. Further study is needed to examine whether the timing and frequency of ZA therapy in patients on ADT can reduce fracture risk. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Transplantation of spinal cord-derived neural stem cells for ALS: Analysis of phase 1 and 2 trials.

    PubMed

    Glass, Jonathan D; Hertzberg, Vicki S; Boulis, Nicholas M; Riley, Jonathan; Federici, Thais; Polak, Meraida; Bordeau, Jane; Fournier, Christina; Johe, Karl; Hazel, Tom; Cudkowicz, Merit; Atassi, Nazem; Borges, Lawrence F; Rutkove, Seward B; Duell, Jayna; Patil, Parag G; Goutman, Stephen A; Feldman, Eva L

    2016-07-26

    To test the safety of spinal cord transplantation of human stem cells in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with escalating doses and expansion of the trial to multiple clinical centers. This open-label trial included 15 participants at 3 academic centers divided into 5 treatment groups receiving increasing doses of stem cells by increasing numbers of cells/injection and increasing numbers of injections. All participants received bilateral injections into the cervical spinal cord (C3-C5). The final group received injections into both the lumbar (L2-L4) and cervical cord through 2 separate surgical procedures. Participants were assessed for adverse events and progression of disease, as measured by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised, forced vital capacity, and quantitative measures of strength. Statistical analysis focused on the slopes of decline of these phase 2 trial participants alone or in combination with the phase 1 participants (previously reported), comparing these groups to 3 separate historical control groups. Adverse events were mostly related to transient pain associated with surgery and to side effects of immunosuppressant medications. There was one incident of acute postoperative deterioration in neurologic function and another incident of a central pain syndrome. We could not discern differences in surgical outcomes between surgeons. Comparisons of the slopes of decline with the 3 separate historical control groups showed no differences in mean rates of progression. Intraspinal transplantation of human spinal cord-derived neural stem cells can be safely accomplished at high doses, including successive lumbar and cervical procedures. The procedure can be expanded safely to multiple surgical centers. This study provides Class IV evidence that for patients with ALS, spinal cord transplantation of human stem cells can be safely accomplished and does not accelerate the progression of the disease. This study lacks the precision to exclude important benefit or safety issues. © 2016 American Academy of Neurology.

  4. Phase I Trial of M7824 (MSB0011359C), a Bifunctional Fusion Protein Targeting PD-L1 and TGFβ, in Advanced Solid Tumors.

    PubMed

    Strauss, Julius; Heery, Christopher R; Schlom, Jeffrey; Madan, Ravi A; Cao, Liang; Kang, Zhigang; Lamping, Elizabeth; Marté, Jennifer L; Donahue, Renee N; Grenga, Italia; Cordes, Lisa; Christensen, Olaf; Mahnke, Lisa; Helwig, Christoph; Gulley, James L

    2018-03-15

    Purpose: M7824 (MSB0011359C) is an innovative first-in-class bifunctional fusion protein composed of a mAb against programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) fused to a TGFβ "trap." Experimental Design: In the 3+3 dose-escalation component of this phase I study (NCT02517398), eligible patients with advanced solid tumors received M7824 at 1, 3, 10, or 20 mg/kg once every 2 weeks until confirmed progression, unacceptable toxicity, or trial withdrawal; in addition, a cohort received an initial 0.3 mg/kg dose to evaluate pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, followed by 10 mg/kg dosing. The primary objective is to determine the safety and maximum tolerated dose (MTD); secondary objectives include pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, and best overall response. Results: Nineteen heavily pretreated patients with ECOG 0-1 have received M7824. Grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events occurred in four patients (skin infection secondary to localized bullous pemphigoid, asymptomatic lipase increase, colitis with associated anemia, and gastroparesis with hypokalemia). The MTD was not reached. M7824 saturated peripheral PD-L1 and sequestered any released plasma TGFβ1, -β2, and -β3 throughout the dosing period at >1 mg/kg. There were signs of efficacy across all dose levels, including one ongoing confirmed complete response (cervical cancer), two durable confirmed partial responses (PR; pancreatic cancer; anal cancer), one near-PR (cervical cancer), and two cases of prolonged stable disease in patients with growing disease at study entry (pancreatic cancer; carcinoid). Conclusions: M7824 has a manageable safety profile in patients with heavily pretreated advanced solid tumors. Early signs of efficacy are encouraging, and multiple expansion cohorts are ongoing in a range of tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 24(6); 1287-95. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

  5. Phase I study of BAY 94-9027, a PEGylated B-domain-deleted recombinant factor VIII with an extended half-life, in subjects with hemophilia A.

    PubMed

    Coyle, T E; Reding, M T; Lin, J C; Michaels, L A; Shah, A; Powell, J

    2014-04-01

    BAY 94-9027 is a B-domain-deleted recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII) with site-specific attachment of poly(ethylene glycol) that has shown an extended half-life in animal models of hemophilia. To assess the pharmacokinetics and safety of BAY 94-9027 after single and repeated administration in subjects with severe hemophilia A. This 8-week, prospective, multicenter, open-label, phase I trial was conducted in 14 subjects aged 21–58 years with FVIII of < 1%, ≥ 150 days of exposure to FVIII, and no history of FVIII inhibitors. After a ≥ 3-day washout, subjects received a single dose of sucrose-formulated rFVIII (rFVIII-FS) (cohort 1 [n = 7], 25 IU kg−1; cohort 2 [n = 7], 50 IU kg−1) for a 48-h pharmacokinetic (PK) study. After another ≥ 3-day washout, cohort 1 received twice-weekly BAY 94-9027 at 25 IU kg−1 (16 doses), and cohort 2 received once-weekly BAY 94-9027 at 60 IU kg−1 (nine doses). A 168-h PK study was performed after the first and last BAY 94-9027 doses. BAY 94-9027 showed equivalent recovery and an improved PK profile vs. rFVIII-FS, with a half-life of ~ 19 h (vs. ~ 13.0 h for rFVIII-FS). BAY 94-9027 was well tolerated, and no immunogenicity was observed. This phase I study demonstrates that BAY 94-9027 has an extended half-life in subjects with hemophilia A and, after multiple dosing, was well tolerated with no immunogenicity during the 8-week trial. A phase III study in a larger number of subjects is underway to fully characterize how this prolonged half-life will permit less frequent prophylaxis dosing for patients with hemophilia.

  6. Omeprazole and PGC-formulated heparin binding epidermal growth factor normalizes fasting blood glucose and suppresses insulitis in multiple low dose streptozotocin diabetes model

    PubMed Central

    Castillo, Gerardo M.; Nishimoto-Ashfield, Akiko; Banerjee, Aryamitra A.; Landolfi, Jennifer A.; Lyubimov, Alexander V.; Bolotin, Elijah M.

    2013-01-01

    Purpose Our objective was to develop novel nanocarriers (protected graft copolymer, PGC) that improve the stability of heparin binding EGF (HBEGF) and gastrin and then to use PGC-formulated HBEGF (PGC-HBEGF) and Omeprazole (+/− PGC-gastrin) for normalizing fasting blood glucose (FBG) and improving islet function in diabetic mice. Method HBEGF, PGC-HBEGF, Omeprazole, Omeprazole+PGC-HBEGF, Omeprazole+PGC-gastrin+PGC-HBEGF and epidermal growth factor (EGF)+gastrin were tested in multiple low dose streptozotocin diabetic mice. Results Omeprazole+PGC-HBEGF normalized FBG and is better than EGF+gastrin at improving islet function and decreasing insulitis. Groups treated with Omeprazole, Omeprazole+PGC-HBEGF, or EGF+gastrin have significantly improved islet function versus saline control. All animals that received PGC-HBEGF had significantly reduced islet insulitis versus saline control. Non-FBG was lower for Omeprazole+PGC-gastrin+PGC-HBEGF but Omeprazole+PGC-HBEGF alone showed better FBG and glucose tolerance. Conclusions Omeprazole+PGC-HBEGF provides a sustained exposure to both EGFRA and gastrin, improves islet function, and decreases insulitis in multiple low dose streptozotocin diabetic mice. Although HBEGF or EGF elevates non-FBG, it facilitates a reduction of insulitis and, in the presence of Omeprazole, provides normalization of FBG at the end of treatment. The study demonstrates Omeprazole and PGC-HBEGF is a viable treatment for diabetes. PMID:23793991

  7. Omeprazole and PGC-formulated heparin binding epidermal growth factor normalizes fasting blood glucose and suppresses insulitis in multiple low dose streptozotocin diabetes model.

    PubMed

    Castillo, Gerardo M; Nishimoto-Ashfield, Akiko; Banerjee, Aryamitra A; Landolfi, Jennifer A; Lyubimov, Alexander V; Bolotin, Elijah M

    2013-11-01

    Our objective was to develop novel nanocarriers (protected graft copolymer, PGC) that improve the stability of heparin binding EGF (HBEGF) and gastrin and then to use PGC-formulated HBEGF (PGC-HBEGF) and Omeprazole (+/- PGC-gastrin) for normalizing fasting blood glucose (FBG) and improving islet function in diabetic mice. HBEGF, PGC-HBEGF, Omeprazole, Omeprazole + PGC-HBEGF, Omeprazole + PGC-gastrin + PGC-HBEGF and epidermal growth factor (EGF) + gastrin were tested in multiple low dose streptozotocin diabetic mice. Omeprazole + PGC-HBEGF normalized FBG and is better than EGF + gastrin at improving islet function and decreasing insulitis. Groups treated with Omeprazole, Omeprazole + PGC-HBEGF, or EGF + gastrin have significantly improved islet function versus saline control. All animals that received PGC-HBEGF had significantly reduced islet insulitis versus saline control. Non-FBG was lower for Omeprazole + PGC-gastrin + PGC-HBEGF but Omeprazole + PGC-HBEGF alone showed better FBG and glucose tolerance. Omeprazole + PGC-HBEGF provides a sustained exposure to both EGFRA and gastrin, improves islet function, and decreases insulitis in multiple low dose streptozotocin diabetic mice. Although HBEGF or EGF elevates non-FBG, it facilitates a reduction of insulitis and, in the presence of Omeprazole, provides normalization of FBG at the end of treatment. The study demonstrates Omeprazole and PGC-HBEGF is a viable treatment for diabetes.

  8. High-dose zinc oral supplementation after stem cell transplantation causes an increase of TRECs and CD4+ naïve lymphocytes and prevents TTV reactivation.

    PubMed

    Iovino, Lorenzo; Mazziotta, Francesco; Carulli, Giovanni; Guerrini, Francesca; Morganti, Riccardo; Mazzotti, Valentina; Maggi, Fabrizio; Macera, Lisa; Orciuolo, Enrico; Buda, Gabriele; Benedetti, Edoardo; Caracciolo, Francesco; Galimberti, Sara; Pistello, Mauro; Petrini, Mario

    2018-05-02

    Zinc plays an important role in thymic function and immune homeostasis. We performed a prospective clinical trial using a high-dose zinc oral supplementation to improve the immune reconstitution after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). We enrolled 18 patients undergoing autologous HSCT for multiple myeloma. Nine patients were randomized to receive only a standard antimicrobial prophylaxis; whereas, nine patients received in addition 150 mg/day of zinc from day +5 to day +100 after transplant. CD4+ naïve lymphocytes and TRECs showed a significant increase from day +30 until day +100 only in the zinc-treated group. Moreover, the load of Torquetenovirus, a harmless virus that replicates in course of immunedepression, increased at day +100 only in the control group. No severe adverse events were reported during the zinc consumption. First data from the ZENITH trial suggest that high-dose zinc supplementation is safe and may enhance the thymic reconstitution after HSCT. Registered: http://Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03159845); and EUDRACT: 2014-28 004499-47. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Cumulative doses analysis in young trauma patients: a single-centre experience.

    PubMed

    Salerno, Sergio; Marrale, Maurizio; Geraci, Claudia; Caruso, Giuseppe; Lo Re, Giuseppe; Lo Casto, Antonio; Midiri, Massimo

    2016-02-01

    Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) represents the main source of radiation exposure in trauma patients. The radiation exposure of young patients is a matter of considerable medical concern due to possible long-term effects. Multiple MDCT studies have been observed in the young trauma population with an increase in radiation exposure. We have identified 249 young adult patients (178 men and 71 women; age range 14-40 years) who had received more than one MDCT study between June 2010 and June 2014. According to the International Commission on Radiological Protection publication, we have calculated the cumulative organ dose tissue-weighting factors by using CT-EXPO software(®). We have observed a mean cumulative dose of about 27 mSv (range from 3 to 297 mSv). The distribution analysis is characterised by low effective dose, below 20 mSv, in the majority of the patients. However, in 29 patients, the effective dose was found to be higher than 20 mSv. Dose distribution for the various organs analysed (breasts, ovaries, testicles, heart and eye lenses) shows an intense peak for lower doses, but in some cases high doses were recorded. Even though cumulative doses may have long-term effects, which are still under debate, high doses are observed in this specific group of young patients.

  10. Pre- and postnatal bisphenol A treatment results in persistent deficits in the sexual behavior of male rats, but not female rats, in adulthood.

    PubMed

    Jones, Bryan A; Shimell, Jordan J; Watson, Neil V

    2011-02-01

    Perinatal administration of the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) reportedly inhibits the sexual behavior of sexually naïve adult male rats. In order to evaluate the effects of BPA administration during early development on later reproductive behavior, we administered one of five doses of bisphenol A daily to pregnant female rats throughout gestation and lactation, and quantified the appetitive and consummatory sexual behaviors of the resultant male and female offspring over multiple sexual encounters in adulthood. Males receiving low dose perinatal BPA (50 μg/kg bw/day) showed persistent deficits in sexual behavior in adulthood. Males receiving the highest dose (5 mg/kg bw/day), however, were indistinguishable from controls with respect to consummatory sexual behaviors but showed decreased latencies to engage in those behaviors when sexually naïve, with significant non-linear, or U-shaped, dose-response relationships observed on the first and last day of testing. Adult female sexual behavior was not affected by early BPA administration at any dose tested. These results are consistent with previous reports that BPA exerts behavioral effects especially at low doses, and further indicates that BPA can cause lasting impairment of sexual behavior in males, but does not alter the normal development of female appetitive or consummatory sexual behaviors. To our knowledge, this is the first report indicating that adult sexual performance is impaired in sexually experienced animals following perinatal exposure to bisphenol A. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Son, Christina H.; Law, Ethel; Oh, Jung Hun

    Purpose: Although vaginal stenosis (VS) is a recognized toxicity in women who receive pelvic radiation therapy (RT), the relationship between RT dose and the volume and extent of toxicity has not been analyzed. We modeled this relationship to identify predictors of VS. Methods and Materials: We evaluated 54 women, aged 29 to 78 years, who underwent pelvic RT for rectal or anal cancer during 2008 to 2011 and were enrolled in a prospective study evaluating vaginal dilator use. Maximum dilator size was measured before RT (baseline) and 1 month and 12 months after RT. Dilator use was initiated at 1 month. The difference (D)more » in dilator size before and after RT was recorded. Those with D ≤−1 were classified as having VS (n=35); those with D ≥0 were classified as having no VS (n=19 at 1 month). Dose-volume parameters were extracted, and the generalized equivalent uniform dose (gEUD) was used to build a predictive model. Results: The mean vaginal doses were 50.0 Gy and 36.8 Gy for anal and rectal cancer patients, respectively. One month after RT, a gEUD model using a wide range of a values suggests that sparing of vaginal volume to a low dose may be important. When gEUD (a = −1) was <35 Gy and the mean vaginal dose was <43 Gy, severe VS was reduced (P=.02). A 1-year analysis suggests increasingly negative D values with increasing mean dose. However, patients with compliance <40% were more likely to have toxicity. Conclusions: Vaginal stenosis is influenced by multiple RT dose-volume characteristics. Mean dose and gEUD constraints together may reduce the risk of severe VS. Patients receiving higher mean vaginal doses should have greater compliance with dilator therapy to minimize risk of toxicity. Further validation with independent datasets is needed.« less

  12. Phase I study of Carzelesin (U-80,244) given (4-weekly) by intravenous bolus schedule

    PubMed Central

    Awada, A; Punt, C J A; Piccart, M J; Tellingen, O Van; Manen, L Van; Kerger, J; Groot, Y; Wanders, J; Verweij, J; Wagener, D J Th

    1999-01-01

    Carzelesin is a cyclopropylpyrroloindole analogue which acts as a DNA-sequence-specific alkylating agent. In this phase I study, Carzelesin was given as a 4-weekly 10 min IV infusion to 51 patients with advanced solid tumours. Patients received a median of two courses (range 1–5) at one of nine dose levels: 24, 48, 96, 130, 150, 170, 210, 250 and 300 μg m−2. According to NCI-CTC criteria, non-haematological toxicities (grade 1/2) included fever, nausea and vomiting, mucositis and anorexia, none of which was clearly dose related. The dose-limiting toxicity was haematological and consisted mainly of neutropenia and to a lesser extent thrombocytopenia. From the dose level 150 μg m−2, the haematological toxicity (particularly thrombocytopenia) was delayed in onset, prolonged and cumulative in some patients. In several courses, double WBC nadirs occurred. The maximum tolerated dose for a single course was 300 μg m−2. From the dose level 170 μg m−2, the intended dose intensity could not be delivered to most patients receiving > 2 courses owing to cumulative haematological toxicity. The dose level with the best dose intensity for multiple courses was 150 μg m−2. The pharmacokinetics of Carzelesin and its metabolites (U-76,073; U-76,074) have been established in 31 patients during the first course of treatment using a HPLC method. Carzelesin exhibited linear pharmacokinetics. The concentration of U-76,074 (active metabolite) extended above the lower limit of quantitation (1 ng ml−1) for short periods of time and only at the higher dose levels. There was no relationship between neutropenia and the AUC of the prodrug Carzelesin, but the presence of detectable plasma levels of the active metabolite U-76,074 was usually associated with a substantial decrease in ANC values. © 1999 Cancer Research Campaign PMID:10188890

  13. SU-G-BRC-14: Multi-Lesion, Multi-Rx, Brain Radiosurgery with Novel Single Isocenter Technique

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Honig, N; Alani, S; Schlocker, A

    Purpose: There is a strong trend to treat multiple brain metastases with radiosurgery rather than whole brain irradiation. This feasibility study investigates a novel planning technique for radio-surgical treatment of multiple brain lesions with differing dose prescriptions, a single isocenter, and dynamic conformal arcs. The novel technique will be compared to the well-established single-isocenter volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique commonly used for treating brain lesions. Methods: Six patients with metastatic brain lesions were selected for a prospective treatment planning study to evaluate Interdigitating MLC Dynamic Conformal Arc (IMDCA) technique. Arcs were planned for simultaneous irradiation to maximize beam deliverymore » efficiency. To accommodate varying PTV dose prescriptions, selected arcs were re-irradiated in reverse. Beam weights were adjusted until all prescription constraints were met. The number of lesions ranged between 2 to 4 (mode = 3). For comparison, SRS VMAT plans were generated utilizing an established single-isocenter, 3 arc planning template. All plans were compared by means of Paddick conformity index (PCI), RTOG Conformity Index (RCI), gradient index (GI), and the normal brain volume receiving 10% (V10) of the highest prescription dose. The monitor units and delivery time were tabulated for each plan. Results: IMDCA achieved conformal plans (PCI = 0.72±0.03, RCI = 1.33±0.03) with steep dose fall-off (GI = 3.79±0.03) on average for all of the plans evaluated. The VMAT plans had slightly better conformity (PCI = 0.85 ± 0.03, RCI = 1.13 ± 0.03) than IMDCA, but overall worse GI (4.29 ± 0.06). IMDCA plans had lower V10% values, required 50% fewer MUs, and had 34% shorter beam delivery time on average compared to VMAT plans. Conclusion: IMDCA plans with varying dose prescriptions for multiple lesions, had comparable dosimetric coverage as VMAT plans, but were obtained with significantly lower integral dose, fewer monitor units, and quicker delivery time.« less

  14. ADHERENCE TO ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY AMONG HIV-INFECTED ADULTS IN THE UNITED STATES

    PubMed Central

    Beer, Linda; Skarbinski, Jacek

    2015-01-01

    National estimates of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and adherence support services utilization are needed to inform efforts to improve the health of HIV-infected persons in the United States. In a nationally representative sample of HIV-infected adults receiving medical care, 86% self-reported taking all ART doses in the past 72 hours. Overall, 20% reported using adherence support services and 2% reported an unmet need for services. If all nonadherent persons not receiving adherence support and all persons with a self-perceived unmet need for adherence support accessed services, resources to support ~42,673 additional persons would be needed. Factors associated with lower adherence included younger age, female gender, depression, stimulant use, binge alcohol use, greater than once-daily dosing, longer time since HIV diagnosis, and patient beliefs. Predictors of adherence are multifactorial so multiple targeted strategies to improve adherence are warranted. Providing adherence support services to all those in need may require additional resources. PMID:25490733

  15. Twice-weekly ixazomib in combination with lenalidomide-dexamethasone in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Richardson, Paul G; Hofmeister, Craig C; Rosenbaum, Cara A; Htut, Myo; Vesole, David H; Berdeja, Jesus G; Liedtke, Michaela; Chari, Ajai; Smith, Stephen D; Lebovic, Daniel; Raje, Noopur; Byrne, Catriona; Liao, Eileen; Gupta, Neeraj; Bacco, Alessandra Di; Estevam, Jose; Berg, Deborah; Baz, Rachid

    2018-06-25

    Weekly ixazomib with lenalidomide-dexamethasone (Rd) is feasible and has shown activity in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients. This phase 1/2 study (NCT01383928) evaluated the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D), pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy of twice-weekly ixazomib plus Rd in NDMM; 64 patients were enrolled across both phases. Patients received twice-weekly oral ixazomib 3·0 or 3·7 mg plus lenalidomide 25 mg and dexamethasone 20 mg (10 mg in cycles 9-16) for up to sixteen 21-day cycles, followed by maintenance with twice-weekly ixazomib alone. No dose-limiting toxicities were reported in cycle 1; the RP2D was 3·0 mg based on overall tolerability across multiple cycles. In 62 evaluable patients, the confirmed overall response rate was 94% (68% ≥very good partial response; 24% complete response). Median progression-free survival was 24·9 months. Responses (median duration 36·9 months for patients receiving the RP2D) deepened during treatment. Grade 3 drug-related adverse events (AEs) occurred in 64% of patients, including: rash, 13%; peripheral neuropathy, 8%; hyperglycaemia, 8%. There were no grade 4 drug-related AEs. Thirteen patients discontinued due to AEs. Twice-weekly ixazomib-Rd offers substantial activity with promising long-term outcomes in NDMM patients but may be associated with greater toxicity compared with weekly ixazomib-Rd in this setting. © 2018 The Authors. British Journal of Haematology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Society for Haematology.

  16. Treatment Plan Technique and Quality for Single-Isocenter Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy of Multiple Lung Lesions with Volumetric-Modulated Arc Therapy or Intensity-Modulated Radiosurgery

    PubMed Central

    Quan, Kimmen; Xu, Karen M.; Lalonde, Ron; Horne, Zachary D.; Bernard, Mark E.; McCoy, Chuck; Clump, David A.; Burton, Steven A.; Heron, Dwight E.

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study is to provide a practical approach to the planning technique and evaluation of plan quality for the multi-lesion, single-isocenter stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) of the lung. Eleven patients with two or more lung lesions underwent single-isocenter volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) radiosurgery or IMRS. All plans were normalized to the target maximum dose. For each plan, all targets were treated to the same dose. Plan conformity and dose gradient were maximized with dose-control tuning structures surrounding targets. For comparison, multi-isocenter plans were retrospectively created for four patients. Conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), gradient index (GI), and gradient distance (GD) were calculated for each plan. V5, V10, and V20 of the lung and organs at risk (OARs) were collected. Treatment time and total monitor units (MUs) were also recorded. One patient had four lesions and the remainder had two lesions. Six patients received VMAT and five patients received intensity-modulated radiosurgery (IMRS). For those treated with VMAT, two patients received 3-arc VMAT and four received 2-arc VMAT. For those treated with IMRS, two patients were treated with 10 and 11 beams, respectively, and the rest received 12 beams. Prescription doses ranged from 30 to 54 Gy in three to five fractions. The median prescribed isodose line was 84% (range: 80–86%). The median maximum dose was 57.1 Gy (range: 35.7–65.1 Gy). The mean combined PTV was 49.57 cm3 (range: 14.90–87.38 cm3). For single-isocenter plans, the median CI was 1.15 (range: 0.97–1.53). The median HI was 1.19 (range: 1.16–1.28). The median GI was 4.60 (range: 4.16–7.37). The median maximum radiation dose (Dmax) to total lung was 55.6 Gy (range: 35.7–62.0 Gy). The median mean radiation dose to the lung (Dmean) was 4.2 Gy (range: 1.1–9.3 Gy). The median lung V5 was 18.7% (range: 3.8–41.3%). There was no significant difference in CI, HI, GI, GD, V5, V10, and V20 (lung, heart, trachea, esophagus, and spinal cord) between single-isocenter and multi-isocenter plans. This multi-lesion, single-isocenter lung SABR planning technique demonstrated excellent plan quality and clinical efficiency and is recommended for radiosurgical treatment of two or more lung targets for well-suited patients. PMID:26500888

  17. Effectiveness of a Third Dose of MMR Vaccine for Mumps Outbreak Control.

    PubMed

    Cardemil, Cristina V; Dahl, Rebecca M; James, Lisa; Wannemuehler, Kathleen; Gary, Howard E; Shah, Minesh; Marin, Mona; Riley, Jacob; Feikin, Daniel R; Patel, Manisha; Quinlisk, Patricia

    2017-09-07

    The effect of a third dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine in stemming a mumps outbreak is unknown. During an outbreak among vaccinated students at the University of Iowa, health officials implemented a widespread MMR vaccine campaign. We evaluated the effectiveness of a third dose for outbreak control and assessed for waning immunity. Of 20,496 university students who were enrolled during the 2015-2016 academic year, mumps was diagnosed in 259 students. We used Fisher's exact test to compare unadjusted attack rates according to dose status and years since receipt of the second MMR vaccine dose. We used multivariable time-dependent Cox regression models to evaluate vaccine effectiveness, according to dose status (three vs. two doses and two vs. no doses) after adjustment for the number of years since the second dose. Before the outbreak, 98.1% of the students had received at least two doses of MMR vaccine. During the outbreak, 4783 received a third dose. The attack rate was lower among the students who had received three doses than among those who had received two doses (6.7 vs. 14.5 cases per 1000 population, P<0.001). Students had more than nine times the risk of mumps if they had received the second MMR dose 13 years or more before the outbreak. At 28 days after vaccination, receipt of the third vaccine dose was associated with a 78.1% lower risk of mumps than receipt of a second dose (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.22; 95% confidence interval, 0.12 to 0.39). The vaccine effectiveness of two doses versus no doses was lower among students with more distant receipt of the second vaccine dose. Students who had received a third dose of MMR vaccine had a lower risk of mumps than did those who had received two doses, after adjustment for the number of years since the second dose. Students who had received a second dose of MMR vaccine 13 years or more before the outbreak had an increased risk of mumps. These findings suggest that the campaign to administer a third dose of MMR vaccine improved mumps outbreak control and that waning immunity probably contributed to propagation of the outbreak. (Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.).

  18. Safety, pharmacokinetics, and immunological activities of multiple intravenous or subcutaneous doses of an anti-HIV monoclonal antibody, VRC01, administered to HIV-uninfected adults: Results of a phase 1 randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Mayer, Kenneth H; Seaton, Kelly E; Huang, Yunda; Grunenberg, Nicole; Isaacs, Abby; Allen, Mary; Ledgerwood, Julie E; Frank, Ian; Sobieszczyk, Magdalena E; Baden, Lindsey R; Rodriguez, Benigno; Van Tieu, Hong; Tomaras, Georgia D; Deal, Aaron; Goodman, Derrick; Bailer, Robert T; Ferrari, Guido; Jensen, Ryan; Hural, John; Graham, Barney S; Mascola, John R; Corey, Lawrence; Montefiori, David C

    2017-11-01

    VRC01 is an HIV-1 CD4 binding site broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAb) that is active against a broad range of HIV-1 primary isolates in vitro and protects against simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) when delivered parenterally to nonhuman primates. It has been shown to be safe and well tolerated after short-term administration in humans; however, its clinical and functional activity after longer-term administration has not been previously assessed. HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) 104 was designed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of multiple doses of VRC01 administered either subcutaneously or by intravenous (IV) infusion and to assess the pharmacokinetics and in vitro immunologic activity of the different dosing regimens. Additionally, this study aimed to assess the effect that the human body has on the functional activities of VRC01 as measured by several in vitro assays. Eighty-eight healthy, HIV-uninfected, low-risk participants were enrolled in 6 United States clinical research sites affiliated with the HVTN between September 9, 2014, and July 15, 2015. The median age of enrollees was 27 years (range, 18-50); 52% were White (non-Hispanic), 25% identified as Black (non-Hispanic), 11% were Hispanic, and 11% were non-Hispanic people of diverse origins. Participants were randomized to receive the following: a 40 mg/kg IV VRC01 loading dose followed by five 20 mg/kg IV VRC01 doses every 4 weeks (treatment group 1 [T1], n = 20); eleven 5 mg/kg subcutaneous (SC) VRC01 (treatment group 3 [T3], n = 20); placebo (placebo group 3 [P3], n = 4) doses every 2 weeks; or three 40 mg/kg IV VRC01 doses every 8 weeks (treatment group 2 [T2], n = 20). Treatment groups T4 and T5 (n = 12 each) received three 10 or 30 mg/kg IV VRC01 doses every 8 weeks, respectively. Participants were followed for 32 weeks after their first VRC01 administration and received a total of 249 IV infusions and 208 SC injections, with no serious adverse events, dose-limiting toxicities, nor evidence for anti-VRC01 antibodies observed. Serum VRC01 levels were detected through 12 weeks after final administration in all participants who received all scheduled doses. Mean peak serum VRC01 levels of 1,177 μg/ml (95% CI: 1,033, 1,340) and 420 μg/ml (95% CI: 356, 494) were achieved 1 hour after the IV infusion series of 30 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg doses, respectively. Mean trough levels at week 24 in the IV infusion series of 30 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg doses, respectively, were 16 μg/ml (95% CI: 10, 27) and 6 μg/ml (95% CI: 5, 9) levels, which neutralize a majority of circulating strains in vitro (50% inhibitory concentration [IC50] > 5 μg/ml). Post-infusion/injection serum VRC01 retained expected functional activity (virus neutralization, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, phagocytosis, and virion capture). The limitations of this study include the relatively small sample size of each VRC01 administration regimen and missing data from participants who were unable to complete all study visits. VRC01 administered as either an IV infusion (10-40 mg/kg) given monthly or bimonthly, or as an SC injection (5 mg/kg) every 2 weeks, was found to be safe and well tolerated. In addition to maintaining drug concentrations consistent with neutralization of the majority of tested HIV strains, VRC01 concentrations from participants' sera were found to avidly capture HIV virions and to mediate antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis, suggesting a range of anti-HIV immunological activities, warranting further clinical trials. Clinical Trials Registration: NCT02165267.

  19. Pretreatment with myo-inositol in non polycystic ovary syndrome patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for IVF: a pilot study

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Aim of this pilot study is to examine the effects of myo-inositol administration on ovarian response and oocytes and embryos quality in non PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation and in vitro insemination by conventional in vitro fertilization or by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Methods One hundred non-PCOS women aged <40 years and with basal FSH <10 mUI/ml were down-regulated with triptorelin acetate from the mid-luteal phase for 2 weeks, before starting the stimulation protocol for oocytes recovery. All patients received rFSH, at a starting dose of 150 IU for 6 days. The dose was subsequently adjusted according to individual response. Group B (n = 50) received myo-inositol and folic acid for 3 months before the stimulation period and then during the stimulation itself. Group A (n-50) received only folic acid as additional treatment in the 3 months before and through treatment. Results Total length of the stimulation was similar between the two groups. Nevertheless, total amount of gonadotropins used to reach follicular maturation was found significantly lower in group B. In addition, the number of oocytes retrieved was significantly reduced in the group pretreated with myo-inositol. Clinical pregnancy and implantation rate were not significantly different in the two groups. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the addition of myo-inositol to folic acid in non PCOS-patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for in-vitro fertilization may reduce the numbers of mature oocytes and the dosage of rFSH whilst maintaining clinical pregnancy rate. Further, a trend in favor of increased incidence of implantation in the group pretreated with myo-inositol was apparent in this study. Further investigations are warranted to clarify this pharmacological approach, and the benefit it may hold for patients. PMID:22823904

  20. TH-CD-201-08: Flexible Dosimeter Bands for Whole-Body Dosimetry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kim, T; Fahimian, B; Pratx, G

    Purpose: The two commonly used radiotherapy techniques are total body irradiation (TBI) and the total skin irradiation (TSI). In order to ensure the accuracy of the prescription beams, the dose received throughout the entire body must be checked using dosimetry. However, the available number of data points is limited as the dosimeters are manually placed on the patient. We developed a flexible and wearable dosimeter that can collect 1D continuous dose information around the peripheral of the patients’ body, including areas obscured from the beam path. Methods: The flexible dosimeter bands are fabricated by embedding storage phosphor powders in amore » thin layer of non-toxic silicone based elastomer (PDMS). An additional elastomer layer is formed on top of the phosphor layer to provide additional mechanical support for the dosimeter. Once the curing process is complete, the dosimeter is cut into multiple bands and rolled into spools prior to use. Results: The dose responses are tested using a preclinical cabinet X-ray system, where the readout is performed with a storage phosphor reader. Results show that the dose calibration factor is ∼1400 (A.U./Gy) from the beam center. Also, 1-D dose distribution experiment was performed in water phantoms, where preliminary results demonstrate that the dose in water is indeed attenuated compared to in air. Conclusion: Dose response and high-resolution 1-D dosimetry is demonstrated using the flexible dosimeters. By providing a detailed spatial description of the beam dose profile, we expect that the dosimeter bands may aid in enhancing the current existing modality in dosimetry. Since the dosimeter is flexible (can retract back to its original length), they can be comfortably worn around the patient. Potentially, multiple 1-D dose information can be stitched together and extrapolated to provide a coarse 3-D image of the dose distribution. This work was supported by funding from the Cutaneous Lymphoma Foundation under the CLARIONS grant.« less

  1. Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of SMT C1100, a 2-Arylbenzoxazole Utrophin Modulator, following Single- and Multiple-Dose Administration to Pediatric Patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

    PubMed Central

    Ricotti, Valeria; Spinty, Stefan; Roper, Helen; Hughes, Imelda; Tejura, Bina; Robinson, Neil; Layton, Gary; Davies, Kay

    2016-01-01

    Purpose SMT C1100 is a utrophin modulator being evaluated as a treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This study, the first in pediatric DMD patients, reports the safety, tolerability and PK parameters of single and multiple doses of SMT C1100, as well as analyze potential biomarkers of muscle damage. Methods This multicenter, Phase 1 study enrolled 12 patients, divided equally into three groups (A–C). Group A were given 50 mg/kg on Days 1 and 11, and 50 mg/kg bid on Days 2 to 10. Group B and C received 100 mg/kg on Days 1 and 11; Group B and Group C were given 100 mg/kg bid and 100 mg/kg tid, respectively, on Days 2 to 10. A safety review was performed on all patients following the single dose and there was at least 2 weeks between each dose escalation, for safety and PK review. Adverse events (AEs) were monitored throughout the study. Results Most patients experienced mild AEs and there were no serious AEs. Two patients required analgesia for pain (headache, ear pain and toothache). One patient experienced moderate psychiatric AEs (abnormal behaviour and mood swings). Plasma concentrations of SMT C1100 at Days 1 and 11 indicated a high degree of patient variability regardless of dose. Unexpectedly the SMT C1100 levels were significantly lower than similar doses administered to healthy volunteers in an earlier clinical study. In general, individual baseline changes of creatine phosphokinase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase levels fell with SMT C1100 dosing. Conclusions SMT C1100 was well tolerated in pediatric DMD patients. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02383511 PMID:27055247

  2. Predictive model accuracy in estimating last Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) intake from plasma and whole blood cannabinoid concentrations in chronic, daily cannabis smokers administered subchronic oral THC.

    PubMed

    Karschner, Erin L; Schwope, David M; Schwilke, Eugene W; Goodwin, Robert S; Kelly, Deanna L; Gorelick, David A; Huestis, Marilyn A

    2012-10-01

    Determining time since last cannabis/Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure is important in clinical, workplace, and forensic settings. Mathematical models calculating time of last exposure from whole blood concentrations typically employ a theoretical 0.5 whole blood-to-plasma (WB/P) ratio. No studies previously evaluated predictive models utilizing empirically-derived WB/P ratios, or whole blood cannabinoid pharmacokinetics after subchronic THC dosing. Ten male chronic, daily cannabis smokers received escalating around-the-clock oral THC (40-120 mg daily) for 8 days. Cannabinoids were quantified in whole blood and plasma by two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Maximum whole blood THC occurred 3.0 h after the first oral THC dose and 103.5h (4.3 days) during multiple THC dosing. Median WB/P ratios were THC 0.63 (n=196), 11-hydroxy-THC 0.60 (n=189), and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH) 0.55 (n=200). Predictive models utilizing these WB/P ratios accurately estimated last cannabis exposure in 96% and 100% of specimens collected within 1-5h after a single oral THC dose and throughout multiple dosing, respectively. Models were only 60% and 12.5% accurate 12.5 and 22.5h after the last THC dose, respectively. Predictive models estimating time since last cannabis intake from whole blood and plasma cannabinoid concentrations were inaccurate during abstinence, but highly accurate during active THC dosing. THC redistribution from large cannabinoid body stores and high circulating THCCOOH concentrations create different pharmacokinetic profiles than those in less than daily cannabis smokers that were used to derive the models. Thus, the models do not accurately predict time of last THC intake in individuals consuming THC daily. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

  3. Health-related quality-of-life in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in the FIRST trial: lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone versus melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide

    PubMed Central

    Delforge, Michel; Minuk, Leonard; Eisenmann, Jean-Claude; Arnulf, Bertrand; Canepa, Letizia; Fragasso, Alberto; Leyvraz, Serge; Langer, Christian; Ezaydi, Yousef; Vogl, Dan T.; Giraldo-Castellano, Pilar; Yoon, Sung-Soo; Zarnitsky, Charles; Escoffre-Barbe, Martine; Lemieux, Bernard; Song, Kevin; Bahlis, Nizar Jacques; Guo, Shien; Monzini, Mara Silva; Ervin-Haynes, Annette; Houck, Vanessa; Facon, Thierry

    2015-01-01

    We compared the health-related quality-of-life of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma aged over 65 years or transplant-ineligible in the pivotal, phase III FIRST trial. Patients received: i) continuous lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone until disease progression; ii) fixed cycles of lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone for 18 months; or iii) fixed cycles of melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide for 18 months. Data were collected using the validated questionnaires (QLQ-MY20, QLQ-C30, and EQ-5D). The analysis focused on the EQ-5D utility value and six domains pre-selected for their perceived clinical relevance. Lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone, and melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide improved patients’ health-related quality-of-life from baseline over the duration of the study across all pre-selected domains of the QLQ-C30 and EQ-5D. In the QLQ-MY20, lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in the Disease Symptoms domain compared with melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide at Month 3, and significantly lower scores for QLQ-MY20 Side Effects of Treatment at all post-baseline assessments except Month 18. Linear mixed-model repeated-measures analyses confirmed the results observed in the cross-sectional analysis. Continuous lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone delays disease progression versus melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide and has been associated with a clinically meaningful improvement in health-related quality-of-life. These results further establish continuous lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone as a new standard of care for initial therapy of myeloma by demonstrating superior health-related quality-of-life during treatment, compared with melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide. PMID:25769541

  4. Health-related quality-of-life in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in the FIRST trial: lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone versus melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide.

    PubMed

    Delforge, Michel; Minuk, Leonard; Eisenmann, Jean-Claude; Arnulf, Bertrand; Canepa, Letizia; Fragasso, Alberto; Leyvraz, Serge; Langer, Christian; Ezaydi, Yousef; Vogl, Dan T; Giraldo-Castellano, Pilar; Yoon, Sung-Soo; Zarnitsky, Charles; Escoffre-Barbe, Martine; Lemieux, Bernard; Song, Kevin; Bahlis, Nizar Jacques; Guo, Shien; Monzini, Mara Silva; Ervin-Haynes, Annette; Houck, Vanessa; Facon, Thierry

    2015-06-01

    We compared the health-related quality-of-life of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma aged over 65 years or transplant-ineligible in the pivotal, phase III FIRST trial. Patients received: i) continuous lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone until disease progression; ii) fixed cycles of lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone for 18 months; or iii) fixed cycles of melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide for 18 months. Data were collected using the validated questionnaires (QLQ-MY20, QLQ-C30, and EQ-5D). The analysis focused on the EQ-5D utility value and six domains pre-selected for their perceived clinical relevance. Lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone, and melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide improved patients' health-related quality-of-life from baseline over the duration of the study across all pre-selected domains of the QLQ-C30 and EQ-5D. In the QLQ-MY20, lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in the Disease Symptoms domain compared with melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide at Month 3, and significantly lower scores for QLQ-MY20 Side Effects of Treatment at all post-baseline assessments except Month 18. Linear mixed-model repeated-measures analyses confirmed the results observed in the cross-sectional analysis. Continuous lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone delays disease progression versus melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide and has been associated with a clinically meaningful improvement in health-related quality-of-life. These results further establish continuous lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone as a new standard of care for initial therapy of myeloma by demonstrating superior health-related quality-of-life during treatment, compared with melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide. Copyright© Ferrata Storti Foundation.

  5. Pharmacodynamic effects of the fetal estrogen estetrol in postmenopausal women: results from a multiple-rising-dose study.

    PubMed

    Coelingh Bennink, Herjan J T; Verhoeven, Carole; Zimmerman, Yvette; Visser, Monique; Foidart, Jean-Michel; Gemzell-Danielsson, Kristina

    2017-06-01

    Estetrol (E4) is an estrogen produced exclusively by the human fetal liver during pregnancy. In this study the pharmacodynamic effects of escalating doses of E4 in postmenopausal women were investigated. This was a partly randomized, open-label, multiple-rising-dose study in 49 postmenopausal women. Participants were randomized to receive either 2 mg E4 or 2 mg estradiol-valerate (E2 V) for 28 days. Subsequent dose-escalation groups were (non-randomized): 10, 20 and 40 mg E4. Blood samples were collected regularly for measuring endocrine and hemostasis variables, lipids and lipoproteins, fasting glucose and bone turnover markers. Estetrol treatment resulted in a decrease of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone and an increase of sex-hormone binding globulin. Changes in hemostasis variables were small. A lowering effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was accompanied with an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and no or minimal changes in triglycerides. The considerable decrease in osteocalcin levels in the three highest E4 dose groups and the small decrease in C-telopeptide levels were comparable to the E2 V control group and suggest a preventive effect on bone loss. All changes observed were dose-dependent. In this study, estetrol treatment showed dose-dependent estrogenic effects on endocrine parameters, bone turnover markers, and lipids and lipoproteins. The effect on triglycerides was small as were the effects on hemostatic variables. These results support the further investigation of estetrol as a candidate for hormone therapy. Quantitatively, the effects of 10 mg estetrol were similar to the study comparator 2 mg estradiol valerate.

  6. The Influence of Prednisone on the Efficacy of Cabazitaxel in Men with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer.

    PubMed

    Buonerba, Carlo; Sonpavde, Guru; Vitrone, Francesca; Bosso, Davide; Puglia, Livio; Izzo, Michela; Iaccarino, Simona; Scafuri, Luca; Muratore, Margherita; Foschini, Francesca; Mucci, Brigitta; Tortora, Vincenzo; Pagliuca, Martina; Ribera, Dario; Riccio, Vittorio; Morra, Rocco; Mosca, Mirta; Cesarano, Nicola; Di Costanzo, Ileana; De Placido, Sabino; Di Lorenzo, Giuseppe

    2017-01-01

    Background: Cabazitaxel is a second-generation taxane that is approved for use with concomitant low dose daily prednisone in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) after docetaxel failure. Since the role of daily corticosteroids in improving cabazitaxel efficacy or ameliorating its safety profile has not been adequately investigated so far, we compared outcomes of patients receiving cabazitaxel with or without daily corticosteroids in a retrospective single-Institution cohort of mCRPC patients. Patients and methods: Medical records of deceased patients with documented mCRPC treated with cabazitaxel following prior docetaxel between January, 2011 and January, 2017 were reviewed at the single participating center. Patients who were receiving daily doses of systemic corticosteroids other than low dose daily prednisone or prednisolone (<= 10 mg a day) were excluded. The primary end point of this analysis was overall survival (OS). Secondary end-points were exposure to cabazitaxel as well as incidence of grade 3-4 adverse events. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate prednisone use and other variables as potentially prognostic for overall survival. Results: Overall, among 91 patients, 57 patients received cabazitaxel concurrently with low dose prednisone and 34 patients did not receive concurrent prednisone. The median overall survival of the population was 9.8 months (interquartile range, 9 to 14). Patients receiving prednisone had an overall survival of 9 months (interquartile range, 8 to 12) vs.14 months (interquartile range, 9.4 to 16.7) for patients not treated with prednisone. Approximately 45% of patients had a >30% PSA decline at 12 weeks. Prednisone use was not significantly prognostic for overall survival or PSA decline ≥30% rates on regression analyses. Importantly, a >30% PSA decline at 12, but not at 3, 6, 9 weeks, was prognostic for improved survival at multivariate analysis Conclusions: The data presented here support the hypothesis that omitting daily corticosteroids in cabazitaxel-treated patients has no negative impact on either survival or safety profile. In the large prospective trial CABACARE, cabazitaxel-treated patients will be randomized to receive or not receive daily prednisone. The CABACARE (EudraCT n. 2016-003646-81) study is currently ongoing at University Federico II of Naples and at other multiple participating centers in Italy.

  7. The Influence of Prednisone on the Efficacy of Cabazitaxel in Men with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Buonerba, Carlo; Sonpavde, Guru; Vitrone, Francesca; Bosso, Davide; Puglia, Livio; Izzo, Michela; Iaccarino, Simona; Scafuri, Luca; Muratore, Margherita; Foschini, Francesca; Mucci, Brigitta; Tortora, Vincenzo; Pagliuca, Martina; Ribera, Dario; Riccio, Vittorio; Morra, Rocco; Mosca, Mirta; Cesarano, Nicola; Di Costanzo, Ileana; De Placido, Sabino; Di Lorenzo, Giuseppe

    2017-01-01

    Background: Cabazitaxel is a second-generation taxane that is approved for use with concomitant low dose daily prednisone in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) after docetaxel failure. Since the role of daily corticosteroids in improving cabazitaxel efficacy or ameliorating its safety profile has not been adequately investigated so far, we compared outcomes of patients receiving cabazitaxel with or without daily corticosteroids in a retrospective single-Institution cohort of mCRPC patients. Patients and methods: Medical records of deceased patients with documented mCRPC treated with cabazitaxel following prior docetaxel between January, 2011 and January, 2017 were reviewed at the single participating center. Patients who were receiving daily doses of systemic corticosteroids other than low dose daily prednisone or prednisolone (<= 10 mg a day) were excluded. The primary end point of this analysis was overall survival (OS). Secondary end-points were exposure to cabazitaxel as well as incidence of grade 3-4 adverse events. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate prednisone use and other variables as potentially prognostic for overall survival. Results: Overall, among 91 patients, 57 patients received cabazitaxel concurrently with low dose prednisone and 34 patients did not receive concurrent prednisone. The median overall survival of the population was 9.8 months (interquartile range, 9 to 14). Patients receiving prednisone had an overall survival of 9 months (interquartile range, 8 to 12) vs.14 months (interquartile range, 9.4 to 16.7) for patients not treated with prednisone. Approximately 45% of patients had a >30% PSA decline at 12 weeks. Prednisone use was not significantly prognostic for overall survival or PSA decline ≥30% rates on regression analyses. Importantly, a >30% PSA decline at 12, but not at 3, 6, 9 weeks, was prognostic for improved survival at multivariate analysis Conclusions: The data presented here support the hypothesis that omitting daily corticosteroids in cabazitaxel-treated patients has no negative impact on either survival or safety profile. In the large prospective trial CABACARE, cabazitaxel-treated patients will be randomized to receive or not receive daily prednisone. The CABACARE (EudraCT n. 2016-003646-81) study is currently ongoing at University Federico II of Naples and at other multiple participating centers in Italy. PMID:28928853

  8. Comparative pharmacokinetic study of high-dose etoposide and etoposide phosphate in patients with lymphoid malignancy receiving autologous stem cell transplantation.

    PubMed

    Dorr, R T; Briggs, A; Kintzel, P; Meyers, R; Chow, H-H S; List, A

    2003-04-01

    The pharmacokinetics of two etoposide (E) formulations were evaluated in patients with refractory hematologic malignancies receiving high-dose conditioning with autologous stem cell transplantation. Patients were randomized to either E at 800 mg/m(2) (containing polysorbate 80 and polyethylene glycol) or etoposide phosphate (EP) at 910 mg/m(2) on days -7 and -5, prior to melphalan, 80 mg/m(2) on day -5. On day -3, EP was repeated. Plasma E was analyzed after each formulation on days -7 and -5 to compare intrapatient pharmacokinetics. In total, 10 patients were treated: four each with multiple myeloma or Hodgkin's disease and two with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Mucositis was the major toxicity with seven patients. EP first produced grade 3 mucositis. There was no procedure-related mortality and eight patients remained alive 1 year post-transplant. Cumulative etoposide exposure (AUC) was slightly greater with EP (P=0.056). Conversely, the volume of distribution was slightly, 33%, larger (P=0.052) and clearance was increased with the E infusion (P=0.14). As none of the differences reached statistical significance, both E formulations appear to be pharmacokinetically equivalent in the high-dose transplant setting. The combination of high-dose EP with melphalan is an active preparative regimen prior to ABMT for hematologic malignancies.

  9. MO-D-BRC-01: Memorial Lecture

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fraass, B.

    Treatment planning is a central part of radiation therapy, including delineation in tumor volumes and critical organs, setting treatment goals of prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs, and finally generation of treatment plans to meet the treatment goals. National groups like RTOG have led the effort to standardize treatment goals of the prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs based on accumulated knowledge from decades of abundant clinical trial experience. The challenge for each clinical department is how to achieve or surpass these set goals within themore » time constraints of clinical practice. Using fifteen testing cases from different treatment sites such as head and neck, prostate with and without pelvic lymph nodes, SBRT spine, we will present clinically utility of advanced planning tools, including knowledge based, automatic based, and multiple criteria based tools that are clinically implemented. The objectives of this session are: Understand differences among these three advanced planning tools Provide clinical assessments on the utility of the advanced planning tools Discuss clinical challenges of treatment planning with large variations in tumor volumes and their relationships with adjacent critical organs. Ping Xia received research grant from Philips. Jackie Wu received research grant from Varian; P. Xia, Research support by Philips and Varian; Q. Wu, NIH, Varian Medical.« less

  10. MO-D-BRC-03: Knowledge-Based Planning

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, Q.

    Treatment planning is a central part of radiation therapy, including delineation in tumor volumes and critical organs, setting treatment goals of prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs, and finally generation of treatment plans to meet the treatment goals. National groups like RTOG have led the effort to standardize treatment goals of the prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs based on accumulated knowledge from decades of abundant clinical trial experience. The challenge for each clinical department is how to achieve or surpass these set goals within themore » time constraints of clinical practice. Using fifteen testing cases from different treatment sites such as head and neck, prostate with and without pelvic lymph nodes, SBRT spine, we will present clinically utility of advanced planning tools, including knowledge based, automatic based, and multiple criteria based tools that are clinically implemented. The objectives of this session are: Understand differences among these three advanced planning tools Provide clinical assessments on the utility of the advanced planning tools Discuss clinical challenges of treatment planning with large variations in tumor volumes and their relationships with adjacent critical organs. Ping Xia received research grant from Philips. Jackie Wu received research grant from Varian; P. Xia, Research support by Philips and Varian; Q. Wu, NIH, Varian Medical.« less

  11. MO-D-BRC-00: In Memoriam of Jan Van De Geijn: Knowledge-Based Planning

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    NONE

    Treatment planning is a central part of radiation therapy, including delineation in tumor volumes and critical organs, setting treatment goals of prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs, and finally generation of treatment plans to meet the treatment goals. National groups like RTOG have led the effort to standardize treatment goals of the prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs based on accumulated knowledge from decades of abundant clinical trial experience. The challenge for each clinical department is how to achieve or surpass these set goals within themore » time constraints of clinical practice. Using fifteen testing cases from different treatment sites such as head and neck, prostate with and without pelvic lymph nodes, SBRT spine, we will present clinically utility of advanced planning tools, including knowledge based, automatic based, and multiple criteria based tools that are clinically implemented. The objectives of this session are: Understand differences among these three advanced planning tools Provide clinical assessments on the utility of the advanced planning tools Discuss clinical challenges of treatment planning with large variations in tumor volumes and their relationships with adjacent critical organs. Ping Xia received research grant from Philips. Jackie Wu received research grant from Varian; P. Xia, Research support by Philips and Varian; Q. Wu, NIH, Varian Medical.« less

  12. MO-D-BRC-02: Auto-Planning

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Xia, P.

    Treatment planning is a central part of radiation therapy, including delineation in tumor volumes and critical organs, setting treatment goals of prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs, and finally generation of treatment plans to meet the treatment goals. National groups like RTOG have led the effort to standardize treatment goals of the prescription doses to the tumor targets and tolerance doses to the critical organs based on accumulated knowledge from decades of abundant clinical trial experience. The challenge for each clinical department is how to achieve or surpass these set goals within themore » time constraints of clinical practice. Using fifteen testing cases from different treatment sites such as head and neck, prostate with and without pelvic lymph nodes, SBRT spine, we will present clinically utility of advanced planning tools, including knowledge based, automatic based, and multiple criteria based tools that are clinically implemented. The objectives of this session are: Understand differences among these three advanced planning tools Provide clinical assessments on the utility of the advanced planning tools Discuss clinical challenges of treatment planning with large variations in tumor volumes and their relationships with adjacent critical organs. Ping Xia received research grant from Philips. Jackie Wu received research grant from Varian; P. Xia, Research support by Philips and Varian; Q. Wu, NIH, Varian Medical.« less

  13. Possible benefit of consolidation therapy with high-dose cytarabine on overall survival of adults with non-promyelocytic acute myeloid leukemia.

    PubMed

    Azevedo, M C; Velloso, E D R P; Buccheri, V; Chamone, D A F; Dorlhiac-Llacer, P E

    2015-02-01

    In adults with non-promyelocytic acute myeloid leukemia (AML), high-dose cytarabine consolidation therapy has been shown to influence survival in selected patients, although the appropriate doses and schemes have not been defined. We evaluated survival after calculating the actual dose of cytarabine that patients received for consolidation therapy and divided them into 3 groups according to dose. We conducted a single-center, retrospective study involving 311 non-promyelocytic AML patients with a median age of 36 years (16-79 years) who received curative treatment between 1978 and 2007. The 131 patients who received cytarabine consolidation were assigned to study groups by their cytarabine dose protocol. Group 1 (n=69) received <1.5 g/m2 every 12 h on 3 alternate days for up to 4 cycles. The remaining patients received high-dose cytarabine (≥1.5 g/m2 every 12 h on 3 alternate days for up to 4 cycles). The actual dose received during the entire consolidation period in these patients was calculated, allowing us to divide these patients into 2 additional groups. Group 2 (n=27) received an intermediate-high-dose (<27 g/m2), and group 3 (n=35) received a very-high-dose (≥27 g/m2). Among the 311 patients receiving curative treatment, the 5-year survival rate was 20.2% (63 patients). The cytarabine consolidation dose was an independent determinant of survival in multivariate analysis; age, karyotype, induction protocol, French-American-British classification, and de novo leukemia were not. Comparisons showed that the risk of death was higher in the intermediate-high-dose group 2 (hazard ratio [HR]=4.51; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.81-11.21) and the low-dose group 1 (HR=4.43; 95% CI: 1.97-9.96) than in the very-high-dose group 3, with no significant difference between those two groups. Our findings indicated that very-high-dose cytarabine during consolidation in adults with non-promyelocytic AML may improve survival.

  14. Possible benefit of consolidation therapy with high-dose cytarabine on overall survival of adults with non-promyelocytic acute myeloid leukemia

    PubMed Central

    Azevedo, M.C.; Velloso, E.D.R.P.; Buccheri, V.; Chamone, D.A.F.; Dorlhiac-Llacer, P.E.

    2014-01-01

    In adults with non-promyelocytic acute myeloid leukemia (AML), high-dose cytarabine consolidation therapy has been shown to influence survival in selected patients, although the appropriate doses and schemes have not been defined. We evaluated survival after calculating the actual dose of cytarabine that patients received for consolidation therapy and divided them into 3 groups according to dose. We conducted a single-center, retrospective study involving 311 non-promyelocytic AML patients with a median age of 36 years (16-79 years) who received curative treatment between 1978 and 2007. The 131 patients who received cytarabine consolidation were assigned to study groups by their cytarabine dose protocol. Group 1 (n=69) received <1.5 g/m2 every 12 h on 3 alternate days for up to 4 cycles. The remaining patients received high-dose cytarabine (≥1.5 g/m2 every 12 h on 3 alternate days for up to 4 cycles). The actual dose received during the entire consolidation period in these patients was calculated, allowing us to divide these patients into 2 additional groups. Group 2 (n=27) received an intermediate-high-dose (<27 g/m2), and group 3 (n=35) received a very-high-dose (≥27 g/m2). Among the 311 patients receiving curative treatment, the 5-year survival rate was 20.2% (63 patients). The cytarabine consolidation dose was an independent determinant of survival in multivariate analysis; age, karyotype, induction protocol, French-American-British classification, and de novo leukemia were not. Comparisons showed that the risk of death was higher in the intermediate-high-dose group 2 (hazard ratio [HR]=4.51; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.81-11.21) and the low-dose group 1 (HR=4.43; 95% CI: 1.97-9.96) than in the very-high-dose group 3, with no significant difference between those two groups. Our findings indicated that very-high-dose cytarabine during consolidation in adults with non-promyelocytic AML may improve survival. PMID:25517921

  15. Pharmacokinetic comparison of sustained- and immediate-release oral formulations of cilostazol in healthy Korean subjects: a randomized, open-label, 3-part, sequential, 2-period, crossover, single-dose, food-effect, and multiple-dose study.

    PubMed

    Lee, Donghwan; Lim, Lay Ahyoung; Jang, Seong Bok; Lee, Yoon Jung; Chung, Jae Yong; Choi, Jong Rak; Kim, Kiyoon; Park, Jin Woo; Yoon, Hosang; Lee, Jaeyong; Park, Min Soo; Park, Kyungsoo

    2011-12-01

    A sustained-release (SR) formulation of cilostazol was recently developed in Korea and was expected to yield a lower C(max) and a similar AUC to the immediate-release (IR) formulation. The goal of the present study was to compare the pharmacokinetic profiles of a newly developed SR formulation and an IR formulation of cilostazol after single- and multiple-dose administration and to evaluate the influence of food in healthy Korean subjects. This study was developed as part of a product development project at the request of the Korean regulatory agency. This was a randomized, 3-part, sequential, open-label, 2-period crossover study. Each part consisted of different subjects between the ages of 19 and 55 years. In part 1, each subject received a single dose of SR (200 mg × 1 tablet, once daily) and IR (100 mg × 2 tablets, BID) formulations of cilostazol orally 7 days apart in a fasted state. In part 2, each subject received a single dose of the SR (200 mg × 1 tablet, once daily) formulation of cilostazol 7 days apart in a fasted and a fed state. In part 3, each subject received multiple doses of the 2 formulations for 8 consecutive days 21 days apart. Blood samples were taken for 72 hours after the dose. Cilostazol pharmacokinetics were determined for both the parent drug and its metabolites (OPC-13015 and OPC-13213). Adverse events were evaluated through interviews and physical examinations. Among the 92 enrolled subjects (66 men, 26 women; part 1, n = 26; part 2, n = 26; part 3, n = 40), 87 completed the study. In part 1, all the primary pharmacokinetic parameters satisfied the criterion for assumed bioequivalence both in cilostazol and its metabolites, yielding 90% CI ratios of 0.9624 to 1.2323, 0.8873 to 1.1208, and 0.8919 to 1.1283 for C(max) and 0.8370 to 1.0134, 0.8204 to 0.9807, and 0.8134 to 0.9699 for AUC(0-last) of cilostazol, OPC-13015, and OPC-13213, respectively. In part 2, food intake increased C(max) and AUC significantly (P < 0.0001), yielding geometric mean ratios of 3.2879, 2.9894, and 3.0592 for C(max) and 1.7001, 1.7689, and 1.6976 for AUC(0-last) of cilostazol, OPC-13015, and OPC-13213. In part 3, only the C(ssmax) of clilostazol in the reference formulation did not satisfy the criterion for assumed bioequivalence, yielding 90% CI ratios of 1.2693 to 1.4238 and 1.2038 to 1.3441, respectively. When each dose was normalized, the C(max) for the SR formulation was significantly lower (P < 0.005 for cilostazol). Headache was the most frequently noted adverse effect (part 1, a total of 14 subjects with the IR formulation and 14 with the SR formulation; part 2, a total of 10 without food and 23 with a high-fat meal; part 3, a total of 10 with the IR formulation and 24 with the SR formulation), followed by nausea (part 1, none; part 2, only 1 without food and 3 with a high-fat meal; part 3, a total of 3 with the IR formulation and 3 with the SR formulation), and then dizziness (parts 1 and 2, none; part 3, a total of 4 with the IR formulation and 5 with the SR formulation). All other AEs, including fever, cough, vomiting, palpitation, diarrhea, and epigastric pain, occurred in <3 subjects. These findings suggest that in this select group of healthy Korean volunteers, the SR formulation of cilostazol was not significantly different in AUC compared with that of the IR formulation, although it did display a significantly lower C(max) per dose in both the single- and multiple-dose groups. Food significantly increased the bioavailability of the SR formulation. The cilostazol SR and IR formulations were well tolerated in all parts of the study, with no serious adverse events reported. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01455558. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Defining unnecessary disinfection procedures for single-dose and multiple-dose vials.

    PubMed

    Buckley, T; Dudley, S M; Donowitz, L G

    1994-11-01

    Recommendations in the literature conflict on the necessity of disinfecting single-use vials prior to aspiration of fluid. Interventions to disinfect the stopper surface on multiple-dose vials vary considerably. To determine the necessity of alcohol disinfection of the stopper on single-dose vials and to compare povidone-iodine and alcohol versus alcohol-only disinfection of the stopper prior to each needle penetration on multiple-dose vials. The rubber stopper surfaces of 100 single-dose vials were cultured for the presence of bacteria. To determine the efficacy of two procedures for disinfection of multiple-dose vials, 87 stopper surfaces routinely disinfected with both povidone-iodine and alcohol were cultured for bacteria. After a change in practice, 100 multiple-dose vials routinely disinfected with alcohol only were cultured for the presence of bacteria. Of the cultures done on single-dose vial stoppers, 99% were sterile. A comparison of the two disinfection techniques for multiple-dose vials revealed that 83 (95%) of the 87 vials prepped with both povidone-iodine and alcohol were sterile, compared with all stoppers disinfected with alcohol only. This study shows the lack of necessity of any disinfection procedure on the rubber stopper of single-dose vials and the efficacy of alcohol only for disinfecting the stopper of multiple-dose vials.

  17. Immunogenicity of the 9-Valent HPV Vaccine Using 2-Dose Regimens in Girls and Boys vs a 3-Dose Regimen in Women.

    PubMed

    Iversen, Ole-Erik; Miranda, Maria Jose; Ulied, Angels; Soerdal, Terje; Lazarus, Erica; Chokephaibulkit, Kulkanya; Block, Stan L; Skrivanek, Ales; Nur Azurah, Abdul Ghani; Fong, Siew Moy; Dvorak, Vladimir; Kim, Kyung-Hyo; Cestero, Ramon M; Berkovitch, Matitiahu; Ceyhan, Mehmet; Ellison, Misoo C; Ritter, Michael A; Yuan, Shuai S; DiNubile, Mark J; Saah, Alfred J; Luxembourg, Alain

    2016-12-13

    Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections cause anogenital cancers and warts. The 9-valent HPV vaccine provides protection against 7 high-risk types of HPV responsible for 90% of cervical cancers and 2 other HPV types accounting for 90% of genital warts. To determine whether HPV type-specific antibody responses would be noninferior among girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years after receiving 2 doses of the 9-valent HPV vaccine compared with adolescent girls and young women aged 16 to 26 years receiving 3 doses. Open-label, noninferiority, immunogenicity trial conducted at 52 ambulatory care sites in 15 countries. The study was initiated on December 16, 2013, with the last participant visit for this report on June 19, 2015. Five cohorts were enrolled: (1) girls aged 9 to 14 years to receive 2 doses 6 months apart (n = 301); (2) boys aged 9 to 14 years to receive 2 doses 6 months apart (n = 301); (3) girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years to receive 2 doses 12 months apart (n = 301); (4) girls aged 9 to 14 years to receive 3 doses over 6 months (n = 301); and (5) a control group of adolescent girls and young women aged 16 to 26 years to receive 3 doses over 6 months (n = 314). Two doses of the 9-valent HPV vaccine administered 6 or 12 months apart or 3 doses administered over 6 months. The primary end point was prespecified as the antibody response against each HPV type assessed 1 month after the last dose using a competitive immunoassay. Each of the three 2-dose regimens was compared with the standard 3-dose schedule in adolescent girls and young women using a noninferiority margin of 0.67 for the ratio of the antibody geometric mean titers. Of the 1518 participants (753 girls [mean age, 11.4 years]; 451 boys [mean age, 11.5 years]; and 314 adolescent girls and young women [mean age, 21.0 years]), 1474 completed the study and data from 1377 were analyzed. At 4 weeks after the last dose, HPV antibody responses in girls and boys given 2 doses were noninferior to HPV antibody responses in adolescent girls and young women given 3 doses (P < .001 for each HPV type). Compared with adolescent girls and young women who received 3 doses over 6 months, the 1-sided 97.5% CIs for the ratio of HPV antibody geometric mean titers at 1 month after the last dose across the 9 HPV subtypes ranged from 1.36 to ∞ to 2.50 to ∞ for girls who received 2 doses 6 months apart; from 1.37 to ∞ to 2.55 to ∞ for boys who received 2 doses 6 months apart; and from 1.61 to ∞ to 5.36 to ∞ for girls and boys who received 2 doses 12 months apart. Among girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years receiving 2-dose regimens of a 9-valent HPV vaccine separated by 6 or 12 months, immunogenicity 4 weeks after the last dose was noninferior to a 3-dose regimen in a cohort of adolescent girls and young women. Further research is needed to assess persistence of antibody responses and effects on clinical outcomes. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01984697.

  18. Efficacy of venetoclax as targeted therapy for relapsed/refractory t(11;14) multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Shaji; Kaufman, Jonathan L; Gasparetto, Cristina; Mikhael, Joseph; Vij, Ravi; Pegourie, Brigitte; Benboubker, Lofti; Facon, Thierry; Amiot, Martine; Moreau, Philippe; Punnoose, Elizabeth A; Alzate, Stefanie; Dunbar, Martin; Xu, Tu; Agarwal, Suresh K; Enschede, Sari Heitner; Leverson, Joel D; Ross, Jeremy A; Maciag, Paulo C; Verdugo, Maria; Touzeau, Cyrille

    2017-11-30

    Venetoclax is a selective, orally bioavailable BCL-2 inhibitor that induces cell death in multiple myeloma (MM) cells, particularly in those harboring t(11;14), which express high levels of BCL-2 relative to BCL-X L and MCL-1. In this phase 1 study, patients with relapsed/refractory MM received venetoclax monotherapy. After a 2-week lead-in with weekly dose escalation, daily venetoclax was given at 300, 600, 900, or 1200 mg in dose-escalation cohorts and 1200 mg in the safety expansion. Dexamethasone could be added on progression during treatment. Sixty-six patients were enrolled (30, dose-escalation cohorts; 36, safety expansion). Patients received a median of 5 prior therapies (range, 1-15); 61% were bortezomib and lenalidomide double refractory, and 46% had t(11;14). Venetoclax was generally well tolerated. Most common adverse events included mild gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea [47%], diarrhea [36%], vomiting [21%]). Cytopenias were the most common grade 3/4 events, with thrombocytopenia (32%), neutropenia (27%), anemia (23%), and leukopenia (23%) reported. The overall response rate (ORR) was 21% (14/66), and 15% achieved very good partial response or better (≥VGPR). Most responses (12/14 [86%]) were reported in patients with t(11;14). In this group, ORR was 40%, with 27% of patients achieving ≥VGPR. Biomarker analysis confirmed that response to venetoclax correlated with higher BCL2:BCL2L1 and BCL2:MCL1 mRNA expression ratios. Venetoclax monotherapy at a daily dose up to 1200 mg has an acceptable safety profile and evidence of single-agent antimyeloma activity in patients with relapsed/refractory MM, predominantly in patients with t(11;14) abnormality and those with a favorable BCL2 family profile. Registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov: #NCT01794520. © 2017 by The American Society of Hematology.

  19. Siponimod versus placebo in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (EXPAND): a double-blind, randomised, phase 3 study.

    PubMed

    Kappos, Ludwig; Bar-Or, Amit; Cree, Bruce A C; Fox, Robert J; Giovannoni, Gavin; Gold, Ralf; Vermersch, Patrick; Arnold, Douglas L; Arnould, Sophie; Scherz, Tatiana; Wolf, Christian; Wallström, Erik; Dahlke, Frank

    2018-03-31

    No treatment has consistently shown efficacy in slowing disability progression in patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS). We assessed the effect of siponimod, a selective sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor 1,5 modulator, on disability progression in patients with SPMS. This event-driven and exposure-driven, double-blind, phase 3 trial was done at 292 hospital clinics and specialised multiple sclerosis centres in 31 countries. Using interactive response technology to assign numbers linked to treatment arms, patients (age 18-60 years) with SPMS and an Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 3·0-6·5 were randomly assigned (2:1) to once daily oral siponimod 2 mg or placebo for up to 3 years or until the occurrence of a prespecified number of confirmed disability progression (CDP) events. The primary endpoint was time to 3-month CDP. Efficacy was assessed for the full analysis set (ie, all randomly assigned and treated patients); safety was assessed for the safety set. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01665144. 1651 patients were randomly assigned between Feb 5, 2013, and June 2, 2015 (1105 to the siponimod group, and 546 to the placebo group). One patient did not sign the consent form, and five patients did not receive study drug, all of whom were in the siponimod group. 1645 patients were included in the analyses (1099 in the siponimod group and 546 in the placebo). At baseline, the mean time since first multiple sclerosis symptoms was 16·8 years (SD 8·3), and the mean time since conversion to SPMS was 3·8 years (SD 3·5); 1055 (64%) patients had not relapsed in the previous 2 years, and 918 (56%) of 1651 needed walking assistance. 903 (82%) patients receiving siponimod and 424 (78%) patients receiving placebo completed the study. 288 (26%) of 1096 patients receiving siponimod and 173 (32%) of 545 patients receiving placebo had 3-month CDP (hazard ratio 0·79, 95% CI 0·65-0·95; relative risk reduction 21%; p=0·013). Adverse events occurred in 975 (89%) of 1099 patients receiving siponimod versus 445 (82%) of 546 patients receiving placebo; serious adverse events were reported for 197 (18%) patients in the siponimod group versus 83 (15%) patients in the placebo group. Lymphopenia, increased liver transaminase concentration, bradycardia and bradyarrhythmia at treatment initiation, macular oedema, hypertension, varicella zoster reactivation, and convulsions occurred more frequently with siponimod than with placebo. Initial dose titration mitigated cardiac first-dose effects. Frequencies of infections, malignancies, and fatalities did not differ between groups. Siponimod reduced the risk of disability progression with a safety profile similar to that of other S1P modulators and is likely to be a useful treatment for SPMS. Novartis Pharma AG. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Comparison of filgrastim and pegfilgrastim to prevent neutropenia and maintain dose intensity of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Kourlaba, Georgia; Dimopoulos, Meletios A; Pectasides, Dimitrios; Skarlos, Dimosthenis V; Gogas, Helen; Pentheroudakis, George; Koutras, Angelos; Fountzilas, George; Maniadakis, Nikos

    2015-07-01

    The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of prophylactic single fixed dose of pegfilgrastim and daily administration of filgrastim on febrile neutropenia (FN), severe neutropenia, treatment delay, and dose reduction in patients with breast cancer receiving dose-dense adjuvant chemotherapy. A retrospective cohort study with 1058 breast cancer patients matched by age and chemotherapy was conducted. The primary endpoints were FN, severe (grade 3, 4) neutropenia, dose reduction (>10 % reduction of the dose planned), and treatment delay (dose given more than 2 days later). Eighteen episodes of FN (3.4%) in the filgrastim group and 23 (4.3%) in the pegfilgrastim group (p = 0.500) were recorded. More than half of the total episodes (27/41) occurred during the first 4 cycles of treatment. Patients who received filgrastim were almost three times more likely to experience a severe neutropenia episode and were significantly more likely to experience a dose reduction (18.5%) compared to those who received pegfilgrastim (10.8%) (p < 0.001). The percentage of patients, who received their planned dose on time, was significantly lower in patients receiving filgrastim (58%) compared to those receiving pegfilgrastim (72.4%, p < 0.001). No significant difference was detected on FN rate between daily administration of filgrastim and single administration of pegfilgrastim. However, patients receiving pegfilgrastim had a significantly lower rate of severe neutropenia, as well as dose reduction and treatment delay, thus, achieving a higher dose density.

  1. Phase I Study of Anti-GM2 Ganglioside Monoclonal Antibody BIW-8962 as Monotherapy in Patients with Previously Treated Multiple Myeloma.

    PubMed

    Baz, Rachid C; Zonder, Jeffrey A; Gasparetto, Cristina; Reu, Frederic J; Strout, Vincent

    2016-01-01

    BIW-8962 is a monoclonal antibody to GM2 ganglioside that shows preclinical activity towards multiple myeloma (MM) cell lines and in animal models bearing MM xenografts. The objective of this study was to determine the safety, tolerability, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), pharmacokinetics, potential immunogenicity, and preliminary clinical efficacy of BIW-8962 in patients with heavily pretreated MM. Patients ( n  = 23) received escalating doses of BIW-8962 (0.03-3 mg/kg) intravenously every 2 weeks in phase Ia. The highest anticipated dose (10 mg/kg) was not tested and the study was discontinued without proceeding to phases Ib and II. The MTD of BIW-8962 was not established and BIW-8962 was relatively well tolerated. No pattern of consistent toxicity could be inferred from treatment-related AEs grade ≥3 and only two dose-limiting toxicities were recorded (atrial thrombosis + cardiomyopathy and chest pain, respectively). In the efficacy evaluable population ( n  = 22), no patient had a response (complete or partial) and 16 (72.7%) had a best response of stable disease, which was generally not durable. BIW-8962 did not show evidence of clinical activity. The study was therefore stopped and further development of BIW-8962 in MM was halted. This work was funded by Kyowa Kirin Pharmaceutical Development, Inc. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT00775502.

  2. Evidence of reduced oral bioavailability of paracetamol in rats following multiple ingestion of grapefruit juice.

    PubMed

    Qinna, Nidal A; Ismail, Obbei A; Alhussainy, Tawfiq M; Idkaidek, Nasir M; Arafat, Tawfiq A

    2016-04-01

    The aim of the current investigation was to assess the ability GFJ to modulate the pharmacokinetic profile of paracetamol following single or repeated administrations of GFJ in Sprague-Dawley rats. Diclofenac and carbamazepine were both used as positive controls. Rats received single GFJ or single distilled water doses or pretreated with three doses of GFJ prior to test drug administration. Blood samples were collected, processed and analyzed using validated HPLC methods, and pharmacokinetic data were constructed for each group. Increase in the bioavailability of both diclofenac and carbamazepine following multiple GFJ ingestion was revealed. Conversely, the bioavailability of paracetamol was significantly reduced following multiple GFJ administration. The percentage of reduction in the C max and AUC of paracetamol were calculated as 31 and 51 %, respectively, compared to none-GFJ-treated control (P < 0.05). The T(max) was not essentially changed. In conclusion, frequent administration of GFJ was confirmed to modulate the pharmacokinetics of paracetamol in rats by reducing its bioavailability. Meanwhile, it may be advisable not to ingest large amounts of GFJ along with paracetamol to avoid a possible potential loss of the efficacy.

  3. Routine immunization in Pakistan: comparison of multiple data sources and identification of factors associated with vaccination.

    PubMed

    Imran, Hafsa; Raja, Dania; Grassly, Nicholas C; Wadood, M Zubair; Safdar, Rana M; O'Reilly, Kathleen M

    2018-03-01

    Within Pakistan, estimates of vaccination coverage with the pentavalent vaccine, oral polio vaccine (OPV) and measles vaccine (MV) in 2011 were reported to be 74%, 75% and 53%, respectively. These national estimates may mask regional variation. The reasons for this variation have not been explored. Data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) for Balochistan and Punjab (2010-2011) are analysed to examine factors associated with receiving three or more doses of the pentavalent vaccine and one or more MVs using regression modelling. Pentavalent and OPV estimates from the MICS were compared to vaccine dose histories from surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP; poliomyelitis) to ascertain agreement. Adjusted coverage of children 12-23 months of age were estimated to be 16.0%, 75.5% and 34.2% in Balochistan and 58.0%, 87.7% and 72.6% in Punjab for the pentavalent vaccine, OPV and MV, respectively. Maternal education, healthcare utilization and wealth were associated with receiving the pentavalent vaccine and the MV. There was a strong correlation of district estimates of vaccination coverage between AFP and MICS data, but AFP estimates of pentavalent coverage in Punjab were biased toward higher values. National estimates mask variation and estimates from individual surveys should be considered alongside other estimates. The development of strategies targeted towards poorly educated parents within low-wealth quintiles that may not typically access healthcare could improve vaccination rates.

  4. Clinical Application and Pharmacodynamic Monitoring of Apixaban in a Patient with End-Stage Renal Disease Requiring Chronic Hemodialysis.

    PubMed

    Kufel, Wesley D; Zayac, Adam S; Lehmann, David F; Miller, Christopher D

    2016-11-01

    Despite prescribing guidance, limited data exist to describe the use of apixaban in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis (HD). Current apixaban dosing recommendations for this patient population are based largely on a single-dose pharmacokinetic study of eight patients. We describe the clinical application and pharmacodynamic monitoring of apixaban in a 62-year-old 156-kg African-American woman with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and ESRD requiring hemodialysis who developed calciphylaxis while receiving warfarin therapy. Based on a multidisciplinary clinical judgment decision due to concern for drug accumulation after multiple doses in patients with ESRD receiving HD, she was anticoagulated with apixaban 2.5 mg twice/day, as opposed to 5 mg twice/day as recommended by the package insert. Antifactor Xa monitoring was used, and resultant peak and trough apixaban concentrations were above the upper limit of detection for our clinical laboratory (more than 2.00 IU/ml). On day 7 of her hospitalization, the patient developed gastrointestinal bleeding, and apixaban was discontinued; no further clinical signs of bleeding occurred during her subsequent hospitalization course. Use of the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale indicated a probable relationship (score of 6) between apixaban exposure and the manifestation of gastrointestinal bleeding. The patient ultimately died 44 days after the acute bleeding event; however, coagulation concerns were not implicated in the patient's death. To our knowledge, this is the first case report that describes apixaban use and associated antifactor Xa monitoring in a patient with ESRD receiving HD, and it provides concern for current apixaban dosing recommendations in this patient population. Further pharmacokinetic and clinical data are likely necessary to better characterize apixaban use in these patients to optimize safety and efficacy. © 2016 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.

  5. Outcomes Evaluation of a Weekly Nurse Practitioner-Managed Symptom Management Clinic for Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Treated With Chemoradiotherapy

    PubMed Central

    Mason, Heidi; DeRubeis, Mary Beth; Foster, Jared C.; Taylor, Jeremy M.G.; Worden, Francis P.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose/Objectives To determine whether improved monitoring through close follow-up with a nurse practitioner (NP) could enhance treatment compliance and decrease frequency of hospitalizations. Design Retrospective chart review. Setting An academic National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center. Sample 151 patients aged 45–65 years diagnosed with stage III or IV oropharyngeal cancer. Methods Patients were nonrandomized to one of two groups: a prechemotherapy clinic group and a weekly NP-led clinic group. After examination of descriptive statistics, multiple linear and logistic regressions were used to compare groups across patient outcomes. Main Research Variables Hospitalization, chemotherapy dose deviations, and chemotherapy treatment completion. Findings The average number of visits during traditional treatment was three and, after initiation of the NP-led clinic, the number was six. The hospitalization rate was 28% in the traditional clinic group compared to 12% in the NP-led group. The rate of chemotherapy dose deviations was 48% in the traditional clinic group compared to 6% in the NP-led clinic group. Forty-six percent of patients in the traditional clinic group received the full seven scheduled doses of chemotherapy compared to 90% of patients seen in the NP-led clinic group. Conclusions A weekly NP-led symptom management clinic reduces rates of hospitalization and chemotherapy dose deviations and increases chemotherapy completion in patients receiving intensive chemoradiotherapy for oropharyngeal cancer. Implications for Nursing Patients receiving chemoradiotherapy benefit from close monitoring for toxicities by NPs to successfully complete their treatment and avoid hospitalization. Knowledge Translation Early interventions to manage toxicities in patients with head and neck cancer can improve outcomes. NPs are in a key position to manage these toxicities and, when symptoms are controlled, costs are reduced. PMID:24007925

  6. Gold Medal Forum Winner. Unfractionated heparin three times a day versus enoxaparin in the prevention of deep vein thrombosis in trauma patients.

    PubMed

    Arnold, Joshua D; Dart, Benjamin W; Barker, Donald E; Maxwell, Robert A; Burkholder, Hans C; Mejia, Vicente A; Smith, Philip W; Longley, Joy M

    2010-06-01

    Venous thromboembolic disease is a significant source of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized trauma patients. Multiple drugs and dosing regimens have been suggested for pharmacoprophylaxis. In this study, we compared efficacy, complications, and cost of unfractionated heparin administered subcutaneously three times a day with standard-dosed enoxaparin for prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in adult trauma patients over 1 year. Patients admitted for greater than 72 hours who received pharmacoprophylaxis as part of a comprehensive DVT protocol were included. A change was made in the protocol from enoxaparin (30 mg twice a day or 40 mg per day) to heparin (5000 U three times a day) at midyear. Surveillance lower extremity venous ultrasound was performed according to established institutional guidelines. Data, including demographics, associated injuries, complications, and cost, were collected and analyzed. Four hundred seventy-six patients met inclusion criteria. Two hundred thirty-seven (49.8%) patients received enoxaparin and 239 (50.2%) received heparin. Proximal lower extremity DVTs were detected in 16 (6.75%) patients in the enoxaparin group and 17 (7.11%) in the heparin group (P = 0.999). Risk factors for DVT in these patients included spinal cord injury (P = 0.001) and closed head injury (P = 0.031). There was no difference between the incidence of pulmonary emboli and bleeding. There was an estimated yearly pharmacy cost savings of $135,606. In trauma patients, subcutaneous heparin dosed three times a day may be as effective as standard-dosed enoxaparin for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism without increased complications. Heparin three times a day for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis was associated with significant pharmaceutical cost savings.

  7. Injectable SN-38-loaded Polymeric Depots for Cancer Chemotherapy of Glioblastoma Multiforme.

    PubMed

    Manaspon, Chawan; Nasongkla, Norased; Chaimongkolnukul, Khuanjit; Nittayacharn, Pinunta; Vejjasilpa, Ketpat; Kengkoom, Kanchana; Boongird, Atthaporn; Hongeng, Suradej

    2016-12-01

    SN-38, a potent chemotherapeutic drug, has not been used clinically because of its severe side effects and poor solubility. In this work, we aimed to evaluate the effect of dose and multiple injections of SN-38-loaded polymeric depots on antitumor efficacy and toxicity in vivo. Preparation and characterization of SN-38-loaded depots were performed and evaluated in vitro using human glioblastoma cell line, U-87MG. Antitumor efficacy with different depot administrations including dose, position of depot injection and number of injections were evaluated in tumor model in nude mice. Depots encapsulated SN-38 with high encapsulation efficiency (~98.3%). High amount of SN-38 (3.0 ± 0.1 mg) was prolonged and controlled release over time and showed anticancer activity against U-87MG cell line in vitro. For one course administration, depots exhibited better antitumor efficacy and reduced toxicity compared to free SN-38. Elevated doses and multiple injections of SN-38-loaded depots and free SN-38 provided greater tumor growth inhibition and animal survival. All animals received SN-38-loaded depots were well tolerated and survived while most of those received free SN-38 died at day 30. Free SN-38 showed severe toxic effect compared to minimal toxicity from SN-38-loaded depots which was due to lower SN-38 level in systemic circulation. Fluorescence imaging and histopathology confirmed that SN-38 released from depots was detected throughout tumors 35 days post administration. SN-38-loaded depots were proved as a promising new treatment for highly invasive glioblastoma multiforme with low acute toxicity due to controlled release of SN-38.

  8. Heuristic knowledge-based planning for single-isocenter stereotactic radiosurgery to multiple brain metastases.

    PubMed

    Ziemer, Benjamin P; Sanghvi, Parag; Hattangadi-Gluth, Jona; Moore, Kevin L

    2017-10-01

    Single-isocenter, volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for multiple brain metastases (multimets) can deliver highly conformal dose distributions and reduce overall patient treatment time compared to other techniques. However, treatment planning for multimet cases is highly complex due to variability in numbers and sizes of brain metastases, as well as their relative proximity to organs-at-risk (OARs). The purpose of this study was to automate the VMAT planning of multimet cases through a knowledge-based planning (KBP) approach that adapts single-target SRS dose predictions to multiple target predictions. Using a previously published artificial neural network (ANN) KBP system trained on single-target, linac-based SRS plans, 3D dose distribution predictions for multimet patients were obtained by treating each brain lesion as a solitary target and subsequently combining individual dose predictions into a single distribution. Spatial dose distributions di(r→) for each of the i = 1…N lesions were merged using the combination function d(r→)=∑iNdin(r→)1/n. The optimal value of n was determined by minimizing root-mean squared (RMS) difference between clinical multimet plans and predicted dose per unit length along the line profile joining each lesion in the clinical cohort. The gradient measure GM=[3/4π]1/3V50%1/3-V100%1/3 is the primary quality metric for SRS plan evaluation at our institution and served as the main comparative metric between clinical plans and the KBP results. A total of 41 previously treated multimet plans, with target numbers ranging from N = 2-10, were used to validate the ANN predictions and subsequent KBP auto-planning routine. Fully deliverable KBP plans were developed by converting predicted dose distribution into patient-specific optimization objectives for the clinical treatment planning system (TPS). Plan parity was maintained through identical arc configuration and target normalization. Overall plan quality improvements were quantified by calculating the difference between SRS quality metrics (QMs): ΔQM = QM clinical  - QM KBP . In addition to GM, investigated QMs were: volume of brain receiving ≥ 10 Gy (V 10 Gy ), volume of brain receiving ≥ 5 Gy (ΔV 5 Gy ), heterogeneity index (HI), dose to 0.1 cc of the brainstem (D 0.1 cc ), dose to 1% of the optic chiasm (D 1% ), and interlesion dose (D IL ). In addition to this quantitative analysis, overall plan quality was assessed via blinded plan comparison of the manual and KBP treatment plans by SRS-specializing physicians. A dose combination factor of n = 8 yielded an integrated dose profile RMS difference of 2.9% across the 41-patient cohort. Multimet dose predictions exhibited ΔGM = 0.07 ± 0.10 cm against the clinical sample, implying either further normal tissue sparing was possible or that dose predictions were slightly overestimating achievable dose gradients. The latter is the more likely explanation, as this bias vanished when dose predictions were converted to deliverable KBP plans ΔGM = 0.00 ± 0.08 cm. Remaining QMs were nearly identical or showed modest improvements in the KBP sample. Equivalent QMs included: ΔV 10 Gy  = 0.37 ± 3.78 cc, ΔHI = 0.02 ± 0.08 and ΔD IL  = -2.22 ± 171.4 cGy. The KBP plans showed a greater degree of normal tissue sparing as indicated by brain ΔV 5 Gy  = 4.11± 24.05 cc, brainstem ΔD 0.1 cc  = 42.8 ± 121.4 cGy, and chiasm ΔD 1%  = 50.8 ± 83.0 cGy. In blinded review by SRS-specializing physicians, KBP-generated plans were deemed equivalent or superior in 32/41(78.1%) of the cases. Heuristic KBP-driven automated planning in linac-based, single-isocenter treatments for multiple brain metastases maintained or exceeded overall plan quality. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

  9. A randomised phase II study of sialyl-Tn and DETOX-B adjuvant with or without cyclophosphamide pretreatment for the active specific immunotherapy of breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Miles, D W; Towlson, K E; Graham, R; Reddish, M; Longenecker, B M; Taylor-Papadimitriou, J; Rubens, R D

    1996-10-01

    Studies in animal models of mouse mammary carcinoma have shown that ovine submaxillary mucin, which carries multiple sialyl-Tn (STn) epitopes, is effective in stimulating an immune response and inhibiting tumour growth. In similar studies using carbohydrate antigens, pretreatment with low-dose cyclophosphamide has been shown to be important in modulating the immune response to antigen possibly by inhibiting suppresser T-cell activity. In a clinical trial assessing the efficacy and toxicity of synthetic STn, patients with metastatic breast cancer were randomised to receive 100 micrograms STn linked to keyhole limpet haemocyanin (KLH) with DETOX-B adjuvant given by subcutaneous injection at weeks 0, 2, 5 and 9 with or without low-dose cyclophosphamide (CTX, 300 mg m-2) pretreatment, 3 days before the start of immunotherapy. Patients with responding or stable disease after the first four injections were eligible to receive STn-KLH at 4 week intervals. The main toxicity noted was the development of subcutaneous granulomata at injection sites. Of 23 patients randomised, 18 received four injections, 5 patients having developed progressive disease during the initial 12 week period. Two minor responses were noted in the 18 patients who received four active specific immunotherapy (ASI) injections and a further five patients had stable disease. Six patients continued ASI at 4 week intervals and a partial response was noted in a patient who had previously had stable disease. All patients developed IgG and IgM responses to sialyl-Tn and levels of IgM antibodies were significantly higher in those patients who were pretreated with CTX. Measurable tumour responses have been recorded following ASI with STn-KLH plus DETOX and the immunomodulatory properties of low-dose CTX have been confirmed.

  10. A randomised phase II study of sialyl-Tn and DETOX-B adjuvant with or without cyclophosphamide pretreatment for the active specific immunotherapy of breast cancer.

    PubMed Central

    Miles, D. W.; Towlson, K. E.; Graham, R.; Reddish, M.; Longenecker, B. M.; Taylor-Papadimitriou, J.; Rubens, R. D.

    1996-01-01

    Studies in animal models of mouse mammary carcinoma have shown that ovine submaxillary mucin, which carries multiple sialyl-Tn (STn) epitopes, is effective in stimulating an immune response and inhibiting tumour growth. In similar studies using carbohydrate antigens, pretreatment with low-dose cyclophosphamide has been shown to be important in modulating the immune response to antigen possibly by inhibiting suppresser T-cell activity. In a clinical trial assessing the efficacy and toxicity of synthetic STn, patients with metastatic breast cancer were randomised to receive 100 micrograms STn linked to keyhole limpet haemocyanin (KLH) with DETOX-B adjuvant given by subcutaneous injection at weeks 0, 2, 5 and 9 with or without low-dose cyclophosphamide (CTX, 300 mg m-2) pretreatment, 3 days before the start of immunotherapy. Patients with responding or stable disease after the first four injections were eligible to receive STn-KLH at 4 week intervals. The main toxicity noted was the development of subcutaneous granulomata at injection sites. Of 23 patients randomised, 18 received four injections, 5 patients having developed progressive disease during the initial 12 week period. Two minor responses were noted in the 18 patients who received four active specific immunotherapy (ASI) injections and a further five patients had stable disease. Six patients continued ASI at 4 week intervals and a partial response was noted in a patient who had previously had stable disease. All patients developed IgG and IgM responses to sialyl-Tn and levels of IgM antibodies were significantly higher in those patients who were pretreated with CTX. Measurable tumour responses have been recorded following ASI with STn-KLH plus DETOX and the immunomodulatory properties of low-dose CTX have been confirmed. PMID:8883420

  11. Increased immunization coverage addresses the equity gap in Nepal

    PubMed Central

    Nelin, Viktoria; Raaijmakers, Hendrikus; Kim, Hyung Joon; Singh, Chahana; Målqvist, Mats

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Objective To compare immunization coverage and equity distribution of coverage between 2001 and 2014 in Nepal. Methods We used data from the Demographic and Health Surveys carried out in 2001, 2006 and 2011 together with data from the 2014 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. We calculated the proportion, in mean percentage, of children who had received bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine, three doses of polio vaccine, three doses of diphtheria–pertussis–tetanus (DPT) vaccine and measles vaccine. To measure inequities between wealth quintiles, we calculated the slope index of inequality (SII) and relative index of inequality (RII) for all surveys. Findings From 2001 to 2014, the proportion of children who received all vaccines at the age of 12 months increased from 68.8% (95% confidence interval, CI: 67.5–70.1) to 82.4% (95% CI: 80.7–84.0). While coverage of BCG, DPT and measles immunization statistically increased during the study period, the proportion of children who received the third dose of polio vaccine decreased from 93.3% (95% CI: 92.7–93.9) to 88.1% (95% CI: 86.8–89.3). The poorest wealth quintile showed the greatest improvement in immunization coverage, from 58% to 77.9%, while the wealthiest quintile only improved from 84.8% to 86.0%. The SII for children who received all vaccines improved from 0.070 (95% CI: 0.061–0.078) to 0.026 (95% CI: 0.013–0.039) and RII improved from 1.13 to 1.03. Conclusion The improvement in immunization coverage between 2001 and 2014 in Nepal can mainly be attributed to the interventions targeting the disadvantaged populations. PMID:28479621

  12. Placebo-controlled trial of oral laquinimod for multiple sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Comi, Giancarlo; Jeffery, Douglas; Kappos, Ludwig; Montalban, Xavier; Boyko, Alexey; Rocca, Maria A; Filippi, Massimo

    2012-03-15

    Two proof-of-concept clinical trials have provided evidence that laquinimod reduces disease activity in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, phase 3 study at 139 sites in 24 countries. A total of 1106 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive oral laquinimod at a dose of 0.6 mg once daily or placebo for 24 months. The primary end point was the annualized relapse rate during the 24-month period. Secondary end points included confirmed disability progression (defined as an increase in the score on the Expanded Disability Status Scale that was sustained for at least 3 months) and the cumulative number of gadolinium-enhancing lesions and new or enlarging lesions on T(2)-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment with laquinimod as compared with placebo was associated with a modest reduction in the mean (±SE) annualized relapse rate (0.30±0.02 vs. 0.39±0.03, P=0.002) and with a reduction in the risk of confirmed disability progression (11.1% vs. 15.7%; hazard ratio, 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.45 to 0.91; P=0.01). The mean cumulative numbers of gadolinium-enhancing lesions and new or enlarging lesions on T(2)-weighted images were lower for patients receiving laquinimod than for those receiving placebo (1.33±0.14 vs. 2.12±0.22 and 5.03±0.08 vs. 7.14±0.07, respectively; P<0.001 for both comparisons). Transient elevations in alanine aminotransferase levels to greater than three times the upper limit of the normal range were observed in 24 patients receiving laquinimod (5%) and 8 receiving placebo (2%). In this phase 3 study, oral laquinimod administered once daily slowed the progression of disability and reduced the rate of relapse in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. (Funded by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00509145.).

  13. Appropriate insulin initiation dosage for insulin-naive type 2 diabetes outpatients receiving insulin monotherapy or in combination with metformin and/or pioglitazone.

    PubMed

    Liao, Lin; Yang, Ming; Qiu, Lu-Lu; Mou, Ya-Ru; Zhao, Jia-Jun; Dong, Jian-Jun

    2010-12-01

    Few studies have given suggestions on appropriate initiation insulin dosage when combined with oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). This research was to investigate appropriate initiation insulin doses for insulin-naive type 2 diabetes patients with different combinations and the relationship between insulin dosage and relevant factors. This was a randomized, open-label, treat to target study. The target was 20% decrease of both fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 2 hours post-breakfast blood glucose (P2hBG). One hundred and forty-seven insulin-naive Chinese patients recruited were randomly assigned to 3 groups: group A, patients received insulin monotherapy; group B, received insulin plus metformin (0.5 g, tid) and group C, received insulin plus metformin (0.5 g, tid) and pioglitazone (15 mg, qd). Insulin doses were initiated with a dose of 0.3 U×kg(-1)×d(-1) and titrated according to FPG and P2hBG till reached the targets. Both the time of getting 20% reduction of FPG and P2hBG showed significant differences among the three groups. The time was shortest in Group C. The insulin doses needed to achieve glucose reduction of 20% in three treatment groups were (0.40 ± 0.04) U×kg(-1)×d(-1) for Group A, (0.37 ± 0.04) U×kg(-1)×d(-1) for Group B, and (0.35 ± 0.03) U×kg(-1)×d(-1) for Group C, respectively. Multiple linear stepwise regression analysis showed that insulin doses correlated with body weight, FPG, diabetes duration, age and history of sulfonylurea treatment. The standardized regression coefficients were 0.871, 0.322, 0.089, 0.067 and 0.063 (with all P < 0.05). To achieve blood glucose's reduction of 20% within safety context, initial insulin doses were recommended as the following: 0.40 U×kg(-1)×d(-1) for insulin mono-therapy, 0.37 U×kg(-1)×d(-1) for insulin plus metformin treatment, and 0.35 U×kg(-1)×d(-1) for insulin plus metformin and pioglitazone treatment in Chinese type 2 diabetes outpatients. Body weight is found the most closely related factor to the insulin dosage.

  14. Rituximab maintenance for relapsed refractory thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

    PubMed

    Bhagirath, Vinai C; Kelton, John G; Moore, Jane; Arnold, Donald M

    2012-12-01

    Rituximab, an anti-CD20 chimeric monoclonal antibody, has been used successfully to treat patients with relapsed or refractory thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP); however, the optimal dose and frequency and the role of rituximab maintenance remain uncertain. We describe a 45-year-old woman with chronic relapsing immune thrombocytopenia who responded to rituximab retreatment administered in four doses over the course of 12 months. Previously, she had received four doses of rituximab and sustained a remission for 19 months. During her latest TTP relapse, multiple treatments were administered including rituximab retreatment. After the first dose (375 mg/m2), she developed serum sickness requiring further doses to be deferred. Three subsequent doses were administered at 4-month intervals over the course of 12 months. ADAMTS13 activity was measured by von Willebrand factor (VWF) digestion. ADAMTS13 inhibition was measured by a modification of the VWF digestion assay and anti-ADAMTS13 antibodies were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, American Diagnostica). Clinical and laboratory remission were achieved after one dose of rituximab, with normalization of ADAMTS13 activity and disappearance of ADAMTS13 inhibitor. Three subsequent doses of rituximab were given without incident and the patient remained in remission after 3.5 years of follow-up (2.5 years since her last dose of rituximab). Maintenance dosing of rituximab should be considered in some patients with relapsing TTP. © 2012 American Association of Blood Banks.

  15. Predictor of Severe Gastroduodenal Toxicity After Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Abdominopelvic Malignancies

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bae, Sun Hyun; Kim, Mi-Sook, E-mail: mskim@kcch.re.kr; Cho, Chul Koo

    2012-11-15

    Purpose: To identify the predictors for the development of severe gastroduodenal toxicity (GDT) in patients treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) using 3 fractionations for abdominopelvic malignancies. Methods and Materials: From 2001 to 2011, 202 patients with abdominopelvic malignancies were treated with curative-intent SBRT. Among these patients, we retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 40 patients with the eligibility criteria as follows: 3 fractionations, follow-up period {>=}1 year, absence of previous radiation therapy (RT) history or combination of external-beam RT and the presence of gastroduodenum (GD) that received a dose higher than 20% of prescribed dose. The median SBRT dosemore » was 45 Gy (range, 33-60 Gy) with 3 fractions. We analyzed the clinical and dosimetric parameters, including multiple dose-volume histogram endpoints: V{sub 20} (volume of GD that received 20 Gy), V{sub 25}, V{sub 30}, V{sub 35}, and D{sub max} (the maximum point dose). The grade of GDT was defined by the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria version 4.0, and GDT {>=}grade 3 was defined as severe GDT. Results: The median time to the development of severe GDT was 6 months (range, 3-12 months). Severe GDT was found in 6 patients (15%). D{sub max} was the best dosimetric predictor for severe GDT. D{sub max} of 35 Gy and 38 Gy were respectively associated with a 5% and 10% probability of the development of severe GDT. A history of ulcer before SBRT was the best clinical predictor on univariate analysis (P=.0001). Conclusions: We suggest that D{sub max} is a valuable predictor of severe GDT after SBRT using 3 fractionations for abdominopelvic malignancies. A history of ulcer before SBRT should be carefully considered as a clinical predictor, especially in patients who receive a high dose to GD.« less

  16. Effects of ATX-MS-1467 immunotherapy over 16 weeks in relapsing multiple sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Chataway, Jeremy; Martin, Keith; Barrell, Kevin; Sharrack, Basil; Stolt, Pelle; Wraith, David C

    2018-03-13

    To assess safety, tolerability, and efficacy of the antigen-specific immunotherapy ATX-MS-1467 in participants with relapsing multiple sclerosis using different treatment protocols to induce tolerance. Two open-label trials in adult participants with relapsing multiple sclerosis were conducted. Study 1 was a multicenter, phase 1b safety evaluation comparing intradermal (i.d.) (cohort 1) with subcutaneous (cohort 2) administration in 43 participants. Both cohorts received ATX-MS-1467 dosed at 25, 50, 100, 400, and 800 μg at 14-day intervals over 8 weeks, followed by 8 weeks with 4 additional 800-μg doses at 14-day intervals and 32 weeks off study medication. Study 2 was a phase 2a, multicenter, single-arm trial enrolling 37 participants. ATX-MS-1467 was titrated from 50 μg i.d. on day 1 to 200 μg on day 15 and 800 μg on day 29 followed by biweekly administration of 800 μg for 16 weeks and 16 weeks off study medication. Efficacy was evaluated on MRI parameters and clinical variables. Safety endpoints included treatment-emergent adverse events and injection-site reactions. In study 1, there was a significant decrease in new/persisting T1 gadolinium-enhanced (GdE) lesions in cohort 1 from baseline to week 16, returning to baseline values at week 48. In study 2, the number of T1 GdE lesions were significantly reduced on treatment and remained reduced at study completion. Safety results were unremarkable in both studies. Relatively slow ATX-MS-1467 titration and a longer full-dose i.d. treatment period is associated with reduction in GdE lesions and a sustained effect post treatment. Further trials of ATX-MS-1467 are warranted. This work provides Class IV evidence that for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis, slow ATX-MS-1467 titration and a longer full-dose i.d. treatment period is associated with reduction in GdE lesions. © 2018 American Academy of Neurology.

  17. Clinical Parameters following Multiple Oral Dose Administration of a Standardized Andrographis paniculata Capsule in Healthy Thai Subjects.

    PubMed

    Suriyo, Tawit; Pholphana, Nanthanit; Ungtrakul, Teerapat; Rangkadilok, Nuchanart; Panomvana, Duangchit; Thiantanawat, Apinya; Pongpun, Wanwisa; Satayavivad, Jutamaad

    2017-06-01

    Andrographis paniculata has been widely used in Scandinavian and Asian counties for the treatment of the common cold, fever, and noninfectious diarrhea. The present study was carried out to investigate the physiological effects of short-term multiple dose administration of a standardized A. paniculata capsule used for treatment of the common cold and uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections, including blood pressure, electrocardiogram, blood chemistry, hematological profiles, urinalysis, and blood coagulation in healthy Thai subjects. Twenty healthy subjects (10 males and 10 females) received 12 capsules per day orally of 4.2 g of a standardized A. paniculata crude powder (4 capsules of 1.4 g of A. paniculata , 3 times per day, 8 h intervals) for 3 consecutive days. The results showed that all of the measured clinical parameters were found to be within normal ranges for a healthy person. However, modulation of some parameters was observed after the third day of treatment, for example, inductions of white blood cells and absolute neutrophil count in the blood, a reduction of plasma alkaline phosphatase, and an induction of urine pH. A rapid and transient reduction in blood pressure was observed at 30 min after capsule administration, resulting in a significant reduction of mean systolic blood pressure. There were no serious adverse events observed in the subjects during the treatment period. In conclusion, this study suggests that multiple oral dosing of A. paniculata at the normal therapeutic dose for the common cold and uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections modulates various clinical parameters within normal ranges for a healthy person. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  18. Association between use of multiple psychoactive medicines and hospitalization for falls: retrospective analysis of a large healthcare claim database.

    PubMed

    Pratt, Nicole L; Ramsay, Emmae N; Kalisch Ellett, Lisa M; Nguyen, Tuan A; Barratt, John D; Roughead, Elizabeth E

    2014-07-01

    Little is known about the impact of taking multiple psychoactive medicines on the risk of hospitalization for falls. To identify the association between multiple psychoactive medicine use and hospitalization for falls. A retrospective cohort study was conducted between July 2011 and June 2012 in the Australian veteran population who had been dispensed at least one psychoactive medicine within the previous year. Psychoactive medicines with sedative properties included antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics, antidepressants, opioids, anti-epileptics, anti-Parkinson medicines and medicines for migraine. The associations between falls and the number of psychoactive medicines used or the number of doses were analysed in comparison with falls that occurred when no psychoactive medicine was used. The adjusted results showed a significantly increased risk of falls when patients were on one or more psychoactive medicines or were receiving 0.1-0.9 defined daily dose (DDD) or more per day. The incident rate ratios (IRRs) were 1.22 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.38) for those on one psychoactive medicine, 1.70 (95% CI 1.45-1.99) for those on two, 1.96 (95% CI 1.58-2.43) for those on three or four, and 3.15 (95% CI 1.90-5.23) for those on five or more. A similar result was observed when the data were analysed by dose, with the highest risk being found for those taking three or more DDD per day (adjusted IRR 4.26, 95% CI 2.75-6.58). Increased numbers or increased doses of psychoactive medicines are associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for falls in older adults. Strategies to reduce the psychoactive medicine burden are likely to translate into significant health benefits.

  19. Differential Penetration of Raltegravir throughout Gastrointestinal Tissue: Implications for Eradication and Cure

    PubMed Central

    Patterson, Kristine B.; Prince, Heather A.; Stevens, Trenton; Shaheen, Nicholas J.; Dellon, Evan S.; Madanick, Ryan D.; Jennings, Steven; Cohen, Myron S.; Kashuba, Angela D.M.

    2014-01-01

    Objective To investigate the concentration of the integrase strand inhibitor raltegravir (RAL) throughout gastrointestinal (GI) tissue, especially gutassociated lymphoid tissue (GALT), as an adjunct to current prevention and cure strategies. Design Open-label pharmacokinetic study Methods HIV-negative men received RAL 400 mg twice daily for 7 days. Seven blood plasma (BP) specimens were collected over 12-hr intervals; timed tissue specimens from terminal ileum, splenic flexure, and rectum were also obtained by colonoscopy following the first dose (FD) and on Day 7 [Multiple Dose (MD)]. RAL concentrations were measured by validated LC-MS assay with 1 ng/mL lower limit of detection. Data were analyzed by noncompartmental methods (WinNonlin 6). Tissue exposures are reported as composite medians and tissue density of 1.04 g/mL is assumed for comparisons. Results Fourteen men completed evaluations. Median (range) age was 24 (19–49) yrs and BMI 25 (19–31) kg/m2. After the FD, AUC-0-12h was highest in the terminal ileum (594 μg*h/mL). Exposures were 160, 68 and 39-fold greater than BP at the terminal ileum, splenic flexure and rectum, respectively. After multiple doses, exposure was highest at the splenic flexure (2240 μg*h/mL); exposure at the terminal ileum and rectum were equivalent (both 788 μg*h/mL). Following multiple doses, exposures were 160–650-fold greater than BP throughout the colon. Conclusions RAL rapidly disseminates into GI tissue and concentrations remain significantly higher than BP. RAL exposure in GI tissue remains higher than any ARV investigated to date. These data suggest that RAL should result in full suppression of viral replication in GI tissue and GALT. PMID:23945503

  20. Measuring dose from radiotherapy treatments in the vicinity of a cardiac pacemaker.

    PubMed

    Peet, Samuel C; Wilks, Rachael; Kairn, Tanya; Crowe, Scott B

    2016-12-01

    This study investigated the dose absorbed by tissues surrounding artificial cardiac pacemakers during external beam radiotherapy procedures. The usefulness of out-of-field reference data, treatment planning systems, and skin dose measurements to estimate the dose in the vicinity of a pacemaker was also examined. Measurements were performed by installing a pacemaker onto an anthropomorphic phantom, and using radiochromic film and optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters to measure the dose in the vicinity of the device during the delivery of square fields and clinical treatment plans. It was found that the dose delivered in the vicinity of the cardiac device was unevenly distributed both laterally and anteroposteriorly. As the device was moved distally from the square field, the dose dropped exponentially, in line with out-of-field reference data in the literature. Treatment planning systems were found to substantially underestimate the dose for volumetric modulated arc therapy, helical tomotherapy, and 3D conformal treatments. The skin dose was observed to be either greater or lesser than the dose received at the depth of the device, depending on the treatment site, and so care should be if skin dose measurements are to be used to estimate the dose to a pacemaker. Square field reference data may be used as an upper estimate of absorbed dose per monitor unit in the vicinity of a cardiac device for complex treatments involving multiple gantry angles. Copyright © 2016 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. IV busulfan dose individualization in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant: limited sampling strategies.

    PubMed

    Dupuis, L Lee; Sibbald, Cathryn; Schechter, Tal; Ansari, Marc; Gassas, Adam; Théorêt, Yves; Kassir, Nastya; Champagne, Martin A; Doyle, John

    2008-05-01

    We currently calculate area under the busulfan concentration time curve (AUC) using 7 plasma busulfan concentrations (AUC7) drawn after the first of 16 i.v. busulfan doses given as a 2-hour infusion every 6 hours. The aim of this study was to develop and validate limited sampling strategies (LSSs) using 3 or fewer busulfan concentration values with which to reliably calculate AUC in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Children in the development group (44) received i.v. busulfan at Sick Kids; the validation group consisted of 35 children who received care at CHU Ste-Justine. Busulfan doses given and subsequent plasma busulfan concentrations were recorded. LSSs using 1 to 3 concentration-time points were developed using multiple linear regression. LSS were considered to be acceptable when adjusted r(2) > 0.9, mean bias <15% and precision <15%. Extent of agreement between the AUC7 values and the LSS AUC was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman (BA) analysis. Agreement was considered to be excellent when the lower limit of the 95% confidence limit of the ICC exceeded 0.9 and when the limits of agreement in the BA analysis were +/-15% for both AUC and dose. Administration of the theoretic adjusted busulfan doses based on each LSS was simulated and cases where the resulting AUC was >1500 or <900 microM x min were noted. LSSs using 1, 2, or 3 plasma busulfan concentrations were developed that showed excellent agreement with AUC7 and adjusted busulfan doses. In the validation sample, only the 2- and 3-point LSSs demonstrated acceptable precision and lack of bias. LSSs using 2 or 3 plasma busulfan concentrations can be used to reliably estimate busulfan AUC after IV administration in children undergoing HSCT.

  2. Low dose decitabine in very high risk relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukaemia in children and young adults.

    PubMed

    Phillips, Christine L; Davies, Stella M; McMasters, Richard; Absalon, Michael; O'Brien, Maureen; Mo, Jun; Broun, Randall; Moscow, Jeffrey A; Smolarek, Teresa; Garzon, Ramiro; Blum, William; Schwind, Sebastian; Marcucci, Guido; Perentesis, John P

    2013-05-01

    Low-dose decitabine has encouraging activity and tolerability in adults with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), but paediatric experience is lacking. We report our retrospective experience with decitabine in eight children and young adults (median age 4 years) with refractory/relapsed AML, who had failed multiple regimens or were not candidates for standard retrieval regimens due to prior toxicities. Three of eight patients (38%) had complete response (CR; 1 each of CR, CR with incomplete platelet recovery and CR with incomplete count recovery). Best responses were observed after a median of 2.5 cycles (range 1-4 cycles). Four patients received subsequent allogeneic stem cell transplant, and two remain in long-term CR. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  3. Effect of Terbinafine on Theophylline Pharmacokinetics in Healthy Volunteers

    PubMed Central

    Trépanier, Eric F.; Nafziger, Anne N.; Amsden, Guy W.

    1998-01-01

    Twelve healthy volunteers were enrolled in an open-label, randomized, crossover study. Subjects received single doses of theophylline (5 mg/kg) with and without multiple-dose terbinafine, and 11 blood samples were collected over 24 h. The study phases were separated by a 4-week washout period. Theophylline serum data were modeled via noncompartmental analysis. When the control phase (i.e., no terbinafine) was compared to the treatment phase (terbinafine), theophylline exposure (the area under the serum concentration-time curve from time zero to infinity) increased by 16% (P = 0.03), oral clearance decreased by 14% (P = 0.04), and half-life increased by 24% (P = 0.002). No significant changes in other theophylline pharmacokinetic parameters were evident. PMID:9517954

  4. A phase I study of different doses and frequencies of pegylated recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (PEG rhG-CSF) in patients with standard-dose chemotherapy-induced neutropenia

    PubMed Central

    Qin, Yan; Han, Xiaohong; Wang, Lin; Du, Ping; Yao, Jiarui; Wu, Di; Song, Yuanyuan; Zhang, Shuxiang; Tang, Le; Shi, Yuankai

    2017-01-01

    Objective The recommended dose of prophylactic pegylated recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (PEG rhG-CSF) is 100 μg/kg once per cycle for patients receiving intense-dose chemotherapy. However, few data are available on the proper dose for patients receiving less-intense chemotherapy. The aim of this phase I study is to explore the proper dose and administration schedule of PEG rhG-CSF for patients receiving standard-dose chemotherapy. Methods Eligible patients received 3-cycle chemotherapy every 3 weeks. No PEG rhG-CSF was given in the first cycle. Patients experienced grade 3 or 4 neutropenia would then enter the cycle 2 and 3. In cycle 2, patients received a single subcutaneous injection of prophylactic PEG rhG-CSF on d 3, and received half-dose subcutaneous injection in cycle 3 on d 3 and d 5, respectively. Escalating doses (30, 60, 100 and 200 μg/kg) of PEG rhG-CSF were investigated. Results A total of 26 patients were enrolled and received chemotherapy, in which 24 and 18 patients entered cycle 2 and cycle 3 treatment, respectively. In cycle 2, the incidence of grade 3 or 4 neutropenia for patients receiving single-dose PEG rhG-CSF of 30, 60, 100 and 200 μg/kg was 66.67%, 33.33%, 22.22% and 0, respectively, with a median duration less than 1 (0–2) d. No grade 3 or higher neutropenia was noted in cycle 3 in all dose cohorts. Conclusions The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of PEG rhG-CSF used in cancer patients were similar to those reported, as well as the safety. Double half dose administration model showed better efficacy result than a single dose model in terms of grade 3 neutropenia and above. The single dose of 60 μg/kg, 100 μg/kg and double half dose of 30 μg/kg were recommended to the phase II study, hoping to find a preferable method for neutropenia treatment. PMID:29142459

  5. A phase I study of different doses and frequencies of pegylated recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (PEG rhG-CSF) in patients with standard-dose chemotherapy-induced neutropenia.

    PubMed

    Qin, Yan; Han, Xiaohong; Wang, Lin; Du, Ping; Yao, Jiarui; Wu, Di; Song, Yuanyuan; Zhang, Shuxiang; Tang, Le; Shi, Yuankai

    2017-10-01

    The recommended dose of prophylactic pegylated recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (PEG rhG-CSF) is 100 μg/kg once per cycle for patients receiving intense-dose chemotherapy. However, few data are available on the proper dose for patients receiving less-intense chemotherapy. The aim of this phase I study is to explore the proper dose and administration schedule of PEG rhG-CSF for patients receiving standard-dose chemotherapy. Eligible patients received 3-cycle chemotherapy every 3 weeks. No PEG rhG-CSF was given in the first cycle. Patients experienced grade 3 or 4 neutropenia would then enter the cycle 2 and 3. In cycle 2, patients received a single subcutaneous injection of prophylactic PEG rhG-CSF on d 3, and received half-dose subcutaneous injection in cycle 3 on d 3 and d 5, respectively. Escalating doses (30, 60, 100 and 200 μg/kg) of PEG rhG-CSF were investigated. A total of 26 patients were enrolled and received chemotherapy, in which 24 and 18 patients entered cycle 2 and cycle 3 treatment, respectively. In cycle 2, the incidence of grade 3 or 4 neutropenia for patients receiving single-dose PEG rhG-CSF of 30, 60, 100 and 200 μg/kg was 66.67%, 33.33%, 22.22% and 0, respectively, with a median duration less than 1 (0-2) d. No grade 3 or higher neutropenia was noted in cycle 3 in all dose cohorts. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of PEG rhG-CSF used in cancer patients were similar to those reported, as well as the safety. Double half dose administration model showed better efficacy result than a single dose model in terms of grade 3 neutropenia and above. The single dose of 60 μg/kg, 100 μg/kg and double half dose of 30 μg/kg were recommended to the phase II study, hoping to find a preferable method for neutropenia treatment.

  6. Antisense oligonucleotides targeting apolipoprotein(a) in people with raised lipoprotein(a): two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging trials.

    PubMed

    Viney, Nicholas J; van Capelleveen, Julian C; Geary, Richard S; Xia, Shuting; Tami, Joseph A; Yu, Rosie Z; Marcovina, Santica M; Hughes, Steven G; Graham, Mark J; Crooke, Rosanne M; Crooke, Stanley T; Witztum, Joseph L; Stroes, Erik S; Tsimikas, Sotirios

    2016-11-05

    Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is a highly prevalent (around 20% of people) genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease and calcific aortic valve stenosis, but no approved specific therapy exists to substantially lower Lp(a) concentrations. We aimed to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of two unique antisense oligonucleotides designed to lower Lp(a) concentrations. We did two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. In a phase 2 trial (done in 13 study centres in Canada, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and the UK), we assessed the effect of IONIS-APO(a) Rx , an oligonucleotide targeting apolipoprotein(a). Participants with elevated Lp(a) concentrations (125-437 nmol/L in cohort A; ≥438 nmol/L in cohort B) were randomly assigned (in a 1:1 ratio in cohort A and in a 4:1 ratio in cohort B) with an interactive response system to escalating-dose subcutaneous IONIS-APO(a) Rx (100 mg, 200 mg, and then 300 mg, once a week for 4 weeks each) or injections of saline placebo, once a week, for 12 weeks. Primary endpoints were mean percentage change in fasting plasma Lp(a) concentration at day 85 or 99 in the per-protocol population (participants who received more than six doses of study drug) and safety and tolerability in the safety population. In a phase 1/2a first-in-man trial, we assessed the effect of IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx , a ligand-conjugated antisense oligonucleotide designed to be highly and selectively taken up by hepatocytes, at the BioPharma Services phase 1 unit (Toronto, ON, Canada). Healthy volunteers (Lp[a] ≥75 nmol/L) were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of 10-120 mg IONIS-APO(a)L Rx subcutaneously in an ascending-dose design or placebo (in a 3:1 ratio; single-ascending-dose phase), or multiple doses of 10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg IONIS-APO(a)L Rx subcutaneously in an ascending-dose design or placebo (in an 8:2 ratio) at day 1, 3, 5, 8, 15, and 22 (multiple-ascending-dose phase). Primary endpoints were mean percentage change in fasting plasma Lp(a) concentration, safety, and tolerability at day 30 in the single-ascending-dose phase and day 36 in the multiple-ascending-dose phase in participants who were randomised and received at least one dose of study drug. In both trials, the randomised allocation sequence was generated by Ionis Biometrics or external vendor with a permuted-block randomisation method. Participants, investigators, sponsor personnel, and clinical research organisation staff who analysed the data were all masked to the treatment assignments. Both trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT02160899 and NCT02414594. From June 25, 2014, to Nov 18, 2015, we enrolled 64 participants to the phase 2 trial (51 in cohort A and 13 in cohort B). 35 were randomly assigned to IONIS-APO(a) Rx and 29 to placebo. At day 85/99, participants assigned to IONIS-APO(a) Rx had mean Lp(a) reductions of 66·8% (SD 20·6) in cohort A and 71·6% (13·0) in cohort B (both p<0·0001 vs pooled placebo). From April 15, 2015, to Jan 11, 2016, we enrolled 58 healthy volunteers to the phase 1/2a trial of IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx . Of 28 participants in the single-ascending-dose phase, three were randomly assigned to 10 mg, three to 20 mg, three to 40 mg, six to 80 mg, six to 120 mg, and seven to placebo. Of 30 participants in the multiple-ascending-dose phase, eight were randomly assigned to 10 mg, eight to 20 mg, eight to 40 mg, and six to placebo. Significant dose-dependent reductions in mean Lp(a) concentrations were noted in all single-dose IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx groups at day 30. In the multidose groups, IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx resulted in mean reductions in Lp(a) of 66% (SD 21·8) in the 10 mg group, 80% (SD 13·7%) in the 20 mg group, and 92% (6·5) in the 40 mg group (p=0·0007 for all vs placebo) at day 36. Both antisense oligonucleotides were safe. There were two serious adverse events (myocardial infarctions) in the IONIS-APO(a) Rx phase 2 trial, one in the IONIS-APO(a) Rx and one in the placebo group, but neither were thought to be treatment related. 12% of injections with IONIS-APO(a) Rx were associated with injection-site reactions. IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx was associated with no injection-site reactions. IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx is a novel, tolerable, potent therapy to reduce Lp(a) concentrations. IONIS-APO(a)-L Rx might mitigate Lp(a)-mediated cardiovascular risk and is being developed for patients with elevated Lp(a) concentrations with existing cardiovascular disease or calcific aortic valve stenosis. Ionis Pharmaceuticals. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Memory immune response and safety of a booster dose of Japanese encephalitis chimeric virus vaccine (JE-CV) in JE-CV-primed children

    PubMed Central

    Feroldi, Emmanuel; Capeding, Maria Rosario; Boaz, Mark; Gailhardou, Sophia; Meric, Claude; Bouckenooghe, Alain

    2013-01-01

    Japanese encephalitis chimeric virus vaccine (JE-CV) is a licensed vaccine indicated in a single dose administration for primary immunization. This controlled phase III comparative trial enrolled children aged 36–42 mo in the Philippines. 345 children who had received one dose of JE-CV in a study two years earlier, received a JE-CV booster dose. 105 JE-vaccine-naïve children in general good health were randomized to receive JE-CV (JE-vaccine naïve group; 46 children) or varicella vaccine (safety control group; 59 children). JE neutralizing antibody titers were assessed using PRNT50. Immunological memory was observed in children who had received the primary dose of JE-CV before. Seven days after the JE-CV booster dose administration, 96.2% and 66.8% of children were seroprotected and had seroconverted, respectively, and the geometric mean titer (GMT) was 231 1/dil. Twenty-eight days after the JE-CV booster dose seroprotection and seroconversion were achieved in 100% and 95.3% of children, respectively, and the GMT was 2,242 1/dil. In contrast, only 15.4% of JE-CV-vaccine naïve children who had not received any prior JE vaccine were seroprotected seven days after they received JE-CV. One year after receiving the JE-CV booster dose, 99.4% of children remained seroprotected. We conclude that JE-CV is effective and safe, both as a single dose and when administrated as a booster dose. A booster dose increases the peak GMT above the peak level reached after primary immunization and the antibody persistence is maintained at least one year after the JE-CV booster dose administration. Five year follow up is ongoing. PMID:23442823

  8. Memory immune response and safety of a booster dose of Japanese encephalitis chimeric virus vaccine (JE-CV) in JE-CV-primed children.

    PubMed

    Feroldi, Emmanuel; Capeding, Maria Rosario; Boaz, Mark; Gailhardou, Sophia; Meric, Claude; Bouckenooghe, Alain

    2013-04-01

    Japanese encephalitis chimeric virus vaccine (JE-CV) is a licensed vaccine indicated in a single dose administration for primary immunization. This controlled phase III comparative trial enrolled children aged 36-42 mo in the Philippines. 345 children who had received one dose of JE-CV in a study two years earlier, received a JE-CV booster dose. 105 JE-vaccine-naïve children in general good health were randomized to receive JE-CV (JE-vaccine naïve group; 46 children) or varicella vaccine (safety control group; 59 children). JE neutralizing antibody titers were assessed using PRNT50. Immunological memory was observed in children who had received the primary dose of JE-CV before. Seven days after the JE-CV booster dose administration, 96.2% and 66.8% of children were seroprotected and had seroconverted, respectively, and the geometric mean titer (GMT) was 231 1/dil. Twenty-eight days after the JE-CV booster dose seroprotection and seroconversion were achieved in 100% and 95.3% of children, respectively, and the GMT was 2,242 1/dil. In contrast, only 15.4% of JE-CV-vaccine naïve children who had not received any prior JE vaccine were seroprotected seven days after they received JE-CV. One year after receiving the JE-CV booster dose, 99.4% of children remained seroprotected. We conclude that JE-CV is effective and safe, both as a single dose and when administrated as a booster dose. A booster dose increases the peak GMT above the peak level reached after primary immunization and the antibody persistence is maintained at least one year after the JE-CV booster dose administration. Five year follow up is ongoing.

  9. Timing of HPV vaccine intervals among United States teens with consideration to the current ACIP schedule and the WHO 2-dose schedule

    PubMed Central

    Cloessner, Emily A.; Stokley, Shannon; Yankey, David; Markowitz, Lauri E.

    2016-01-01

    Abstract The current recommendation for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in the United States is for 3 doses to be administered over a 6 month period. In April 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended adoption of a 2-dose schedule, with doses spaced a minimum of 6 months apart, for teens who begin the series before age 15. We analyzed data from the 2013 National Immunization Survey-Teen to examine the timing of second and third dose receipt among US adolescents. All analyses were restricted to adolescents age 13–17 y who had adequate provider data. The Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test measured differences in time to receive vaccine doses among demographic and socioeconomic groups. Logistic regression identified socioeconomic characteristics associated with receiving the second dose of HPV vaccine at least 6 months after the first dose. The median time for teens to receive the second dose of HPV vaccine was 2.6 months after the first dose, and the median time to receive the third dose was 4.9 months after the second dose. Minority teens and teens living below the poverty level took significantly longer to receive doses. Among teens that initiated the HPV vaccine series before age 15 y, 28.6% received the second dose at least 6 months after the first dose. If these teens, who met the WHO criteria for up-to-date HPV vaccination, were classified as having completed the vaccination series, overall coverage in the US would increase 3.9 percentage points, with African American and Hispanic teens having the greatest increases in coverage. PMID:26587886

  10. Timing of HPV vaccine intervals among United States teens with consideration to the current ACIP schedule and the WHO 2-dose schedule.

    PubMed

    Cloessner, Emily A; Stokley, Shannon; Yankey, David; Markowitz, Lauri E

    2016-06-02

    The current recommendation for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in the United States is for 3 doses to be administered over a 6 month period. In April 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended adoption of a 2-dose schedule, with doses spaced a minimum of 6 months apart, for teens who begin the series before age 15. We analyzed data from the 2013 National Immunization Survey-Teen to examine the timing of second and third dose receipt among US adolescents. All analyses were restricted to adolescents age 13-17 y who had adequate provider data. The Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test measured differences in time to receive vaccine doses among demographic and socioeconomic groups. Logistic regression identified socioeconomic characteristics associated with receiving the second dose of HPV vaccine at least 6 months after the first dose. The median time for teens to receive the second dose of HPV vaccine was 2.6 months after the first dose, and the median time to receive the third dose was 4.9 months after the second dose. Minority teens and teens living below the poverty level took significantly longer to receive doses. Among teens that initiated the HPV vaccine series before age 15 y, 28.6% received the second dose at least 6 months after the first dose. If these teens, who met the WHO criteria for up-to-date HPV vaccination, were classified as having completed the vaccination series, overall coverage in the US would increase 3.9 percentage points, with African American and Hispanic teens having the greatest increases in coverage.

  11. Bayesian dose selection design for a binary outcome using restricted response adaptive randomization.

    PubMed

    Meinzer, Caitlyn; Martin, Renee; Suarez, Jose I

    2017-09-08

    In phase II trials, the most efficacious dose is usually not known. Moreover, given limited resources, it is difficult to robustly identify a dose while also testing for a signal of efficacy that would support a phase III trial. Recent designs have sought to be more efficient by exploring multiple doses through the use of adaptive strategies. However, the added flexibility may potentially increase the risk of making incorrect assumptions and reduce the total amount of information available across the dose range as a function of imbalanced sample size. To balance these challenges, a novel placebo-controlled design is presented in which a restricted Bayesian response adaptive randomization (RAR) is used to allocate a majority of subjects to the optimal dose of active drug, defined as the dose with the lowest probability of poor outcome. However, the allocation between subjects who receive active drug or placebo is held constant to retain the maximum possible power for a hypothesis test of overall efficacy comparing the optimal dose to placebo. The design properties and optimization of the design are presented in the context of a phase II trial for subarachnoid hemorrhage. For a fixed total sample size, a trade-off exists between the ability to select the optimal dose and the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis. This relationship is modified by the allocation ratio between active and control subjects, the choice of RAR algorithm, and the number of subjects allocated to an initial fixed allocation period. While a responsive RAR algorithm improves the ability to select the correct dose, there is an increased risk of assigning more subjects to a worse arm as a function of ephemeral trends in the data. A subarachnoid treatment trial is used to illustrate how this design can be customized for specific objectives and available data. Bayesian adaptive designs are a flexible approach to addressing multiple questions surrounding the optimal dose for treatment efficacy within the context of limited resources. While the design is general enough to apply to many situations, future work is needed to address interim analyses and the incorporation of models for dose response.

  12. Experimental investigation of commercially available lead composite aprons used for diagnostic X-rays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shousha, Hany A.; Rabie, N.; Hassan, G. M.

    2011-12-01

    One of the principal diagnostic methods used in all fields of medical services is radiographic examination. To keep the radiation dose received by hospital personnel under normal working conditions as low as reasonably achievable, lead composite apron shields are provided as valuable aids. Intensive use of these accessories could lead to softening and surface defects due to poor handling and being worn-out over time, giving rise to multiple defects across the entire apron. Without routine control, these lead aprons will, within time, contribute significantly to the over-radiation burden to the wearer. However, local defects are highly likely to lead to gross changes in the radiation dose received by the wearer. For this reason, we evaluate the exposure dose resulting from diagnostic X-ray radiation during different imaging procedures. In this study, we used TLD LiF-700 chips to measure the attenuation percentage for four groups of commercial lead composite aprons and to calculate the effective doses to different organs during diagnostic radiological procedures. The results show the importance of lead composite aprons in minimizing effective doses, and the attenuation percentage varied for different vendors; this is due to variations in the constituent material. The average attenuation for lead composite aprons varies from 93.3% to 96.7%, and the average attenuation (%)/weight varies from 16.7% to 20.5%. Acceptance testing of lead composite aprons is essential to ensure that lead composite aprons meet their manufacturers' specifications and provide the necessary radiation protection for their intended use. The combined and expanded uncertainties accompanying these measurements are 2.78% and 5.57%, respectively.

  13. Radiation-related lymphopenia is associated with spleen irradiation dose during radiotherapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jing; Zhao, Qianqian; Deng, Weiye; Lu, Jie; Xu, Xiaoqing; Wang, Renben; Li, Xia; Yue, Jinbo

    2017-05-30

    The decrease in peripheral blood lymphocytes induced by radiation lessens the antitumour effect of the immune response, which might cause immunosuppression. We aimed to investigate the correlation between the decrease in peripheral blood lymphocytes during radiotherapy (RT) and the spleen irradiation dose in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The subjects were 59 patients with HCC who had received RT from 2005 to 2014. The Min ALC (minimum value of absolute counts for peripheral blood lymphocytes) was collected from the routine workup for each patient prior to RT and weekly during RT. Spleen dose-volume variables, including the percentage of the organ volume receiving ≥ n Gy (V n ) and the mean spleen dose (MSD), were calculated using Eclipse treatment planning. Potential associations between dosimetric variables and the Min ALC were assessed by multiple linear regression analysis. Peripheral lymphocytes decreased during RT (P < 0.001). The Min ALC correlated with the MSD (P = 0.005), spleen V 5 (P = 0.001), spleen V 25 (P = 0.026) and spleen V 30 (P = 0.018). Controlling for the Karnofsky performance status (KPS), sex, age, Child-Pugh grade, total dose and tumour stage, a multiple linear regression model with bootstrap analysis of 1000 replicates showed that only the spleen V 5 was correlated with the decrease in the Min ALC (P < 0.05). According to the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the predictive cutoff values of the MSD, V 5 , V 25 and V 30 of the spleen for the Min ALC were 227.72 cGy, 17.84, 0.98 and 0.42%, respectively (P = 0.002, P = 0.004, P = 0.007 and P = 0.002, respectively). Furthermore, an MSD ≥ 227.72 cGy (OR = 14.39; 95% CI, 12.18 to 16.60) and V 5 (OR = 7.99; 95% CI, 6.91 to 9.07) of the spleen significantly predicted the Min ALC. Higher spleen irradiation doses were significantly correlated with lower Min ALC during RT for HCC. V 5 should be limited in clinical practice. Maximum sparing for spleen irradiation during RT is recommended to preserve peripheral blood lymphocytes, which may decrease immunosuppression.

  14. How to determine bortezomib-based regimen for elderly patients with multiple myeloma: PAD versus CBd, an observational study.

    PubMed

    Huang, Bin-Tao; Tan, Yan; Zhao, Wei-Hong; Zeng, Qing-Chun; Li, Bing-Sheng; Chen, Rui-Lin

    2014-02-01

    This was an open-label, observational, prospective assessment. We conducted an analysis of the impact of bortezomib-based therapy (PAD: bortezomib, doxorubicin, high-dose dexamethasone vs. CBd: cyclophosphamide bortezomib, low-dose dexamethasone) on the survival rates and adverse events in elderly patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM). Out of 303 patients, 128 received the PAD regimen and the other 175 patients received the CBd induction therapy (age 65-89 years). Baseline patient characteristics between the two cohorts were balanced in age (P = 0.69), international staging system (ISS) prognostic stages (P = 0.90), serum calcium (P = 0.70), and serum creatinine (P = 0.52). Overall response (OS) after the induction chemotherapy was achieved in 214 of 303 patients (70.6 %), with no significant differences observed between the two treatment groups (71.9 vs. 69.7 %, P = 0.68). Patients with ISS stage 2 reached the same 5-year OS advantages compared to patients with ISS stage 1, because they received bortezomib-based PAD or CBd treatments. Patients receiving CBd protocol gained similar satisfactory progression-free survival (PFS) results when compared to the PAD regimen group: PFS at 5 years reached 58.2 versus 58.9 % (P = 0.85). Five-year OS in the CBd arm had significant advantages compared to the PAD group, 79.9 versus 49.9 % (P < 0.05). The overall safety profiles showed that 26 of 128 (20.3 %) patients died in the PAD arm, while 13 of 175 patients died (7.4 %) in the CBd group (P < 0.01). Similarly, the PAD arm had a higher serious infection rate than that of the CBd arm (39.2 vs. 13.1 %, P < 0.01). Bortezomib benefits elderly patients with newly diagnosed MM; they achieve satisfactory treatment responses and survival advantages. Further, patients treated with CBd have superior treatment advantages, with a predictable safety profile, when compared to the PAD regimen.

  15. In vitro and in vivo assessment of platelet function in healthy dogs during administration of a low-dose aspirin regimen.

    PubMed

    Haines, Jillian M; Thomason, John M; Seage, Eileen C; Wills, Robert W; Bulla, Camilo; Lunsford, Kari V; Mackin, Andrew J

    2016-02-01

    To assess the in vitro and in vivo platelet function of healthy dogs during administration of a low-dose aspirin regimen. 16 dogs. Dogs received aspirin (1 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) for 7 days. Blood and urine samples were collected before (day 1; baseline) and on days 3 and 7 of the low-dose aspirin regimen. Platelet function was evaluated by use of turbidimetric and conventional impedance aggregometry, multiple-electrode impedance aggregometry, a platelet function analyzer (PFA), and determination of urine 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 concentration. Turbidimetric aggregometry results were compared with the results obtained by the other 4 methods. Fourteen days after cessation of aspirin, platelet-rich plasma was incubated with acetylsalicylic acid and platelet function was assessed by turbidimetric aggregometry to determine whether this technique could accurately identify dogs that responded to the low-dose aspirin regimen. Of the 16 dogs, 13 had turbidimetric and conventional impedance aggregometry results that were decreased by > 25% from baseline on days 3 and 7, and 4 and 7 dogs had PFA closure times > 300 seconds on days 3 and 7, respectively. The median urine 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 concentration-to-creatinine concentration ratio decreased by 49% between days 1 and 7. Turbidimetric aggregometry results were correlated with conventional impedance aggregometry results. There was poor agreement between the turbidimetric aggregometry and PFA results. The multiple-electrode impedance aggregometry protocol failed to reliably detect aspirin-induced platelet dysfunction. In vitro incubation of platelet-rich plasma with acetylsalicylic acid followed by turbidimetric aggregometry did not predict whether dogs responded to the low-dose aspirin regimen. Results indicated that the response to a low-dose aspirin regimen varied among healthy dogs.

  16. Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation and fertilization on mycorrhizal Statute of Jacaranda mimosifolia D.Don cultivated in nurseries.

    PubMed

    Zaouchi, Yousr; Bahri, Nada Ben; Rezgui, S; Bettaieb, Taoufik

    2013-10-01

    The effects of fertilization and the nature of the inoculum as well as the variation of the dose intake of the latter on the level of Jacaranda mimosifolia D.Don mycorhization were tested. Young plants were treated with two inoculums presenting different origins, compositions and modes of application: one is a commercial product containing Glomus irregulare, and the other is a composite indigenous inoculum resulting from trapping five species of genus Glomus and also from multiplication on mycotrophic plants: leek (Allium porrum L.) and vetch (Vicia sativa L.). For each inoculum, two doses were tested and for each dose of inoculum, four levels of fertilization based on a complete commercial fertilizer (Osmocote) were tested: 0 g/plant, 2 g/plant, 4 g/plant, and 6g/plant. Three repetitions were performed for each combination treatment of inoculum/fertilizer. One-year-old young Jacaranda plants, being about 40 cm high, were cultured under greenhouse in 10/12 cm caliber pots. After six months, all the inoculated plants were mycorrhized. According to endomycorrhizal structures found on their roots, plants receiving doses of composite indigenous inoculum reached a more advanced stage of mycorrhization than those treated with the commercial inoculum. The existence of an interaction effect between the inoculum dose and the level of fertilization on Jacaranda mycorhization rate was excluded. These two parameters of variation were studied as simple effects. The increase in commercial inoculum dose had a significant positive influence on the level of Jacaranda plants mycorrhization (P=0.05). The rate of mycorrhization jumped from 12.69% to 21.92%. Nonetheless, for plants receiving increasing doses of composite indigenous inoculum, the level of mycorrhization has varied randomly. In both instances of inoculum treatments, increasing the dose of fertilizer significantly inhibited endomycorrhizal colonization of Jacaranda roots (P=0.01). Thus, the rate of root colonization decreased from 47.43% to 2.41% for plants receiving the composite indigenous inoculums. It decreased from 32.35% to 3.95% for those treated with the commercial inoculum. Mycorrhization had a positive effect on root dry biomass of Jacaranda, as in the case of unfertilize ave the highest rates of colonization. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier SAS.

  17. Proof-of-principle evaluation of the efficacy of fewer than three doses of a bivalent HPV16/18 vaccine.

    PubMed

    Kreimer, Aimée R; Rodriguez, Ana Cecilia; Hildesheim, Allan; Herrero, Rolando; Porras, Carolina; Schiffman, Mark; González, Paula; Solomon, Diane; Jiménez, Silvia; Schiller, John T; Lowy, Douglas R; Quint, Wim; Sherman, Mark E; Schussler, John; Wacholder, Sholom

    2011-10-05

    Three-dose regimens for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are expensive and difficult to complete, especially in settings where the need for cervical cancer prevention is greatest. We evaluated the vaccine efficacy of fewer than three doses of the HPV16/18 vaccine Cervarix in our Costa Rica Vaccine Trial. Women were randomly assigned to receive three doses of the HPV16/18 vaccine or to a control vaccine and were followed for incident HPV16 or HPV18 infection that persisted in visits that were 10 or more months apart (median follow-up 4.2 years). After excluding women who had no follow-up or who were HPV16 and HPV18 DNA positive at enrollment, 5967 women received three vaccine doses (2957 HPV vaccine vs 3010 control vaccine), 802 received two doses (422 HPV vs. 380 control), and 384 received one dose (196 HPV vs. 188 control). Reasons for receiving fewer doses and other pre- and post-randomization characteristics were balanced within each dosage group between women receiving the HPV and control vaccines. Incident HPV16 or HPV18 infections that persisted for 1 year were unrelated to dosage of the control vaccine. Vaccine efficacy was 80.9% for three doses of the HPV vaccine (95% confidence interval [CI] = 71.1% to 87.7%; 25 and 133 events in the HPV and control arms, respectively), 84.1% for two doses (95% CI = 50.2% to 96.3%; 3 and 17 events), and 100% for one dose (95% CI = 66.5% to 100%; 0 and 10 events). Four years after vaccination of women who appeared to be uninfected, this nonrandomized analysis suggests that two doses of the HPV16/18 vaccine, and maybe even one dose, are as protective as three doses.

  18. MO-F-CAMPUS-T-01: Radiosurgery of Multiple Brain Metastases with Single-Isocenter VMAT: Optimizing Treatment Geometry to Reduce Normal Brain Dose

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, Q; Snyder, K; Liu, C

    Purpose: To develop an optimization algorithm to reduce normal brain dose by optimizing couch and collimator angles for single isocenter multiple targets treatment of stereotactic radiosurgery. Methods: Three metastatic brain lesions were retrospectively planned using single-isocenter volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Three matrices were developed to calculate the projection of each lesion on Beam’s Eye View (BEV) by the rotating couch, collimator and gantry respectively. The island blocking problem was addressed by computing the total area of open space between any two lesions with shared MLC leaf pairs. The couch and collimator angles resulting in the smallest open areas weremore » the optimized angles for each treatment arc. Two treatment plans with and without couch and collimator angle optimization were developed using the same objective functions and to achieve 99% of each target volume receiving full prescription dose of 18Gy. Plan quality was evaluated by calculating each target’s Conformity Index (CI), Gradient Index (GI), and Homogeneity index (HI), and absolute volume of normal brain V8Gy, V10Gy, V12Gy, and V14Gy. Results: Using the new couch/collimator optimization strategy, dose to normal brain tissue was reduced substantially. V8, V10, V12, and V14 decreased by 2.3%, 3.6%, 3.5%, and 6%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the conformity index, gradient index, and homogeneity index between two treatment plans with and without the new optimization algorithm. Conclusion: We have developed a solution to the island blocking problem in delivering radiation to multiple brain metastases with shared isocenter. Significant reduction in dose to normal brain was achieved by using optimal couch and collimator angles that minimize total area of open space between any of the two lesions with shared MLC leaf pairs. This technique has been integrated into Eclipse treatment system using scripting API.« less

  19. TAK-228 (formerly MLN0128), an investigational oral dual TORC1/2 inhibitor: A phase I dose escalation study in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or Waldenström's macroglobulinemia.

    PubMed

    Ghobrial, Irene M; Siegel, David S; Vij, Ravi; Berdeja, Jesus G; Richardson, Paul G; Neuwirth, Rachel; Patel, Chirag G; Zohren, Fabian; Wolf, Jeffrey L

    2016-06-01

    The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways are frequently dysregulated in multiple human cancers, including multiple myeloma (MM), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), and Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM). This was the first clinical study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, maximal-tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), pharmacokinetics, and preliminary clinical activity of TAK-228, an oral TORC1/2 inhibitor, in patients with MM, NHL, or WM. Thirty-nine patients received TAK-228 once daily (QD) at 2, 4, 6, or 7 mg, or QD for 3 days on and 4 days off each week (QDx3d QW) at 9 or 12 mg, in 28-day cycles. The overall median age was 61.0 years (range 46-85); 31 patients had MM, four NHL, and four WM. Cycle 1 DLTs occurred in five QD patients (stomatitis, urticaria, blood creatinine elevation, fatigue, and nausea and vomiting) and four QDx3d QW patients (erythematous rash, fatigue, asthenia, mucosal inflammation, and thrombocytopenia). The MTDs were determined to be 4 mg QD and 9 mg QDx3d QW. Thirty-six patients (92%) reported at least one drug-related toxicity; the most common grade ≥3 drug-related toxicities were thrombocytopenia (15%), fatigue (10%), and neutropenia (5%). TAK-228 exhibited a dose-dependent increase in plasma exposure and no appreciable accumulation with repeat dosing; mean plasma elimination half-life was 6-8 hr. Of the 33 response-evaluable patients, one MM patient had a minimal response, one WM patient achieved partial response, one WM patient had a minor response, and 18 patients (14 MM, two NHL, and two WM) had stable disease. These findings encourage further studies including combination strategies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  20. Vaccination against poliomyelitis in economically underdeveloped countries

    PubMed Central

    Sabin, Albert B.

    1980-01-01

    Poliomyelitis lameness surveys in children of school age recently reported from Burma, Egypt, Ghana, and the Philippines have indicated an estimated, average annual endemic incidence of paralytic poliomyelitis similar to or higher than the overall average annual rate in the USA during the peak years in the prevaccine era. Contrary to oft-expressed dogma, high rates of paralytic poliomyelitis are occurring annually in regions with high infant mortality rates, continuing undernutrition, and absence of basic sanitary facilities. Recent data indicate that prolonged breast feeding does not impede the effectiveness of oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV). A high prevalence of nonpoliovirus enteric infections can modify, delay, and lower the frequency of seroconversion after OPV, but these effects are overcome by multiple doses. The problem of eliminating paralytic poliomyelitis from economically underdeveloped countries depends on administrative rather than immunological or epidemiological factors, although a specially concentrated effort is needed in countries where most of the cases occur during the first two years of life and where paralytic polioviruses are propagating throughout the year in a large proportion of the infant population. Under such circumstances, expanded routine infant immunization programmes, which include OPV but reach at best only 20-40% of the total infant population, who receive only one or a few doses of vaccines requiring multiple doses, cannot be expected to eliminate paralytic poliomyelitis as an important public health problem. Injections of multiple doses of quadruple vaccine (DPT + inactivated poliomyelitis vaccine) would not only greatly increase the cost of routine immunizations but would not achieve more or as much as feeding OPV at the time of the DPT injections. Mass administration of OPV each year on 2 days of the year 2 months apart, to all children under 2, 3, or 4 years of age (depending on the epidemiological situation), without reference to the number of OPV doses they may have had before, can be expected to yield optimum results in countries with small numbers of professional health personnel and many other year-round problems. PMID:6966544

  1. Delivered dose of renal replacement therapy and mortality in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury

    PubMed Central

    Vesconi, Sergio; Cruz, Dinna N; Fumagalli, Roberto; Kindgen-Milles, Detlef; Monti, Gianpaola; Marinho, Anibal; Mariano, Filippo; Formica, Marco; Marchesi, Mariano; René, Robert; Livigni, Sergio; Ronco, Claudio

    2009-01-01

    Introduction The optimal dialysis dose for the treatment of acute kidney injury (AKI) is controversial. We sought to evaluate the relationship between renal replacement therapy (RRT) dose and outcome. Methods We performed a prospective multicentre observational study in 30 intensive care units (ICUs) in eight countries from June 2005 to December 2007. Delivered RRT dose was calculated in patients treated exclusively with either continuous RRT (CRRT) or intermittent RRT (IRRT) during their ICU stay. Dose was categorised into more-intensive (CRRT ≥ 35 ml/kg/hour, IRRT ≥ 6 sessions/week) or less-intensive (CRRT < 35 ml/kg/hour, IRRT < 6 sessions/week). The main outcome measures were ICU mortality, ICU length of stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. Results Of 15,200 critically ill patients admitted during the study period, 553 AKI patients were treated with RRT, including 338 who received CRRT only and 87 who received IRRT only. For CRRT, the median delivered dose was 27.1 ml/kg/hour (interquartile range (IQR) = 22.1 to 33.9). For IRRT, the median dose was 7 sessions/week (IQR = 5 to 7). Only 22% of CRRT patients and 64% of IRRT patients received a more-intensive dose. Crude ICU mortality among CRRT patients were 60.8% vs. 52.5% (more-intensive vs. less-intensive groups, respectively). In IRRT, this was 23.6 vs. 19.4%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, there was no significant association between RRT dose and ICU mortality (Odds ratio (OR) more-intensive vs. less-intensive: CRRT OR = 1.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.66 to 2.21; IRRT OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 0.48 to 4.67). Among survivors, shorter ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation were observed in the more-intensive RRT groups (more-intensive vs. less-intensive for all: CRRT (median): 15 (IQR = 8 to 26) vs. 19.5 (IQR = 12 to 33.5) ICU days, P = 0.063; 7 (IQR = 4 to 17) vs. 14 (IQR = 5 to 24) ventilation days, P = 0.031; IRRT: 8 (IQR = 5.5 to 14) vs. 18 (IQR = 13 to 35) ICU days, P = 0.008; 2.5 (IQR = 0 to 10) vs. 12 (IQR = 3 to 24) ventilation days, P = 0.026). Conclusions After adjustment for multiple variables, these data provide no evidence for a survival benefit afforded by higher dose RRT. However, more-intensive RRT was associated with a favourable effect on ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation among survivors. This result warrants further exploration. Trial Registration Cochrane Renal Group (CRG110600093). PMID:19368724

  2. Attenuation of Multiple Organ Damage by Continuous Low-Dose Solvent-Free Infusions of Resveratrol after Severe Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats

    PubMed Central

    Kirsch, Michael; Petrat, Frank

    2017-01-01

    Therapeutic effects of continuous intravenous infusions of solvent-free low doses of resveratrol on organ injury and systemic consequences resulting from severe hemorrhagic shock in rats were studied. Hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing arterial blood until a mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) of 25–30 mmHg was reached. Following a shock phase of 60 min, rats were resuscitated with the withdrawn blood plus lactated Ringer’s. Resveratrol (20 or 60 μg/kg × h) was continuously infused intravenously starting with the resuscitation phase (30 min) and continued until the end of the experiment (total treatment time 180 min). Animals of the shock control group received 0.9% NaCl solution. After the observation phase (150 min), rats were sacrificed. Resveratrol significantly stabilized the MAP and peripheral oxygen saturation after hemorrhagic shock, decreased the macroscopic injury of the small intestine, significantly attenuated the shock-induced increase in tissue myeloperoxidase activity in the small intestine, liver, kidney and lung, and diminished tissue hemorrhages (particularly in the small intestine and liver) as well as the rate of hemolysis. Already very low doses of resveratrol, continuously infused during resuscitation after severe hemorrhagic shock, can significantly improve impaired systemic parameters and attenuate multiple organ damage in rats. PMID:28817064

  3. Vorinostat or placebo in combination with bortezomib in patients with multiple myeloma (VANTAGE 088): a multicentre, randomised, double-blind study.

    PubMed

    Dimopoulos, Meletios; Siegel, David S; Lonial, Sagar; Qi, Junyuan; Hajek, Roman; Facon, Thierry; Rosinol, Laura; Williams, Catherine; Blacklock, Hilary; Goldschmidt, Hartmut; Hungria, Vania; Spencer, Andrew; Palumbo, Antonio; Graef, Thorsten; Eid, Joseph E; Houp, Jennifer; Sun, Linda; Vuocolo, Scott; Anderson, Kenneth C

    2013-10-01

    We aimed to assess efficacy and tolerability of vorinostat in combination with bortezomib for treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. In our randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial, we enrolled adults (≥18 years) at 174 university hospitals in 31 countries worldwide. Eligible patients had to have non-refractory multiple myeloma that previously responded to treatment (one to three regimens) but were currently progressing, ECOG performance statuses of 2 or less, and no continuing toxic effects from previous treatment. We excluded patients with known resistance to bortezomib. We randomly allocated patients (1:1) using an interactive voice response system to receive 21 day cycles of bortezomib (1·3 mg/m(2) intravenously on days 1, 4, 8, and 11) in combination with oral vorinostat (400 mg) or matching placebo once-daily on days 1-14. We stratified patients by baseline tumour stage (International Staging System stage 1 or stage ≥2), previous bone-marrow transplantation (yes or no), and number of previous regimens (1 or ≥2). The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) in the intention-to-treat population. We assessed adverse events in all patients who received at least one dose of study drug. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number 00773747. Between Dec 24, 2008, and Sept 8, 2011, we randomly allocated 317 eligible patients to the vorinostat group (315 of whom received at least one dose) and 320 to the placebo group (all of whom received at least one dose). Median PFS was 7·63 months (95% CI 6·87-8·40) in the vorinostat group and 6·83 months (5·67-7·73) in the placebo group (hazard ratio [HR] 0·77, 95% CI 0·64-0·94; p=0·0100). 312 (99%) of 315 patients in the vorinostat group and 315 (98%) of 320 patients in the placebo group had adverse events (300 [95%] adverse events in the vorinostat group and 282 [88%] in the control group were regarded as related to treatment). The most common grade 3-4 adverse events were thrombocytopenia (143 [45%] patients in the vorinostat group vs 77 [24%] patients in the placebo group), neutropenia (89 [28%] vs 80 [25%]), and anaemia (53 [17%] vs 40 [13%]). Although the combination of vorinostat and bortezomib prolonged PFS relative to bortezomib and placebo, the clinical relevance of the difference in PFS between the two groups is not clear. Different treatment schedules of bortezomib and vorinostat might improve tolerability and enhance activity. Merck. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. A Multi-Compartment, Single and Multiple Dose Pharmacokinetic Study of the Vaginal Candidate Microbicide 1% Tenofovir Gel

    PubMed Central

    Schwartz, Jill L.; Rountree, Wes; Kashuba, Angela D. M.; Brache, Vivian; Creinin, Mitchell D.; Poindexter, Alfred; Kearney, Brian P.

    2011-01-01

    Background Tenofovir (TFV) gel is being evaluated as a microbicide with pericoital and daily regimens. To inhibit viral replication locally, an adequate concentration in the genital tract is critical. Methods and Findings Forty-nine participants entered a two-phase study: single-dose (SD) and multi-dose (MD), were randomized to collection of genital tract samples (endocervical cells [ECC], cervicovaginal aspirate and vaginal biopsies) at one of seven time points [0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 24 hr(s)] post-dose following SD exposure of 4 mL 1% TFV gel and received a single dose. Forty-seven were randomized to once (QD) or twice daily (BID) dosing for 2 weeks and to collection of genital tract samples at 4, 8 or 24 hrs after the final dose, but two discontinued prior to gel application. Blood was collected during both phases at the seven times post-dose. TFV exposure was low in blood plasma for SD and MD; median Cmax was 4.0 and 3.4 ng/mL, respectively (C≤29 ng/mL). TFV concentrations were high in aspirates and tissue after SD and MD, ranging from 1.2×104 to 9.9×106 ng/mL and 2.1×102 to 1.4×106 ng/mL, respectively, and did not noticeably differ between proximal and distal tissue. TFV diphosphate (TFV-DP), the intracellular active metabolite, was high in ECC, ranging from 7.1×103 to 8.8×106 ng/mL. TFV-DP was detectable in approximately 40% of the tissue samples, ranging from 1.8×102 to 3.5×104 ng/mL. AUC for tissue TFV-DP was two logs higher after MD compared to SD, with no noticeable differences when comparing QD and BID. Conclusions Single-dose and multiple-dose TFV gel exposure resulted in high genital tract concentrations for at least 24 hours post-dose with minimal systemic absorption. These results support further study of TFV gel for HIV prevention. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00561496 PMID:22039430

  5. MRI-based treatment planning with pseudo CT generated through atlas registration.

    PubMed

    Uh, Jinsoo; Merchant, Thomas E; Li, Yimei; Li, Xingyu; Hua, Chiaho

    2014-05-01

    To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based treatment planning using pseudo CTs generated through atlas registration. A pseudo CT, providing electron density information for dose calculation, was generated by deforming atlas CT images previously acquired on other patients. The authors tested 4 schemes of synthesizing a pseudo CT from single or multiple deformed atlas images: use of a single arbitrarily selected atlas, arithmetic mean process using 6 atlases, and pattern recognition with Gaussian process (PRGP) using 6 or 12 atlases. The required deformation for atlas CT images was derived from a nonlinear registration of conjugated atlas MR images to that of the patient of interest. The contrasts of atlas MR images were adjusted by histogram matching to reduce the effect of different sets of acquisition parameters. For comparison, the authors also tested a simple scheme assigning the Hounsfield unit of water to the entire patient volume. All pseudo CT generating schemes were applied to 14 patients with common pediatric brain tumors. The image similarity of real patient-specific CT and pseudo CTs constructed by different schemes was compared. Differences in computation times were also calculated. The real CT in the treatment planning system was replaced with the pseudo CT, and the dose distribution was recalculated to determine the difference. The atlas approach generally performed better than assigning a bulk CT number to the entire patient volume. Comparing atlas-based schemes, those using multiple atlases outperformed the single atlas scheme. For multiple atlas schemes, the pseudo CTs were similar to the real CTs (correlation coefficient, 0.787-0.819). The calculated dose distribution was in close agreement with the original dose. Nearly the entire patient volume (98.3%-98.7%) satisfied the criteria of chi-evaluation (<2% maximum dose and 2 mm range). The dose to 95% of the volume and the percentage of volume receiving at least 95% of the prescription dose in the planning target volume differed from the original values by less than 2% of the prescription dose (root-mean-square, RMS < 1%). The PRGP scheme did not perform better than the arithmetic mean process with the same number of atlases. Increasing the number of atlases from 6 to 12 often resulted in improvements, but statistical significance was not always found. MRI-based treatment planning with pseudo CTs generated through atlas registration is feasible for pediatric brain tumor patients. The doses calculated from pseudo CTs agreed well with those from real CTs, showing dosimetric accuracy within 2% for the PTV when multiple atlases were used. The arithmetic mean process may be a reasonable choice over PRGP for the synthesis scheme considering performance and computational costs.

  6. MRI-based treatment planning with pseudo CT generated through atlas registration

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Uh, Jinsoo, E-mail: jinsoo.uh@stjude.org; Merchant, Thomas E.; Hua, Chiaho

    2014-05-15

    Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based treatment planning using pseudo CTs generated through atlas registration. Methods: A pseudo CT, providing electron density information for dose calculation, was generated by deforming atlas CT images previously acquired on other patients. The authors tested 4 schemes of synthesizing a pseudo CT from single or multiple deformed atlas images: use of a single arbitrarily selected atlas, arithmetic mean process using 6 atlases, and pattern recognition with Gaussian process (PRGP) using 6 or 12 atlases. The required deformation for atlas CT images was derived from a nonlinear registration ofmore » conjugated atlas MR images to that of the patient of interest. The contrasts of atlas MR images were adjusted by histogram matching to reduce the effect of different sets of acquisition parameters. For comparison, the authors also tested a simple scheme assigning the Hounsfield unit of water to the entire patient volume. All pseudo CT generating schemes were applied to 14 patients with common pediatric brain tumors. The image similarity of real patient-specific CT and pseudo CTs constructed by different schemes was compared. Differences in computation times were also calculated. The real CT in the treatment planning system was replaced with the pseudo CT, and the dose distribution was recalculated to determine the difference. Results: The atlas approach generally performed better than assigning a bulk CT number to the entire patient volume. Comparing atlas-based schemes, those using multiple atlases outperformed the single atlas scheme. For multiple atlas schemes, the pseudo CTs were similar to the real CTs (correlation coefficient, 0.787–0.819). The calculated dose distribution was in close agreement with the original dose. Nearly the entire patient volume (98.3%–98.7%) satisfied the criteria of chi-evaluation (<2% maximum dose and 2 mm range). The dose to 95% of the volume and the percentage of volume receiving at least 95% of the prescription dose in the planning target volume differed from the original values by less than 2% of the prescription dose (root-mean-square, RMS < 1%). The PRGP scheme did not perform better than the arithmetic mean process with the same number of atlases. Increasing the number of atlases from 6 to 12 often resulted in improvements, but statistical significance was not always found. Conclusions: MRI-based treatment planning with pseudo CTs generated through atlas registration is feasible for pediatric brain tumor patients. The doses calculated from pseudo CTs agreed well with those from real CTs, showing dosimetric accuracy within 2% for the PTV when multiple atlases were used. The arithmetic mean process may be a reasonable choice over PRGP for the synthesis scheme considering performance and computational costs.« less

  7. MRI-based treatment planning with pseudo CT generated through atlas registration

    PubMed Central

    Uh, Jinsoo; Merchant, Thomas E.; Li, Yimei; Li, Xingyu; Hua, Chiaho

    2014-01-01

    Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based treatment planning using pseudo CTs generated through atlas registration. Methods: A pseudo CT, providing electron density information for dose calculation, was generated by deforming atlas CT images previously acquired on other patients. The authors tested 4 schemes of synthesizing a pseudo CT from single or multiple deformed atlas images: use of a single arbitrarily selected atlas, arithmetic mean process using 6 atlases, and pattern recognition with Gaussian process (PRGP) using 6 or 12 atlases. The required deformation for atlas CT images was derived from a nonlinear registration of conjugated atlas MR images to that of the patient of interest. The contrasts of atlas MR images were adjusted by histogram matching to reduce the effect of different sets of acquisition parameters. For comparison, the authors also tested a simple scheme assigning the Hounsfield unit of water to the entire patient volume. All pseudo CT generating schemes were applied to 14 patients with common pediatric brain tumors. The image similarity of real patient-specific CT and pseudo CTs constructed by different schemes was compared. Differences in computation times were also calculated. The real CT in the treatment planning system was replaced with the pseudo CT, and the dose distribution was recalculated to determine the difference. Results: The atlas approach generally performed better than assigning a bulk CT number to the entire patient volume. Comparing atlas-based schemes, those using multiple atlases outperformed the single atlas scheme. For multiple atlas schemes, the pseudo CTs were similar to the real CTs (correlation coefficient, 0.787–0.819). The calculated dose distribution was in close agreement with the original dose. Nearly the entire patient volume (98.3%–98.7%) satisfied the criteria of chi-evaluation (<2% maximum dose and 2 mm range). The dose to 95% of the volume and the percentage of volume receiving at least 95% of the prescription dose in the planning target volume differed from the original values by less than 2% of the prescription dose (root-mean-square, RMS < 1%). The PRGP scheme did not perform better than the arithmetic mean process with the same number of atlases. Increasing the number of atlases from 6 to 12 often resulted in improvements, but statistical significance was not always found. Conclusions: MRI-based treatment planning with pseudo CTs generated through atlas registration is feasible for pediatric brain tumor patients. The doses calculated from pseudo CTs agreed well with those from real CTs, showing dosimetric accuracy within 2% for the PTV when multiple atlases were used. The arithmetic mean process may be a reasonable choice over PRGP for the synthesis scheme considering performance and computational costs. PMID:24784377

  8. Normal Tissue Complication Probability (NTCP) Modelling of Severe Acute Mucositis using a Novel Oral Mucosal Surface Organ at Risk.

    PubMed

    Dean, J A; Welsh, L C; Wong, K H; Aleksic, A; Dunne, E; Islam, M R; Patel, A; Patel, P; Petkar, I; Phillips, I; Sham, J; Schick, U; Newbold, K L; Bhide, S A; Harrington, K J; Nutting, C M; Gulliford, S L

    2017-04-01

    A normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) model of severe acute mucositis would be highly useful to guide clinical decision making and inform radiotherapy planning. We aimed to improve upon our previous model by using a novel oral mucosal surface organ at risk (OAR) in place of an oral cavity OAR. Predictive models of severe acute mucositis were generated using radiotherapy dose to the oral cavity OAR or mucosal surface OAR and clinical data. Penalised logistic regression and random forest classification (RFC) models were generated for both OARs and compared. Internal validation was carried out with 100-iteration stratified shuffle split cross-validation, using multiple metrics to assess different aspects of model performance. Associations between treatment covariates and severe mucositis were explored using RFC feature importance. Penalised logistic regression and RFC models using the oral cavity OAR performed at least as well as the models using mucosal surface OAR. Associations between dose metrics and severe mucositis were similar between the mucosal surface and oral cavity models. The volumes of oral cavity or mucosal surface receiving intermediate and high doses were most strongly associated with severe mucositis. The simpler oral cavity OAR should be preferred over the mucosal surface OAR for NTCP modelling of severe mucositis. We recommend minimising the volume of mucosa receiving intermediate and high doses, where possible. Copyright © 2016 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Impact of early human milk on sepsis and health-care costs in very low birth weight infants.

    PubMed

    Patel, A L; Johnson, T J; Engstrom, J L; Fogg, L F; Jegier, B J; Bigger, H R; Meier, P P

    2013-07-01

    To study the incidence of sepsis and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) costs as a function of the human milk (HM) dose received during the first 28 days post birth for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Prospective cohort study of 175 VLBW infants. The average daily dose of HM (ADDHM) was calculated from daily nutritional data for the first 28 days post birth (ADDHM-Days 1-28). Other covariates associated with sepsis were used to create a propensity score, combining multiple risk factors into a single metric. The mean gestational age and birth weight were 28.1 ± 2.4 weeks and 1087 ± 252 g, respectively. The mean ADDHM-Days 1-28 was 54 ± 39 ml kg(-1) day(-1) (range 0-135). Binary logistic regression analysis controlling for propensity score revealed that increasing ADDHM-Days 1-28 was associated with lower odds of sepsis (odds ratio 0.981, 95% confidence interval 0.967-0.995, P=0.008). Increasing ADDHM-Days 1-28 was associated with significantly lower NICU costs. A dose-response relationship was demonstrated between ADDHM-Days 1-28 and a reduction in the odds of sepsis and associated NICU costs after controlling for propensity score. For every HM dose increase of 10 ml kg(-1) day(-1), the odds of sepsis decreased by 19%. NICU costs were lowest in the VLBW infants who received the highest ADDHM-Days 1-28.

  10. Impact of Early Human Milk on Sepsis and Health Care Costs in Very Low Birth Weight Infants

    PubMed Central

    Patel, Aloka L.; Johnson, Tricia J.; Engstrom, Janet L.; Fogg, Louis F.; Jegier, Briana J.; Bigger, Harold R.; Meier, Paula P.

    2013-01-01

    Objective To study the incidence of sepsis and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) costs as a function of the human milk (HM) dose received during the first 28 days post-birth for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Study Design Prospective cohort study of 175 VLBW infants. Average daily dose of HM (ADDHM) was calculated from daily nutritional data for the first 28 days post-birth (ADDHM-Days1-28). Other covariates associated with sepsis were used to create a propensity score, combining multiple risk factors into a single metric. Result The mean gestational age and birth weight were 28.1 ± 2.4 wk and 1087 ± 252 g, respectively. The mean ADDHM-Days1-28 was 54 ± 39 mL/kg/d (range 0-135). Binary logistic regression analysis controlling for propensity score revealed that increasing ADDHM-Days1-28 was associated with lower odds of sepsis (OR .981, 95%CI .967-.995, p=.008). Increasing ADDHM-Days1-28 was associated with significantly lower NICU costs. Conclusion A dose-response relationship was demonstrated between ADDHM-Days1-28 and a reduction in the odds of sepsis and associated NICU costs after controlling for propensity score. For every HM dose increase of 10 mL/kg/d, the odds of sepsis decreased by 19%. NICU costs were lowest in the VLBW infants who received the highest ADDHM-Days1-28. PMID:23370606

  11. Timeliness and risk factors associated with delay for pneumococcal conjugate 10-valent routine immunization in Brazilian children.

    PubMed

    Sartori, Ana Lucia; Minamisava, Ruth; Afonso, Eliane Terezinha; Policena, Gabriela Moreira; Pessoni, Grécia Carolina; Bierrenbach, Ana Luiza; Andrade, Ana Lucia

    2017-02-15

    Vaccination coverage is the usual metrics to evaluate the immunization programs performance. For the 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate (PCV10) vaccine, measuring the delay of vaccination is also important, particularly as younger children are at increased risk of disease. Routinely collected administrative data was used to assess the timeliness of PCV10 vaccination, and the factors associated with delay to receive the first and second doses, and the completion of the PCV10 3+1 schedule. A population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted with children born in 2012 in Central Brazil. Children who received the PCV10 first dose in public health services were followed-up until 23months of age. Timeliness of receiving each PCV10 dose at any given age was defined as receiving the dose within 28days grace period from the recommended age by the National Immunization Program. Log-binomial regression models were used to examine risk factors for delays of the first dose and the completion PCV10 3+1 schedule. In total, 14,282 children were included in the cohort of study. Delayed vaccination occurred in 9.4%, 23.8%, 36.8% and 39.9% children for the first, second, third and the booster doses, respectively. A total of 1912 children (12.8% of the cohort) were not adequately vaccinated at the 6months of life; 1,071 (7%) received the second dose after 6months of age, 784 (5.4%) did not receive the second dose, and 57 (0.4%) received the first dose after six months of life. A considerable delay was found in PCV10 third and booster doses. Almost 2 thousand children had not received the recommended PCV10 doses at 6months of age. Timeliness of vaccination is an issue in Brazil although high vaccination coverages. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Radiotherapy Alone is Associated with Improved Outcomes Over Surgery in the Management of Solitary Plasmacytoma.

    PubMed

    Li, Qi-Wen; Niu, Shao-Qing; Wang, Han-Yu; Wen, Ge; Li, Yi-Yang; Xia, Yun-Fei; Zhang, Yu-Jing

    2015-01-01

    A moderate dose of radiation is the recommended treatment for solitary plasmacytoma (SP), but there is controversy over the role of surgery. Our study aimed at comparing different treatment modalities in the management of SP. Data from 38 consecutive patients with solitary plasmacytoma, including 16 with bone plasmacytoma and 22 with extramedullary plasmacytoma, were retrospectively reviewed. 15 patients received radiotherapy alone; 11 received surgery alone, and 12 received both. The median radiation dose was 50Gy. All operations were performed as radical resections. Local progression-free survival (LPFS), multiple myeloma-free survival (MMFS), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated and outcomes of different therapies were compared. The median follow-up time was 55 months. 5-year LPFS, MMFS, PFS and OS were 87.0%, 80.9%, 69.8% and 87.4%, respectively. Univariate analysis revealed, compared with surgery alone, radiotherapy alone was associated with significantly higher 5-year LPFS (100% vs 69.3%, p=0.016), MMFS (100% vs 51.4%, p=0.006), PFS (100% vs 33.7%, p=0.0004) and OS (100% vs 70%, p=0.041). Radiotherapy alone can be considered as a more effective treatment for SP over surgery. Whether a combination of radiotherapy and surgery improves outcomes requires further study.

  13. Intermittent Drug Dosing Intervals Guided by the Operational Multiple Dosing Half Lives for Predictable Plasma Accumulation and Fluctuation

    PubMed Central

    Grover, Anita; Benet, Leslie Z.

    2013-01-01

    Intermittent drug dosing intervals are usually initially guided by the terminal pharmacokinetic half life and are dependent on drug formulation. For chronic multiple dosing and for extended release dosage forms, the terminal half life often does not predict the plasma drug accumulation or fluctuation observed. We define and advance applications for the operational multiple dosing half lives for drug accumulation and fluctuation after multiple oral dosing at steady-state. Using Monte Carlo simulation, our results predict a way to maximize the operational multiple dosing half lives relative to the terminal half life by using a first-order absorption rate constant close to the terminal elimination rate constant in the design of extended release dosage forms. In this way, drugs that may be eliminated early in the development pipeline due to a relatively short half life can be formulated to be dosed at intervals three times the terminal half life, maximizing compliance, while maintaining tight plasma concentration accumulation and fluctuation ranges. We also present situations in which the operational multiple dosing half lives will be especially relevant in the determination of dosing intervals, including for drugs that follow a direct PKPD model and have a narrow therapeutic index, as the rate of concentration decrease after chronic multiple dosing (that is not the terminal half life) can be determined via simulation. These principles are illustrated with case studies on valproic acid, diazepam, and anti-hypertensives. PMID:21499748

  14. [Therapeutic failure in scabies: An observational study].

    PubMed

    De Sainte Marie, B; Mallet, S; Gaudy-Marqueste, C; Baumstarck, K; Bentaleb, N; Loundou, A; Hesse, S; Monestier, S; Grob, J-J; Richard, M-A

    2016-01-01

    Several sources suggest an escalation of scabies in France. To describe a population of patients continuing to present with scabies despite multiple treatments in order to identify factors associated with persistence of infection. A descriptive cross-sectional study in adults and children consulting for persistent scabies despite at least one previous treatment. A standardized questionnaire explored potential sources of treatment failure. Thirty-one patients were analyzed. Initial symptoms were noted to have started between two and 52 weeks earlier (mean: 19 weeks). The mean number of prior consultations with a general practitioner was 3.1 (0-10) and 1.7 with a dermatologist (0-7). The mean number of patients per household was 3.5 (1-9). At least one dose of oral ivermectin (maximum of 6 doses per household) was prescribed for 84 % of patients (29 % of whom were not fasted at the time). Further, 74 % of patients received at least one local application of esdepallethrin and piperonyl butoxide (maximum: 5 courses), four received benzyl benzoate and two received permethrin; however, 58 % did not reapply the substance after hand washing. All households bought the prescribed treatments despite the costs. Close contacts of patients were treated in 58 % of households. Decontamination of bedding and clothing was carried out properly in 90 % of households. Persistence of infection appears to be linked to: (1) insufficient treatment of close contacts; (2) absence of a second treatment between days 7 and 14; (3) insufficient efficacy of the available treatments, doubtless due to multiple factors (intrinsic resistance of Sarcoptes, failure to repeat treatment, poor explanation of methods for dosing and application, and oral intake of treatments). Access to non-reimbursed treatments was not identified as a problem and decontamination of bedding and clothing was correctly performed in most cases. Though certain fundamental aspects of scabies treatment must be better known, longer consultations and provision of efficacious treatments are also a priority. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  15. Estimating the effective radiation dose imparted to patients by intraoperative cone-beam computed tomography in thoracolumbar spinal surgery.

    PubMed

    Lange, Jeffrey; Karellas, Andrew; Street, John; Eck, Jason C; Lapinsky, Anthony; Connolly, Patrick J; Dipaola, Christian P

    2013-03-01

    Observational. To estimate the radiation dose imparted to patients during typical thoracolumbar spinal surgical scenarios. Minimally invasive techniques continue to become more common in spine surgery. Computer-assisted navigation systems coupled with intraoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CT) represent one such method used to aid in instrumented spinal procedures. Some studies indicate that cone-beam CT technology delivers a relatively low dose of radiation to patients compared with other x-ray-based imaging modalities. The goal of this study was to estimate the radiation exposure to the patient imparted during typical posterior thoracolumbar instrumented spinal procedures, using intraoperative cone-beam CT and to place these values in the context of standard CT doses. Cone-beam CT scans were obtained using Medtronic O-arm (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN). Thermoluminescence dosimeters were placed in a linear array on a foam-plastic thoracolumbar spine model centered above the radiation source for O-arm presets of lumbar scans for small or large patients. In-air dosimeter measurements were converted to skin surface measurements, using published conversion factors. Dose-length product was calculated from these values. Effective dose was estimated using published effective dose to dose-length product conversion factors. Calculated dosages for many full-length procedures using the small-patient setting fell within the range of published effective doses of abdominal CT scans (1-31 mSv). Calculated dosages for many full-length procedures using the large-patient setting fell within the range of published effective doses of abdominal CT scans when the number of scans did not exceed 3. We have demonstrated that single cone-beam CT scans and most full-length posterior instrumented spinal procedures using O-arm in standard mode would likely impart a radiation dose within the range of those imparted by a single standard CT scan of the abdomen. Radiation dose increases with patient size, and the radiation dose received by larger patients as a result of more than 3 O-arm scans in standard mode may exceed the dose received during standard CT of the abdomen. Understanding radiation imparted to patients by cone-beam CT is important for assessing risks and benefits of this technology, especially when spinal surgical procedures require multiple intraoperative scans.

  16. Reactogenicity of tetanus, diphtheria, 5-component acellular pertussis vaccine administered as a sixth consecutive acellular pertussis vaccine dose to adolescents.

    PubMed

    Liese, Johannes G; Rieber, Nikolaus; Malzer, Thomas; Ocak, Marion; Johnson, David R; Decker, Michael D

    2010-12-01

    Safety of a sixth consecutive dose of acellular pertussis vaccine in adolescents was assessed in a 2-armed, randomized study. Adolescents who had received 5 doses of acellular pertussis vaccine combined with diphtheria and tetanus toxoids (6-dose group) received 1 dose of reduced 5-component acellular pertussis vaccine combined with tetanus toxoid and reduced diphtheria toxoid (Tdap). Adolescents who had received a primary series of 3 doses of whole-cell pertussis and 1 acellular or whole-cell pertussis booster received 1 dose of Tdap vaccine (5-dose group). Of 214 participants, 176 (82%) reported an injection-site reaction with pain (80%), erythema (22%), and swelling (19%) most frequently reported. A systemic reaction was reported by 169 of 214 (79%) with myalgia (66%), headache (42%), malaise (39%), and fever (9%) most frequently reported. The overall rate of solicited reactions was lower in the 6-dose group than in the 5-dose group (for injection-site reactions: 76.1% vs. 89.7%; for systemic reactions 72.6% vs. 86.6%). Significant differences were observed for injection-site pain, erythema, and for grade 1 or grade 2 increases in arm circumference. Fever, myalgia, and headache were reported at a significantly lower rate in the 6-dose group. Swelling >10 cm was observed in 5 patients (2%), 4 in the 5-dose group. Tdap vaccine was safe when given to adolescents who had received 5 prior doses of acellular pertussis vaccine.

  17. Physical dependence increases the relative reinforcing effects of caffeine versus placebo.

    PubMed

    Garrett, B E; Griffiths, R R

    1998-10-01

    Using a within-subject cross-over design, this study examined the role of physical dependence in caffeine reinforcement by experimentally manipulating physical dependence. Each subject was exposed to two chronic drug phases (300 mg/70 kg/day caffeine and placebo) for 9-12 days, with order of phases counterbalanced across subjects. On 2 separate days immediately following each of the chronic drug exposures, subjects received acute doses of either caffeine (300 mg/70 kg) or placebo in counterbalanced order. The reinforcing effects of these drugs were then determined by using a multiple-choice procedure in which subjects made a series of discrete choices between receiving varying amounts of money or receiving the drug again, and a choice between the two drugs. To ensure that subjects completed the form carefully, following exposure to both of the acute drug administrations, one of the subject's previous choices from the multiple-choice form was randomly selected and the consequence of that choice was implemented. When subjects were maintained on chronic caffeine, they were willing to forfeit significantly more money and showed significant increases in typical withdrawal symptoms (e.g. fatigue, mood disturbance) after receiving placebo as compared to the other three conditions. When subjects were maintained on chronic caffeine, they also chose to receive caffeine over placebo twice as often than when they were maintained on chronic placebo. These findings provide the strongest evidence to date indicating that caffeine physical dependence increases the relative reinforcing effects of caffeine versus placebo.

  18. Complete immunization coverage and its determinants among children in Malaysia: findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2016.

    PubMed

    Lim, K K; Chan, Y Y; Noor Ani, A; Rohani, J; Siti Norfadhilah, Z A; Santhi, M R

    2017-12-01

    The success of the Expanded Program on Immunization among children will greatly reduce the burden of illness and disability from vaccine preventable diseases. The aim of the study was to evaluate the complete immunization coverage and its determinants among children aged 12-23 months in Malaysia. Cross-sectional study. Data on immunization were extracted from the 2016 National Health and Morbidity Survey. Complete immunization coverage was classified as received all recommended primary vaccine doses by the age of 12 months and verified by vaccination cards, and incompletely immunized if they received partially recommended vaccine dose or not received any recommended vaccine dose or had no vaccination card. The multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the sociodemographic factors associated with complete immunization coverage. The overall complete immunization coverage among children (verified by cards) was 86.4% (n = 8920, 95% confidence interval: 85.4-87.4). Multivariable logistic regression analyses model revealed that factors significantly associated with complete immunization coverage were ethnicity, occupation of the mother, head of household's education level, and head of household's occupation. While sex, citizenship, household income, mother's age, and marital status were not significantly associated with complete immunization coverage. According to the World Health Organization criteria, the present study demonstrated that the immunization coverage of 86.4% is still unsatisfactory. Thus, the current intervention program should be enhanced in order to achieve the 95% coverage for all antigens in the national vaccination program. Copyright © 2017 The Royal Society for Public Health. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Impact of high- versus low-dose neuromuscular blocking agent administration on unplanned 30-day readmission rates in retroperitoneal laparoscopic surgery.

    PubMed

    Boon, Martijn; Martini, Chris; Yang, H Keri; Sen, Shuvayu S; Bevers, Rob; Warlé, Michiel; Aarts, Leon; Niesters, Marieke; Dahan, Albert

    2018-01-01

    Recent data shows that a neuromuscular block (NMB) induced by administration of high doses of rocuronium improves surgical conditions in certain procedures. However, there are limited data on the effect such practices on postoperative outcomes. We performed a retrospective analysis to compare unplanned 30-day readmissions in patients that received high-dose versus low-dose rocuronium administration during general anesthesia for laparoscopic retroperitoneal surgery. This retrospective cohort study was performed in the Netherlands in an academic hospital where routine high-dose rocuronium NMB has been practiced since July 2015. Charts of patients receiving anesthesia between January 2014 and December 2016 were searched for surgical cases receiving high-dose rocuronium and matched with respect to procedure, age, sex and ASA classification to patients receiving low-dose rocuronium. The primary post-operative outcome was unplanned 30-day readmission rate. There were 130 patients in each cohort. Patients in the high- and low-dose rocuronium cohorts received 217 ± 49 versus 37 ± 5 mg rocuronium, respectively. In the high-dose rocuronium group neuromuscular activity was consistently monitored; matched patients were unreliably monitored. All patients receiving high-dose rocuronium were reversed with sugammadex, while just 33% of matched patients were reversed with sugammadex and 20% with neostigmine; the remaining patients were not reversed. Unplanned 30-day readmission rate was significantly lower in the high-dose compared to the low-dose rocuronium cohort (3.8% vs. 12.7%; p = 0.03; odds ratio = 0.33, 95% C.I. 0.12-0.95). This small retrospective study demonstrates a lower incidence of unplanned readmissions within 30-days following laparoscopic retroperitoneal surgery with high-dose relaxant anesthesia and sugammadex reversal in comparison to low-dose relaxant anesthesia. Further prospective studies are needed in larger samples to corroborate our findings and additionally assess the pharmacoeconomics of high-dose relaxant anesthesia taking into account the benefits (reduced readmissions) and harm (cost of relaxants and reversal agents) of such practice.

  20. Prospective Clinical Trial of Bladder Filling and Three-Dimensional Dosimetry in High-Dose-Rate Vaginal Cuff Brachytherapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Stewart, Alexandra J.; Cormack, Robert A.; Lee, Hang

    2008-11-01

    Purpose: To investigate the effect of bladder filling on dosimetry and to determine the best bladder dosimetric parameter for vaginal cuff brachytherapy. Methods and Materials: In this prospective clinical trial, a total of 20 women underwent vaginal cylinder high-dose-rate brachytherapy. The bladder was full for Fraction 2 and empty for Fraction 3. Dose-volume histogram and dose-surface histogram values were generated for the bladder, rectum, and urethra. The midline maximal bladder point (MBP) and the midline maximal rectal point were recorded. Paired t tests, Pearson correlations, and regression analyses were performed. Results: The volume and surface area of the irradiated bladdermore » were significantly smaller when the bladder was empty than when full. Of the several dose-volume histogram and dose-surface histogram parameters evaluated, the bladder maximal dose received by 2 cm{sup 3} of tissue, volume of bladder receiving {>=}50% of the dose, volume of bladder receiving {>=}70% of the dose, and surface area of bladder receiving {>=}50% of the dose significantly predicted for the difference between the empty vs. full filling state. The volume of bladder receiving {>=}70% of the dose and the maximal dose received by 2 cm{sup 3} of tissue correlated significantly with the MBP. Bladder filling did not alter the volume or surface area of the rectum irradiated. However, an empty bladder did result in the nearest point of bowel being significantly closer to the vaginal cylinder than when the bladder was full. Conclusions: Patients undergoing vaginal cuff brachytherapy treated with an empty bladder have a lower bladder dose than those treated with a full bladder. The MBP correlated well with the volumetric assessments of bladder dose and provided a noninvasive method for reporting the MBP dose using three-dimensional imaging. The MBP can therefore be used as a surrogate for complex dosimetry in the clinic.« less

  1. [Continuous insulin therapy versus multiple insulin injections in the management of type 1 diabetes: a longitutinal study].

    PubMed

    Ribeiro, Maria Estela Bellini; Del Roio Liberatore Junior, Raphael; Custodio, Rodrigo; Martinelli Junior, Carlos Eduardo

    2016-01-01

    To compare multiple doses of insulin and continuous insulin infusion therapy as treatment for type 1 diabetes melito. 40 patients with type 1 diabetes melito (21 female) with ages between 10 and 20 years (mean=14.2) and mean duration of diabetes of 7 years used multiple doses of insulin for at least 6 months and after that, continuous insulin infusion therapy for at least 6 months. Each one of the patients has used multiple doses of insulin and continuous insulin infusion therapy. For analysis of HbA1c, mean glycated hemoglobin levels (mHbA1c) were obtained during each treatment period (multiple doses of insulin and continuous insulin infusion therapy period). Although mHbA1c levels were lower during continuous insulin infusion therapy the difference was not statistically significant. During multiple doses of insulin, 14.2% had mHbA1c values below 7.5% vs. 35.71% while on continuous insulin infusion therapy; demonstrating better glycemic control with the use of continuous insulin infusion therapy. During multiple doses of insulin, 15-40 patients have severe hypoglycemic events versus 5-40 continuous insulin infusion therapy. No episodes of ketoacidosis events were recorded. This is the first study with this design comparing multiple doses of insulin and continuous insulin infusion therapy in Brazil showing no significant difference in HbA1c; hypoglycemic events were less frequent during continuous insulin infusion therapy than during multiple doses of insulin and the percentage of patients who achieved a HbA1c less than 7.5% was greater during continuous insulin infusion therapy than multiple doses of insulin therapy. Copyright © 2015 Sociedade de Pediatria de São Paulo. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  2. Behavioral and neurochemical consequences of multiple MDMA administrations in the rat: role of individual differences in anxiety-related behavior.

    PubMed

    Ludwig, V; Mihov, Y; Schwarting, R K W

    2008-05-16

    Using the elevated plus-maze (EPM), Wistar rats can be distinguished into high (HA) or low anxiety (LA) subjects. These differences seem to reflect traits, since HA and LA rats vary also in other anxiety-dependent tasks, neurochemical mechanisms, and psychopharmacological reactivity, including lasting consequences after single treatment with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Here, we tested whether multiple MDMA treatments also have subject-dependent effects. Based on routine EPM screening, male Wistar rats were divided into HA and LA sub-groups, which received five (i.e. multiple) daily injections of MDMA (5 mg/kg) or saline, followed by a test battery, including a challenge test with MDMA, a retest in the EPM, a novel-object test, and a final neurochemical analysis. Acutely, MDMA led to comparable hyperactivity in HA and LA rats. After multiple MDMA, behavioral sensitization was observed, especially in LA rats. Open arm time during the EPM retest (min 0-5) correlated with that of the initial one only in those rats, which had received a single injection of MDMA. Rats with multiple MDMA, especially LA-rats, showed more open-arm time and locomotion during the subsequent 5-10 min of the retest. In a novel-object test, rats with multiple MDMA, again especially LA subjects, showed more exploratory bouts towards the novel object. Neurochemically, multiple MDMA led to moderately lower serotonin in the ventral striatum, and higher dopamine levels in the frontal cortex as compared to single MDMA; these effects were also moderated by subject-dependent factors. Our data show that low-dosed multiple MDMA can lead to behavioral sensitization and outlasting consequences, which affect behavior in the EPM and a novel object task. Detecting such sequels partly requires consideration of individual differences.

  3. Mycobacterium abscessus post-injection abscesses from extrinsic contamination of multiple-dose bottles of normal saline in a rural clinic.

    PubMed

    Yuan, Jun; Liu, Yufei; Yang, Zhicong; Cai, Yanshan; Deng, Zhiai; Qin, Pengzhe; Li, Tiegang; Dong, Zhiqiang; Yan, Ziqiang; Zhou, Duanhua; Luo, Huiming; Ma, Huilai; Pang, Xinglin; Fontaine, Robert E

    2009-09-01

    We investigated an outbreak of gluteal abscesses following intramuscular (IM) injections given at a clinic in rural China to identify the causative agent, source, and method of exposure. We defined a case as an abscess that appeared at the site of an injection given since June 1, 2006. We compared case rates by injection route, medication, and diluents. We reviewed injection practices, and cultured abscesses and environmental sites for mycobacteria. From October through December 2006, 5.8% (n=35) of 604 persons who had received injections at the clinic developed a case. All 35 cases occurred in 184 patients (attack rate=19.0%) who had received IM injections with various drugs that had been mixed with normal saline (NS); risk ratio=infinity; p<0.0001. No cases occurred in the absence of NS exposure. We identified Mycobacterium abscessus from eight abscesses and from the clinic water supply, and observed the inappropriate reuse of a 16-gauge needle left in the rubber septum of 100 ml multiple-dose bottles of NS in the clinic. Fourteen percent (n=527) of the 3887 registered residents of this village had been treated with IM drugs over a three-month period, often for minor illnesses. This outbreak of M. abscessus occurred from exposure to extrinsically contaminated NS through improper injection practices. Frequent treatment of minor illnesses with IM injections of antibiotics was likely an important contributing factor to the size of this outbreak.

  4. Routine immunization in Pakistan: comparison of multiple data sources and identification of factors associated with vaccination

    PubMed Central

    Imran, Hafsa; Raja, Dania; Grassly, Nicholas C; Wadood, M Zubair; Safdar, Rana M; O’Reilly, Kathleen M

    2018-01-01

    Abstract Background Within Pakistan, estimates of vaccination coverage with the pentavalent vaccine, oral polio vaccine (OPV) and measles vaccine (MV) in 2011 were reported to be 74%, 75% and 53%, respectively. These national estimates may mask regional variation. The reasons for this variation have not been explored. Methods Data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) for Balochistan and Punjab (2010–2011) are analysed to examine factors associated with receiving three or more doses of the pentavalent vaccine and one or more MVs using regression modelling. Pentavalent and OPV estimates from the MICS were compared to vaccine dose histories from surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP; poliomyelitis) to ascertain agreement. Results Adjusted coverage of children 12–23 months of age were estimated to be 16.0%, 75.5% and 34.2% in Balochistan and 58.0%, 87.7% and 72.6% in Punjab for the pentavalent vaccine, OPV and MV, respectively. Maternal education, healthcare utilization and wealth were associated with receiving the pentavalent vaccine and the MV. There was a strong correlation of district estimates of vaccination coverage between AFP and MICS data, but AFP estimates of pentavalent coverage in Punjab were biased toward higher values. Conclusions National estimates mask variation and estimates from individual surveys should be considered alongside other estimates. The development of strategies targeted towards poorly educated parents within low-wealth quintiles that may not typically access healthcare could improve vaccination rates. PMID:29432552

  5. Organ dose measurements from multiple-detector computed tomography using a commercial dosimetry system and tomographic, physical phantoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lavoie, Lindsey K.

    The technology of computed tomography (CT) imaging has soared over the last decade with the use of multi-detector CT (MDCT) scanners that are capable of performing studies in a matter of seconds. While the diagnostic information obtained from MDCT imaging is extremely valuable, it is important to ensure that the radiation doses resulting from these studies are at acceptably safe levels. This research project focused on the measurement of organ doses resulting from modern MDCT scanners. A commercially-available dosimetry system was used to measure organ doses. Small dosimeters made of optically-stimulated luminescent (OSL) material were analyzed with a portable OSL reader. Detailed verification of this system was performed. Characteristics studied include energy, scatter, and angular responses; dose linearity, ability to erase the exposed dose and ability to reuse dosimeters multiple times. The results of this verification process were positive. While small correction factors needed to be applied to the dose reported by the OSL reader, these factors were small and expected. Physical, tomographic pediatric and adult phantoms were used to measure organ doses. These phantoms were developed from CT images and are composed of tissue-equivalent materials. Because the adult phantom is comprised of numerous segments, dosimeters were placed in the phantom at several organ locations, and doses to select organs were measured using three clinical protocols: pediatric craniosynostosis, adult brain perfusion and adult cardiac CT angiography (CTA). A wide-beam, 320-slice, volumetric CT scanner and a 64-slice, MDCT scanner were used for organ dose measurements. Doses ranged from 1 to 26 mGy for the pediatric protocol, 1 to 1241 mGy for the brain perfusion protocol, and 2-100 mGy for the cardiac protocol. In most cases, the doses measured on the 64-slice scanner were higher than those on the 320-slice scanner. A methodology to measure organ doses with OSL dosimeters received from CT imaging has been presented. These measurements are especially important in keeping with the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle. While diagnostic information from CT imaging is valuable and necessary, the dose to patients is always a consideration. This methodology aids in this important task. (Full text of this dissertation may be available via the University of Florida Libraries web site. Please check http://www.uflib.ufl.edu/etd.html)

  6. The 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist lorcaserin reduces cocaine self-administration, reinstatement of cocaine-seeking and cocaine induced locomotor activity.

    PubMed

    Harvey-Lewis, Colin; Li, Zhaoxia; Higgins, Guy A; Fletcher, Paul J

    2016-02-01

    Lorcaserin (Lorqess, Belviq(®)) is a selective 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist that has received FDA approval for the treatment of obesity. 5-HT(2C) receptor agonists are also efficacious in decreasing multiple aspects of cocaine motivation and reward in preclinical models. This would suggest that lorcaserin is a clinically available therapeutic with the potential to treat cocaine addiction. Here we report the effects of lorcaserin (0.1 mg/kg-1.0 mg/kg) on multiple aspects of cocaine-related behaviours in rats. We find that lorcaserin dose-dependently decreases cocaine self-administration on progressive and fixed ratio schedules of reinforcement. Lorcaserin also reduces reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behaviour in response to priming injections of cocaine and/or reintroduction of cocaine-associated cues. Finally, lorcaserin dose-dependently decreases cocaine-induced hyperlocomotion. Our results, when considered in concert with similar emergent findings in non-human primates, strongly support continued research into the potential of lorcaserin as a clinical treatment for cocaine addiction. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Escalation to High Dose Defibrotide in Patients with Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease

    PubMed Central

    Triplett, Brandon M.; Kuttab, Hani I.; Kang, Guolian; Leung, Wing

    2015-01-01

    Hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a serious complication of high-dose chemotherapy regimens, such as those utilized in hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients. Defibrotide is considered a safe and effective treatment when dosed at 25 mg/kg/day. However, patients who develop VOD still have increased mortality despite the use of defibrotide. Data are limited on the use of doses above 60 mg/kg/day for persistent VOD. In this prospective clinical trial, 34 patients received escalating doses of defibrotide. For patients with persistent VOD despite doses of 60 mg/kg/day, doses were increased to a maximum of 110 mg/kg/day. There was no observed increase in toxicity until doses rose beyond 100 mg/kg/day. Patients receiving doses between 10–100 mg/kg/day experienced an average of 3 bleeding episodes per 100 days of treatment, while those receiving doses >100 mg/kg/day experienced 13.2 bleeding episodes per 100 days (p=0.008). Moreover, dose reductions due to toxicity were needed at doses of 110 mg/kg/day more often than at lower doses. Defibrotide may be safely escalated to doses well above the current standard without an increase in bleeding risk. However, the efficacy of this dose escalation strategy remains unclear, as outcomes were similar to published cohorts of patients receiving standard doses of defibrotide for VOD. PMID:26278046

  8. Influence of Al³⁺ addition on the flocculation and sedimentation of activated sludge: comparison of single and multiple dosing patterns.

    PubMed

    Wen, Yue; Zheng, Wanlin; Yang, Yundi; Cao, Asheng; Zhou, Qi

    2015-05-15

    In this study, the flocculation and sedimentation performance of activated sludge (AS) with single and multiple dosing of trivalent aluminum (Al(3+)) were studied. The AS samples were cultivated in sequencing batch reactors at 22 °C. The dosages of Al(3+) were 0.00, 0.125, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 meq/L for single dosing, and 0.1 meq/L for multiple dosing. Under single dosing conditions, as Al(3+) dosage increased, the zeta potential, total interaction energy, and effluent turbidity decreased, whereas the sludge volume index (SVI) increased, indicating that single Al(3+) dosing could enhance sludge flocculation, but deteriorate sedimentation. By comparison, adding an equal amount of Al(3+) through multiple dosing achieved a similar reduction in turbidity, but the zeta potential was higher, while the loosely bound extracellular polymeric substances (LB-EPS) content and SVI remarkably declined. Although the difference in the flocculation performances between the two dosing patterns was not significant, the underlying mechanisms were quite distinct: the interaction energy played a more important role under single dosing conditions, whereas multiple dosing was more effective in reducing the EPS content. Multiple dosing, which allows sufficient time for sludge restructuring and floc aggregation, could simultaneously optimize sludge flocculation and sedimentation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Dose Response for Chromosome Aberrations in Human Lymphocytes and Fibroblasts After Exposure to Very Low Dose of High Let Radiation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hada, M.; George, K.; Chappell, L.; Cucinotta, F. A.

    2011-01-01

    The relationship between biological effects and low doses of absorbed radiation is still uncertain, especially for high LET radiation exposure. Estimates of risks from low-dose and low-dose-rates are often extrapolated using data from Japanese atomic bomb survivor with either linear or linear quadratic models of fit. In this study, chromosome aberrations were measured in human peripheral blood lymphocytes and normal skin fibroblasts cells after exposure to very low dose (0.01 - 0.20 Gy) of 170 MeV/u Si-28 ions or 600 MeV/u Fe-56 ions, including doses where on average less than one direct ion traversal per cell nucleus occurs. Chromosomes were analyzed using the whole-chromosome fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technique during the first cell division after irradiation, and chromosome aberrations were identified as either simple exchanges (translocations and dicentrics) or complex exchanges (involving >2 breaks in 2 or more chromosomes). The responses for doses above 0.1 Gy (more than one ion traverses a cell) showed linear dose responses. However, for doses less than 0.1 Gy, both Si-28 ions and Fe-56 ions showed a dose independent response above background chromosome aberrations frequencies. Possible explanations for our results are non-targeted effects due to aberrant cell signaling [1], or delta-ray dose fluctuations [2] where a fraction of cells receive significant delta-ray doses due to the contributions of multiple ion tracks that do not directly traverse cell nuclei where chromosome aberrations are scored.

  10. Direct dose mapping versus energy/mass transfer mapping for 4D dose accumulation: fundamental differences and dosimetric consequences.

    PubMed

    Li, Haisen S; Zhong, Hualiang; Kim, Jinkoo; Glide-Hurst, Carri; Gulam, Misbah; Nurushev, Teamour S; Chetty, Indrin J

    2014-01-06

    The direct dose mapping (DDM) and energy/mass transfer (EMT) mapping are two essential algorithms for accumulating the dose from different anatomic phases to the reference phase when there is organ motion or tumor/tissue deformation during the delivery of radiation therapy. DDM is based on interpolation of the dose values from one dose grid to another and thus lacks rigor in defining the dose when there are multiple dose values mapped to one dose voxel in the reference phase due to tissue/tumor deformation. On the other hand, EMT counts the total energy and mass transferred to each voxel in the reference phase and calculates the dose by dividing the energy by mass. Therefore it is based on fundamentally sound physics principles. In this study, we implemented the two algorithms and integrated them within the Eclipse treatment planning system. We then compared the clinical dosimetric difference between the two algorithms for ten lung cancer patients receiving stereotactic radiosurgery treatment, by accumulating the delivered dose to the end-of-exhale (EE) phase. Specifically, the respiratory period was divided into ten phases and the dose to each phase was calculated and mapped to the EE phase and then accumulated. The displacement vector field generated by Demons-based registration of the source and reference images was used to transfer the dose and energy. The DDM and EMT algorithms produced noticeably different cumulative dose in the regions with sharp mass density variations and/or high dose gradients. For the planning target volume (PTV) and internal target volume (ITV) minimum dose, the difference was up to 11% and 4% respectively. This suggests that DDM might not be adequate for obtaining an accurate dose distribution of the cumulative plan, instead, EMT should be considered.

  11. Direct dose mapping versus energy/mass transfer mapping for 4D dose accumulation: fundamental differences and dosimetric consequences

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Haisen S.; Zhong, Hualiang; Kim, Jinkoo; Glide-Hurst, Carri; Gulam, Misbah; Nurushev, Teamour S.; Chetty, Indrin J.

    2014-01-01

    The direct dose mapping (DDM) and energy/mass transfer (EMT) mapping are two essential algorithms for accumulating the dose from different anatomic phases to the reference phase when there is organ motion or tumor/tissue deformation during the delivery of radiation therapy. DDM is based on interpolation of the dose values from one dose grid to another and thus lacks rigor in defining the dose when there are multiple dose values mapped to one dose voxel in the reference phase due to tissue/tumor deformation. On the other hand, EMT counts the total energy and mass transferred to each voxel in the reference phase and calculates the dose by dividing the energy by mass. Therefore it is based on fundamentally sound physics principles. In this study, we implemented the two algorithms and integrated them within the Eclipse treatment planning system. We then compared the clinical dosimetric difference between the two algorithms for ten lung cancer patients receiving stereotactic radiosurgery treatment, by accumulating the delivered dose to the end-of-exhale (EE) phase. Specifically, the respiratory period was divided into ten phases and the dose to each phase was calculated and mapped to the EE phase and then accumulated. The displacement vector field generated by Demons-based registration of the source and reference images was used to transfer the dose and energy. The DDM and EMT algorithms produced noticeably different cumulative dose in the regions with sharp mass density variations and/or high dose gradients. For the planning target volume (PTV) and internal target volume (ITV) minimum dose, the difference was up to 11% and 4% respectively. This suggests that DDM might not be adequate for obtaining an accurate dose distribution of the cumulative plan, instead, EMT should be considered.

  12. Dosimetry around metallic ports in tissue expanders in patients receiving postmastectomy radiation therapy: an ex vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Moni, Janaki; Graves-Ditman, Maria; Cederna, Paul; Griffith, Kent; Krueger, Editha A; Fraass, Benedick A; Pierce, Lori J

    2004-01-01

    Postmastectomy breast reconstruction can be accomplished utilizing tissue expanders and implants. However, in patients who require postoperative radiotherapy, the complication rate with tissue expander/implant reconstruction can exceed 50%. One potential cause of this high complication rate may be the metallic port in the tissue expander producing altered dosimetry in the region of the metallic device. The purpose of this study was to quantify the radiation dose distribution in the vicinity of the metallic port and determine its potential contribution to this extremely high complication rate. The absolute dosimetric effect of the tissue expander's metallic port was quantified using film and thermoluminescent dosimetry (TLD) studies with a single beam incident on a metallic port extracted from an expander. TLD measurements were performed at 11 reproducible positions on an intact expander irradiated with tangential fields. A computed tomography (CT)-based treatment plan without inhomogeneity corrections was used to derive expected doses for all TLD positions. Multiple irradiation experiments were performed for all TLD data. Confidence intervals for the dose at TLD sites with the metallic port in place were compared to the expected dose at the site without the metallic port. Film studies did not reveal a significant component of scatter around the metallic port. TLD studies of the extracted metallic port revealed highest doses within the casing of the metallic port and no consistent increased dose at the surface of the expander. No excess dose due to the metallic port in the expander was noted with the phantom TLD data. Based upon these results, it does not appear that the metallic port in tissue expanders significantly contributes to the high complication rate experienced in patients undergoing tissue expander breast reconstruction and receiving radiation therapy. Strategies designed to reduce the breast reconstruction complication rate in this clinical setting will need to focus on factors other than adjusting the dosimetry around the tissue expander metallic port.

  13. Quantitative evaluation of local pulmonary distribution of TiO2 in rats following single or multiple intratracheal administrations of TiO2 nanoparticles using X-ray fluorescence microscopy.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Guihua; Shinohara, Naohide; Kano, Hirokazu; Senoh, Hideki; Suzuki, Masaaki; Sasaki, Takeshi; Fukushima, Shoji; Gamo, Masashi

    2016-10-01

    Uneven pulmonary nanoparticle (NP) distribution has been described when using single-dose intratracheal administration tests. Multiple-dose intratracheal administrations with small quantities of NPs are expected to improve the unevenness of each dose. The differences in local pulmonary NP distribution (called microdistribution) between single- and multiple-dose administrations may cause differential pulmonary responses; however, this has not been evaluated. Here, we quantitatively evaluated the pulmonary microdistribution (per mesh: 100 μm × 100 μm) of TiO2 in lung sections from rats following one, two, three, or four doses of TiO2 NPs at a same total dosage of 10 mg kg(-1) using X-ray fluorescence microscopy. The results indicate that: (i) multiple-dose administrations show lower variations in TiO2 content (ng mesh(-1) ) for sections of each lobe; (ii) TiO2 appears to be deposited more in the right caudal and accessory lobes located downstream of the administration direction of NP suspensions, and less so in the right middle lobes, irrespective of the number of doses; (iii) there are not prominent differences in the pattern of pulmonary TiO2 microdistribution between rats following single and multiple doses of TiO2 NPs. Additionally, the estimation of pulmonary TiO2 deposition for multiple-dose administrations imply that every dose of TiO2 would be randomly deposited only in part of the fixed 30-50% of lung areas. The evidence suggests that multiple-dose administrations do not offer remarkable advantages over single-dose administration on the pulmonary NP microdistribution, although multiple-dose administrations may reduce variations in the TiO2 content for each lung lobe. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  14. GABAergic modulation of human social interaction in a prisoner's dilemma model by acute administration of alprazolam.

    PubMed

    Lane, Scott D; Gowin, Joshua L

    2009-10-01

    Recent work in neuroeconomics has used game theory paradigms to examine neural systems that subserve human social interaction and decision making. Attempts to modify social interaction through pharmacological manipulation have been less common. Here we show dose-dependent modification of human social behavior in a prisoner's dilemma model after acute administration of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A modulating benzodiazepine alprazolam. Nine healthy adults received doses of placebo, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg alprazolam in a counterbalanced within-subject design, while completing multiple test blocks per day on an iterated prisoner's dilemma game. During test blocks in which peak subjective effects of alprazolam were reported, cooperative choices were significantly decreased as a function of dose. Consistent with previous reports showing that high acute doses of GABA-modulating drugs are associated with violence and other antisocial behavior, our data suggest that at sufficiently high doses, alprazolam can decrease cooperation. These behavioral changes may be facilitated by changes in inhibitory control facilitated by GABA. Game theory paradigms may prove useful in behavioral pharmacology studies seeking to measure social interaction, and may help inform the emerging field of neuroeconomics.

  15. GABAergic modulation of human social interaction in a prisoner’s dilemma model via acute administration of alprazolam

    PubMed Central

    Lane, Scott D.; Gowin, Joshua L.

    2010-01-01

    Recent work in neuroeconomics has utilized game theory paradigms to examine neural systems that subserve human social interaction and decision making. Attempts to modify social interaction through pharmacological manipulation have been less common. Here we show dose-dependent modification of human social behavior in a prisoner’s dilemma (PD) model following acute administration of the GABA-A modulating benzodiazepine alprazolam. Nine healthy adults received doses of placebo, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg alprazolam in a counterbalanced within-subject design, while completing multiple test blocks per day on an iterated PD game. During test blocks in which peak subjective effects of alprazolam were reported, cooperative choices were significantly decreased as a function of dose. Consistent with previous reports showing that high acute doses of GABA-modulating drugs are associated with violence and other antisocial behavior, our data suggest that at sufficiently high doses, alprazolam can decrease cooperation. These behavioral changes may be facilitated by changes in inhibitory control facilitated by GABA. Game theory paradigms may prove useful in behavioral pharmacology studies seeking to measure social interaction, and may help inform the emerging field of neuroeconomics. PMID:19667972

  16. Uncertainties in endocrine substitution therapy for central hypocortisolism.

    PubMed

    Swords, Francesca M

    2014-01-01

    Central hypocortisolism is common, and has multiple potential causes. However, the treatment aims remain the same whatever the cause: to maximize quality of life, while minimizing treatment-related adverse effects. The majority of patients with central hypocortisolism now receive hydrocortisone in two to three divided doses with a total daily dose of 10-20mg, or a weight-based regimen of 8.1mg/m(2)/day. However, various areas of controversy remain: how to assess the patient with suspected hypocortisolism, which is the optimal agent to use, what is the optimal total daily dose, how to administer divided daily doses, how to monitor therapy and individually tailor doses, whether to replace other adrenal androgens, how to approach the patient with adrenal suppression, and how to best educate patients with hypocortisolism and treat them in emergency situations. This chapter will discuss the evidence behind each of these controversial areas in turn. The evidence for newer agents such as prolonged- and delayed-release preparations of hydrocortisone will also be explored, with a discussion on their potential role in the future management of this major clinical problem. © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. The effects of tramadol on postoperative shivering after sevoflurane and remifentanil anesthesia.

    PubMed

    Nakagawa, Taku; Hashimoto, Miki; Hashimoto, Yasunori; Shirozu, Kazuhiro; Hoka, Sumio

    2017-01-03

    Remifentanil has been reported to cause post-anesthetic shivering (PAS). Higher doses of remifentanil reportedly induce more intense PAS. Tramadol, a synthetic opioid that acts at multiple sites, is considered to be an effective treatment for PAS, but the evidence for its therapeutic benefit after remifentanil anesthesia is limited. We investigated the effect of tramadol on the incidence of PAS after remifentanil anesthesia. Sixty-three patients who had undergone upper abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were studied retrospectively. Tramadol was administered at induction of anesthesia. The patients were divided into four groups: HT(+), high dose remifentanil (1-1.5 μg/kg/min) with tramadol; HT(-), high dose remifentanil without tramadol; LT(+), low dose remifentanil (0.15-0.25 μg/kg/min) with tramadol; and LT(-), low dose remifentanil without tramadol. We recorded perioperative changes in nasopharyngeal temperature and episodes of PAS on emergence from anesthesia. The incidences of PAS in both tramadol treatment groups were significantly lower than the groups that did not receive tramadol. Nasopharyngeal temperature after surgery fell significantly more from baseline in the tramadol treatment groups compared with the non-treatment groups. Tramadol administered at induction of anesthesia appears to suppress PAS following remifentanil anesthesia.

  18. First month prednisone dose predicts prednisone burden during the following 11 months: an observational study from the RELES cohort

    PubMed Central

    Ruiz-Irastorza, G; Garcia, M; Espinosa, G; Caminal, L; Mitjavila, F; González-León, R; Sopeña, B; Canora, J; Villalba, M V; Rodríguez-Carballeira, M; López-Dupla, J M; Callejas, J L; Castro, A; Tolosa, C; Sánchez-García, M E; Pérez-Conesa, M; Navarrete-Navarrete, N; Rodríguez, A P; Herranz, M T; Pallarés, L

    2016-01-01

    Aim To study the influence of prednisone dose during the first month after systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis (prednisone-1) on glucocorticoid burden during the subsequent 11 months (prednisone-2–12). Methods 223 patients from the Registro Español de Lupus Eritematoso Sistémico inception cohort were studied. The cumulative dose of prednisone-1 and prednisone-2–12 were calculated and recoded into a four-level categorical variable: no prednisone, low dose (up to 7.5 mg/day), medium dose (up to 30 mg/day) and high dose (over 30 mg/day). The association between the cumulative prednisone-1 and prednisone-2–12 doses was tested. We analysed whether the four-level prednisone-1 categorical variable was an independent predictor of an average dose >7.5 mg/day of prednisone-2–12. Adjusting variables included age, immunosuppressives, antimalarials, methyl-prednisolone pulses, lupus nephritis and baseline SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). Results Within the first month, 113 patients (51%) did not receive any prednisone, 24 patients (11%) received average low doses, 46 patients (21%) received medium doses and 40 patients (18%) received high doses. There was a strong association between prednisone-1 and prednisone-2–12 dose categories (p<0.001). The cumulative prednisone-1 dose was directly associated with the cumulative prednisone-2–12 dose (p<0.001). Compared with patients on no prednisone, patients taking medium (adjusted OR 5.27, 95% CI 2.18 to 12.73) or high-dose prednisone-1 (adjusted OR 10.5, 95% CI 3.8 to 29.17) were more likely to receive prednisone-2–12 doses of >7.5 mg/day, while patients receiving low-dose prednisone-1 were not (adjusted OR 1.4, 95% CI 0. 0.38 to 5.2). If the analysis was restricted to the 158 patients with a baseline SLEDAI of ≥6, the model did not change. Conclusion The dose of prednisone during the first month after the diagnosis of SLE is an independent predictor of prednisone burden during the following 11 months. PMID:27547439

  19. Radiation exposure to nuclear medicine staffs during 18F-FDG PET/CT procedures at Ramathibodi Hospital

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Donmoon, T.; Chamroonrat, W.; Tuntawiroon, M.

    2016-03-01

    The aim of this study is to estimate the whole body and finger radiation doses per study received by nuclear medicine staff involved in dispensing, administration of 18F-FDG and interacting with radioactive patients during PET/CT imaging procedures in a PET/CT facility. The whole-body doses received by radiopharmacists, technologists and nurses were measured by electronic dosimeter and the finger doses by ring dosimeter during a period of 4 months. In 70 PET/CT studies, the mean whole-body dose per study to radiopharmacist, technologist, and nurse were 1.07±0.09, 1.77±0.46, μSv, and not detectable respectively. The mean finger doses per study received by radiopharmacist, technologist, and nurse were 265.65±107.55, 4.84±1.08 and 19.22±2.59 μSv, respectively. The average time in contact with 18F-FDG was 5.88±0.03, 39.06±1.89 and 1.21±0.02 minutes per study for radiopharmacist, technologist and nurse respectively. Technologists received highest mean effective whole- body dose per study and radiopharmacist received the highest finger dose per study. When compared with the ICRP dose limit, each individual worker can work with many more 18F- FDG PET/CT studies for a whole year without exceeding the occupational dose limits. This study confirmed that low levels of radiation does are received by our medical personnel involved in 18F-FDG PET/CT procedures.

  20. Analysis of Dose at the Site of Second Tumor Formation After Radiotherapy to the Central Nervous System

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Galloway, Thomas J.; University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute, Jacksonville, FL; Indelicato, Daniel J., E-mail: dindelicato@floridaproton.org

    Purpose: Second tumors are an uncommon complication of multimodality treatment of childhood cancer. The present analysis attempted to correlate the dose received as a component of primary treatment and the site of the eventual development of a second tumor. Methods and Materials: We retrospectively identified 16 patients who had received radiotherapy to sites in the craniospinal axis and subsequently developed a second tumor. We compared the historical fields and port films of the primary treatment with the modern imaging of the second tumor locations. We classified the location of the second tumors as follows: in the boost field; marginal tomore » the boost field, but in a whole-brain field; in a whole-brain field; marginal to the whole brain/primary treatment field; and distant to the field. We divided the dose received into 3 broad categories: high dose (>45 Gy), moderate dose (20-36 Gy), and low dose (<20 Gy). Results: The most common location of the second tumor was in the whole brain field (57%) and in the moderate-dose range (81%). Conclusions: Our data contradict previous publications that suggested that most second tumors develop in tissues that receive a low radiation dose. Almost all the second tumors in our series occurred in tissue within a target volume in the cranium that had received a moderate dose (20-36 Gy). These findings suggest that a major decrease in the brain volume that receives a moderate radiation dose is the only way to substantially decrease the second tumor rate after central nervous system radiotherapy.« less

  1. Cost analysis related to dose-response of spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low back pain: outcomes from a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Vavrek, Darcy A; Sharma, Rajiv; Haas, Mitchell

    2014-06-01

    The purpose of this analysis is to report the incremental costs and benefits of different doses of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) in patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). We randomized 400 patients with chronic LBP to receive a dose of 0, 6, 12, or 18 sessions of SMT. Participants were scheduled for 18 visits for 6 weeks and received SMT or light massage control from a doctor of chiropractic. Societal costs in the year after study enrollment were estimated using patient reports of health care use and lost productivity. The main health outcomes were the number of pain-free days and disability-free days. Multiple regression was performed on outcomes and log-transformed cost data. Lost productivity accounts for most societal costs of chronic LBP. Cost of treatment and lost productivity ranged from $3398 for 12 SMT sessions to $3815 for 0 SMT sessions with no statistically significant differences between groups. Baseline patient characteristics related to increase in costs were greater age (P = .03), greater disability (P = .01), lower quality-adjusted life year scores (P = .01), and higher costs in the period preceding enrollment (P < .01). Pain-free and disability-free days were greater for all SMT doses compared with control, but only SMT 12 yielded a statistically significant benefit of 22.9 pain-free days (P = .03) and 19.8 disability-free days (P = .04). No statistically significant group differences in quality-adjusted life years were noted. A dose of 12 SMT sessions yielded a modest benefit in pain-free and disability-free days. Care of chronic LBP with SMT did not increase the costs of treatment plus lost productivity. Copyright © 2014 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Suppression of Gonadotropins and Estradiol in Premenopausal Women by Oral Administration of the Nonpeptide Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Antagonist Elagolix

    PubMed Central

    Struthers, R. Scott; Nicholls, Andrew J.; Grundy, John; Chen, Takung; Jimenez, Roland; Yen, Samuel S. C.; Bozigian, Haig P.

    2009-01-01

    Context: Parenteral administration of peptide GnRH analogs is widely employed for treatment of endometriosis and fibroids and in assisted-reproductive therapy protocols. Elagolix is a novel, orally available nonpeptide GnRH antagonist. Objective: Our objective was to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and inhibitory effects on gonadotropins and estradiol of single-dose and 7-d elagolix administration to healthy premenopausal women. Design: This was a first-in-human, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single- and multiple-dose study with sequential dose escalation. Participants: Fifty-five healthy, regularly cycling premenopausal women participated. Interventions: Subjects were administered a single oral dose of 25–400 mg or placebo. In a second arm of the study, subjects received placebo or 50, 100, or 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily for 7 d. Treatment was initiated on d 7 (±1) after onset of menses. Main Outcome Measures: Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and serum LH, FSH, and estradiol concentrations were assessed. Results: Elagolix was well tolerated and rapidly bioavailable after oral administration. Serum gonadotropins declined rapidly. Estradiol was suppressed by 24 h in subjects receiving at least 50 mg/d. Daily (50–200 mg) or twice-daily (100 mg) administration for 7 d maintained low estradiol levels (17 ± 3 to 68 ± 46 pg/ml) in most subjects during late follicular phase. Effects of the compound were rapidly reversed after discontinuation. Conclusions: Oral administration of a nonpeptide GnRH antagonist, elagolix, suppressed the reproductive endocrine axis in healthy premenopausal women. These results suggest that elagolix may enable dose-related pituitary and gonadal suppression in premenopausal women as part of treatment strategies for reproductive hormone-dependent disease states. PMID:19033369

  3. Suppression of gonadotropins and estradiol in premenopausal women by oral administration of the nonpeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist elagolix.

    PubMed

    Struthers, R Scott; Nicholls, Andrew J; Grundy, John; Chen, Takung; Jimenez, Roland; Yen, Samuel S C; Bozigian, Haig P

    2009-02-01

    Parenteral administration of peptide GnRH analogs is widely employed for treatment of endometriosis and fibroids and in assisted-reproductive therapy protocols. Elagolix is a novel, orally available nonpeptide GnRH antagonist. Our objective was to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and inhibitory effects on gonadotropins and estradiol of single-dose and 7-d elagolix administration to healthy premenopausal women. This was a first-in-human, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single- and multiple-dose study with sequential dose escalation. Fifty-five healthy, regularly cycling premenopausal women participated. Subjects were administered a single oral dose of 25-400 mg or placebo. In a second arm of the study, subjects received placebo or 50, 100, or 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily for 7 d. Treatment was initiated on d 7 (+/-1) after onset of menses. Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and serum LH, FSH, and estradiol concentrations were assessed. Elagolix was well tolerated and rapidly bioavailable after oral administration. Serum gonadotropins declined rapidly. Estradiol was suppressed by 24 h in subjects receiving at least 50 mg/d. Daily (50-200 mg) or twice-daily (100 mg) administration for 7 d maintained low estradiol levels (17 +/- 3 to 68 +/- 46 pg/ml) in most subjects during late follicular phase. Effects of the compound were rapidly reversed after discontinuation. Oral administration of a nonpeptide GnRH antagonist, elagolix, suppressed the reproductive endocrine axis in healthy premenopausal women. These results suggest that elagolix may enable dose-related pituitary and gonadal suppression in premenopausal women as part of treatment strategies for reproductive hormone-dependent disease states.

  4. A phase I and pharmacologic trial of two schedules of the proteasome inhibitor, PS-341 (bortezomib, velcade), in patients with advanced cancer.

    PubMed

    Dy, Grace K; Thomas, James P; Wilding, George; Bruzek, Laura; Mandrekar, Sumithra; Erlichman, Charles; Alberti, Dona; Binger, Kim; Pitot, Henry C; Alberts, Steven R; Hanson, Lorelei J; Marnocha, Rebecca; Tutsch, Kendra; Kaufmann, Scott H; Adjei, Alex A

    2005-05-01

    To define the toxicities, pharmacodynamics, and clinical activity of the proteasome inhibitor, PS-341 (bortezomib), in patients with advanced malignancies. Twenty-eight patients (14 male and 14 female) received PS-341 twice weekly for 4 of 6 weeks (schedule I). Because toxicity necessitated dose omissions on this schedule, 16 additional patients (12 male and 4 female) received PS-341 twice weekly for 2 of every 3 weeks (schedule II). A total of 73 courses of treatment was given (median, 2; range, 1-4). Inhibition of 20S proteasome activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and accumulation of proteasome-targeted polypeptides in tumor tissue were evaluated as pharmacodynamic markers of PS-341 activity. The most common toxicity was thrombocytopenia, which was dose limiting at 1.7 mg/m2 (schedule I) and 1.6 mg/m2 (schedule II), respectively. Sensory neuropathy was dose-limiting in a patient in schedule I. Grade > or =3 toxicities for schedule I were constipation, fatigue, myalgia, and sensory neuropathy. Grade > or =3 toxicities for schedule II were dehydration resulting from diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, hypoglycemia, and hypotension. The maximum tolerated dose was 1.5 mg/m2 for both schedules. Reversible dose-dependent decreases in 20S proteasome activity in PBMCs were observed, with 36% inhibition at 0.5 mg/m2, 52% at 0.9 mg/m2, and 75% at 1.25 mg/m2. Accumulation of proteasome-targeted polypeptides was detected in tumor samples after treatment with PS-341. A patient with multiple myeloma had a partial response. PS-341 given 1.5 mg/m2 twice weekly for 2 of every 3 weeks is well tolerated and should be further studied.

  5. A dose homogeneity and conformity evaluation between ViewRay and pinnacle-based linear accelerator IMRT treatment plans

    PubMed Central

    Saenz, Daniel L.; Paliwal, Bhudatt R.; Bayouth, John E.

    2014-01-01

    ViewRay, a novel technology providing soft-tissue imaging during radiotherapy is investigated for treatment planning capabilities assessing treatment plan dose homogeneity and conformity compared with linear accelerator plans. ViewRay offers both adaptive radiotherapy and image guidance. The combination of cobalt-60 (Co-60) with 0.35 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for magnetic resonance (MR)-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivery with multiple beams. This study investigated head and neck, lung, and prostate treatment plans to understand what is possible on ViewRay to narrow focus toward sites with optimal dosimetry. The goal is not to provide a rigorous assessment of planning capabilities, but rather a first order demonstration of ViewRay planning abilities. Images, structure sets, points, and dose from treatment plans created in Pinnacle for patients in our clinic were imported into ViewRay. The same objectives were used to assess plan quality and all critical structures were treated as similarly as possible. Homogeneity index (HI), conformity index (CI), and volume receiving <20% of prescription dose (DRx) were calculated to assess the plans. The 95% confidence intervals were recorded for all measurements and presented with the associated bars in graphs. The homogeneity index (D5/D95) had a 1-5% inhomogeneity increase for head and neck, 3-8% for lung, and 4-16% for prostate. CI revealed a modest conformity increase for lung. The volume receiving 20% of the prescription dose increased 2-8% for head and neck and up to 4% for lung and prostate. Overall, for head and neck Co-60 ViewRay treatments planned with its Monte Carlo treatment planning software were comparable with 6 MV plans computed with convolution superposition algorithm on Pinnacle treatment planning system. PMID:24872603

  6. A dose homogeneity and conformity evaluation between ViewRay and pinnacle-based linear accelerator IMRT treatment plans.

    PubMed

    Saenz, Daniel L; Paliwal, Bhudatt R; Bayouth, John E

    2014-04-01

    ViewRay, a novel technology providing soft-tissue imaging during radiotherapy is investigated for treatment planning capabilities assessing treatment plan dose homogeneity and conformity compared with linear accelerator plans. ViewRay offers both adaptive radiotherapy and image guidance. The combination of cobalt-60 (Co-60) with 0.35 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for magnetic resonance (MR)-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivery with multiple beams. This study investigated head and neck, lung, and prostate treatment plans to understand what is possible on ViewRay to narrow focus toward sites with optimal dosimetry. The goal is not to provide a rigorous assessment of planning capabilities, but rather a first order demonstration of ViewRay planning abilities. Images, structure sets, points, and dose from treatment plans created in Pinnacle for patients in our clinic were imported into ViewRay. The same objectives were used to assess plan quality and all critical structures were treated as similarly as possible. Homogeneity index (HI), conformity index (CI), and volume receiving <20% of prescription dose (DRx) were calculated to assess the plans. The 95% confidence intervals were recorded for all measurements and presented with the associated bars in graphs. The homogeneity index (D5/D95) had a 1-5% inhomogeneity increase for head and neck, 3-8% for lung, and 4-16% for prostate. CI revealed a modest conformity increase for lung. The volume receiving 20% of the prescription dose increased 2-8% for head and neck and up to 4% for lung and prostate. Overall, for head and neck Co-60 ViewRay treatments planned with its Monte Carlo treatment planning software were comparable with 6 MV plans computed with convolution superposition algorithm on Pinnacle treatment planning system.

  7. Dexketoprofen/tramadol 25 mg/75 mg: randomised double-blind trial in moderate-to-severe acute pain after abdominal hysterectomy.

    PubMed

    Moore, R A; McQuay, H J; Tomaszewski, J; Raba, G; Tutunaru, D; Lietuviete, N; Galad, J; Hagymasy, L; Melka, D; Kotarski, J; Rechberger, T; Fülesdi, B; Nizzardo, A; Guerrero-Bayón, C; Cuadripani, S; Pizà-Vallespir, B; Bertolotti, M

    2016-01-22

    Dexketoprofen trometamol plus tramadol hydrochloride is a new oral combination of two analgesics, which have different mechanisms of action for the treatment of moderate to severe acute pain. Randomised, double-blind, parallel, placebo and active-controlled, single and multiple-dose study to evaluate the analgesic efficacy and safety of dexketoprofen/tramadol 25 mg/75 mg in comparison with the single agents (dexketoprofen 25 mg and tramadol 100 mg) in moderate to severe acute pain after abdominal hysterectomy. Patients received seven consecutive doses of study drug within a 3-day period, each dose separated by an 8-hour interval. A placebo arm was included during the single-dose phase to validate the pain model. Efficacy assessments included pain intensity, pain relief, patient global evaluation and use of rescue medication. The primary endpoint was the mean sum of pain intensity differences over the first 8 h (SPID8). The efficacy analysis included 606 patients, with a mean age of 48 years (range 25-73). The study results confirmed the superiority of the combination over the single agents in terms of the primary endpoint (p <0.001). Secondary endpoints were generally supportive of the superiority of the combination for both single and multiple doses. Most common adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were nausea (4.6%) and vomiting (2.3%). All other ADRs were experienced by less than 2% of patients. The study results provided robust evidence of the superiority of dexketoprofen/tramadol 25 mg/75 mg over the single components in the management of moderate to severe acute pain, as confirmed by the single-dose efficacy, repeated-dose sustained effect and good safety profile observed. EU Clinical Trials Register (EudraCT number 2012-004545-32, registered 04 October 2012); Clinicaltrials.gov ( NCT01904149, registered 17 July 2013).

  8. Predictive model accuracy in estimating last Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) intake from plasma and whole blood cannabinoid concentrations in chronic, daily cannabis smokers administered subchronic oral THC*

    PubMed Central

    Karschner, Erin L.; Schwope, David M.; Schwilke, Eugene W.; Goodwin, Robert S.; Kelly, Deanna L.; Gorelick, David A.; Huestis, Marilyn A.

    2012-01-01

    Background Determining time since last cannabis/Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure is important in clinical, workplace, and forensic settings. Mathematical models calculating time of last exposure from whole blood concentrations typically employ a theoretical 0.5 whole blood-to-plasma (WB/P) ratio. No studies previously evaluated predictive models utilizing empirically-derived WB/P ratios, or whole blood cannabinoid pharmacokinetics after subchronic THC dosing. Methods Ten male chronic, daily cannabis smokers received escalating around-the-clock oral THC (40-120 mg daily) for 8 days. Cannabinoids were quantified in whole blood and plasma by two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results Maximum whole blood THC occurred 3.0 h after the first oral THC dose and 103.5 h (4.3 days) during multiple THC dosing. Median WB/P ratios were THC 0.63 (n=196), 11-hydroxy-THC 0.60 (n=189), and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH) 0.55 (n=200). Predictive models utilizing these WB/P ratios accurately estimated last cannabis exposure in 96% and 100% of specimens collected within 1-5 h after a single oral THC dose and throughout multiple dosing, respectively. Models were only 60% and 12.5% accurate 12.5 and 22.5 h after the last THC dose, respectively. Conclusions Predictive models estimating time since last cannabis intake from whole blood and plasma cannabinoid concentrations were inaccurate during abstinence, but highly accurate during active THC dosing. THC redistribution from large cannabinoid body stores and high circulating THCCOOH concentrations create different pharmacokinetic profiles than those in less than daily cannabis smokers that were used to derive the models. Thus, the models do not accurately predict time of last THC intake in individuals consuming THC daily. PMID:22464363

  9. Effect of Vemurafenib on the Pharmacokinetics of a Single Dose of Digoxin in Patients With BRAFV600 Mutation-Positive Metastatic Malignancy.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Weijiang; McIntyre, Christine; Kuhn, Melissa; Forbes, Harper; Kim, Tae Min; Lee, Jeeyun; Demidov, Lev; Colburn, Dawn

    2018-04-12

    The primary objective of this phase 1, open-label, multicenter, 3-period, fixed-sequence study was to evaluate the effect of multiple doses of vemurafenib on the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of digoxin, a probe P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrate, in patients with BRAF V600 mutation-positive metastatic malignancy. Following a 28-day screening period, patients received a single oral dose of digoxin 0.25 mg on day 1 in period A, oral vemurafenib 960 mg twice daily for 21 days in period B (days 8-28), and a single oral dose of digoxin 0.25 mg on day 29 and vemurafenib 960 mg twice a day for 7 days (days 29-35) in period C. Log-transformed area under the concentration-time curve and peak concentration values for digoxin were compared between periods A (digoxin alone) and C (digoxin + vemurafenib) using an analysis of variance model. Twenty-six patients were evaluated for the primary pharmacokinetic analysis. The geometric mean ratio (period C/period A) of area under the curve to the last measurable concentration for digoxin was 1.82 (90%CI 1.63 to 2.02), and the geometric mean ratio of peak concentrations was 1.47 (90%CI 1.30 to 1.65); the 90%CIs were outside of the equivalence limits of 0.82 to 1.22, indicating an effect of vemurafenib on digoxin. Multiple oral doses of vemurafenib were generally well tolerated, with an adverse event profile similar to that previously seen in phase 2 and 3 studies of vemurafenib monotherapy. This study confirmed vemurafenib as an inhibitor of P-gp in vivo with a statistically significant drug-drug interaction with digoxin. Caution should be exercised when dosing vemurafenib concurrently with P-gp substrates. © 2018, The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

  10. Myocardial protection induced by fentanyl in pigs exposed to high-dose adrenaline.

    PubMed

    da Luz, Vinicius Fernando; Otsuki, Denise Aya; Gonzalez, Maria Margarita Castro; Negri, Elnara Marcia; Caldini, Elia Garcia; Damaceno-Rodrigues, Nilsa Regina; Malbouisson, Luiz Marcelo Sá; Viana, Bruno Gonçalves; Vane, Matheus Fachini; Carmona, Maria Jose Carvalho

    2015-10-01

    The use of high doses of adrenaline is common in critical patients, especially during cardiac arrest. During these situations, myocardial dysfunction can be a result of multiple factors, including adrenaline use. In addition, opioids have been shown to have anti-arrhythmic and anti-ischemic mechanisms that may confer cardiac protection. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fentanyl on myocardial function in pigs exposed to high-dose adrenaline. After institutional ethics committee approval, 26 pigs were randomly allocated to receive either 20 μg/kg fentanyl (n = 10; fentanyl group) administered 5 min before five doses of adrenaline (20 μg/kg), equivalent-volume saline (n = 10; saline group) using the same adrenaline dosing protocol, or neither fentanyl nor adrenaline (n = 6; sham group). The fentanyl group showed lower levels of troponin at the end of the sixth hour compared with the saline group (1.91 ± 1.47 vs 5.44 ± 5.35 ng/mL, P = 0.019). Transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry also showed less myocardial injury in the fentanyl group. The conclusion was reached that fentanyl attenuates myocardial injury caused by high-dose adrenaline without blunting the hemodynamic effect of adrenaline. © 2015 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

  11. Isotretinoin kinetics after 80 to 320 mg oral doses.

    PubMed

    Colburn, W A; Gibson, D M

    1985-04-01

    Twelve healthy male subjects received 80, 160, 240, and 320 mg doses of oral isotretinoin as multiples of 40 mg capsules separated by 2-week washout periods in a randomized, crossover design. Blood samples were drawn at specific times over a 72-hour period after dosing. Blood concentrations of isotretinoin as well as its major metabolite, 4-oxo-isotretinoin, were determined by a specific HPLC method. In addition to the normal laboratory battery of tests, serum triglyceride levels were determined before the first dose and again 72 hours after each of the four doses. Mean (+/- SD) maximum concentrations after 80 to 320 mg doses were 366 +/- 159, 820 +/- 474, 1056 +/- 547, and 981 +/- 381 ng/ml, whereas the respective AUC0-infinity values were 3690 +/- 1280, 7030 +/- 4140, 9780 +/- 6080, and 9040 +/- 2900 ng X hr/ml. The observed apparent elimination t1/2 remained approximately the same (14.7 hours) for each dose. The maximum concentration and AUC values for isotretinoin appear to be dose proportional from 80 to 240 mg but plateau at the 320 mg dose level. Therefore, because isotretinoin blood concentrations may not increase with higher doses in the fasting state, single, oral doses in excess of 240 mg should be used with caution. The data also suggest that elevated triglyceride levels are not a simple function of isotretinoin blood concentrations across the entire study population and dose range studied, but that in subjects with triglyceride levels in excess of the normal range triglyceride levels were positively related to isotretinoin blood concentrations.

  12. Evaluation of Emergency Department Management of Opioid-Tolerant Cancer Patients With Acute Pain.

    PubMed

    Patel, Pina M; Goodman, Lauren F; Knepel, Sheri A; Miller, Charles C; Azimi, Asma; Phillips, Gary; Gustin, Jillian L; Hartman, Amber

    2017-10-01

    There are no previously published studies examining opioid doses administered to opioid-tolerant cancer patients during emergency department (ED) encounters. To determine if opioid-tolerant cancer patients presenting with acute pain exacerbations receive adequate initial doses of as needed (PRN) opioids during ED encounters based on home oral morphine equivalent (OME) use. We performed a retrospective cohort study of opioid-tolerant cancer patients who received opioids in our ED over a two-year period. The percentage of patients who received an adequate initial dose of PRN opioid (defined as ≥10% of total 24-hour ambulatory OME) was evaluated. Logistic regression was used to establish the relationship between 24-hour ambulatory OME and initial ED OME to assess whether higher home usage was associated with higher likelihood of being undertreated. Out of 216 patients, 61.1% of patients received an adequate initial PRN dose of opioids in the ED. Of patients taking <200 OMEs per day at home, 77.4% received an adequate initial dose; however, only 3.2% of patients taking >400 OMEs per day at home received an adequate dose. Patients with ambulatory 24-hour OME greater than 400 had 99% lower odds of receiving an adequate initial dose of PRN opioid in the ED compared to patients with ambulatory 24-hour OME less than 100 (OR <0.01, CI 0.00-0.02, P < 0.001). Patients with daily home use less than 200 OMEs generally received adequate initial PRN opioid doses during their ED visit. However, patients with higher home opioid usage were at increased likelihood of being undertreated. Copyright © 2017 American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Safety and immunogenicity of a Vi polysaccharide-tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine (Typbar-TCV) in healthy infants, children, and adults in typhoid endemic areas: a multicenter, 2-cohort, open-label, double-blind, randomized controlled phase 3 study.

    PubMed

    Mohan, Vadrevu Krishna; Varanasi, Vineeth; Singh, Anit; Pasetti, Marcela F; Levine, Myron M; Venkatesan, Ramasamy; Ella, Krishna M

    2015-08-01

    Enteric fever caused by Salmonella Typhi remains a major public health problem in developing countries. Typbar-TCV is a single-dose typhoid Vi polysaccharide-tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine for persons ≥6 months of age. Six hundred fifty-four healthy subjects aged 2-45 years enrolled in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) received a single dose of Typbar-TCV or comparator "Vi polysaccharide" (Typbar), and 327 healthy subjects aged 6-23 months received a single dose of Typbar-TCV in an open-label trial (OLT); both received single- or multidose presentations from different lots. After 2 years, subsets in each group received a booster dose. The primary objective included analysis of geometric mean titer (GMTs) and 4-fold rise of anti-Vi serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay titers over baseline (seroconversion [SCN]) 42 days after immunization. Typbar-TCV recipients in the RCT attained higher anti-Vi IgG GMTs 42 days after immunization (SCN, 97%; GMT, 1293 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1153-1449]) than recipients of Typbar (SCN, 93%; GMT, 411 [95% CI, 359-471]) (P < .001). Typbar-TCV was highly immunogenic in the OLT (SCN, 98%; GMT, 1937 [95% CI, 1785-2103]). Two years after vaccination, anti-Vi titers remained higher in Typbar-TCV subjects (GMT, 82 [95% CI, 73-92]); and exhibited higher avidity (geometric mean avidity index [GMAI], 60%) than in Typbar recipients (GMT, 46 [95% CI, 40-53]; GMAI 46%) in the RCT (P < .001). OLT Typbar-TCV recipients achieved GMT of 48 (95% CI, 42-55) and GMAI of 57%. Typbar-TCV induced multiple IgG subclasses and strong booster responses in all ages. No serious vaccine-attributable adverse events were observed. Single-dose Typbar-TCV is well tolerated and induces robust and long-lasting serum anti-Vi IgG across age groups. CTRI/2011/08/001957, CTRI/2014/01/004341. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  14. Free fatty acid suppositories are as effective as docusate sodium and sorbitol enemas in treating constipation in children.

    PubMed

    Ormarsson, Orri Thor; Asgrimsdottir, Gudrun Marta; Loftsson, Thorsteinn; Stefansson, Einar; Lund, Sigrun Helga; Bjornsson, Einar Stefan

    2016-06-01

    A well-documented, clinically proven per rectum treatment for childhood constipation is needed. This phase two clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of suppositories containing free fatty acids (FFA) compared with Klyx docusate sodium and sorbitol enemas. A randomised, controlled, single-blind study was undertaken on 77 children aged between one and 17 who presented to an emergency department in Iceland and were diagnosed with constipation. In stage one, 23 patients were randomised to receive lower dose FFA suppositories or Klyx (n = 33). In stage two, 21 different patients were randomised to receive higher dose suppositories and compared with the same Klyx control subjects. The suppositories were effective at bowel emptying in 39% of the group who received the lower FFA doses and 81% of the group receiving higher doses, compared with 88% in the Klyx control group. Symptom relief was obtained in 30% of the group receiving the lower doses and 71% of the group receiving the higher doses, compared with 73% in the control group. The higher dose FFA suppositories were as effective as the Klyx enemas with regard to bowel emptying and symptom relief and might provide an important and less invasive alternative for childhood constipation. ©2016 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  15. 10 CFR 20.1301 - Dose limits for individual members of the public.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... Section 20.1301 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIATION Radiation..., exclusive of the dose contributions from background radiation, from any medical administration the....75, to receive a radiation dose greater than 0.1 rem (1 mSv) if— (1) The radiation dose received does...

  16. 10 CFR 20.1301 - Dose limits for individual members of the public.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... Section 20.1301 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIATION Radiation..., exclusive of the dose contributions from background radiation, from any medical administration the....75, to receive a radiation dose greater than 0.1 rem (1 mSv) if— (1) The radiation dose received does...

  17. 10 CFR 20.1301 - Dose limits for individual members of the public.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... Section 20.1301 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIATION Radiation..., exclusive of the dose contributions from background radiation, from any medical administration the....75, to receive a radiation dose greater than 0.1 rem (1 mSv) if— (1) The radiation dose received does...

  18. 10 CFR 20.1301 - Dose limits for individual members of the public.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... Section 20.1301 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIATION Radiation..., exclusive of the dose contributions from background radiation, from any medical administration the....75, to receive a radiation dose greater than 0.1 rem (1 mSv) if— (1) The radiation dose received does...

  19. 10 CFR 20.1301 - Dose limits for individual members of the public.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... Section 20.1301 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIATION Radiation..., exclusive of the dose contributions from background radiation, from any medical administration the....75, to receive a radiation dose greater than 0.1 rem (1 mSv) if— (1) The radiation dose received does...

  20. Did augmenting the VERB campaign advertising in select communities have an effect on awareness, attitudes, and physical activity?

    PubMed

    Berkowitz, Judy M; Huhman, Marian; Nolin, Mary Jo

    2008-06-01

    Although VERB was designed as a national media campaign, funding and donated media time enabled more-intensive advertising and marketing in certain communities. To investigate the effect of increased advertising on physical activity outcomes, six "high-dose" communities were selected to receive more hours of advertising and additional promotional activities. Longitudinal quasi-experimental design comparing outcomes in six communities that received additional VERB marketing activities with outcomes in a comparison group that received only the national dose of advertising. Two cohorts of dyads of youth aged 9-13 years (tweens) and one parent at baseline (2002), followed for 2 years. During the first year of the VERB campaign, each of the six high-dose communities received 50% more advertising and conducted special campaign activities. During the second year, only four of the six communities received the larger dose of advertising and additional promotional activities because of reduced funding. Awareness and understanding of VERB messages; attitudes about physical activity (self-efficacy, social influences, and outcome expectations); and physical activity behaviors. After 1 year, tweens in the high-dose communities reported higher levels of awareness and understanding of VERB and scored higher on the social influences scale than did tweens in a comparison group in areas that received only the national dose of advertising. After 2 years, tweens in the high-dose communities reported higher awareness and understanding of VERB, greater self-efficacy, more sessions of free-time physical activity per week, and were more active on the day before being surveyed than tweens in the comparison group who received the average national dose. Providing communities with a higher dose of marketing activities and sustaining those activities over time yields more positive outcomes.

  1. Preliminary evaluation of safety and activity of recombinant human interleukin 11 in patients with active Crohn's disease.

    PubMed

    Sands, B E; Bank, S; Sninsky, C A; Robinson, M; Katz, S; Singleton, J W; Miner, P B; Safdi, M A; Galandiuk, S; Hanauer, S B; Varilek, G W; Buchman, A L; Rodgers, V D; Salzberg, B; Cai, B; Loewy, J; DeBruin, M F; Rogge, H; Shapiro, M; Schwertschlag, U S

    1999-07-01

    Recombinant human interleukin 11 (rhIL-11) is a cytokine with thrombocytopoietic activity and anti-inflammatory and mucosal protective effects. The objectives of this study were to investigate the safety and tolerability of rhIL-11 in patients with Crohn's disease and to explore the effects of dose and schedule on platelet count and Crohn's disease activity. A multicenter, double-masked, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation study of 76 patients with active Crohn's disease was performed. Patients were randomized to receive subcutaneous placebo or rhIL-11 at doses of 5, 16, or 40 microgram. kg-1. wk-1 given 2 or 5 times weekly for 3 weeks. Clinical and laboratory safety data were recorded, and disease activity was measured at each visit. Subcutaneous injection of rhIL-11 generally was well tolerated. Significantly greater increases in platelet counts were found among patients receiving rhIL-11 40 microgram. kg-1. wk-1 as 2 or 5 weekly doses and 16 microgram. kg-1. week-1 as 5 weekly doses compared with patients receiving placebo (P < 0.05). Patients receiving 16 microgram. kg-1. wk-1 had the highest clinical response rates, with a response seen in 42% of patients (5/12) receiving 5 weekly doses and 33% of patients (4/12) receiving 2 weekly doses, compared with 7% of patients (1/15) receiving placebo. Short-term treatment with rhIL-11 is well tolerated in patients with active Crohn's disease. The thrombocytopoietic effect of rhIL-11 seems to be both dose and schedule dependent and may be minimized with retained clinical benefit in Crohn's disease at 16 microgram. kg-1. wk-1 given in 2 equal doses.

  2. Prediction of Drug-Drug Interactions with Crizotinib as the CYP3A Substrate Using a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model.

    PubMed

    Yamazaki, Shinji; Johnson, Theodore R; Smith, Bill J

    2015-10-01

    An orally available multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, crizotinib (Xalkori), is a CYP3A substrate, moderate time-dependent inhibitor, and weak inducer. The main objectives of the present study were to: 1) develop and refine a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of crizotinib on the basis of clinical single- and multiple-dose results, 2) verify the crizotinib PBPK model from crizotinib single-dose drug-drug interaction (DDI) results with multiple-dose coadministration of ketoconazole or rifampin, and 3) apply the crizotinib PBPK model to predict crizotinib multiple-dose DDI outcomes. We also focused on gaining insights into the underlying mechanisms mediating crizotinib DDIs using a dynamic PBPK model, the Simcyp population-based simulator. First, PBPK model-predicted crizotinib exposures adequately matched clinically observed results in the single- and multiple-dose studies. Second, the model-predicted crizotinib exposures sufficiently matched clinically observed results in the crizotinib single-dose DDI studies with ketoconazole or rifampin, resulting in the reasonably predicted fold-increases in crizotinib exposures. Finally, the predicted fold-increases in crizotinib exposures in the multiple-dose DDI studies were roughly comparable to those in the single-dose DDI studies, suggesting that the effects of crizotinib CYP3A time-dependent inhibition (net inhibition) on the multiple-dose DDI outcomes would be negligible. Therefore, crizotinib dose-adjustment in the multiple-dose DDI studies could be made on the basis of currently available single-dose results. Overall, we believe that the crizotinib PBPK model developed, refined, and verified in the present study would adequately predict crizotinib oral exposures in other clinical studies, such as DDIs with weak/moderate CYP3A inhibitors/inducers and drug-disease interactions in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Copyright © 2015 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

  3. Furosemide Prescription During the Dry State Is a Predictor of Long-Term Survival of Stable, Optimally Medicated Patients With Systolic Heart Failure.

    PubMed

    Sargento, Luis; Simões, Andre Vicente; Longo, Susana; Lousada, Nuno; Reis, Roberto Palma Dos

    2017-05-01

    Furosemide is associated with poor prognosis in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). To evaluate the association between daily furosemide dose prescribed during the dry state and long-term survival in stable, optimally medicated outpatients with HFrEF. Two hundred sixty-six consecutive outpatients with left ventricular ejection fraction <40%, clinically stable in the dry state and on optimal heart failure therapy, were followed up for 3 years in a heart failure unit. The end point was all-cause death. There were no changes in New York Heart Association class and therapeutics, including diuretics, and no decompensation or hospitalization during 6 months. Furosemide doses were categorized as low or none (0-40 mg/d), intermediate (41-80 mg/d), and high (>80 mg). Cox regression was adjusted for significant confounders. The 3-year mortality rate was 33.8%. Mean dose of furosemide was 57.3 ± 21.4 mg/d. A total of 47.6% of patients received the low dose, 42.1% the intermediate dose, and 2.3% the high dose. Receiver operating characteristics for death associated with furosemide dose showed an area under the curve of 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68-0.79; P < .001), and the best cutoff was >40 mg/d. An increasing daily dose of furosemide was associated with worse prognosis. Those receiving the intermediate dose (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.1; 95% CI: 2.57-6.64; P < .001) or high dose (HR = 19.8; 95% CI: 7.9-49.6; P < .001) had a higher risk of mortality compared to those receiving a low dose. Patients receiving >40 mg/d, in a propensity score-matched cohort, had a greater risk of mortality than those receiving a low dose (HR = 4.02; 95% CI: 1.8-8.8; P = .001) and those not receiving furosemide (HR = 3.9; 95% CI: 0.07-14.2; P = .039). Furosemide administration during the dry state in stable, optimally medicated outpatients with HFrEF is unfavorably associated with long-term survival. The threshold dose was 40 mg/d.

  4. Immunogenicity of 2 doses of HPV vaccine in younger adolescents vs 3 doses in young women: a randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Dobson, Simon R M; McNeil, Shelly; Dionne, Marc; Dawar, Meena; Ogilvie, Gina; Krajden, Mel; Sauvageau, Chantal; Scheifele, David W; Kollmann, Tobias R; Halperin, Scott A; Langley, Joanne M; Bettinger, Julie A; Singer, Joel; Money, Deborah; Miller, Dianne; Naus, Monika; Marra, Fawziah; Young, Eric

    2013-05-01

    Global use of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines to prevent cervical cancer is impeded by cost. A 2-dose schedule for girls may be possible. To determine whether mean antibody levels to HPV-16 and HPV-18 among girls receiving 2 doses was noninferior to women receiving 3 doses. Randomized, phase 3, postlicensure, multicenter, age-stratified, noninferiority immunogenicity study of 830 Canadian females from August 2007 through February 2011. Follow-up blood samples were provided by 675 participants (81%). Girls (9-13 years) were randomized 1:1 to receive 3 doses of quadrivalent HPV vaccine at 0, 2, and 6 months (n = 261) or 2 doses at 0 and 6 months (n = 259). Young women (16-26 years) received 3 doses at 0, 2, and 6 months (n = 310). Antibody levels were measured at 0, 7, 18, 24, and 36 months. Primary outcome was noninferiority (95% CI, lower bound >0.5) of geometric mean titer (GMT) ratios for HPV-16 and HPV-18 for girls (2 doses) compared with young women (3 doses) 1 month after last dose. Secondary outcomes were noninferiority of GMT ratios of girls receiving 2 vs 3 doses of vaccine; and durability of noninferiority to 36 months. The GMT ratios were noninferior for girls (2 doses) to women (3 doses): 2.07 (95% CI, 1.62-2.65) for HPV-16 and 1.76 (95% CI, 1.41-2.19) for HPV-18. Girls (3 doses) had GMT responses 1 month after last vaccination for HPV-16 of 7736 milli-Merck units per mL (mMU/mL) (95% CI, 6651-8999) and HPV-18 of 1730 mMU/mL (95% CI, 1512-1980). The GMT ratios were noninferior for girls (2 doses) to girls (3 doses): 0.95 (95% CI, 0.73-1.23) for HPV-16 and 0.68 (95% CI, 0.54-0.85) for HPV-18. The GMT ratios for girls (2 doses) to women (3 doses) remained noninferior for all genotypes to 36 months. Antibody responses in girls were noninferior after 2 doses vs 3 doses for all 4 vaccine genotypes at month 7, but not for HPV-18 by month 24 or HPV-6 by month 36. Among girls who received 2 doses of HPV vaccine 6 months apart, responses to HPV-16 and HPV-18 one month after the last dose were noninferior to those among young women who received 3 doses of the vaccine within 6 months. Because of the loss of noninferiority to some genotypes at 24 to 36 months in girls given 2 doses vs 3 doses, more data on the duration of protection are needed before reduced-dose schedules can be recommended. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00501137.

  5. Methylene Blue Facilitates Memory Retention in Zebrafish in a Dose-Dependent Manner.

    PubMed

    Echevarria, David J; Caramillo, Erika M; Gonzalez-Lima, Francisco

    2016-12-01

    Methylene blue (MB) is an FDA-grandfathered drug with memory-enhancing effects at low doses, but opposite effects at high doses. We investigated the effects of four MB doses (0.1, 0.5, 5.0, or 10.0 μM) on zebrafish memory retention in the T-maze task. After training fish to swim into a certain arm of the T-maze, the fish were placed into a tank containing one of the four MB doses or a control tank containing blue food dye. Subsequently, fish were placed into the T-maze for memory retention testing. Results indicated that MB produced hormetic dose-response effects on memory. Fish that received the 0.5 μM dose performed significantly better at the T-maze than those that received higher doses. Fish who received 5.0 μM did not exhibit a significant difference in performance from control fish, and the fish that received the 10.0 μM dose performed significantly worse than lower doses. These findings support the utility of zebrafish in comparative research and their potential value for testing of MB and other neuropsychopharmacological treatments in animal models of memory disorders.

  6. Modeling Rabbit Responses to Single and Multiple Aerosol ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    Journal Article Survival models are developed here to predict response and time-to-response for mortality in rabbits following exposures to single or multiple aerosol doses of Bacillus anthracis spores. Hazard function models were developed for a multiple dose dataset to predict the probability of death through specifying dose-response functions and the time between exposure and the time-to-death (TTD). Among the models developed, the best-fitting survival model (baseline model) has an exponential dose-response model with a Weibull TTD distribution. Alternative models assessed employ different underlying dose-response functions and use the assumption that, in a multiple dose scenario, earlier doses affect the hazard functions of each subsequent dose. In addition, published mechanistic models are analyzed and compared with models developed in this paper. None of the alternative models that were assessed provided a statistically significant improvement in fit over the baseline model. The general approach utilizes simple empirical data analysis to develop parsimonious models with limited reliance on mechanistic assumptions. The baseline model predicts TTDs consistent with reported results from three independent high-dose rabbit datasets. More accurate survival models depend upon future development of dose-response datasets specifically designed to assess potential multiple dose effects on response and time-to-response. The process used in this paper to dev

  7. Pharmacokinetics of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, after oral administration of single-dose and multiple-dose.

    PubMed

    Ma, Rongrong; Wang, Yuan; Zou, Xiong; Hu, Kun; Sun, Beibei; Fang, Wenhong; Fu, Guihong; Yang, Xianle

    2017-06-01

    The tissue distribution and depletion of sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) and trimethoprim (TMP) were studied in Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, after single-dose and multiple-dose oral administration of SMZ-TMP (5:1) via medicated feed. In single-dose oral administration, shrimps were fed once at a dose of 100 mg/kg (drug weight/body weight). In multiple-dose oral administration, shrimps were fed three times a day for three consecutive days at a dose of 100mg/kg. The results showed the kinetic characteristic of SMZ was different from TMP in Pacific white shrimp. In the single-dose administration, the SMZ was widely distributed in the tissues, while TMP was highly concentrated in the hepatopancreas. The t 1/2z values of SMZ were larger and persist longer than TMP in Pacific white shrimp. In the multiple-dose administration, SMZ accumulated well in the tissues, and reached steady state level after successive administrations, while TMP did not. TMP concentration even appeared the downward trend with the increase of drug times. Compared with the single dose, the t 1/2z values of SMZ in hepatopancreas (8.22-11.33h) and muscle (6.53-10.92h) of Pacific white shrimps rose, but the haemolymph dropped (13.76-11.03) in the multiple-dose oral administration. Meanwhile, the corresponding values of TMP also rose in hepatopancreas (4.53-9.65h) and muscle (2.12-2.71h), and declined in haemolymph (7.38-5.25h) following single-dose and multiple-dose oral administration in Pacific white shrimps. In addition, it is worth mentioning that the ratios of SMZ and TMP were unusually larger than the general aim ratio. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Escalation to High-Dose Defibrotide in Patients with Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease.

    PubMed

    Triplett, Brandon M; Kuttab, Hani I; Kang, Guolian; Leung, Wing

    2015-12-01

    Hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a serious complication of high-dose chemotherapy regimens, such as those used in hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients. Defibrotide is considered a safe and effective treatment when dosed at 25 mg/kg/day. However, patients who develop VOD still have increased mortality despite the use of defibrotide. Data are limited on the use of doses above 60 mg/kg/day for persistent VOD. In this prospective clinical trial 34 patients received escalating doses of defibrotide. For patients with persistent VOD despite doses of 60 mg/kg/day, doses were increased to a maximum of 110 mg/kg/day. Increased toxicity was not observed until doses rose beyond 100 mg/kg/day. Patients receiving doses between 10 and 100 mg/kg/day experienced an average of 3 bleeding episodes per 100 days of treatment, whereas those receiving doses >100 mg/kg/day experienced 13.2 bleeding episodes per 100 days (P = .008). Moreover, dose reductions due to toxicity were needed at doses of 110 mg/kg/day more often than at lower doses. Defibrotide may be safely escalated to doses well above the current standard without an increase in bleeding risk. However, the efficacy of this dose-escalation strategy remains unclear, because outcomes were similar to published cohorts of patients receiving standard doses of defibrotide for VOD. Copyright © 2015 American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Lenalidomide in multiple myeloma: an evidence-based review of its role in therapy

    PubMed Central

    Richardson, Paul; Mitsiades, Constantine; Laubach, Jacob; Schlossman, Robert; Ghobrial, Irene; Hideshima, Teru; Munshi, Nikhil; Anderson, Kenneth

    2010-01-01

    Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a relatively common and incurable hematological malignancy. Currently, there is no single standard therapy, with choice of treatment dependent on individual patient factors. Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory drug with potent antitumor, antiangiogenic, immunomodulatory, and proapoptotic activity in MM. Aims: To evaluate the evidence for the use of lenalidomide in its current indication in relapsed or refractory MM, and additionally its investigational use for the treatment of newly diagnosed MM. Evidence review: In patients with relapsed and refractory MM, adding lenalidomide to high-dose dexamethasone significantly improves response rates and time-to-progression, relative to high-dose dexamethasone alone. This translates into a significant extension of overall survival (with a median extension of 9.1 months in a pivotal phase III study). Outcome is independent of patient age, number of previous therapies, type of previous therapy (including thalidomide or autologous stem cell transplantation), renal impairment, and β2-microglobulin level. Evidence suggests that combining lenalidomide with low-dose dexamethasone improves outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed disease and is superior to lenalidomide combined with high-dose dexamethasone. Myelosuppression is the predominant toxicity observed, although some studies have shown high incidences of venous thromboembolism in the absence of prophylactic antithrombotic anticoagulation therapy. There is currently only limited evidence regarding the health economics of lenalidomide. Role in therapy: The encouraging results obtained with lenalidomide alone and in combination with dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory MM have led to its adoption as a recommended therapy in patients who have received at least one prior treatment. Emerging evidence supports the ongoing investigation of lenalidomide in combination with low-dose dexamethasone, and in other combinations including bortezomib, for use both in relapsed, refractory, and newly diagnosed MM. PMID:20694078

  10. Results From the Imaging and Radiation Oncology Core Houston's Anthropomorphic Phantoms Used for Proton Therapy Clinical Trial Credentialing

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Taylor, Paige A., E-mail: pataylor@mdanderson.org; Kry, Stephen F.; Alvarez, Paola

    Purpose: The purpose of this study was to summarize the findings of anthropomorphic proton phantom irradiations analyzed by the Imaging and Radiation Oncology Core Houston QA Center (IROC Houston). Methods and Materials: A total of 103 phantoms were irradiated by proton therapy centers participating in clinical trials. The anthropomorphic phantoms simulated heterogeneous anatomy of a head, liver, lung, prostate, and spine. Treatment plans included those for scattered, uniform scanning, and pencil beam scanning beam delivery modalities using 5 different treatment planning systems. For every phantom irradiation, point doses and planar doses were measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD) and film, respectively. Differencesmore » between measured and planned doses were studied as a function of phantom, beam delivery modality, motion, repeat attempt, treatment planning system, and date of irradiation. Results: The phantom pass rate (overall, 79%) was high for simple phantoms and lower for phantoms that introduced higher levels of difficulty, such as motion, multiple targets, or increased heterogeneity. All treatment planning systems overestimated dose to the target, compared to TLD measurements. Errors in range calculation resulted in several failed phantoms. There was no correlation between treatment planning system and pass rate. The pass rates for each individual phantom are not improving over time, but when individual institutions received feedback about failed phantom irradiations, pass rates did improve. Conclusions: The proton phantom pass rates are not as high as desired and emphasize potential deficiencies in proton therapy planning and/or delivery. There are many areas for improvement with the proton phantom irradiations, such as treatment planning system dose agreement, range calculations, accounting for motion, and irradiation of multiple targets.« less

  11. Pharmacokinetics of Oral Combination Contraceptive Drugs Containing Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel in Healthy Female Chinese Volunteers.

    PubMed

    Xin, X; Wu, Y; Liu, X; Sun, C; Geng, T; Ding, L

    2016-02-01

    A new combination contraceptive tablet containing 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol (EE) and 0.10 mg levonorgestrel (LNG) with potential advantages has been developed in China. This study was aimed to describe the pharmacokinetic characteristics of this new combination contraceptive tablet in female Chinese volunteers. This study was designed as phase I, open-label, and one-sequence clinical trial. 12 healthy nonpregnant female Chinese volunteers received a single dose (1 tablet) and multiple dose (1 tablet per day) administration for 21 consecutive days under fasting condition. Blood samples were analyzed with 2 validated LC-MS/MS methods for EE and LNG, respectively. After the single dose administration, the C max of EE and LNG were 44.76±18.64 pg/mL and 2.256±1.008 ng/mL, respectively. The steady-state condition of EE was achieved on the 6(th) day after the beginning of the multiple dose administration, while the steady-state condition of LNG was achieved on the 21(st) day. For EE, the mean MRT 0-72 and t 1/2 increased by 40.2 and 30.6%, meanwhile the mean Cl/F and Vd/F decreased by 18.5 and 29.1%, respectively from Day 1 to Day 24. For LNG, the mean MRT 0-72 increased by 27.1%, while the mean Cl/F and Vd/F decreased by 62.4 and 86.3%, respectively from Day 1 to Day 24. The t 1/2 remained unchanged for LNG. The exposure of LNG significantly increased with repeated dosing, but that of EE just slightly increased. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  12. CD206-Targeted Liposomal Myelin Basic Protein Peptides in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Resistant to First-Line Disease-Modifying Therapies: A First-in-Human, Proof-of-Concept Dose-Escalation Study.

    PubMed

    Belogurov, Alexey; Zakharov, Konstantin; Lomakin, Yakov; Surkov, Kirill; Avtushenko, Sergey; Kruglyakov, Peter; Smirnov, Ivan; Makshakov, Gleb; Lockshin, Curtis; Gregoriadis, Gregory; Genkin, Dmitry; Gabibov, Alexander; Evdoshenko, Evgeniy

    2016-10-01

    Previously, we showed that CD206-targeted liposomal delivery of co-encapsulated immunodominant myelin basic protein (MBP) sequences MBP 46-62 , MBP 124-139 and MBP 147-170 (Xemys) suppressed experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in dark Agouti rats. The objective of this study was to assess the safety of Xemys in the treatment of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) and secondary progressive MS, who failed to achieve a sustained response to first-line disease-modifying therapies. In this phase I, open-label, dose-escalating, proof-of-concept study, 20 patients with relapsing-remitting or secondary progressive MS received weekly subcutaneously injections with ascending doses of Xemys up to a total dose of 2.675 mg. Clinical examinations, including Expanded Disability Status Scale score, magnetic resonance imaging results, and serum cytokine concentrations, were assessed before the first injection and for up to 17 weeks after the final injection. Xemys was safe and well tolerated when administered for 6 weeks to a maximum single dose of 900 μg. Expanded Disability Status Scale scores and numbers of T2-weighted and new gadolinium-enhancing lesions on magnetic resonance imaging were statistically unchanged at study exit compared with baseline; nonetheless, the increase of number of active gadolinium-enhancing lesions on weeks 7 and 10 in comparison with baseline was statistically significant. During treatment, the serum concentrations of the cytokines monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, macrophage inflammatory protein-1β, and interleukin-7 decreased, whereas the level of tumor necrosis factor-α increased. These results provide evidence for the further development of Xemys as an antigen-specific, disease-modifying therapy for patients with MS.

  13. Human psychopharmacology of N,N-dimethyltryptamine.

    PubMed

    Strassman, R J

    1996-01-01

    We generated dose-response data for the endogenous and ultra-short-acting hallucinogen, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), in a cohort of experienced hallucinogen users, measuring multiple biological and psychological outcome measures. Subjective responses were quantified with a new rating scale, the HRS, which provided better resolution of dose effects than did the biological variables. A tolerance study then was performed, in which volunteers received four closely spaced hallucinogenic doses of DMT. Subjective responses demonstrated no tolerance, while biological measures were inconsistently reduced over the course of the sessions. Thus, DMT remains unique among classic hallucinogens in its inability to induce tolerance to its psychological effects. To assess the role of the 5-HT1A site in mediating DMT's effects, a pindolol pre-treatment study was performed. Pindolol significantly increased psychological responses to DMT, suggesting a buffering effect of 5-HT1A agonism on 5-HT2-mediated psychedelic effects. These data are opposite to those described in lower animal models of hallucinogens' mechanisms of action.

  14. Developing better mouse models to study cisplatin-induced kidney injury.

    PubMed

    Sharp, Cierra N; Siskind, Leah J

    2017-10-01

    Cisplatin is a potent chemotherapeutic used for the treatment of many types of cancer. However, its dose-limiting side effect is nephrotoxicity leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). Patients who develop AKI have an increased risk of mortality and are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease (CKD). Unfortunately, there are no therapeutic interventions for the treatment of AKI. It has been suggested that the lack of therapies is due in part to the fact that the established mouse model used to study cisplatin-induced AKI does not recapitulate the cisplatin dosing regimen patients receive. In recent years, work has been done to develop more clinically relevant models of cisplatin-induced kidney injury, with much work focusing on incorporation of multiple low doses of cisplatin administered over a period of weeks. These models can be used to recapitulate the development of CKD after AKI and, by doing so, increase the likelihood of identifying novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of cisplatin-induced kidney injury. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

  15. Efficacy of fewer than three doses of an HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine: combined analysis of data from the Costa Rica Vaccine and PATRICIA Trials.

    PubMed

    Kreimer, Aimée R; Struyf, Frank; Del Rosario-Raymundo, Maria Rowena; Hildesheim, Allan; Skinner, S Rachel; Wacholder, Sholom; Garland, Suzanne M; Herrero, Rolando; David, Marie-Pierre; Wheeler, Cosette M; González, Paula; Jiménez, Silvia; Lowy, Douglas R; Pinto, Ligia A; Porras, Caroline; Rodriguez, Ana Cecilia; Safaeian, Mahboobeh; Schiffman, Mark; Schiller, John T; Schussler, John; Sherman, Mark E; Bosch, F Xavier; Castellsague, Xavier; Chatterjee, Archana; Chow, Song-Nan; Descamps, Dominique; Diaz-Mitoma, Francisco; Dubin, Gary; Germar, Maria Julieta; Harper, Diane M; Lewis, David J M; Limson, Genara; Naud, Paulo; Peters, Klaus; Poppe, Willy A J; Ramjattan, Brian; Romanowski, Barbara; Salmeron, Jorge; Schwarz, Tino F; Teixeira, Julio C; Tjalma, Wiebren A A

    2015-07-01

    There is some evidence to suggest that one or two doses of the HPV vaccine provides similar protection to the three-dose regimen. The main aim of the study was to ascertain HPV-16/18 vaccine efficacy in both full and naive cohorts and to explore protection conferred against non-vaccine HPV types, by number of doses received. Summary data from the Costa Rica Vaccine Trial (CVT; NCT00128661) and ~the PATRICIA trial (NCT001226810), two phase 3, double-blind, randomised controlled clinical trials of the HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine in young women, were combined in a post-hoc analysis (GlaxoSmithKline [GSK] e-track number 202142) to investigate the efficacy of fewer than three doses of the HPV-16/18 vaccine after 4 years of follow-up. Women were randomly assigned to receive three doses of the HPV-16/18 vaccine or to a control vaccine; yet, some received fewer doses. After exclusion of women with less than 12 months of follow-up or those who were HPV-16/18 DNA-positive at enrolment (for the HPV-16/18 endpoint), we calculated vaccine efficacy against one-time detection of incident HPV infections after three, two, and one dose(s). The primary study endpoint was one-time detection of first incident HPV-16/18 infections accumulated during the follow-up phase. We assessed vaccine efficacy against incident HPV-16/18 infection in the modified total vaccinated cohort (22 327 received three doses, 1185 two doses, 543 one dose). Vaccine efficacy against incident HPV-16/18 infections for three doses was 77·0% (95% CI 74·7-79·1), two doses was 76·0% (62·0-85·3), and one dose was 85·7% (70·7-93·7). Vaccine efficacy against incident HPV-31/33/45 infections for three doses was 59·7% (56·0-63·0), two doses was 37·7% (12·4-55·9), and one dose was 36·6% (-5·4 to 62·2). Vaccine efficacy against incident HPV-16/18 infection for two-dose women who received their second dose at 1 month was 75·3% (54·2-87·5) and 82·6% (42·3-96·1) for those who received the second dose at 6 months (CVT data only). Vaccine efficacy against HPV-31/33/45 for two-dose women who received their second dose at 6 months (68·1%, 27·0-87·0; CVT data only), but not those receiving it at one month (10·1%, -42·0 to 43·3), was similar to the three-dose group. 4 years after vaccination of women aged 15-25 years, one and two doses of the HPV-16/18 vaccine seem to protect against cervical HPV-16/18 infections, similar to the protection provided by the three-dose schedule. Two doses separated by 6 months additionally provided some cross-protection. These data argue for a direct assessment of one-dose efficacy of the HPV-16/18 vaccine. US National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Office of Research on Women's Health, and Ministry of Health of Costa Rica (CVT); GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA (PATRICIA). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Occupational radiation doses during interventional procedures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nuraeni, N.; Hiswara, E.; Kartikasari, D.; Waris, A.; Haryanto, F.

    2016-03-01

    Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is a type of fluoroscopy technique used in interventional radiology to clearly visualize blood vessels in a bony or dense soft tissue environment. The use of DSA procedures has been increased quite significantly in the Radiology departments in various cities in Indonesia. Various reports showed that both patients and medical staff received a noticeable radiation dose during the course of this procedure. A study had been carried out to measure these doses among interventionalist, nurse and radiographer. The results show that the interventionalist and the nurse, who stood quite close to the X-ray beams compared with the radiographer, received radiation higher than the others. The results also showed that the radiation dose received by medical staff were var depending upon the duration and their position against the X-ray beams. Compared tothe dose limits, however, the radiation dose received by all these three medical staff were still lower than the limits.

  17. Lung cancer induced in hamsters by low doses of alpha radiation from polonium-210.

    PubMed

    Little, J B; Kennedy, A R; McGandy, R B

    1975-05-16

    Lung cancers have been induced in 9 to 53 percent of hamsters given multiple intratracheal instillations of polonium-210 in amounts yielding lifetime exposures of 15 to 300 rads to the lungs. Cigarette smokers have previously been estimated to receive 20 rads to areas of the bronchial epithelium from deposited polonium-210. This finding thus supports the hypothesis that alpha radiation resulting from the polonium-210 or lead-210 present in cigarette smoke may be a significant causative factor in human lung cancer.

  18. 800-MeV magnetic-focused flash proton radiography for high-contrast imaging of low-density biologically-relevant targets using an inverse-scatter collimator

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Freeman, Matthew S.; Allison, Jason; Espinoza, Camilo; Goett, John Jerome; Hogan, Gary; Hollander, Brian; Kwiatkowski, Kris; Lopez, Julian; Mariam, Fesseha; Martinez, Michael; Medina, Jason; Medina, Patrick; Merrill, Frank E.; Morley, Deborah; Morris, Chris; Murray, Matthew; Nedrow, Paul; Saunders, Alexander; Schurman, Tamsen; Sisneros, Thomas; Tainter, Amy; Trouw, Frans; Tupa, Dale; Tybo, Josh; Wilde, Carl

    2016-03-01

    Proton radiography shows great promise as a tool to guide proton beam therapy (PBT) in real time. Here, we demonstrate two ways in which the technology may progress towards that goal. Firstly, with a proton beam that is 800 MeV in energy, target tissue receives a dose of radiation with very tight lateral constraint. This could present a benefit over the traditional treatment energies of ~200 MeV, where up to 1 cm of lateral tissue receives scattered radiation at the target. At 800 MeV, the beam travels completely through the object with minimal deflection, thus constraining lateral dose to a smaller area. The second novelty of this system is the utilization of magnetic quadrupole refocusing lenses that mitigate the blur caused by multiple Coulomb scattering within an object, enabling high resolution imaging of thick objects, such as the human body. This system is demonstrated on ex vivo salamander and zebrafish specimens, as well as on a realistic hand phantom. The resulting images provide contrast sufficient to visualize thin tissue, as well as fine detail within the target volumes, and the ability to measure small changes in density. Such a system, combined with PBT, would enable the delivery of a highly specific dose of radiation that is monitored and guided in real time.

  19. Immune Serum From Sabin Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine Immunization Neutralizes Multiple Individual Wild and Vaccine-Derived Polioviruses.

    PubMed

    Sun, Mingbo; Li, Changgui; Xu, Wenbo; Liao, Guoyang; Li, Rongcheng; Zhou, Jian; Li, Yanping; Cai, Wei; Yan, Dongmei; Che, Yanchun; Ying, Zhifang; Wang, Jianfeng; Yang, Huijuan; Ma, Yan; Ma, Lei; Ji, Guang; Shi, Li; Jiang, Shude; Li, Qihan

    2017-05-15

    A Sabin strain-based inactivated poliomyelitis vaccine (Sabin-IPV) is the rational option for completely eradicating poliovirus transmission. The neutralizing capacity of Sabin-IPV immune serum to different strains of poliovirus is a key indicator of the clinical protective efficacy of this vaccine. Sera collected from 500 infants enrolled in a randomized, blinded, positive control, phase 2 clinical trial were randomly divided into 5 groups: Groups A, B, and C received high, medium, and low doses, respectively, of Sabin-IPV, while groups D and E received trivalent oral polio vaccine and Salk strain-based IPV, respectively, all on the same schedule. Immune sera were collected after the third dose of primary immunization, and tested in cross-neutralization assays against 19 poliovirus strains of all 3 types. All immune sera from all 5 groups interacted with the 19 poliovirus strains with various titers and in a dose-dependent manner. One type 2 immunodeficiency-associated vaccine-derived poliovirus strain was not recognized by these immune sera. Sabin-IPV vaccine can induce protective antibodies against currently circulating and reference wild poliovirus strains and most vaccine-derived poliovirus strains, with rare exceptions. NCT01056705. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press for the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  20. Immunostimulatory AdCD40L gene therapy combined with low-dose cyclophosphamide in metastatic melanoma patients

    PubMed Central

    Loskog, Angelica; Maleka, Aglaia; Mangsbo, Sara; Svensson, Emma; Lundberg, Christina; Nilsson, Anders; Krause, Johan; Agnarsdóttir, Margrét; Sundin, Anders; Ahlström, Håkan; Tötterman, Thomas H; Ullenhag, Gustav

    2016-01-01

    Background: Current approaches for treating metastatic malignant melanoma (MM) are not effective enough and are associated with serious adverse events. Due to its immunogenicity, melanoma is an attractive target for immunostimulating therapy. In this phase I/IIa study, local AdCD40L immunostimulatory gene therapy was evaluated in patients with MM. Methods: AdCD40L is an adenovirus carrying the gene for CD40 ligand. Patients that failed standard treatments were enrolled. Six patients received four weekly intratumoral AdCD40L injections. Next, nine patients received low-dose cyclophosphamide conditioning before the first and fourth AdCD40L injection. The blood samples were collected at multiple time points for chemistry, haematology and immunology evaluations. Radiology was performed at enrolment and repeated twice after the treatment. Results: AdCD40L was safe with mild transient reactions. No objective responses were recorded by MRI, however, local and distant responses were seen on FDG-PET. The overall survival at 6 months was significantly better when cyclophosphamide was added to AdCD40L. The patients with the best survival developed the highest levels of activated T cells and experienced a pronounced decrease of intratumoral IL8. Conclusions: AdCD40L therapy for MM was well tolerated. Local and distant responses along with better survival in the low-dose cyclophosphamide group are encouraging. PMID:27031851

  1. Epstein-Barr virus-associated posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder after high-dose immunosuppressive therapy and autologous CD34-selected hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for severe autoimmune diseases.

    PubMed

    Nash, Richard A; Dansey, Roger; Storek, Jan; Georges, George E; Bowen, James D; Holmberg, Leona A; Kraft, George H; Mayes, Maureen D; McDonagh, Kevin T; Chen, Chien-Shing; Dipersio, John; Lemaistre, C Fred; Pavletic, Steven; Sullivan, Keith M; Sunderhaus, Julie; Furst, Daniel E; McSweeney, Peter A

    2003-09-01

    High-dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is currently being evaluated for the control of severe autoimmune diseases. The addition of antithymocyte globulin (ATG) to high-dose chemoradiotherapy in the high-dose immunosuppressive therapy regimen and CD34 selection of the autologous graft may induce a higher degree of immunosuppression compared with conventional autologous HSCT for malignant diseases. Patients may be at higher risk of transplant-related complications secondary to the immunosuppressed state, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD), but this is an unusual complication after autologous HSCT. Fifty-six patients (median age, 42 years; range, 23-61 years) with either multiple sclerosis (n = 26) or systemic sclerosis (n = 30) have been treated. The median follow-up has been 24 months (range, 2-60 months). Two patients (multiple sclerosis, n = 1; systemic sclerosis, n = 1) had significant reactivations of herpesvirus infections early after HSCT and then developed aggressive EBV-PTLD and died on days +53 and +64. Multiorgan clonal B-cell infiltrates that were EBV positive by molecular studies or immunohistology were identified at both autopsies. Both patients had positive screening skin tests for equine ATG (Atgam) and had been converted to rabbit ATG (Thymoglobulin) from the first dose. Of the other 54 patients, 2 of whom had partial courses of rabbit ATG because of a reaction to the intravenous infusion of equine ATG, only 1 patient had a significant clinical reactivation of a herpesvirus infection (herpes simplex virus 2) early after HSCT, and none developed EBV-PTLD. The T-cell count in the peripheral blood on day 28 was 0/microL in all 4 patients who received rabbit ATG; this was significantly less than in patients who received equine ATG (median, 174/microL; P =.001; Mann-Whitney ranked sum test). Although the numbers are limited, the time course and similarity of the 2 cases of EBV-PTLD and the effect on day 28 T-cell counts support a relationship between the development of EBV-PTLD and the administration of rabbit ATG. The differences between equine and rabbit ATG are not yet clearly defined, and they should not be considered interchangeable in this regimen without further study.

  2. Placebo-controlled pilot trial testing dose titration and intravenous, intramuscular and subcutaneous routes for ketamine in depression.

    PubMed

    Loo, C K; Gálvez, V; O'Keefe, E; Mitchell, P B; Hadzi-Pavlovic, D; Leyden, J; Harper, S; Somogyi, A A; Lai, R; Weickert, C S; Glue, P

    2016-07-01

    This pilot study assessed the feasibility, efficacy and safety of an individual dose-titration approach, and of the intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM) and subcutaneous (SC) routes for treating depression with ketamine. Fifteen treatment-refractory depressed participants received ketamine or midazolam (control treatment) in a multiple crossover, double-blind study. Ketamine was administered by IV (n = 4), IM (n = 5) or SC (n = 6) injection. Dose titration commenced at 0.1 mg/kg, increasing by 0.1 mg/kg up to 0.5 mg/kg, given in separate treatment sessions separated by ≥1 week, with one placebo control treatment randomly inserted. Mood, psychotomimetic and hemodynamic effects were assessed and plasma ketamine concentrations assayed. Twelve participants achieved response and remission criteria, achieved at doses as low as 0.1 mg/kg. All three routes of administration resulted in comparable antidepressant effects. Fewest adverse effects were noted with the SC route. Antidepressant response, adverse effects and ketamine concentrations were dose-related. Antidepressant response occurred at a range of doses and at <0.5 mg/kg. The dose-titration approach is a practical method for optimizing the efficacy - side-effects trade-off on an individual patient basis. This pilot study provides preliminary evidence for SC injection as a practical, feasible and efficacious treatment approach. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  3. Increasing Use of Dose-Escalated External Beam Radiation Therapy for Men With Nonmetastatic Prostate Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Swisher-McClure, Samuel, E-mail: Swisher-Mcclure@uphs.upenn.edu; Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Mitra, Nandita

    Purpose: To examine recent practice patterns, using a large national cancer registry, to understand the extent to which dose-escalated external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) has been incorporated into routine clinical practice for men with prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study using the National Cancer Data Base, a nationwide oncology outcomes database in the United States. We identified 98,755 men diagnosed with nonmetastatic prostate cancer between 2006 and 2011 who received definitive EBRT and classified patients into National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk groups. We defined dose-escalated EBRT as total prescribed dose of ≥75.6 Gy. Usingmore » multivariable logistic regression, we examined the association of patient, clinical, and demographic characteristics with the use of dose-escalated EBRT. Results: Overall, 81.6% of men received dose-escalated EBRT during the study period. The use of dose-escalated EBRT did not vary substantially by NCCN risk group. Use of dose-escalated EBRT increased from 70.7% of patients receiving treatment in 2006 to 89.8% of patients receiving treatment in 2011. On multivariable analysis, year of diagnosis and use of intensity modulated radiation therapy were significantly associated with receipt of dose-escalated EBRT. Conclusions: Our study results indicate that dose-escalated EBRT has been widely adopted by radiation oncologists treating prostate cancer in the United States. The proportion of patients receiving dose-escalated EBRT increased nearly 20% between 2006 and 2011. We observed high utilization rates of dose-escalated EBRT within all disease risk groups. Adoption of intensity modulated radiation therapy was strongly associated with use of dose-escalated treatment.« less

  4. Impact of multiple-dose versus single-dose inhaler devices on COPD patients’ persistence with long-acting β2-agonists: a dispensing database analysis

    PubMed Central

    van Boven, Job FM; van Raaij, Joost J; van der Galiën, Ruben; Postma, Maarten J; van der Molen, Thys; Dekhuijzen, PN Richard; Vegter, Stefan

    2014-01-01

    Background: With a growing availability of different devices and types of medication, additional evidence is required to assist clinicians in prescribing the optimal medication in relation to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients’ persistence with long-acting β2-agonists (LABAs). Aims: To assess the impact of the type of inhaler device (multiple-dose versus single-dose inhalers) on 1-year persistence and switching patterns with LABAs. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study was performed comparing a cohort of patients initiating multiple-dose inhalers and a cohort initiating single-dose inhalers. The study population consisted of long-acting bronchodilator naive COPD patients, initiating inhalation therapy with mono-LABAs (formoterol, indacaterol or salmeterol). Analyses were performed using pharmacy dispensing data from 1994 to 2012, obtained from the IADB.nl database. Study outcomes were 1-year persistence and switching patterns. Results were adjusted for initial prescriber, initial medication, dosing regimen and relevant comorbidities. Results: In all, 575 patients initiating LABAs were included in the final study cohort. Among them, 475 (83%) initiated a multiple-dose inhaler and 100 (17%) a single-dose inhaler. Further, 269 (47%) initiated formoterol, 9 (2%) indacaterol and 297 (52%) salmeterol. There was no significant difference in persistence between users of multiple-dose or single-dose inhalers (hazard ratio: 0.98, 95% confidence interval: 0.76–1.26, P=0.99). Over 80% re-started or switched medication. Conclusions: There seems no impact of inhaler device (multiple-dose versus single-dose inhalers) on COPD patients’ persistence with LABAs. Over 80% of patients who initially seemed to discontinue LABAs, re-started their initial medication or switched inhalers or medication within 1 year. PMID:25274453

  5. A dose-finding and safety study of novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein (NESP) for the treatment of anaemia in patients receiving multicycle chemotherapy

    PubMed Central

    Glaspy, J; Jadeja, J Singh; Justice, G; Kessler, J; Richards, D; Schwartzberg, L; Rigas, J; Kuter, D; Harmon, D; Prow, D; Demetri, G; Gordon, D; Arseneau, J; Saven, A; Hynes, H; Boccia, R; O'Byrne, J; Colowick, A B

    2001-01-01

    Darbepoetin alfa is a novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein (NESP), which stimulates erythropoiesis by the same mechanism as recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO). NESP has been shown to be safe and efficacious in patients with chronic renal failure. NESP is biochemically distinct from rHuEPO, due to its increased sialic acid content. NESP has an approximately 3-fold greater half-life. rHuEPO has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced anaemia. This study assessed the safety and efficacy of NESP administered once per week, under the supervision of a physician, to patients with solid tumours who were receiving multicycle chemotherapy for up to 12 weeks. Three dose cohorts are presented in this sequential, unblinded and dose-escalating study. Thirteen to 59 patients received NESP (0.5, 1.5 or 2.25 mcg kg−1wk−1) in each cohort. Patients were monitored for adverse events, including antibody formation to NESP and for effects on haemoglobin. NESP appeared to be well tolerated. Adverse events were similar across all cohorts and were consistent with the population being studied. No antibody formation was detected over the 16-week study period and follow-up. A dose–response relationship was evident for NESP and multiple measures of efficacy, including proportion of patients responding to NESP and the mean change in haemoglobin by week 4 and end of treatment for NESP 0.5, 1.5 and 2.25 mcg kg−1wk−1cohorts (mean change in haemoglobin at end of treatment was 1.24, 1.73 and 2.15 g dl−1respectively). Controlled studies of this agent at higher doses and less frequent schedules of administration are ongoing. © 2001 Cance Cancer Research Campaign PMID:11308270

  6. Comparison of Radiation-Induced Normal Lung Tissue Density Changes for Patients From Multiple Institutions Receiving Conventional or Hypofractionated Treatments

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Diot, Quentin, E-mail: quentin.diot@ucdenver.edu; Marks, Lawrence B.; Bentzen, Soren M.

    Purpose: To quantitatively assess changes in computed tomography (CT)–defined normal lung tissue density after conventional and hypofractionated radiation therapy (RT). Methods and Materials: The pre-RT and post-RT CT scans from 118 and 111 patients receiving conventional and hypofractionated RT, respectively, at 3 institutions were registered to each other and to the 3-dimensional dose distribution to quantify dose-dependent changes in normal lung tissue density. Dose-response curves (DRC) for groups of patients receiving conventional and hypofractionated RT were generated for each institution, and the frequency of density changes >80 Hounsfield Units (HU) was modeled depending on the fractionation type using a Probitmore » model for different follow-up times. Results: For the pooled data from all institutions, there were significant differences in the DRC between the conventional and hypofractionated groups; the respective doses resulting in 50% complication risk (TD{sub 50}) were 62 Gy (95% confidence interval [CI] 57-67) versus 36 Gy (CI 33-39) at <6 months, 48 Gy (CI 46-51) versus 31 Gy (CI 28-33) at 6-12 months, and 47 Gy (CI 45-49) versus 35 Gy (32-37) at >12 months. The corresponding m values (slope of the DRC) were 0.52 (CI 0.46-0.59) versus 0.31 (CI 0.28-0.34) at <6 months, 0.46 (CI 0.42-0.51) versus 0.30 (CI 0.26-0.34) at 6-12 months, and 0.45 (CI 0.42-0.50) versus 0.31 (CI 0.27-0.35) at >12 months (P<.05 for all comparisons). Conclusion: Compared with conventional fractionation, hypofractionation has a lower TD{sub 50} and m value, both suggesting an increased degree of normal tissue density sensitivity with hypofractionation.« less

  7. SU-F-R-44: Modeling Lung SBRT Tumor Response Using Bayesian Network Averaging

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Diamant, A; Ybarra, N; Seuntjens, J

    2016-06-15

    Purpose: The prediction of tumor control after a patient receives lung SBRT (stereotactic body radiation therapy) has proven to be challenging, due to the complex interactions between an individual’s biology and dose-volume metrics. Many of these variables have predictive power when combined, a feature that we exploit using a graph modeling approach based on Bayesian networks. This provides a probabilistic framework that allows for accurate and visually intuitive predictive modeling. The aim of this study is to uncover possible interactions between an individual patient’s characteristics and generate a robust model capable of predicting said patient’s treatment outcome. Methods: We investigatedmore » a cohort of 32 prospective patients from multiple institutions whom had received curative SBRT to the lung. The number of patients exhibiting tumor failure was observed to be 7 (event rate of 22%). The serum concentration of 5 biomarkers previously associated with NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) was measured pre-treatment. A total of 21 variables were analyzed including: dose-volume metrics with BED (biologically effective dose) correction and clinical variables. A Markov Chain Monte Carlo technique estimated the posterior probability distribution of the potential graphical structures. The probability of tumor failure was then estimated by averaging the top 100 graphs and applying Baye’s rule. Results: The optimal Bayesian model generated throughout this study incorporated the PTV volume, the serum concentration of the biomarker EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and prescription BED. This predictive model recorded an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.94(1), providing better performance compared to competing methods in other literature. Conclusion: The use of biomarkers in conjunction with dose-volume metrics allows for the generation of a robust predictive model. The preliminary results of this report demonstrate that it is possible to accurately model the prognosis of an individual lung SBRT patient’s treatment.« less

  8. SU-E-T-580: Comparison of Cervical Carcinoma IMRT Plans From Four Commercial Treatment Planning Systems (TPS)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cao, Y; Li, R; Chi, Z

    2014-06-01

    Purpose: Different treatment planning systems (TPS) use different treatment optimization and leaf sequencing algorithms. This work compares cervical carcinoma IMRT plans optimized with four commercial TPSs to investigate the plan quality in terms of target conformity and delivery efficiency. Methods: Five cervical carcinoma cases were planned with the Corvus, Monaco, Pinnacle and Xio TPSs by experienced planners using appropriate optimization parameters and dose constraints to meet the clinical acceptance criteria. Plans were normalized for at least 95% of PTV to receive the prescription dose (Dp). Dose-volume histograms and isodose distributions were compared. Other quantities such as Dmin(the minimum dose receivedmore » by 99% of GTV/PTV), Dmax(the maximum dose received by 1% of GTV/PTV), D100, D95, D90, V110%, V105%, V100% (the volume of GTV/PTV receiving 110%, 105%, 100% of Dp), conformity index(CI), homogeneity index (HI), the volume of receiving 40Gy and 50 Gy to rectum (V40,V50) ; the volume of receiving 30Gy and 50 Gy to bladder (V30,V50) were evaluated. Total segments and MUs were also compared. Results: While all plans meet target dose specifications and normal tissue constraints, the maximum GTVCI of Pinnacle plans was up to 0.74 and the minimum of Corvus plans was only 0.21, these four TPSs PTVCI had significant difference. The GTVHI and PTVHI of Pinnacle plans are all very low and show a very good dose distribution. Corvus plans received the higer dose of normal tissue. The Monaco plans require significantly less segments and MUs to deliver than the other plans. Conclusion: To deliver on a Varian linear-accelerator, the Pinnacle plans show a very good dose distribution. Corvus plans received the higer dose of normal tissue. The Monaco plans have faster beam delivery.« less

  9. Application of the Extended Health Control Belief Model to Predict Hepatitis A and B Vaccinations.

    PubMed

    Reynolds, Grace L; Nguyen, Hannah H; Singh-Carlson, Savitri; Fisher, Dennis G; Odell, Anne; Xandre, Pamela

    2016-09-01

    Adult vaccination compliance rates vary according to sample and type of vaccine administered (influenza, pneumococcal). This study looked at vaccination of a community sample of low-income, minority adults. Nurses offered free vaccination for hepatitis A and B in the form of the combined Twinrix vaccine to adults on a walk-in basis. In addition to dosing information, participants completed the Risk Behavior Assessment, the Coping Strategies Indicator and the Cardiovascular Risk Assessment. Skaff's extended Health Belief Model was used as the theoretical framework. Count regression was used to model receipt of one, two, or three doses. The majority of participants were male with a mean age of 40 years. The distribution of doses was: 173 individuals (27.6%) received one dose only, 261 (41.7%) received two doses, and 191 (30.5%) received three doses of vaccine. The multivariate count regression model including being male, having previously been told by a health care provider that one has syphilis, having severe negative emotions, and perceived social support were associated with participants' receiving fewer doses of hepatitis vaccine. A greater problem-solving score was associated with a higher number of vaccine doses received. Despite free vaccinations offered in an easily accessible community setting, the majority of participants failed to complete the hepatitis vaccine series. More effort is needed to get adult men to participate in hepatitis vaccination clinics. Additional research is necessary to understand barriers other than cost to adults receiving vaccination. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  10. 76 FR 20513 - Revision of the Requirements for Constituent Materials

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-13

    ... in multiple-dose containers must contain a preservative, except that a preservative need not be added... contamination of multiple-dose containers of vaccines that did not contain a preservative.\\2\\ As discussed... Workshop on Thimerosal Vaccines,'' p. 24, August 11, 1999. Preservatives in multiple-dose containers have a...

  11. Dexamethasone, all trans retinoic acid and interferon alpha 2a in patients with refractory multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Avilés, A; Rosas, A; Huerta-Guzmán, J; Talavera, A; Cleto, S

    1999-02-01

    Few effective regimen are available for patients with refractory multiple myeloma (RMM). Generally, responses are scarce and disease free survival is very short. We developed a new therapeutic option in these patients using dexamethasone (40 mg/m2, i.v., daily, days 1 to 4), all-trans retinoic acid (45 mg/m2, po, daily, days 5 to 14) and interferon alpha 2a (9.0 MU, daily, subcutaneously, days 5 to 14). The treatment was administered every 21 days for 6 cycles. In a pilot study, 12 patients, heavily treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy and in some cases with interferon, were allocated to receive the afore mentioned treatment. Response was observed in 10 patients (83%). With a median follow-up of 36.1 months (range 27 to 41), seven patients remain alive and disease-free without any treatment. Two patients were failures and have died due to tumor progression. Toxicity was mild and all patients received treatment according to the planned doses of drugs. The use of biological modifiers in combination with dexamethasone offer a safe and effective therapeutic option in patients with refractory multiple myeloma. More studies are warranted to define the role of this type of treatment.

  12. Sunitinib-induced hypertension, neutropaenia and thrombocytopaenia as predictors of good prognosis in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Rautiola, Juhana; Donskov, Frede; Peltola, Katriina; Joensuu, Heikki; Bono, Petri

    2016-01-01

    To evaluate the clinical significance of hypertension (HTN), neutropaenia and thrombocytopaenia as possible new biomarkers of sunitinib efficacy in non-trial patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). In all, 181 consecutive patients with mRCC were treated with sunitinib; 39 (22%) received sunitinib 50 mg/day 4 weeks on/2 weeks off, 80 (44%) received 37.5 mg/day continuously and 62 (34%) received 25 mg/day continuously as their starting dose. Treatment-induced adverse events (AEs) and their impact on outcome were analysed on multiple sunitinib doses. During sunitinib treatment 60 patients (33%) developed ≥grade 2 HTN, 88 (49%) ≥grade 2 neutropaenia and 135 (75%) ≥grade 1 thrombocytopaenia. These AEs were associated significantly with longer progression-free survival (PFS; 15.7 vs 6.7; 14.6 vs 6.9; 10.4 vs 4.2 months, respectively; P < 0.001) and overall survival (OS; 37.5 vs 16.2; 33.7 vs 13.2; 22.3 vs 13.2 months, respectively, P ≤ 0.008). Although only neutropaenia was associated with a significantly improved PFS and OS in all sunitinib doses, a similar trend was also seen with HTN and thrombocytopaenia in all sunitinib doses. In multivariate analysis, HTN and neutropaenia were significantly associated with PFS and OS and thrombocytopaenia was significantly associated with PFS. In a 12-week landmark analysis, HTN and thrombocytopaenia were significantly associated with PFS and OS. Patients who developed all three AEs (a favourable biomarker profile) had significantly better outcome than patients without these AEs (a poor biomarker profile); response rate 47% vs 4%, median PFS 27.1 vs 3.5 months and OS not reached vs 5.3 months (all P < 0.001). HTN, neutropaenia and thrombocytopaenia were all biomarkers of sunitinib efficacy in patients with mRCC. Our results may help to individualise sunitinib dosing during therapy based on these common sunitinib-related AEs. © 2014 The Authors BJU International © 2014 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  13. Efficacy and Safety of Escalation of Adalimumab Therapy to Weekly Dosing in Pediatric Patients with Crohn's Disease.

    PubMed

    Dubinsky, Marla C; Rosh, Joel; Faubion, William A; Kierkus, Jaroslaw; Ruemmele, Frank; Hyams, Jeffrey S; Eichner, Samantha; Li, Yao; Huang, Bidan; Mostafa, Nael M; Lazar, Andreas; Thakkar, Roopal B

    2016-04-01

    The efficacy of adalimumab in inducing and maintaining remission in children with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease was shown in the IMAgINE 1 trial (NCT00409682). As per protocol, nonresponders or patients experiencing flare(s) on every other week (EOW) maintenance dosing could escalate to weekly dosing; we aimed to determine the therapeutic benefits of weekly dose escalation in this subpopulation. Week 52 remission and response rates were assessed in patients who escalated to weekly dosing from their previous EOW schedule, which was according to randomized treatment dose (higher dose [HD] adalimumab [≥40 kg, 40 mg EOW; <40 kg, 20 mg EOW] or lower dose [LD; ≥40 kg, 20 mg EOW; <40 kg, 10 mg EOW]). Adverse events were reported for patients remaining on EOW dosing and patients receiving weekly dosing. Escalation to weekly dosing occurred in 48/95 (50.5%) patients randomized to LD and 35/93 (37.6%) patients randomized to HD adalimumab (P = 0.076). Week 52 remission and response rates were 18.8% and 47.9% for patients receiving LD adalimumab weekly and 31.4% and 57.1% for patients receiving HD adalimumab weekly, respectively (LD versus HD, P = 0.19 for remission; P = 0.41 for response). Adverse event rates were similar for patients receiving EOW and weekly adalimumab. Weekly adalimumab dosing was clinically beneficial for children with Crohn's disease who experienced nonresponse or flare on EOW dosing. No increased safety risks were observed with weekly dosing.

  14. A lifetime cancer bioassay of quinacrine administered into the uterine horns of female rats.

    PubMed

    Cancel, Aida M; Dillberger, John E; Kelly, Catherine M; Bolte, Henry F; Creasy, Dianne M; Sokal, David C

    2010-03-01

    This study investigated if quinacrine can induce a tumorigenic response in rats when administered in a manner similar to the intended human use for female non-surgical sterilization. Young sexually mature female rats received two doses of quinacrine (or 1% methylcellulose control) into each uterine horn approximately 21 days apart, and were observed for 23 months after the second dose administration. Dose levels were 0/0, 0/0, 10/10, 70/70, and 70/250-350 mg/kg (first dose/second dose), which represent local doses in the uterus at approximate multiples of 1x, 8x and 40x the human dose (mg quinacrine/g uterine weight) used for female non-surgical sterilization. Rats were observed for viability, clinical signs of toxicity, and changes in body weight and food consumption. At necropsy, selected organs were weighed, macroscopic observations were recorded, and tissues were collected, fixed, processed, and examined for microscopic pathologic findings. Acute quinacrine toxicity was evident during the dosing period but did not affect long-term survival. Non-neoplastic findings were more common in treated animals than controls, providing evidence of the appropriateness of the bioassay. The incidence of uncommon tumors of the reproductive tract was similar to controls at doses of 10/10mg/kg but increased with dose level and was significantly greater than controls at >or=70/70 mg/kg. We conclude that two doses of quinacrine administered approximately 21 days apart into the uterus of young sexually mature rats at a local dose approximately 8 times the human dose used for non-surgical female sterilization increased the lifetime risk of tumor development in the reproductive tract. (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Comparison of two dose regimens of ibuprofen for the closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm newborns.

    PubMed

    Dornelles, Laura Vargas; Corso, Andréa Lúcia; Silveira, Rita de Cássia; Procianoy, Renato Soibelmann

    2016-01-01

    To compare the efficacy of intravenous ibuprofen at high (20-10-10mg/kg/dose) and low doses (10-5-5mg/kg/dose) the closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm newborns. A cohort study with historical control of newborns that received high- and low-dose intravenous ibuprofen, from 2010 to 2013 in a neonatal intensive care unit, for closure of the patent ductus arteriosus, documented by echocardiography. Secondary outcomes included the number of ibuprofen cycles, incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, changes in renal function, and death. Seventy-seven patients received three doses of ibuprofen for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus, with 33 receiving high-dose and 44 low-dose therapy. The ductus closed after the first cycle in 25 (56.8%) low-dose patients and in 17 (51.5%) high-dose patients (p>0.99). Sixteen patients received a second cycle of ibuprofen, and the ductus closed in 50% after low-dose and in 60% after high-dose therapy (p>0.99). Seven patients required surgery for ductus closure, 13.6% in the low-dose group and 3% in the high-dose group (p=0.22). Thirty-nine patients developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia, 50% in the low-dose group and 51.5% in the high-dose group (p>0.99). Twenty-two (50%) low-dose patients died vs. 15 (45.5%) high-dose patients (p=0.86). There was no difference in closure of the ductus arteriosus or occurrence of adverse effects between the two dose regimens. Copyright © 2016 Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  16. Frequent intravenous pulses of growth hormone together with alanylglutamine supplementation in prolonged critical illness after multiple trauma: effects on glucose control, plasma IGF-I and glutamine.

    PubMed

    Duska, Frantisek; Fric, Michal; Pazout, Jaroslav; Waldauf, Petr; Tůma, Petr; Pachl, Jan

    2008-02-01

    We aim to demonstrate that low dose growth hormone (GH) administered in i.v. pulses every 3h is able to normalize IGF-I levels in subjects with prolonged critical illness, after multiple trauma. We also ask whether it is possible to control glycaemia during such a treatment and how alanylglutamine (AG) supplementation influences plasma glutamine concentration. We used a prospective double-blind (group 1 vs. 2), randomized trial with an open-label control arm (group 3). Thirty multiple trauma patients (median age: 36, 42, 46 years) were randomized on day 4 after trauma to receive (group 1, n=10) i.v. AG supplementation (0.3 g/kg day from day 4 till 17) and i.v. GH (0.05 mg/kg day divided into 8 boluses, maximum dose at 3 AM, administered on days 7-17) or AG and placebo (group 2, n=10). Group 3 (n=10) received isocaloric isonitrogenous (proteins 1.5 g/kg day) nutrition without AG. Glycaemia was controlled by i.v. insulin infusion according to a routine protocol. GH treatment caused an increase of IGF-I (from median 169 on day 4 to 493 ng/ml on day 17), IGFBP-3 (from 2.4 to 3.2 microg/ml) and a fall in IGFBP-1 (from 11.5 to 3.1 microg/ml), whilst in both groups 2 and 3 these indices remained unchanged. At the end of the study (day 17) IGF-I and IGFBP-1 differed significantly among groups (p=0.008 resp. p=0.010, Kruskal-Wallis). Plasma glutamine remained below the normal range through the study in all groups (median: 0.18-0.30 mM), but had a tendency to rise in group 2 in contrast with a fall in groups 1 and 3 (NS). Group 1 required more insulin (p<0.01) than did the control group but median glycaemia was only 0.4-0.5 mM higher in group 1 (6.5 mM) than in groups 2 and 3 (6.1 resp. 6.0 mM). GH (0.05 g/kg day) administered in i.v. pulses is able to normalize IGF-I levels in subjects with prolonged critical illness after trauma. During this treatment, the standard dose of AG prevents worsening of plasma glutamine deficiency and glucose control is possible using routine algorithms, but it requires higher insulin doses.

  17. Management of extramedullary plasmacytoma: Role of radiotherapy and prognostic factor analysis in 55 patients.

    PubMed

    Wen, Ge; Wang, Weihu; Zhang, Yujing; Niu, Shaoqing; Li, Qiwen; Li, Yexiong

    2017-10-01

    To investigate potential prognostic factors affecting patient outcomes and to evaluate the optimal methods and effects of radiotherapy (RT) in the management of extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP). Data from 55 patients with EMP between November 1999 and August 2015 were collected. The median age was 51 (range, 22-77) years. The median tumor size was 3.5 (range, 1.0-15.0) cm. The median applied dose was 50.0 (range, 30.0-70.0) Gy. Thirty-nine patients (70.9%) presented with disease in the head or neck region. Twelve patients received RT alone, 9 received surgery (S) alone, 3 received chemotherapy (CT) alone, and 3 patients did not receive any treatment. Combination therapies were applied in 28 patients. The median follow-up duration was 56 months. The 5-year local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), multiple myeloma-free survival (MMFS), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 79.8%, 78.6%, 65.2% and 76.0%, respectively. Univariate analysis revealed that RT was a favourable factor for all examined endpoints. Furthermore, head and neck EMPs were associated with superior LRFS, MMFS and PFS. Tumor size <4 cm was associated with superior MMFS, PFS and OS; serum M protein negativity was associated with superior MMFS and PFS; age ≥50 years and local recurrence were associated with poor MMFS. The dose ≥45 Gy group exhibited superior 5-year LRFS, MMFS and PFS rates (94.7%, 94.4%, 90.0%, respectively), while the corresponding values for the dose <45 Gy group were 62.5% (P=0.008), 53.3% (P=0.036) and 41.7% (P<0.001). Involved-site RT of at least 45 Gy should be considered for EMP. Furthermore, patients with head and neck EMP, tumor size <4 cm, age <50 years and serum M protein negativity had better outcomes.

  18. Nonaqueous, mini-dose glucagon for treatment of mild hypoglycemia in adults with type 1 diabetes: A dose-seeking study

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    To evaluate mini-dose glucagon in adults with type 1 diabetes using a stable, liquid, ready-to-use preparation, twelve adults with type 1 diabetes receiving treatment with insulin pumps received subcutaneous doses of 75, 150, and 300 ug of nonaqueous glucagon. Plasma glucose, glucagon, and insulin c...

  19. 42 CFR 82.5 - Definition of terms used in this part.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C. 7384-7385 [1994, supp. 2001]. (i) Equivalent dose is... equivalent dose that is received from radiation sources outside of the body. (k) Internal dose means that portion of the equivalent dose that is received from radioactive materials taken into the body. (l) NIOSH...

  20. Evaluation of amlodipine, lisinopril, and a combination in the treatment of essential hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Naidu, M; Usha, P; Rao, T; Shobha, J

    2000-01-01

    Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and dihydropyridine calcium antagonists are well established and widely used as monotherapy in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension. Earlier studies combining short acting drugs from these classes require multiple dosing and were associated with poor compliance. Availability of longer acting compounds allows once daily administration to avoid the inconvenience of a multiple daily dose. It was decided to perform a randomised double blind, crossover study with the long acting calcium channel blocker amlodipine and the long acting ACE inhibitor lisinopril, given either alone or in combination in essential hypertension. Twenty four patients with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between 95 and 104 mm Hg received amlodipine 2.5 mg and 5 mg, lisinopril 5 mg and 10 mg, and their combination as per a prior randomisation schedule. Supine and standing blood pressure and heart rate were recorded at weekly intervals. Higher doses of both the drugs individually or in combination were used if the target supine DBP below 90 mm Hg was not achieved. There was a significant additional blood pressure lowering effect with the combination when compared either with amlodipine or lisinopril alone. Five mg amlodipine and 10 mg lisinopril monotherapy achieved the target blood pressure in 71% and 72% patients respectively. The combination of 2.5 mg amlodipine with 5 mg lisinopril produced a much more significant lowering of blood pressure in a higher percentage of patients than that with an individual low dose.


Keywords: amlodipine; lisinopril; hypertension; combination therapy PMID:10824049

  1. Accurate cytogenetic biodosimetry through automated dicentric chromosome curation and metaphase cell selection

    PubMed Central

    Wilkins, Ruth; Flegal, Farrah; Knoll, Joan H.M.; Rogan, Peter K.

    2017-01-01

    Accurate digital image analysis of abnormal microscopic structures relies on high quality images and on minimizing the rates of false positive (FP) and negative objects in images. Cytogenetic biodosimetry detects dicentric chromosomes (DCs) that arise from exposure to ionizing radiation, and determines radiation dose received based on DC frequency. Improvements in automated DC recognition increase the accuracy of dose estimates by reclassifying FP DCs as monocentric chromosomes or chromosome fragments. We also present image segmentation methods to rank high quality digital metaphase images and eliminate suboptimal metaphase cells. A set of chromosome morphology segmentation methods selectively filtered out FP DCs arising primarily from sister chromatid separation, chromosome fragmentation, and cellular debris. This reduced FPs by an average of 55% and was highly specific to these abnormal structures (≥97.7%) in three samples. Additional filters selectively removed images with incomplete, highly overlapped, or missing metaphase cells, or with poor overall chromosome morphologies that increased FP rates. Image selection is optimized and FP DCs are minimized by combining multiple feature based segmentation filters and a novel image sorting procedure based on the known distribution of chromosome lengths. Applying the same image segmentation filtering procedures to both calibration and test samples reduced the average dose estimation error from 0.4 Gy to <0.2 Gy, obviating the need to first manually review these images. This reliable and scalable solution enables batch processing for multiple samples of unknown dose, and meets current requirements for triage radiation biodosimetry of high quality metaphase cell preparations. PMID:29026522

  2. Optimal conditions of LDR to protect the kidney from diabetes

    PubMed Central

    Cheng, Jie; Li, Fengsheng; Cui, Jiuwei; Guo, Weiying; Li, Cai; Li, Wei; Wang, Guixia; Xing, Xiao; Gao, Ying; Ge, Yuanyuan; Wang, Guanjun; Cai, Lu

    2014-01-01

    Aims We reported the attenuation of diabetes-induced renal dysfunction by exposure to multiple low-dose radiation (LDR) at 25 mGy every other day via suppressing renal oxidative damage. We here explored the optimal conditions of LDR to protect the kidney from diabetes. Main methods Type 1 diabetic mice were induced with multiple injections of low-dose streptozotocin in male C57BL/6J mice. Diabetic mice received whole body X-irradiation at dose of 12.5, 25 or 50 mGy every other day for either 4 or 8 weeks. Age-matched normal mice were similarly irradiated at the dose of 25 mGy for 4 or 8 weeks. The renal function and histopathological changes were examined at the 4th and 8th week of the study. Key findings Diabetes induced renal dysfunction, shown by the decreased creatinine and increased microalbumin in urinary. Renal oxidative damage, detected by protein nitration and lipid oxidation, and remodeling, reflected by increased expression of connective tissue growth factor, collagen IV and fibronectin, were significantly increased in diabetic mice. All these renal pathological and function changes in diabetic mice were significantly attenuated by exposure to LDR at all regimens, among which, however, exposure to LDR at 12.5 mGy for 8 weeks provided the best preventive effect on the kidney of diabetic mice. Significance Our results suggest that whole-body LDR at 12.5 mGy every other day for 8 weeks is the optimal condition of LDR to protect the kidney from diabetes. PMID:24631139

  3. Effect of multiple honey doses on non-specific acute cough in children. An open randomised study and literature review.

    PubMed

    Miceli Sopo, S; Greco, M; Monaco, S; Varrasi, G; Di Lorenzo, G; Simeone, G

    2015-01-01

    Honey is recommended for non-specific acute paediatric cough by the Australian guidelines. Current available randomised clinical trials evaluated the effects of a single evening dose of honey, but multiple doses outcomes have never been studied. To evaluate the effects of wildflower honey, given for three subsequent evenings, on non-specific acute paediatric cough, compared to dextromethorphan (DM) and levodropropizine (LDP), which are the most prescribed over-the-counter (OTC) antitussives in Italy. 134 children suffering from non-specific acute cough were randomised to receive for three subsequent evenings a mixture of milk (90ml) and wildflower honey (10ml) or a dose of DM or LDP adjusted for the specific age. The effectiveness was evaluated by a cough questionnaire answered by parents. Primary end-point efficacy was therapeutic success. The latter was defined as a decrease in cough questionnaire score greater than 50% after treatment compared with baseline values. Three children were excluded from the study, as their parents did not complete the questionnaire. Therapeutic success was achieved by 80% in the honey and milk group and 87% in OTC medication group (p=0.25). Milk and honey mixture seems to be at least as effective as DM or LDP in non-specific acute cough in children. These results are in line with previous studies, which reported the health effects of honey on paediatric cough, even if placebo effect cannot be totally excluded. Copyright © 2014 SEICAP. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  4. Therapeutic potency of bee pollen against biochemical autistic features induced through acute and sub-acute neurotoxicity of orally administered propionic acid.

    PubMed

    Al-Salem, Huda S; Bhat, Ramesa Shafi; Al-Ayadhi, Laila; El-Ansary, Afaf

    2016-04-23

    It is now well documented that postnatal exposure to certain chemicals has been reported to increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder. Propionic acid (PA), as a metabolic product of gut microbiotaandas a commonly used food additive, has been reported to mediate the effects of autism. Results from animal studies may help to identify environmental neurotoxic agents and drugs that can ameliorate neurotoxicity and may thereby aid in the treatment of autism. The present study investigated the ameliorative effects of natural bee pollen against acute and sub-acute brain intoxication induced by (PA) in rats. Twenty-four young male Western Albino ratswere enrolled in the present study. They were classified into four equal groups, eachwith6 rats. The control group received only phosphate buffered saline; the oral buffered PA-treated groups (II and III) received a neurotoxic dose of 750 mg/kg body weight divided in 3 dose of 250 mg/kg body weight/day serving asthe acute group and 750 mg/kg body weight divided in 10 equal dose of 75 mg/kg body weight/day as the sub-acute group. The fourth group received 50 mg bee pollen for 30 days after PA-acute intoxication. The obtained data showed that the PA-treated groups demonstrated multiple signs of brain toxicity, as indicated by a depletion of serotonin (5HT), dopamine and nor-adrenaline, together withan increase in IFN-γ and caspase 3. Bee pollen was effective in ameliorating the neurotoxic effect of PA. All measured parameters demonstrated minimal alteration in comparison with thecontrol animal than did those of acute and sub-acute PA-treated animals. In conclusion, bee pollen demonstrates anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects while ameliorating the impaired neurochemistry of PA-intoxicated rats.

  5. Differences in clinical Pneumocystis pneumonia in rheumatoid arthritis and other connective tissue diseases suggesting a rheumatoid-specific interstitial lung injury spectrum.

    PubMed

    Shimada, Kota; Yokosuka, Kyoko; Nunokawa, Takahiro; Sugii, Shoji

    2018-06-06

    To compare Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with PCP in patients with non-RA connective tissue diseases (CTDs) in order to clarify the characteristics of the former. We extracted consecutive patients satisfying the following criteria for "clinical PCP": (1) positive plasma β-D-glucan, (2) PCP-compatible computed tomography findings of the lung, and (3) successful treatment with antipneumocystic antibiotics. Patients who underwent methylprednisolone "pulse" therapy or sufficient antibiotics to cure bacterial pneumonia were excluded. We used the t test, U test, or Fischer's exact probability test to compare the two groups and Jonckheere-Terpstra's test and Ryan's procedure for the trend test. Thirty-five cases were extracted. The underlying rheumatic diseases were RA in 25 and non-RA CTDs in ten. At the onset of clinical PCP, the lymphocyte counts were 884 vs 357/mm 3 (p < 0.001), PC-PCR positivity 64% vs 100% (p = 0.029), glucocorticoid dose 4.0 vs 17.5 mg PSL/day (p < 0.001), and methotrexate dose 8 vs 0 mg/week (p = 0.003). The PC-PCR-negative patients, observed only in the RA group, were all receiving methotrexate (MTX) therapy except one patient who was receiving high-dose prednisolone alone. All PC-PCR-positive patients were receiving glucocorticoid, TNF inhibitor, or a non-MTX immunosuppressant. No patient with MTX alone had positive PC-PCR results. Clinical PCP in RA patients differed from that in non-RA CTD patients and may be understood as only a part of the rheumatoid-specific interstitial lung injury spectrum influenced by multiple, synergistic factors including MTX, Pneumocystis, and RA itself.

  6. The selective estrogen receptor alpha agonist Org 37663 induces estrogenic effects but lacks antirheumatic activity: a phase IIa trial investigating efficacy and safety of Org 37663 in postmenopausal female rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving stable background methotrexate or sulfasalazine.

    PubMed

    van Vollenhoven, Ronald F; Houbiers, Jos G A; Buttgereit, Frank; In 't Hout, Joanna; Boers, Maarten; Leij, Susanne; Kvien, Tore K; Dijkmans, Ben A C; Szczepański, Leszek; Szombati, Istvan; Sierakowski, Stanislaw; Miltenburg, André M M

    2010-02-01

    Multiple lines of evidence suggest that sex hormones may play a role in the pathogenesis or clinical expression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Studies on the effects of exogenous estrogens in RA patients have yielded contradictory results. We undertook this study to determine the effects of the selective estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) agonist Org 37663 in patients with RA, in terms of both its estrogenic effects and its ability to ameliorate disease activity. A 10-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group, dose-finding, proof-of-concept trial was initiated to obtain data on the efficacy and safety of Org 37663 in postmenopausal female patients with RA who were receiving background treatment with either methotrexate or sulfasalazine. Patients were randomized to receive placebo or Org 37663 at doses of 4 mg/day, 15 mg/day, or 50 mg/week. The primary efficacy variable was the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28). Org 37663 induced a clear biologic, estrogenic response in several organ systems, including a dose-related increase in levels of sex hormone binding globulin. However, the DAS28 decreased similarly for all treatment groups including placebo, indicating lack of clinical efficacy of Org 37663 in this trial. The observed lack of clinical benefit in RA patients treated with an ERalpha agonist, in association with a clear biologic response to the study drug, provides evidence that a biologically relevant ERalpha-mediated estrogenic effect is not associated with a clinically relevant effect on RA symptoms and signs.

  7. [Four cases of therapy-related leukemia in multiple myeloma].

    PubMed

    Natori, Kazuhiko; Izumi, Haruka; Kaneko, Kaichi; Ishihara, Susumu; Nagase, Daisuke; Fujimoto, Yoshinori; Kato, Motohiro; Umeda, Masanori; Kuraishi, Yasunobu

    2007-01-01

    We have experienced 4 cases of therapy-related leukemia (TRL) in 119 patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who had received combination chemotherapy including alkylating agents between 1988 and 1998. All 4 cases were acute myelogenous leukemia, 3 were males and 1 was female. Median age at diagnosis of MM was 60 years, and median time to TRL from diagnosis of MM was 5.5 years. The chromosome abnormalities were found in 3 of those cases. All 4 cases were resistant to antileukemic chemotherapy, and median survival time from TRL was only 5.5 months. The TRL in MM is thought to be a more important problem, because recently the treatment for this disease has become more intensive, including high-dose chemotherapy supported by autologous stem cell transplantation.

  8. Pharmacokinetics, Microbial Response, and Pulmonary Outcomes of Multidose Intravenous Azithromycin in Preterm Infants at Risk for Ureaplasma Respiratory Colonization

    PubMed Central

    Merchan, L. Marcela; Hassan, Hazem E.; Terrin, Michael L.; Waites, Ken B.; Kaufman, David A.; Ambalavanan, Namasivayam; Donohue, Pamela; Dulkerian, Susan J.; Schelonka, Robert; Magder, Laurence S.; Shukla, Sagar; Eddington, Natalie D.

    2014-01-01

    The study objectives were to refine the population pharmacokinetics (PK) model, determine microbial clearance, and assess short-term pulmonary outcomes of multiple-dose azithromycin treatment in preterm infants at risk for Ureaplasma respiratory colonization. Fifteen subjects (7 of whom were Ureaplasma positive) received intravenous azithromycin at 20 mg/kg of body weight every 24 h for 3 doses. Azithromycin concentrations were determined in plasma samples obtained up to 168 h post-first dose by using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Respiratory samples were obtained predose and at three time points post-last dose for Ureaplasma culture, PCR, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and cytokine concentration determinations. Pharmacokinetic data from these 15 subjects as well as 25 additional subjects (who received either a single 10-mg/kg dose [n = 12] or a single 20-mg/kg dose [n = 13]) were analyzed by using a nonlinear mixed-effect population modeling (NONMEM) approach. Pulmonary outcomes were assessed at 36 weeks post-menstrual age and 6 months adjusted age. A 2-compartment model with all PK parameters allometrically scaled on body weight best described the azithromycin pharmacokinetics in preterm neonates. The population pharmacokinetics parameter estimates for clearance, central volume of distribution, intercompartmental clearance, and peripheral volume of distribution were 0.15 liters/h · kg0.75, 1.88 liters · kg, 1.79 liters/h · kg0.75, and 13 liters · kg, respectively. The estimated area under the concentration-time curve over 24 h (AUC24)/MIC90 value was ∼4 h. All posttreatment cultures were negative, and there were no drug-related adverse events. One Ureaplasma-positive infant died at 4 months of age, but no survivors were hospitalized for respiratory etiologies during the first 6 months (adjusted age). Thus, a 3-day course of 20 mg/kg/day intravenous azithromycin shows preliminary efficacy in eradicating Ureaplasma spp. from the preterm respiratory tract. PMID:25385115

  9. The Lack of Effect of Food on the Pharmacokinetics of ZX008 (Fenfluramine Oral Solution): Results of a Single-dose, Two-period Crossover Study.

    PubMed

    Gammaitoni, Arnold; Smith, Steven; Boyd, Brooks

    2018-06-22

    Fenfluramine is being developed as a low-dose adjunctive treatment for seizures in patients with Dravet syndrome and other epileptic encephalopathies, including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Most patients with Dravet syndrome receive multiple antiepileptic drugs, making it challenging for caregivers to track correct administration times. The present Phase I study was conducted to determine the effect of food on the pharmacokinetic properties of fenfluramine. Healthy nonsmoking subjects aged 18 to 50years were enrolled in an open-label, crossover, Phase I pharmacokinetic and safety profile study and received 2 single 0.8-mg/kg doses of ZX008 (fenfluramine hydrochloride oral solution), 1 after a 10-hour overnight fast and the other 30 minutes after the start of consumption of a high-fat breakfast, in a randomly assigned order. A washout period of at least 9days separated the 2 treatment periods. Venous blood samples were taken before each dose and periodically for 72hours after each dose for determination of concentrations of fenfluramine and its active metabolite norfenfluramine. Plasma pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated for each subject by noncompartmental analysis. In the 13 subjects completing both treatment periods, food had no effect on the rate or extent of absorption and bioavailability of fenfluramine as assessed by fed vs fasted adjusted geometric mean observed plasma C max (59.1vs 56.7 ng/mL; NS) and AUC 0-∞ (1640vs 1600 ng · h/mL; NS). Additionally, there was no impact of food on systemic exposure of norfenfluramine. Seven subjects reported at least 1 treatment-emergent adverse event; all treatment-emergent adverse events were mild in severity. The bioequivalence and tolerability of single 0.8-mg/kg oral doses of ZX008 in the fed and fasted states support ZX008 administration without regard to meals. Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Efficacy and safety of the third-generation chloroethylnitrosourea fotemustine for the treatment of chemorefractory T-cell lymphomas

    PubMed Central

    Corazzelli, Gaetano; Frigeri, Ferdinando; Arcamone, Manuela; Aloj, Luigi; Capobianco, Gaetana; Becchimanzi, Cristina; Morelli, Emanuela; Volzone, Francesco; Marcacci, Gianpaolo; Russo, Filippo; De Filippi, Rosaria; Lastoria, Secondo; Pinto, Antonio

    2011-01-01

    Patients with recurring T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (T-NHL) are incurable and candidate for investigational agents. Here, we report on five patients with T-NHL refractory to multiple chemotherapy lines, including in all cases alkylators and gemcitabine, who received the third-generation chloroethylnitrosourea fotemustine at a dose of 120 mg/m2 every 21 d, up to eight courses. Median actual dose intensity was 79%; toxicity was manageable and mainly hematological. One complete remission, one partial remission, two protracted disease stabilization, and one transient, minor response were achieved. Time to progression ranged from 48 to 240+ d. This is the first evidence ever reporting the activity of fotemustine in end-stage T-NHL. Formal studies with this agent are warranted in T-cell malignancies. PMID:21752099

  11. Oral supplementation with L‐homoarginine in young volunteers

    PubMed Central

    Atzler, Dorothee; Schönhoff, Mirjam; Cordts, Kathrin; Ortland, Imke; Hoppe, Julia; Hummel, Friedhelm C.; Gerloff, Christian; Jaehde, Ulrich; Jagodzinski, Annika; Böger, Rainer H.; Choe, Chi‐un

    2016-01-01

    Aims Low blood concentrations of the naturally occurring amino acid L‐homoarginine (L‐hArg) are related to impaired cardiovascular outcome and mortality in humans and animals. L‐hArg is a weak substrate of nitric oxide synthase and an inhibitor of arginases in vitro. The aim of our study was to obtain kinetic and dynamic data after oral L‐hArg supplementation. Methods In a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled crossover study, 20 young volunteers received 125 mg L‐hArg once daily for 4 weeks. Kinetic parameters (C max, T max and AUC0‐24h) were calculated after ingestion of single and multiple doses of oral supplementation as primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints that were evaluated were routine laboratory, L‐arginine, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx), flow‐mediated vasodilatation (FMD), corticospinal excitability, i.e. motor threshold (MT), and cortical excitability, i.e. intracortical inhibition (ICI) and facilitation (ICF). Results One hour after ingestion (T max), L‐hArg increased the baseline L‐hArg plasma concentration (2.87 ± 0.91 μmol l−1, mean ± SD) by 8.74 ± 4.46 [95% confidence intervals 6.65; 10.9] and 17.3 ± 4.97 [14.9; 19.6] μmol l−1 (C max), after single and multiple doses, respectively. Once‐only and 4 weeks of supplementation resulted in AUCs0‐24h of 63.5 ± 28.8 [50.0; 76.9] and 225 ± 78.5 [188; 2624] μmol l−1*h, for single and multiple doses, respectively. Routine laboratory parameters, L‐arginine, ADMA, PWV, AIx, FMD, MT, ICI and ICF did not change by L‐hArg supplementation compared to baseline. Conclusion Once daily orally applied 125 mg L‐hArg raises plasma L‐hArg four‐ and sevenfold after single dose and 4 weeks of supplementation, respectively, and is safe and well tolerated in young volunteers. PMID:27434056

  12. Whole-Brain Radiotherapy With Simultaneous Integrated Boost to Multiple Brain Metastases Using Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lagerwaard, Frank J.; Hoorn, Elles A.P. van der; Verbakel, Wilko

    2009-09-01

    Purpose: Volumetric modulated arc therapy (RapidArc [RA]; Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA) allows for the generation of intensity-modulated dose distributions by use of a single gantry rotation. We used RA to plan and deliver whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with a simultaneous integrated boost in patients with multiple brain metastases. Methods and Materials: Composite RA plans were generated for 8 patients, consisting of WBRT (20 Gy in 5 fractions) with an integrated boost, also 20 Gy in 5 fractions, to Brain metastases, and clinically delivered in 3 patients. Summated gross tumor volumes were 1.0 to 37.5 cm{sup 3}. RA plans weremore » measured in a solid water phantom by use of Gafchromic films (International Specialty Products, Wayne, NJ). Results: Composite RA plans could be generated within 1 hour. Two arcs were needed to deliver the mean of 1,600 monitor units with a mean 'beam-on' time of 180 seconds. RA plans showed excellent coverage of planning target volume for WBRT and planning target volume for the boost, with mean volumes receiving at least 95% of the prescribed dose of 100% and 99.8%, respectively. The mean conformity index was 1.36. Composite plans showed much steeper dose gradients outside Brain metastases than plans with a conventional summation of WBRT and radiosurgery. Comparison of calculated and measured doses showed a mean gamma for double-arc plans of 0.30, and the area with a gamma larger than 1 was 2%. In-room times for clinical RA sessions were approximately 20 minutes for each patient. Conclusions: RA treatment planning and delivery of integrated plans of WBRT and boosts to multiple brain metastases is a rapid and accurate technique that has a higher conformity index than conventional summation of WBRT and radiosurgery boost.« less

  13. Single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of dapoxetine hydrochloride, a novel agent for the treatment of premature ejaculation.

    PubMed

    Modi, Nishit B; Dresser, Mark J; Simon, Mary; Lin, Denise; Desai, Dhaval; Gupta, Suneel

    2006-03-01

    Dapoxetine is a serotonin transporter inhibitor currently in development for the treatment of premature ejaculation. This randomized, 2-sequence, 2-treatment crossover study assessed the single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of dapoxetine following once-daily administration of dapoxetine 30 mg and 60 mg to healthy male volunteers. Dapoxetine was rapidly absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached approximately 1 hour after dosing; plasma concentrations after single doses of dapoxetine decreased rapidly to approximately 5% of peak concentrations by 24 hours. Elimination was biphasic, with an initial half-life of approximately 1.4 hours and a terminal half-life of approximately 20 hours. Dapoxetine showed time-invariant pharmacokinetics and dose proportionality between doses, and its pharmacokinetics was unaffected by multiple dosing. The pharmacokinetics of dapoxetine metabolites, desmethyldapoxetine and dapoxetine-N-oxide, was similarly unaffected by multiple dosing. There were no serious adverse events; the most commonly reported adverse events were diarrhea, dizziness, and nausea.

  14. High-dose octreotide acetate for management of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

    PubMed

    Chadha, Manpreet K; Lombardo, Jeffrey; Mashtare, Terry; Wilding, Gregory E; Litwin, Alan; Raczyk, Cheryl; Gibbs, John F; Kuvshinoff, Boris; Javle, Milind M; Iyer, Renuka V

    2009-10-01

    Long-acting sandostatin (S-LAR; octreotide acetate) is well tolerated and effective for symptom control and possibly disease control in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs). We undertook a retrospective analysis to study the efficacy and tolerability of higher doses (more than 20-30 mg/month) of S-LAR in GEP-NETs. With IRB approval, charts of all patients with GEP-NET who received S-LAR between June 2002 to September 2007 at Roswell Park Cancer Institute were reviewed and their data analyzed. Fifty-four patients with GEP-NET received S-LAR; thirty required dose escalation. Patients received a median of 5 doses of S-LAR at conventional dose followed by up-titration of the dose for symptom control (20) and radiological progression (17). Median high dose of S-LAR was 40 mg (range: 40-90 mg) with a median of 8.5 high doses received. No treatment related toxicities were seen. The estimated 1-year survival for patients on conventional dose alone was 0.77 (95% CI of 0.50 to 0.91) and those on high-dose was 0.88 (95% CI of 0.68 to 0.96) (p=0.4777) while median time to any other intervention was 2.9 months versus 17.7 months (p=0.12). Dose escalation of S-LAR is well tolerated and may provide longer disease control.

  15. Ibrutinib alone or with dexamethasone for relapsed or relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma: phase 2 trial results.

    PubMed

    Richardson, Paul G; Bensinger, William I; Huff, Carol Ann; Costello, Caitlin L; Lendvai, Nikoletta; Berdeja, Jesus G; Anderson, Larry D; Siegel, David S; Lebovic, Daniel; Jagannath, Sundar; Laubach, Jacob P; Stockerl-Goldstein, Keith E; Kwei, Long; Clow, Fong; Elias, Laurence; Salman, Zeena; Graef, Thorsten; Bilotti, Elizabeth; Vij, Ravi

    2018-03-01

    Novel therapies with unique new targets are needed for patients who are relapsed/refractory to current treatments for multiple myeloma. Ibrutinib is a first-in-class, once-daily, oral covalent inhibitor of Bruton tyrosine kinase, which is overexpressed in the myeloma stem cell population. This study examined various doses of ibrutinib ± low-dose dexamethasone in patients who received ≥2 prior lines of therapy, including an immunomodulatory agent. Daily ibrutinib ± weekly dexamethasone 40 mg was assessed in 4 cohorts using a Simon 2-stage design. The primary objective was clinical benefit rate (CBR; ≥minimal response); secondary objectives included safety. Patients (n = 92) received a median of 4 prior regimens. Ibrutinib + dexamethasone produced the highest CBR (28%) in Cohort 4 (840 mg + dexamethasone; n = 43), with median duration of 9·2 months (range, 3·0-14·7). Progression-free survival was 4·6 months (range, 0·4-17·3). Grade 3-4 haematological adverse events included anaemia (16%), thrombocytopenia (11%), and neutropenia (2%); grade 3-4 non-haematological adverse events included pneumonia (7%), syncope (3%) and urinary tract infection (3%). Ibrutinib + dexamethasone produced notable responses in this heavily pre-treated population. The encouraging efficacy, coupled with the favourable safety and tolerability profile of ibrutinib, supports its further evaluation as part of combination treatment. © 2018 The Authors. British Journal of Haematology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  16. Icing oral mucositis: Oral cryotherapy in multiple myeloma patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

    PubMed

    Chen, Joey; Seabrook, Jamie; Fulford, Adrienne; Rajakumar, Irina

    2017-03-01

    Background Up to 70% of patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplant develop oral mucositis as a side effect of high-dose melphalan conditioning chemotherapy. Oral cryotherapy has been documented to be potentially effective in reducing oral mucositis. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the cryotherapy protocol implemented within the hematopoietic stem cell transplant program. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted of adult multiple myeloma patients who received high-dose melphalan conditioning therapy for autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Primary endpoints were incidence and severity of oral mucositis. Secondary endpoints included duration of oral mucositis, duration of hospital stay, parenteral narcotics use and total parenteral nutrition use. Results One hundred and forty patients were included in the study, 70 patients in both no cryotherapy and cryotherapy groups. Both oral mucositis incidence and severity were found to be significantly lower in the cryotherapy group. Fifty (71.4%) experienced mucositis post cryotherapy compared to 67 (95.7%) in the no cryotherapy group (p < 0.001). The median oral mucositis severity, assessed using the WHO oral toxicity scale from grade 0-4, experienced in the no group was 2.5 vs. 2 in the cryotherapy group (p = 0.03). Oral mucositis duration and use of parenteral narcotics were also significantly reduced. Duration of hospital stay and use of parenteral nutrition were similar between the two groups. Conclusion The cryotherapy protocol resulted in a significantly lower incidence and severity of oral mucositis. These results provide evidence for the continued use of oral cryotherapy, an inexpensive and generally well-tolerated practice.

  17. Influence of vector dose on factor IX-specific T and B cell responses in muscle-directed gene therapy.

    PubMed

    Herzog, Roland W; Fields, Paul A; Arruda, Valder R; Brubaker, Jeff O; Armstrong, Elina; McClintock, Darryl; Bellinger, Dwight A; Couto, Linda B; Nichols, Timothy C; High, Katherine A

    2002-07-20

    Intramuscular injection of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector has resulted in vector dose-dependent, stable expression of canine factor IX (cF.IX) in hemophilia B dogs with an F.IX missense mutation (Herzog et al., Nat. Med. 1999;5:56-63). The use of a species-specific transgene allowed us to study risks and characteristics of antibody formation against the therapeutic transgene product. We analyzed seven dogs that had been injected at a single time point at multiple intramuscular sites with varying vector doses (dose per kilogram, dose per animal, dose per site). Comparison of individual animals suggests an increased likelihood of inhibitory anti-cF.IX (inhibitor) development with increased vector doses, with dose per site showing the strongest correlation with the risk of inhibitor formation. In six of seven animals, such immune responses were either absent or transient, and therefore did not prevent sustained systemic expression of cF.IX. Transient inhibitory/neutralizing anti-cF.IX responses occurred at vector doses of 2 x 10(12)/site, whereas a 6-fold higher dose resulted in a longer lasting, higher titer inhibitor. Anti-cF.IX was efficiently blocked in an eighth animal that was injected with a high vector dose per site, but in addition received transient immune suppression. Inhibitor formation was characterized by synthesis of two IgG subclasses and in vitro proliferation of lymphocytes to cF.IX antigen, indicating a helper T cell-dependent mechanism. Anti-cF.IX formation is likely influenced by the extent of local antigen presentation and may be avoided by limited vector doses or by transient immune modulation.

  18. Botulinum Toxin Dosing Trends in Spasmodic Dysphonia Over a 20-year Period.

    PubMed

    Namin, Arya W; Christopher, Kara M; Eisenbeis, John F

    2017-01-01

    The study aims to (1) identify the botulinum toxin (BTX) dosing trend in a cohort of patients who received at least 20 injections for the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD), (2) describe two distinct BTX dosing trends in treating ADSD (a "classic" dosing trend that initially decreases before stabilizing, and a "fluctuating" dosing trend), and (3) determine if patients with the "classic" dosing trend differed in age or in dosing intervals from those with the "fluctuating" dosing trend. This is a retrospective case series. Of 149 patients who received a total of 2484 BTX injections for the treatment of spasmodic dysphonia in 1993-2013, 49 patients received at least 20 injections. The BTX dose and the interval between doses were recorded. The mean dose of injections 1-20 was determined. The age at initial injection, initial dose, and interval in days between treatments were compared for the "fluctuating" and "classic" groups. The cohort exhibits a significant decrease in dose during the first 10-15 injections. The "fluctuating" group had a significantly shorter interval between injections (mean interval = 97.09 days, SD = 29.41; mean interval = 136.90 days, SD = 43.76, P = 0.002). The mean age at initial dose was not significantly different between the "classic" and "fluctuating" groups. The average BTX dose of patients with ADSD who receive long-term injections significantly decreases during the initial 10-15 injections before stabilizing. Patients who exhibit the "fluctuating" dosing pattern have a significantly shorter interval between injections than those with the "classic" dosing pattern. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Accelerated drug release and clearance of PEGylated epirubicin liposomes following repeated injections: a new challenge for sequential low-dose chemotherapy

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Qiang; Ma, Yanling; Zhao, Yongxue; She, Zhennan; Wang, Long; Li, Jie; Wang, Chunling; Deng, Yihui

    2013-01-01

    Background Sequential low-dose chemotherapy has received great attention for its unique advantages in attenuating multidrug resistance of tumor cells. Nevertheless, it runs the risk of producing new problems associated with the accelerated blood clearance phenomenon, especially with multiple injections of PEGylated liposomes. Methods Liposomes were labeled with fluorescent phospholipids of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-snglycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-(7-nitro-2-1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl) and epirubicin (EPI). The pharmacokinetics profile and biodistribution of the drug and liposome carrier following multiple injections were determined. Meanwhile, the antitumor effect of sequential low-dose chemotherapy was tested. To clarify this unexpected phenomenon, the production of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM), drug release, and residual complement activity experiments were conducted in serum. Results The first or sequential injections of PEGylated liposomes within a certain dose range induced the rapid clearance of subsequently injected PEGylated liposomal EPI. Of note, the clearance of EPI was two- to three-fold faster than the liposome itself, and a large amount of EPI was released from liposomes in the first 30 minutes in a complement-activation, direct-dependent manner. The therapeutic efficacy of liposomal EPI following 10 days of sequential injections in S180 tumor-bearing mice of 0.75 mg EPI/kg body weight was almost completely abolished between the sixth and tenth day of the sequential injections, even although the subsequently injected doses were doubled. The level of PEG-specific IgM in the blood increased rapidly, with a larger amount of complement being activated while the concentration of EPI in blood and tumor tissue was significantly reduced. Conclusion Our investigation implied that the accelerated blood clearance phenomenon and its accompanying rapid leakage and clearance of drug following sequential low-dose injections may reverse the unique pharmacokinetic–toxicity profile of liposomes which deserved our attention. Therefore, a more reasonable treatment regime should be selected to lessen or even eliminate this phenomenon. PMID:23576868

  20. Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous Finafloxacin in Healthy Volunteers

    PubMed Central

    Chiesa, Joseph; Lückermann, Mark; Fischer, Carsten; Dalhoff, Axel; Fuhr, Uwe

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Finafloxacin is a novel fluoroquinolone exhibiting enhanced activity under acidic conditions and a broad-spectrum antibacterial profile. The present study assessed the pharmacokinetic properties and the safety and tolerability of finafloxacin following intravenous infusions. In this mixed-parallel-group, crossover study, healthy male and female volunteers received single ascending doses (18 volunteers, 200 to 1,000 mg) or multiple ascending doses (40 volunteers, 600 to 1,000 mg) of finafloxacin or placebo. Plasma and urine samples were collected by a dense sampling scheme to determine the pharmacokinetics of finafloxacin using a noncompartmental approach. Standard safety and tolerability data were documented. Finafloxacin had a volume of distribution of 90 to 127 liters (range) at steady state and 446 to 550 liters at pseudoequilibrium, indicating the elimination of a large fraction before pseudoequilibrium was reached. Areas under the concentration-time curves and maximum plasma concentrations (geometric means) increased slightly more than proportionally (6.73 to 45.9 μg · h/ml and 2.56 to 20.2 μg/ml, respectively), the terminal elimination half-life increased (10.6 to 17.1 h), and the urinary recovery decreased (44.2% to 31.7%) with increasing finafloxacin doses (single doses of 200 to 1,000 mg). The pharmacokinetic profiles suggested multiphasic elimination by both glomerular filtration and saturable tubular secretion. The values of the parameters were similar for single and multiple administrations. The coefficient of variation for the between-subject variability of exposure ranged from 10% (≤600 mg) to 38% (>600 mg). Adverse events were mild and nonspecific, with no dependence of adverse events on dose or treatment (including placebo) being detected. Despite a relatively high interindividual variability at higher doses, the level of exposure following intravenous administration of finafloxacin appears to be predictable. Individual elimination processes should be evaluated in more detail. Finafloxacin exhibited a favorable safety and tolerability profile. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT01910883.) PMID:28784673

  1. Pharmacokinetics of surotomycin from phase 1 single and multiple ascending dose studies in healthy volunteers.

    PubMed

    Chandorkar, Gurudatt; Zhan, Qiao; Donovan, Julie; Rege, Shruta; Patino, Hernando

    2017-03-28

    Surotomycin, a novel, orally administered, cyclic, lipopeptide antibacterial in development for the treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, has demonstrated minimal intestinal absorption in animal models. Safety, tolerability, and plasma pharmacokinetics of single and multiple ascending oral doses (SAD/MAD) of surotomycin in healthy volunteers were characterized in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1 studies. Participants were sequentially enrolled into one of four SAD (500, 1000, 2000, 4000 mg surotomycin) or three MAD (250, 500, 1000 mg surotomycin twice/day for 14 days) cohorts. Ten subjects were randomized 4:1 into each cohort to receive surotomycin or placebo. Surotomycin plasma concentrations rose as dose increased (maximum plasma concentration [C max ]: 10.5, 21.5, 66.6, and 86.7 ng/mL). Systemic levels were generally low, with peak median surotomycin plasma concentrations observed 6-12 h after the first dose. In the MAD study, surotomycin plasma concentrations were higher on day 14 (C max : 25.5, 37.6, and 93.5 ng/mL) than on day 1 (C max : 6.8, 11.0, and 21.1 ng/mL for increasing doses), indicating accumulation. In the SAD study, <0.01% of the administered dose was recovered in urine. Mean surotomycin stool concentration from the 1000 mg MAD cohort was 6394 μg/g on day 5. Both cohorts were well tolerated with all adverse events reported as mild to moderate. Both SAD and MAD studies of surotomycin demonstrated minimal systemic exposure, with feces the primary route of elimination following oral administration; consistent with observations with similar compounds, such as fidaxomicin. Results of these phase 1 studies support the continued clinical development of surotomycin for the treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. NCT02835118 and NCT02835105 . Retrospectively registered, July 13 2016.

  2. Clinical Toxicities and Dosimetric Parameters After Whole-Pelvis Versus Prostate-Only Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Deville, Curtiland, E-mail: deville@uphs.upenn.ed; Both, Stefan; Hwang, Wei-Ting

    2010-11-01

    Purpose: To assess whether whole-pelvis (WP) intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is associated with increased toxicity compared with prostate-only (PO) IMRT. Methods and Materials: We retrospectively analyzed all patients with prostate cancer undergoing definitive IMRT to 79.2 Gy with concurrent androgen deprivation at our institution from November 2005 to May 2007 with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Thirty patients received initial WP IMRT to 45 Gy in 1.8-Gy fractions, and thirty patients received PO IMRT. Study patients underwent computed tomography simulation and treatment planning by use of predefined dose constraints. Bladder and rectal dose-volume histograms, maximum genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinalmore » (GI) Radiation Therapy Oncology Group toxicity grade, and late Grade 2 or greater toxicity-free survival curves were compared between the two groups by use of the Student t test, Fisher exact test, and Kaplan-Meier curve, respectively. Results: Bladder minimum dose, mean dose, median dose, volume receiving 5 Gy, volume receiving 20 Gy, volume receiving 40 Gy, and volume receiving 45 Gy and rectal minimum dose, median dose, and volume receiving 20 Gy were significantly increased in the WP group (all p values < 0.01). Maximum acute GI toxicity was limited to Grade 2 and was significantly increased in the WP group at 50% vs. 13% the PO group (p = 0.006). With a median follow-up of 24 months (range, 12-35 months), there was no difference in late GI toxicity (p = 0.884) or in acute or late GU toxicity. Conclusions: Despite dosimetric differences in the volume of bowel, bladder, and rectum irradiated in the low-dose and median-dose regions, WP IMRT results only in a clinically significant increase in acute GI toxicity, in comparison to PO IMRT, with no difference in GU or late GI toxicity.« less

  3. Patterns of patient specific dosimetry in total body irradiation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Akino, Yuichi; Department of Radiation Oncology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871; McMullen, Kevin P.

    2013-04-15

    Purpose: Total body irradiation (TBI) has been used for bone marrow transplant for hematologic and immune deficiency conditions. The goal of TBI is to deliver a homogeneous dose to the entire body, with a generally accepted range of dose uniformity being within {+-}10% of the prescribed dose. The moving table technique for TBI could make dose uniform in whole body by adjusting couch speed. However, it is difficult to accurately estimate the actual dose by calculation and hence in vivo dosimetry (IVD) is routinely performed. Here, the authors present patterns of patient-specific IVD in 161 TBI patients treated at ourmore » institution. Methods: Cobalt-60 teletherapy unit (Model C9 Cobalt-60 teletherapy unit, Picker X-ray Corporation) with customized moving bed (SITI Industrial Products, Inc., Fishers, IN) were used for TBI treatment. During treatment, OneDose{sup TM} (Sicel Technology, NC) Metal Oxide-silicon Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor detectors were placed at patient body surface; both entrance and exit side of the beam at patient head, neck, mediastinum, umbilicus, and knee to estimate midplane dose. When large differences (>10%) between the prescribed and measured dose were observed, dose delivery was corrected for subsequent fractions by the adjustment of couch speed and/or bolus placement. Under IRB exempt status, the authors retrospectively analyzed the treatment records of 161 patients who received TBI treatment between 2006 and 2011. Results: Across the entire cohort, the median {+-} SD (range) percent variance between calculated and measured dose for head, neck, mediastinum, umbilicus, and knee was -2.3 {+-} 10.2% (-66.2 to +35.3), 1.1 {+-} 11.5% (-62.2 to +40.3), -1.9 {+-} 9.5% (-66.4 to +46.6), -1.1 {+-} 7.2% (-35.2 to +42.9), and 3.4 {+-} 12.2% (-47.9 to +108.5), respectively. More than half of treatments were within {+-}10% of the prescribed dose for all anatomical regions. For 80% of treatments (10%-90%), dose at the umbilicus was within {+-}10%. However, some large differences greater than 35% were also found at several points. For one case, the knee received double the prescribed dose. When the dose differences for multiple fractions were averaged, compliance ({+-}10%) between the prescription and measured dose was improved compared to the dose difference of the first single fraction, for example, as at umbilicus, which improved from 83.9% to 98.5%. Conclusions: Actual dose measurement analysis of TBI patients revealed a potentially wide variance from the calculated dose. Based from their IVD method for TBI using Cobalt-60 irradiator and moving table, {+-}10% over entire body is hard to achieve. However, it can be significantly improved with immediate feedback after the first fraction prior to subsequent treatments.« less

  4. Immunogenicity and safety of 1 vs 2 doses of quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine in youth infected with human immunodeficiency virus.

    PubMed

    Lujan-Zilbermann, Jorge; Warshaw, Meredith G; Williams, Paige L; Spector, Stephen A; Decker, Michael D; Abzug, Mark J; Heckman, Barb; Manzella, Adam; Kabat, Bill; Jean-Philippe, Patrick; Nachman, Sharon; Siberry, George K

    2012-10-01

    To compare the immunogenicity of 1 vs 2 doses of meningococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccine (MCV4) in youth infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). P1065 was a phase I/II immunogenicity and safety trial of MCV4 in 324 youth infected with HIV performed at 27 sites of the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Group network in the US. At entry subjects received 1 dose of MCV4. At 24 weeks, those with screening cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4)% ≥ 15 were randomized to receive a second dose or not, and all with screening CD4% <15 received a second dose. Immunogenicity was evaluated as the proportion of subjects with a ≥ 4-fold rise from entry in serum bactericidal antibody against each meningococcal serogroup (SG) at weeks 28 and 72. Logistic regression models adjusting for HIV disease severity were used to evaluate the effect of 1 vs 2 MCV4 doses among those with screening CD4% ≥ 15. Subjects randomized to receive 2 vs 1 MCV4 dose had significantly higher response rates to all SGs at week 28 and to all except Neisseria meningitidis SG Y at week 72, with adjusted ORs of 2.5-5.6. In 31 subjects with screening CD4% <15 who received 2 MCV4 doses, response rates ranged from 22%-55% at week 28 and 6%-28% at week 72. In youth infected with HIV with a CD4% ≥ 15, a second dose of MCV4 given 6 months after the initial dose significantly improves response rates at 28 and 72 weeks. Subjects with CD4% <15 at entry had lower response rates despite 2 doses of MCV4. Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Radiation Dose Testing on Juno High Voltage Cables

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Green, Nelson W.; Kirkham, Harold; Kim, Wousik; McAlpine, Bill

    2008-01-01

    The Juno mission to Jupiter will have a highly elliptical orbit taking the spacecraft through the radiation belts surrounding the planet. During these passes through the radiation belts, the spacecraft will be subject to high doses of radiation from energetic electrons and protons with energies ranging from 10 keV to 1 GeV. While shielding within the spacecraft main body will reduce the total absorbed dose to much of the spacecraft electronics, instruments and cables on the outside of the spacecraft will receive much higher levels of absorbed dose. In order to estimate the amount of degradation to two such cables, testing has been performed on two coaxial cables intended to provide high voltages to three of the instruments on Juno. Both cables were placed in a vacuum of 5x10(exp -6) torr and cooled to -50(deg)C prior to exposure to the radiation sources. Measurements of the coaxial capacitance per unit length and partial discharge noise floor indicate that increasing levels of radiation make measurable but acceptably small changes to the F EP Teflon utilized in the construction of these cables. In addition to the radiation dose testing, observations were made on the internal electrostatic charging characteristics of these cables and multiple discharges were recorded.

  6. Radiation Dose Testing on Juno High Voltage Cables

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Green, Nelson W.; Kirkham, Harold; Kim, Wousik; McAlpine, Bill

    2008-01-01

    The Juno mission to Jupiter will have a highly elliptical orbit taking the spacecraft through the radiation belts surrounding the planet. During these passes through the radiation belts, the spacecraft will be subject to high doses of radiation from energetic electrons and protons with energies ranging from 10 keV to 1 GeV. While shielding within the spacecraft main body will reduce the total absorbed dose to much of the spacecraft electronics, instruments and cables on the outside of the spacecraft will receive much higher levels of absorbed dose. In order to estimate the amount of degradation to two such cables, testing has been performed on two coaxial cables intended to provide high voltages to three of the instruments on Juno. Both cables were placed in a vacuum of 5x10-6 torr and cooled to -50 C prior to exposure to the radiation sources. Measurements of the coaxial capacitance per unit length and partial discharge noise floor indicate that increasing levels of radiation make measurable but acceptably small changes to the F EP Teflon utilized in the construction of these cables. In addition to the radiation dose testing, observations were made on the internal electrostatic charging characteristics of these cables and multiple discharges were recorded.

  7. Understanding and meeting injection device needs in multiple sclerosis: a survey of patient attitudes and practices

    PubMed Central

    Verdun di Cantogno, Elisabetta; Russell, Susan; Snow, Tom

    2011-01-01

    Background: All established disease-modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis require parenteral administration, which can cause difficulties for some patients, sometimes leading to suboptimal adherence. A new electronic autoinjection device has been designed to address these issues. Methods: Patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis currently receiving subcutaneous or intramuscular interferon beta-1a, interferon beta-1b, or glatiramer acetate completed an online questionnaire (July 4–25, 2008) that surveyed current injection practices, experiences with current injection methods, and impressions and appeal of the new device. Results: In total, 422 patients completed the survey, of whom 44% used autoinjectors, 43% prefilled syringes, and 13% syringes and vials; overall, 66% currently self-injected. Physical and psychological barriers to self-injection included difficulty with injections, needle phobia, and concerns over correct injection technique. Only 40% of respondents were “very satisfied” with their current injection method. The new electronic autoinjector was rated as “very appealing” by 65% of patients. The benefits of the new device included the ability to customize injection settings and to review dosing history. Conclusion: New technologies may help patients overcome physical and psychological barriers to self-injection. The combination of a reliable and flexible autoinjection device with dose-monitoring technology may improve communication between health care professionals and patients, and improve treatment adherence. PMID:21573048

  8. 21 CFR 320.27 - Guidelines on the design of a multiple-dose in vivo bioavailability study.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... vivo bioavailability study. 320.27 Section 320.27 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION... Guidelines on the design of a multiple-dose in vivo bioavailability study. (a) Basic principles. (1) In... labeling of the test product. (3) A multiple-dose study may be required to determine the bioavailability of...

  9. Increasing bone sclerosis during bortezomib therapy in multiple myeloma patients: results of a reduced-dose whole-body MDCT study.

    PubMed

    Schulze, Maximilian; Weisel, Katja; Grandjean, Caroline; Oehrlein, Katharina; Zago, Manola; Spira, Daniel; Horger, Marius

    2014-01-01

    The objective of our study was to assess the frequency, location, extent, and patterns of bone sclerosis occurring in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) during bortezomib-based therapy. From June 2003 through December 2011, 593 whole-body reduced-dose MDCT studies were performed of 79 consecutive patients receiving bortezomib. The median surveillance time was 21 months (range, 3-67 months). Baseline studies were compared with follow-up studies during therapy (follow-up 1), at the end of therapy (follow-up 2), and 12 months after cessation of bortezomib therapy (follow-up 3). We recorded any sclerotic change occurring inside or along the margins of the osteolytic lesions, in the cancellous bone, or inside preexistent medullary or extramedullary lesions. The time point of occurrence of bone sclerosis was correlated with the best hematologic response category. Fourteen (17.7%) patients developed focal (n = 11) or diffuse (n = 3) bone sclerosis. The time window from bortezomib initiation to radiographic detection of bone sclerosis was 8 months (SD, 7 months). Sclerosis occurred at multiple sites (n = 7) or at an isolated site (n = 7). On subsequent whole-body reduced-dose MDCT studies, sclerosis further increased in seven (50%) patients. Hematologic best response during bortezomib treatment was complete response (n = 1), very good partial response (n = 2), partial response (n = 8), and stable disease (n = 3). Radiologic response at the time of sclerosis detection was partial response (n = 8), stable disease (n = 2), and progressive disease (n = 4). Bone remineralization may occur during bortezomib-based therapy for MM in a substantial proportion of patients. The extent, location, and patterns of sclerosis differ among patients and are unpredictable. Sclerosis was documented even in patients showing suboptimal hematologic response.

  10. Cancer Mortality Following Radiotherapy for Benign Gynecologic Disorders

    PubMed Central

    Sakata, Ritsu; Kleinerman, Ruth A.; Mabuchi, Kiyohiko; Stovall, Marilyn; Smith, Susan A.; Weathers, Rita; Wactawski-Wende, Jean; Cookfair, Diane L.; Boice, John D.; Inskip, Peter D.

    2012-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to quantify cancer mortality in relationship to organ-specific radiation dose among women irradiated for benign gynecologic disorders. Included in this study are 12,955 women treated for benign gynecologic disorders at hospitals in the Northeastern U.S. between 1925 and 1965; 9,770 women treated by radiation and 3,186 women treated by other methods. The average age at treatment was 45.9 years (range, 13–88 years), and the average follow-up period was 30.1 years (maximum, 69.9 years). Radiation doses to organs and active bone marrow were reconstructed by medical physicists using original radiotherapy records. The highest doses were received by the uterine cervix (median, 120 Gy) and uterine corpus (median, 34 Gy), followed by the bladder, rectum and colon (median, 1.7–7.2 Gy), with other abdominal organs receiving median doses ≤1 Gy and organs in the chest and head receiving doses <0.1 Gy. Standardized mortality rate ratios relative to the general U.S. population were calculated. Radiation-related risks were estimated in internal analyses using Poisson regression models. Mortality was significantly elevated among irradiated women for cancers of the uterine corpus, ovary, bladder, rectum, colon and brain, as well as for leukemia (exclusive of chronic lymphocytic leukemia) but not for cancer of the cervix, Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Evidence of a dose-response was seen for cancers of the ovary [excess relative risk (ERR) 0.31/Gy, P < 0.001], bladder (ERR = 0.21/Gy, P = 0.02) and rectum (ERR = 0.23/Gy, P = 0.05) and suggested for colon (ERR = 0.09/Gy, P = 0.10), but not for cancers of the uterine corpus or brain nor for non-chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Relative risks of mortality due to cancers of the stomach, pancreas, liver and kidney were close to 1.0, with no evidence of dose-response over the range of 0–1.5 Gy. Breast cancer was not significantly associated with dose to the breast or ovary. Mortality due to cancers of heavily irradiated organs remained elevated up to 40 years after irradiation. Significantly elevated radiation-related risk was seen for cancers of organs proximal to the radiation source or fields (bladder, rectum and ovary), as well as for non-chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Our results corroborate those from previous studies that suggest that cells of the uterine cervix and lymphopoietic system are relatively resistant to the carcinogenic effects of radiation. Studies of women irradiated for benign gynecologic disorders, together with studies of women treated with higher doses of radiation for uterine cancers, provide quantitative information on cancer risks associated with a broad range of pelvic radiation exposures. PMID:22856888

  11. Usefulness and safety of oral cryotherapy in the prevention of oral mucositis after conditioning regimens with high-dose melphalan for autologous stem cell transplantation for lymphoma and myeloma.

    PubMed

    Batlle, Montserrat; Morgades, Mireia; Vives, Susana; Ferrà, Christelle; Oriol, Albert; Sancho, Juan-Manuel; Xicoy, Blanca; Moreno, Miriam; Magallón, Laura; Ribera, Josep-Maria

    2014-12-01

    Oral mucositis (OM) is a common complication of conditioning regimens with high-dose melphalan (HDmel). This retrospective cohort study analyzes the impact of oral cryotherapy (OC) or room temperature saline rinses on the prevention of OM in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) or lymphoid neoplasias submitted to autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in a single center. From August 2006 to July 2011, 134 consecutive patients were enrolled. Two consecutive groups were included: Non-OC (August 2006 to April 2009, 68 patients) and OC (May 2009 to July 2011, 66 cases). MM cases (78, 58%) received HDmel as the conditioning regimen and 56 patients (42%) with lymphoma received BEAM. The non-OC and OC groups were comparable for the main clinicobiologic features and type of neoplasia. OM was more frequent and severe in patients receiving BEAM as the conditioning therapy. The group of OC showed less frequent and less severe mucositis and fewer days on antibiotics. No differences were observed in the duration of OM, need for parenteral nutrition and narcotics, and the length of hospital stay on comparison with the OC and non-OC groups. By multivariate analyses, OC was an independent favorable prognostic factor for OM development. This study shows that OC is more effective than saline rinses in the prevention of OM in patients with lymphoma and myeloma receiving conditioning regimens with HDmel for ASCT. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. Clinical outcome of high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy in vulvar cancer: A single institutional experience.

    PubMed

    Mahantshetty, Umesh; Naga, Pushpa; Engineer, Reena; Sastri, Supriya; Ghadi, Yogesh; Upreti, Udita; Somesan, Vijaya; Kadam, Sudarshan; Kohle, Satish; Deshpande, Deepak; Shrivastava, Shyam Kishore

    With an aim to evaluate and report high dose date interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) in vulvar cancers, we undertook this retrospective analysis. Histologically proven vulvar cancers treated with HDR-ISBT between 2001 and 2016 were analyzed. Radiotherapy details, clinical outcome in terms of local control rates, survivals, and toxicities were evaluated. A total of 38 patients received HDR-ISBT, with definitive radiation in 29 (76.3%), adjuvant postoperative in six (15.8%) and salvage radiation in three (7.9%) patients. Of them, 29 patients received brachytherapy boost and nine patients ISBT alone. BT procedure included freehand plastic tube technique in 23 (single [n = 5] or multiple plane [n = 18]), 13 patients with template based and two patients combined approach. Patients with brachytherapy alone received median EQD2 of 38.4 Gy 10 (35.5-46.7 Gy 10 ), as boost received median 23.3 Gy 10 (13-37.3 Gy 10 ). At 3-month post-treatment response evaluation, 30 patients achieved clinically complete response, two patients partial response and six maintained postoperative status. With a median follow-up of 30 months, 29 (76.3%) were disease free, and 9 (23.7%) patients had relapsed disease with four patients expired due to disease and two died of other causes. The 5-year overall survival, disease free survival, and local control rates were 82%, 51%, and 77%, respectively. HDR-ISBT in vulvar cancer is a feasible and a viable option with acceptable and comparable outcomes. Copyright © 2016 American Brachytherapy Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Stochastic simulation of radium-223 dichloride therapy at the sub-cellular level

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gholami, Y.; Zhu, X.; Fulton, R.; Meikle, S.; El-Fakhri, G.; Kuncic, Z.

    2015-08-01

    Radium-223 dichloride (223Ra) is an alpha particle emitter and a natural bone-seeking radionuclide that is currently used for treating osteoblastic bone metastases associated with prostate cancer. The stochastic nature of alpha emission, hits and energy deposition poses some challenges for estimating radiation damage. In this paper we investigate the distribution of hits to cells by multiple alpha particles corresponding to a typical clinically delivered dose using a Monte Carlo model to simulate the stochastic effects. The number of hits and dose deposition were recorded in the cytoplasm and nucleus of each cell. Alpha particle tracks were also visualized. We found that the stochastic variation in dose deposited in cell nuclei (≃ 40%) can be attributed in part to the variation in LET with pathlength. We also found that ≃ 18% of cell nuclei receive less than one sigma below the average dose per cell (≃ 15.4 Gy). One possible implication of this is that the efficacy of cell kill in alpha particle therapy need not rely solely on ionization clustering on DNA but possibly also on indirect DNA damage through the production of free radicals and ensuing intracellular signaling.

  14. Dose response explorer: an integrated open-source tool for exploring and modelling radiotherapy dose volume outcome relationships

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    El Naqa, I.; Suneja, G.; Lindsay, P. E.; Hope, A. J.; Alaly, J. R.; Vicic, M.; Bradley, J. D.; Apte, A.; Deasy, J. O.

    2006-11-01

    Radiotherapy treatment outcome models are a complicated function of treatment, clinical and biological factors. Our objective is to provide clinicians and scientists with an accurate, flexible and user-friendly software tool to explore radiotherapy outcomes data and build statistical tumour control or normal tissue complications models. The software tool, called the dose response explorer system (DREES), is based on Matlab, and uses a named-field structure array data type. DREES/Matlab in combination with another open-source tool (CERR) provides an environment for analysing treatment outcomes. DREES provides many radiotherapy outcome modelling features, including (1) fitting of analytical normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) and tumour control probability (TCP) models, (2) combined modelling of multiple dose-volume variables (e.g., mean dose, max dose, etc) and clinical factors (age, gender, stage, etc) using multi-term regression modelling, (3) manual or automated selection of logistic or actuarial model variables using bootstrap statistical resampling, (4) estimation of uncertainty in model parameters, (5) performance assessment of univariate and multivariate analyses using Spearman's rank correlation and chi-square statistics, boxplots, nomograms, Kaplan-Meier survival plots, and receiver operating characteristics curves, and (6) graphical capabilities to visualize NTCP or TCP prediction versus selected variable models using various plots. DREES provides clinical researchers with a tool customized for radiotherapy outcome modelling. DREES is freely distributed. We expect to continue developing DREES based on user feedback.

  15. Exploration of optimal dosing regimens of haloperidol, a D2 Antagonist, via modeling and simulation analysis in a D2 receptor occupancy study.

    PubMed

    Lim, Hyeong-Seok; Kim, Su Jin; Noh, Yook-Hwan; Lee, Byung Chul; Jin, Seok-Joon; Park, Hyun Soo; Kim, Soohyeon; Jang, In-Jin; Kim, Sang Eun

    2013-03-01

    To evaluate the potential usage of D(2) receptor occupancy (D2RO) measured by positron emission tomography (PET) in antipsychotic development. In this randomized, parallel group study, eight healthy male volunteers received oral doses of 0.5 (n = 3), 1 (n = 2), or 3 mg (n = 3) of haloperidol once daily for 7 days. PET's were scanned before haloperidol, and on days 8, 12, with serial pharmacokinetic sampling on day 7. Pharmacokinetics and binding potential to D(2) receptor in putamen and caudate nucleus over time were analyzed using NONMEM, and simulations for the profiles of D2RO over time on various regimens of haloperidol were conducted to find the optimal dosing regimens. One compartment model with a saturable binding compartment, and inhibitory E(max) model in the effect compartment best described the data. Plasma haloperidol concentrations at half-maximal inhibition were 0.791 and 0.650 ng/ml, in putamen and caudate nucleus. Simulation suggested haloperidol 2 mg every 12 h is near the optimal dose. This study showed that sparse D2RO measurements in steady state pharmacodynamic design after multiple dosing could reveal the possibility of treatment effect of D(2) antagonist, and could identify the potential optimal doses for later clinical studies by modeling and simulation.

  16. Successful treatment of solitary toxic thyroid nodules with relatively low-dose iodine-131, with low prevalence of hypothyroidism

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ross, D.S.; Ridgway, E.C.; Daniels, G.H.

    1984-10-01

    Forty-five patients with solitary toxic thyroid adenomas received 131I (mean dose, 10.3 mCi) for treatment of hyperthyroidism and were followed for 4.9 +/- 3.2 years (range, 0.5 to 13.5). Seventy-seven percent were euthyroid by 2 months, 91% by 6 months, and 93% by 1 year. Only 3 patients did not respond to a single dose of 131I, but all responded to multiple doses. Late recurrent hyperthyroidism occurred in 3 patients at 4.5, 6, and 10 years after treatment with a single dose of 131I. No patient developed clinical hypothyroidism, and none had a low serum thyroxine level associated with anmore » elevated serum thyrotrophin level. Three patients developed minimal elevations in serum thyrotrophin levels: 1, 4, and 7.5 years after 131I treatment, their thyrotrophin levels were 8.4, 6.2, and 9.6 microU/mL, respectively. All 3 had normal serum thyroxine levels and were clinically euthyroid. Mean serum thyroxine concentrations of all patients were unchanged between 1 and more than 9 years of follow-up. These data suggest that solitary toxic adenomas may be treated with relatively low doses of 131I (5 to 15 mCi), and that post-treatment hypothyroidism is very unusual.« less

  17. Efficacy of multiple exposure with low level He-Ne laser dose on acute wound healing: a pre-clinical study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prabhu, Vijendra; Rao, Bola Sadashiva S.; Mahato, Krishna Kishore

    2014-02-01

    Investigations on the use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for wound healing especially with the red laser light have demonstrated its pro-healing potential on a variety of pre-clinical and surgical wounds. However, until now, in LLLT the effect of multiple exposure of low dose laser irradiation on acute wound healing on well-designed pre-clinical model is not much explored. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of multiple exposure of low dose Helium Neon laser on healing progression of full thickness excision wounds in Swiss albino mice. Further, the efficacy of the multiple exposure of low dose laser irradiation was compared with the single exposure of optimum dose. Full thickness excision wounds (circular) of 15 mm diameter were created, and subsequently illuminated with the multiple exposures (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 exposure/ week until healing) of He-Ne (632.8 nm, 4.02 mWcm-2) laser at 0.5 Jcm-2 along with single exposure of optimum laser dose (2 J/cm-2) and un-illuminated controls. Classical biophysical parameters such as contraction kinetics, area under the curve and the mean healing time were documented as the assessment parameters to examine the efficacy of multiple exposures with low level laser dose. Experimental findings substantiated that either single or multiple exposures of 0.5 J/cm2 failed to produce any detectable alterations on wound contraction, area under the curve and mean healing time compared to single exposure of optimum dose (2 Jcm-2) and un-illuminated controls. Single exposure of optimum, laser dose was found to be ideal for acute wound healing.

  18. Immune response and reactogenicity of intradermal administration versus subcutaneous administration of varicella-zoster virus vaccine: an exploratory, randomised, partly blinded trial.

    PubMed

    Beals, Chan R; Railkar, Radha A; Schaeffer, Andrea K; Levin, Yotam; Kochba, Efrat; Meyer, Brian K; Evans, Robert K; Sheldon, Eric A; Lasseter, Kenneth; Lang, Nancy; Weinberg, Adriana; Canniff, Jennifer; Levin, Myron J

    2016-08-01

    The licensed live, attenuated varicella-zoster virus vaccine prevents herpes zoster in adults older than 50 years. We aimed to determine whether intradermal administration of zoster vaccine could enhance vaccine immunogenicity compared with conventional needle subcutaneous administration. In this randomised, dose-ranging study, adults aged 50 years or older who had a history of varicella or who had resided in a country with endemic varicella-zoster virus infection for 30 years or more were eligible. Participants received the approved full or a 1/3 dose of zoster vaccine given subcutaneously or one of four intradermal doses (full, 1/3, 1/10, or 1/27 dose) using the MicronJet600 device. The two subcutaneous doses and the four intradermal doses were randomised (1·5:1:1:1:1:1) by computer generated sequence with randomisation stratified by age (50-59 years or 60 years or older). The primary immunogenicity endpoint was the change from baseline in IgG antibody to varicella-zoster virus-specific glycoproteins (gpELISA) measured at 6 weeks. All patients were included in the primary and safety analyses. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01385566. Between Sept 2, 2011, and Jan 13, 2012, 224 participants were enrolled from three clinics in the USA and 223 were randomly assigned: 52 to receive the full dose subcutaneous zoster vaccine, 34 to receive the 1/3 dose subcutaneous zoster vaccine, 34 to receive the full dose intradermal zoster vaccine, 35 to receive the 1/3 dose intradermal zoster vaccine, 34 to receive the 1/10 dose intradermal zoster vaccine, and 34 to receive the 1/27 dose intradermal zoster vaccine. Full dose zoster vaccine given subcutaneously resulted in a gpELISA geometric mean fold-rise (GMFR) of 1·74 (90% CI 1·48-2·04) at 6 weeks post-vaccination compared with intradermal administration which resulted in a significantly higher gpELISA GMFR of 3·25 (2·68-3·94; p<0·0001), which also remained high at 18 months. An apparent dose-response relation was observed with intradermal administration (1/3 dose subcutaneous GMFR 1·64 [90% CI 1·36-1·99], 1/3 dose intradermal 2·58 (2·13-3·13), 1/10 dose intradermal 2·22 [1·83-2·69], and 1/27 dose intradermal 1·64 [1·35-2·00]). Each partial dose of zoster vaccine given intradermaly had a gpELISA GMFR comparable to that of full dose zoster vaccine given subcutaneously. Transient erythema and induration were more common after intradermal administration (31% erythema for full subcutaneous dose and 77% for intradermal dose). Intradermal zoster vaccine showed a greater increase in varicella-zoster virus gpELISA antibody compared with subcutaneous zoster vaccine at comparable doses. Larger and longer studies of intradermal administration of live, attenuated zoster vaccine are needed to provide convincing evidence of improved cell mediated immunity. Merck & Co Inc. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Lacosamide-Induced Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia in the Acute Care Setting.

    PubMed

    Berei, Theodore J; Lillyblad, Matthew P; Almquist, Adrian K

    2018-04-01

    Lacosamide is a new-generation antiepileptic drug (AED) most commonly used adjunctively in the setting of partial-onset seizures refractory to traditional therapy. We describe the first case report, to our knowledge, of a patient who developed recurrent, sustained ventricular tachycardia with multiple administrations of lacosamide in an acute setting. A 70-year-old woman with a history significant for valvular heart disease was admitted to the inpatient cardiology service for worsening heart failure. On hospital day 7, she received a bioprosthetic aortic valve. Prior to surgery and immediately after, the patient's electrocardiogram (ECG) was normal. After developing multiple generalized tonic-clonic seizures refractory to levetiracetam, fosphenytoin, and valproic acid, the decision was made to initiate lacosamide. Two hours following the second lacosamide dose, the patient developed a wide complex QRS that transitioned into sustained ventricular tachycardia requiring electrical cardioversion. Sustained ventricular tachycardia occurred again, just hours after the third dose of lacosamide was given. Following cessation of lacosamide, the patient's QRS interval normalized and has since had no documented episodes of ventricular tachycardia. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for life-threatening rhythmic disturbances in patients initiated on lacosamide and the need for vigilant ECG, electrolyte, and drug-drug monitoring.

  20. Alterations in bone marrow and blood mononuclear cell polyamine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) levels: phase I evaluation of alpha-difluoromethylornithine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) treatment of human hematological malignancies.

    PubMed

    Maddox, A M; Freireich, E J; Keating, M J; Haddox, M K

    1988-03-01

    Nine patients with hematological malignancies were treated with difluoromethylornithine and methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone). The number of circulating blast cells decreased in all of the patients treated with DFMO and MGBG for longer than 1 wk. Morphological evidence of myeloid maturation was evident in four patients with leukemia and the circulating M Protein decreased in one patient with multiple myeloma. The polyamine content of the mononuclear cells in both the peripheral blood and bone marrow was transiently increased after the initial MGBG dose. During administration of DFMO decreases were achieved in the peripheral blood mononuclear cell putrescine levels in 7 patients, spermidine levels in 5 patients, and spermine levels in 4 patients. Alterations in bone marrow mononuclear cell polyamine levels were similar to those which occurred in the peripheral cells. An average of 9 days of DFMO treatment was required to lower mononuclear cell polyamine levels. Three of the 4 evaluable patients receiving multiple MGBG doses had an increased mononuclear cell content of MGBG after DFMO pretreatment. Enhancement of cellular MGBG levels was not directly correlated to the degree of cellular polyamine depletion.

  1. Radiation-associated circulatory disease mortality in a pooled analysis of 77,275 patients from the Massachusetts and Canadian tuberculosis fluoroscopy cohorts.

    PubMed

    Tran, Van; Zablotska, Lydia B; Brenner, Alina V; Little, Mark P

    2017-03-13

    High-dose ionising radiation is associated with circulatory disease. Risks associated with lower-dose (<0.5 Gy) exposures remain unclear, with little information on risk modification by age at exposure, years since exposure or dose-rate. Tuberculosis patients in Canada and Massachusetts received multiple diagnostic x-ray fluoroscopic exposures, over a wide range of ages, many at doses <0.5 Gy. We evaluated risks of circulatory-disease mortality associated with <0.5 Gy radiation exposure in a pooled cohort of 63,707 patients in Canada and 13,568 patients in Massachusetts. Under 0.5 Gy there are increasing trends for all circulatory disease (n = 10,209; excess relative risk/Gy = 0.246; 95% CI 0.036, 0.469; p = 0.021) and for ischaemic heart disease (n = 6410; excess relative risk/Gy = 0.267; 95% CI 0.003, 0.552; p = 0.048). All circulatory-disease and ischaemic-heart-disease risk reduces with increasing time since exposure (p < 0.005). Over the entire dose range, there are negative mortality dose trends for all circulatory disease (p = 0.014) and ischaemic heart disease (p = 0.003), possibly due to competing causes of death over this dose interval.These results confirm and extend earlier findings and strengthen the evidence for circulatory-disease mortality radiation risk at doses <0.5 Gy. The limited information on well-known lifestyle/medical risk factors for circulatory disease implies that confounding of the dose trend cannot be entirely excluded.

  2. Cerebral radioprotection by pentobarbital: Dose-response characteristics and association with GABA agonist activity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Olson, J.J.; Friedman, R.; Orr, K.

    1990-05-01

    Pentobarbital reduces cerebral radiation toxicity; however, the mechanism of this phenomenon remains unknown. As an anesthetic and depressant of cerebral metabolism, pentobarbital induces its effects on the central nervous system by stimulating the binding of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to its receptor and by inhibiting postsynaptic excitatory amino acid activity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of these actions as well as other aspects of the radioprotective activity of pentobarbital. Fischer 344 rats were separated into multiple groups and underwent two dose-response evaluations. In one set of experiments to examine the relationship of radioprotection to pentobarbital dose,more » a range of pentobarbital doses (0 to 75 mg/kg) were given intraperitoneally prior to a constant-level radiation dose (70 Gy). In a second series of experiments to determine the dose-response relationship of radiation protection to radiation dose, a range of radiation doses (10 to 90 Gy) were given with a single pentobarbital dose. Further groups of animals were used to evaluate the importance of the timing of pentobarbital administration, the function of the (+) and (-) isomers of pentobarbital, and the role of an alternative GABA agonist (diazepam). In addition, the potential protective effects of alternative methods of anesthesia (ketamine) and induction of cerebral hypometabolism (hypothermia) were examined. Enhancement of survival time from acute radiation injury due to high-dose single-fraction whole-brain irradiation was maximal with 60 mg/kg of pentobarbital, and occurred over the range of all doses examined between 30 to 90 Gy. Protection was seen only in animals that received the pentobarbital before irradiation. Administration of other compounds that enhance GABA binding (Saffan and diazepam) also significantly enhanced survival time.« less

  3. Impact of treatment planning with deformable image registration on dose distribution for carbon-ion beam lung treatment using a fixed irradiation port and rotating couch.

    PubMed

    Kumagai, M; Mori, S; Yamamoto, N

    2015-06-01

    When using a fixed irradiation port, treatment couch rotation is necessary to increase beam angle selection. We evaluated dose variations associated with positional morphological changes to organs. We retrospectively chose the data sets of ten patients with lung cancer who underwent respiratory-gated CT at three different couch rotation angles (0°, 20° and -20°). The respective CT data sets are referred to as CT0, CT20 and CT-20. Three treatment plans were generated as follows: in Plan 1, all compensating bolus designs and dose distributions were calculated using CT0. To evaluate the rotation effect without considering morphology changes, in Plan 2, the compensating boli designed using CT0 were applied to the CT±20 images. Plan 3 involved compensating boli designed using the CT±20 images. The accumulated dose distributions were calculated using deformable image registration (DIR). A sufficient prescribed dose was calculated for the planning target volume (PTV) in Plan 1 [minimum dose received by a volume ≥95% (D95) > 95.8%]. By contrast, Plan 2 showed degraded dose conformation to the PTV (D95 > 90%) owing to mismatch of the bolus design to the morphological positional changes in the respective CT. The dose assessment results of Plan 3 were very close to those of Plan 1. Dose distribution is significantly affected by whether or not positional organ morphology changes are factored into dose planning. In treatment planning using multiple CT scans with different couch positions, it is mandatory to calculate the accumulated dose using DIR.

  4. Effect of opicapone multiple-dose regimens on levodopa pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Rocha, José-Francisco; Sicard, Éric; Fauchoux, Nicolas; Falcão, Amílcar; Santos, Ana; Loureiro, Ana I; Pinto, Roberto; Bonifácio, Maria João; Nunes, Teresa; Almeida, Luís; Soares-da-Silva, Patrício

    2017-03-01

    To compare the levodopa/carbidopa (LC) and levodopa/benserazide (LB) pharmacokinetic profiles following repeated doses of opicapone (OPC) administered apart from levodopa. Two randomized, double blind, sex-balanced, placebo-controlled studies in four groups of 12 or 18 healthy subjects each. In each group, enrolled subjects received a once-daily morning (5, 15 and 30 mg) or evening (5, 15 and 50 mg) administration of OPC or placebo for up to 28 days. On the morning of Day 11, 12 h after the OPC or placebo evening dose, or the morning of Day 21, 1 h after the OPC or placebo dose, a single dose of immediate-release 100/25 mg LC was administered. Similarly, on Day 18 morning, 12 h after the OPC or placebo evening dose, or Day 28 morning, 1 h after the OPC or placebo dose, a single dose of immediate-release 100/25 mg LB was administered. All OPC treatments, in relation to the placebo group, presented a higher extent of exposure (AUC) to levodopa following either LC or LB doses. A relevant but not dose-dependent increase in the levodopa AUC occurred with all OPC dose groups in relation to placebo. All active treatments significantly inhibited both peak (E max ) and extent (AUEC) of the catechol-O-methyltransferase activity in relation to placebo. The tolerability profile was favourable. Opicapone, as once-daily oral evening regimen and/or 1 h apart from levodopa therapy, increases the bioavailability of levodopa associated with its pronounced, long-lasting and sustained catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibition. The tolerability profile was favourable and similar between OPC and placebo. © 2016 The British Pharmacological Society.

  5. SU-F-J-87: Impact Of The Dosimetric Consequences From Minimal Displacements Throughout The Treatment Time In APBI With SAVI Applicators

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chandrasekara, S; Pella, S; Hyvarinen, M

    2016-06-15

    Purpose: To assess the variation in dose received by the organs at risk (OARs) due to inter-fractional motion by SAVI to determine the importance of providing proper immobilization Methods: An analysis of 15 patients treated with SAVI applicators were considered for this study. Treatment planning teams did not see significant changes in their CT scans through scout images and initial treatment plan was used for the entire treatment. These scans, taken before each treatment were imported in to the treatment planning system and were fused together with respective to the applicator, using landmark registration. Dosimetric evaluations were performed. Dose receivedmore » by skin, ribs and PTV(Planning target volume) respect to the initial treatment plan were measured. Results: Contours of the OARs were not similar with the initial image. Deduction in volumes of PTV and cavity, small deviations in displacements from the applicator to the OARs, difference in doses received by the OARs between treatments were noticed. The maximum, minimum, average doses varied between 10% to 20% 5% to 8% and 15% to 20% in ribs and skin. The 0.1cc doses to OARs showed an average change of 10% of the prescribed dose. PTV was receiving a different dose than the estimated dose Conclusion: The variation in volumes and isodoses related to the OARs, PTV receiving a lesser dose than the prescribed dose indicate that the estimated doses are different from the received dose. This study reveals the urgent need of improving the immobilization methods. Taking a CT scan before each treatment and replanning is helpful to minimize the risk of delivering undesired high doses to the OARs. Patient positioning, motion, respiration, observer differences and time lap between the planning and treating can arise more complications. VacLock, Positioning cushions, Image guided brachytherapy and adjustable registration should be used for further improvements.« less

  6. Intraoperative Use of Low-Dose Recombinant Activated Factor VII During Thoracic Aortic Operations

    PubMed Central

    Andersen, Nicholas D.; Bhattacharya, Syamal D.; Williams, Judson B.; Fosbol, Emil L.; Lockhart, Evelyn L.; Patel, Mayur B.; Gaca, Jeffrey G.; Welsby, Ian J.; Hughes, G. Chad

    2013-01-01

    Background Numerous studies have supported the effectiveness of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) for the control of bleeding after cardiac procedures; however safety concerns persist. Here we report the novel use of intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa in thoracic aortic operations, a strategy intended to improve safety by minimizing rFVIIa exposure. Methods Between July 2005 and December 2010, 425 consecutive patients at a single referral center underwent thoracic aortic operations with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB); 77 of these patients received intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa (≤60 μg/kg) for severe coagulopathy after CPB. Propensity matching produced a cohort of 88 patients (44 received intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa and 44 controls) for comparison. Results Matched patients receiving intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa got an initial median dose of 32 μg/kg (interquartile range [IQR], 16–43 μg/kg) rFVIIa given 51 minutes (42–67 minutes) after separation from CPB. Patients receiving intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa demonstrated improved postoperative coagulation measurements (partial thromboplastin time 28.6 versus 31.5 seconds; p = 0.05; international normalized ratio, 0.8 versus 1.2; p < 0.0001) and received 50% fewer postoperative blood product transfusions (2.5 versus 5.0 units; p = 0.05) compared with control patients. No patient receiving intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa required postoperative rFVIIa administration or reexploration for bleeding. Rates of stroke, thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, and other adverse events were equivalent between groups. Conclusions Intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa led to improved postoperative hemostasis with no apparent increase in adverse events. Intraoperative rFVIIa administration in appropriately selected patients may correct coagulopathy early in the course of refractory blood loss and lead to improved safety through the use of smaller rFVIIa doses. Appropriately powered randomized studies are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of this approach. PMID:22551846

  7. Intraoperative use of low-dose recombinant activated factor VII during thoracic aortic operations.

    PubMed

    Andersen, Nicholas D; Bhattacharya, Syamal D; Williams, Judson B; Fosbol, Emil L; Lockhart, Evelyn L; Patel, Mayur B; Gaca, Jeffrey G; Welsby, Ian J; Hughes, G Chad

    2012-06-01

    Numerous studies have supported the effectiveness of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) for the control of bleeding after cardiac procedures; however safety concerns persist. Here we report the novel use of intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa in thoracic aortic operations, a strategy intended to improve safety by minimizing rFVIIa exposure. Between July 2005 and December 2010, 425 consecutive patients at a single referral center underwent thoracic aortic operations with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB); 77 of these patients received intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa (≤60 μg/kg) for severe coagulopathy after CPB. Propensity matching produced a cohort of 88 patients (44 received intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa and 44 controls) for comparison. Matched patients receiving intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa got an initial median dose of 32 μg/kg (interquartile range [IQR], 16-43 μg/kg) rFVIIa given 51 minutes (42-67 minutes) after separation from CPB. Patients receiving intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa demonstrated improved postoperative coagulation measurements (partial thromboplastin time 28.6 versus 31.5 seconds; p=0.05; international normalized ratio, 0.8 versus 1.2; p<0.0001) and received 50% fewer postoperative blood product transfusions (2.5 versus 5.0 units; p=0.05) compared with control patients. No patient receiving intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa required postoperative rFVIIa administration or reexploration for bleeding. Rates of stroke, thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, and other adverse events were equivalent between groups. Intraoperative low-dose rFVIIa led to improved postoperative hemostasis with no apparent increase in adverse events. Intraoperative rFVIIa administration in appropriately selected patients may correct coagulopathy early in the course of refractory blood loss and lead to improved safety through the use of smaller rFVIIa doses. Appropriately powered randomized studies are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of this approach. Copyright © 2012 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Tenofovir in HIV-infected Women during Labor and their Infants During the First Week of Life

    PubMed Central

    Mirochnick, Mark; Taha, Taha; Kreitchmann, Regis; Nielsen-Saines, Karin; Kumwenda, Newton; Joao, Esau; Pinto, Jorge; Santos, Breno; Parsons, Teresa; Kearney, Brian; Emel, Lynda; Herron, Casey; Richardson, Paul; Hudelson, Sarah E.; Eshleman, Susan H.; George, Kathleen; Fowler, Mary Glenn; Sato, Paul; Mofenson, Lynne

    2013-01-01

    Background Data describing the pharmacokinetics and safety of tenofovir in neonates are lacking. Methods HPTN 057 was a phase 1, open label study of the pharmacokinetics and safety of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in HIV infected women during labor and their infants during the first week of life with 4 dosing cohorts: maternal 600 mg doses/no infant dosing; no maternal dosing/infant 4 mg/kg doses day 0, 3 and 5; maternal 900 mg doses/infant 6 mg/kg doses day 0, 3 and 5; maternal 600 mg doses/infant 6 mg/kg doses daily ×7 doses. Pharmacokinetic sampling was performed on cohort 1 and 3 mothers and all infants. Plasma, amniotic fluid and breast milk tenofovir concentrations were determined by liquid chromatographic – tandem mass spectrometric assay. The pharmacokinetic target was for infant tenofovir concentration throughout the first week of life to exceed 50 ng/mL, the median trough tenofovir concentration in adults receiving standard chronic TDF dosing. Results 122 mother-infant pairs from Malawi and Brazil were studied. Tenofovir exposure in mothers receiving 600 mg and 900 mg exceeded that in non-pregnant adults receiving standard 300 mg doses. Tenofovir elimination in the infants was equivalent to that in older children and adults and trough tenofovir plasma concentrations exceeded 50 ng/mL in 74–97% of infants receiving daily dosing. Conclusion A TDF dosing regimen of 600 mg during labor and daily infant doses of 6 mg/kg maintains infant tenofovir plasma concentration above 50 ng/mL throughout the first week of life and should be used in studies of TDF efficacy for HIV PMTCT and early infant treatment. PMID:23979002

  9. Review of Prescribing Practices for Intermittent Bolus Administration of Morphine

    PubMed Central

    Sine, Keith; Vaillancourt, Régis; Pascuet, Elena; Martelli, Brenda; Lamontagne, Christine; Ellis, Jacqueline; Wong, Elaine; Gaboury, Isabelle

    2011-01-01

    Background: Several changes to medication safety practices were proposed in a pediatric hospital, including changing the period of patient observation after administration of opioids and limiting the availability of various concentrations of morphine in the patient care unit. Objective: To document and review postoperative pain management for children on a surgical ward, specifically with regard to intermittent IV bolus administration of morphine, to help in assessing the impact of the proposed nursing practice changes. Methods: Data were collected from records for narcotics and controlled drugs for the surgical ward over a 3-month period (April to June 2006). For each patient, data had been recorded for up to 7 consecutive days after surgery. A patient’s data were included in the review if he or she had received at least 2 doses of morphine by IV bolus, except for the review of weight-based dosing pattern (mg/kg), for which all patients who had received at least one dose of IV morphine were included. Results: Charts for 193 patients were audited. Of these, 163 patients (84.5%) had recieved up to 0.1 mg/kg per dose, and 53 (27.5%) had received only one dose of morphine. Among patients who received more than one dose, the median dose was 0.080 mg/kg on day 1, with a decrease by day 5 to 0.065 mg/kg. Most patients received morphine over the first 2 days after surgery. The median time elapsed between doses was 4.3 h on day 1 and 6.2 h on day 2. Of the 1020 doses included in the analysis, most (801 [78.5%]) were 4 mg or less. Conclusion: The intermittent administration of IV bolus doses of morphine at the study hospital followed common standards for the treatment of postoperative pain. Most doses were no more than 4 mg. On the basis of this information, only 2-mg vials of morphine are now stocked on the ward. The hospital’s change in monitoring practices will increase the surveillance of patients receiving IV bolus doses of morphine. PMID:22479025

  10. Decorporation Approach after Rat Lung Contamination with Plutonium: Evaluation of the Key Parameters Influencing the Efficacy of a Protracted Chelation Treatment.

    PubMed

    Grémy, Olivier; Coudert, Sylvie; Renault, Daniel; Miccoli, Laurent

    2017-11-01

    While the efficacy of a protracted zinc (Zn)- or calcium (Ca)-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) treatment in reducing transuranic body burden has already been demonstrated, questions about therapeutic variables remain. In response to this, we designed animal experiments primarily to assess both the effect of fractionation of a given dose and the effect of the frequency of dose fraction, with the same total dose. In our study, rats were contaminated intravenously with plutonium (Pu) then treated several days later with Ca-DTPA given at once or in various split-dose regimens cumulating to the same total dose and spread over several days. Similar efficacies were induced by the injection of the total dose or by splitting the dose in several smaller doses, independent of the number of doses and the dose level per injection. In a second study, rats were pulmonary contaminated, and three weeks later they received a Ca-DTPA dose 11-fold higher than the maximal daily recommended dose, administered either as a single bolus or as numerous multiple injections cumulating to the same dose, based on different injection frequency schedules. Independent of frequency schedule, the various split-dose regimens spread over weeks/months were as efficient as single delivery of the total dose in mobilizing lung plutonium, and had a therapeutic advantage for removal of retained hepatic and bone plutonium burdens. We concluded that cumulative dose level was a therapeutic variable of greater importance than the distribution of split doses for the success of a repeated treatment regimen on retained tissue plutonium. In addition, pulmonary administration of clodronate, which aims at killing alveolar macrophages and subsequently releasing their plutonium content, and which is associated with a continuous Ca-DTPA infusion regimen, suggested that the efficacy of injected Ca-DTPA in decorporating lung deposit is limited, due to its restricted penetration into alveolar macrophages and not because plutonium, as a physicochemical form, is unavailable for chelation.

  11. Simultaneous integrated vs. sequential boost in VMAT radiotherapy of high-grade gliomas.

    PubMed

    Farzin, Mostafa; Molls, Michael; Astner, Sabrina; Rondak, Ina-Christine; Oechsner, Markus

    2015-12-01

    In 20 patients with high-grade gliomas, we compared two methods of planning for volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT): simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) vs. sequential boost (SEB). The investigation focused on the analysis of dose distributions in the target volumes and the organs at risk (OARs). After contouring the target volumes [planning target volumes (PTVs) and boost volumes (BVs)] and OARs, SIB planning and SEB planning were performed. The SEB method consisted of two plans: in the first plan the PTV received 50 Gy in 25 fractions with a 2-Gy dose per fraction. In the second plan the BV received 10 Gy in 5 fractions with a dose per fraction of 2 Gy. The doses of both plans were summed up to show the total doses delivered. In the SIB method the PTV received 54 Gy in 30 fractions with a dose per fraction of 1.8 Gy, while the BV received 60 Gy in the same fraction number but with a dose per fraction of 2 Gy. All of the OARs showed higher doses (Dmax and Dmean) in the SEB method when compared with the SIB technique. The differences between the two methods were statistically significant in almost all of the OARs. Analysing the total doses of the target volumes we found dose distributions with similar homogeneities and comparable total doses. Our analysis shows that the SIB method offers advantages over the SEB method in terms of sparing OARs.

  12. Determinants of complications after multiple transrectal core biopsies of the prostate.

    PubMed

    Norberg, M; Holmberg, L; Häggman, M; Magnusson, A

    1996-01-01

    Transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsies of the prostate were performed on 347 consecutive men. All patients were given prophylactic antibiotics. The first 199 patients received 400 mg norfloxacin immediately after the biopsies were performed and 400 mg the same evening. The second group of 148 patients received 400 mg of norfloxacin 1 h before the examination followed by five doses administered twice daily. A total of 15 major complications were noted. In the first group the complication rate was 6.5% and in the second group 1.4%. The different regimes of prophylactic antibiotic treatment were the only parameters shown to have a statistically significant impact on the complication rate. The number of complications decreased, but were not eliminated, when prophylactic treatment with norfloxacin was given before the biopsies were taken and continued for a total of 3 days.

  13. Optimal dose and volume for postoperative radiotherapy in brain oligometastases from lung cancer: a retrospective study.

    PubMed

    Chung, Seung Yeun; Chang, Jong Hee; Kim, Hye Ryun; Cho, Byoung Chul; Lee, Chang Geol; Suh, Chang-Ok

    2017-06-01

    To evaluate intracranial control after surgical resection according to the adjuvant treatment received in order to assess the optimal radiotherapy (RT) dose and volume. Between 2003 and 2015, a total of 53 patients with brain oligometastases from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) underwent metastasectomy. The patients were divided into three groups according to the adjuvant treatment received: whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) ± boost (WBRT ± boost group, n = 26), local RT/Gamma Knife surgery (local RT group, n = 14), and the observation group (n = 13). The most commonly used dose schedule was WBRT (25 Gy in 10 fractions, equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions [EQD2] 26.04 Gy) with tumor bed boost (15 Gy in 5 fractions, EQD2 16.25 Gy). The WBRT ± boost group showed the lowest 1-year intracranial recurrence rate of 30.4%, followed by the local RT and observation groups, at 66.7%, and 76.9%, respectively (p = 0.006). In the WBRT ± boost group, there was no significant increase in the 1-year new site recurrence rate of patients receiving a lower dose of WBRT (EQD2) <27 Gy compared to that in patients receiving a higher WBRT dose (p = 0.553). The 1-year initial tumor site recurrence rate was lower in patients receiving tumor bed dose (EQD2) of ≥42.3 Gy compared to those receiving <42.3 Gy, although the difference was not significant (p = 0.347). Adding WBRT after resection of brain oligometastases from NSCLC seems to enhance intracranial control. Furthermore, combining lower-dose WBRT with a tumor bed boost may be an attractive option.

  14. Optimal dose and volume for postoperative radiotherapy in brain oligometastases from lung cancer: a retrospective study

    PubMed Central

    Chung, Seung Yeun; Chang, Jong Hee; Kim, Hye Ryun; Cho, Byoung Chul; Lee, Chang Geol; Suh, Chang-Ok

    2017-01-01

    Purpose To evaluate intracranial control after surgical resection according to the adjuvant treatment received in order to assess the optimal radiotherapy (RT) dose and volume. Materials and Methods Between 2003 and 2015, a total of 53 patients with brain oligometastases from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) underwent metastasectomy. The patients were divided into three groups according to the adjuvant treatment received: whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) ± boost (WBRT ± boost group, n = 26), local RT/Gamma Knife surgery (local RT group, n = 14), and the observation group (n = 13). The most commonly used dose schedule was WBRT (25 Gy in 10 fractions, equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions [EQD2] 26.04 Gy) with tumor bed boost (15 Gy in 5 fractions, EQD2 16.25 Gy). Results The WBRT ± boost group showed the lowest 1-year intracranial recurrence rate of 30.4%, followed by the local RT and observation groups, at 66.7%, and 76.9%, respectively (p = 0.006). In the WBRT ± boost group, there was no significant increase in the 1-year new site recurrence rate of patients receiving a lower dose of WBRT (EQD2) <27 Gy compared to that in patients receiving a higher WBRT dose (p = 0.553). The 1-year initial tumor site recurrence rate was lower in patients receiving tumor bed dose (EQD2) of ≥42.3 Gy compared to those receiving <42.3 Gy, although the difference was not significant (p = 0.347). conclusions Adding WBRT after resection of brain oligometastases from NSCLC seems to enhance intracranial control. Furthermore, combining lower-dose WBRT with a tumor bed boost may be an attractive option. PMID:28712276

  15. Lung Texture in Serial Thoracic Computed Tomography Scans: Correlation of Radiomics-based Features With Radiation Therapy Dose and Radiation Pneumonitis Development

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cunliffe, Alexandra; Armato, Samuel G.; Castillo, Richard

    2015-04-01

    Purpose: To assess the relationship between radiation dose and change in a set of mathematical intensity- and texture-based features and to determine the ability of texture analysis to identify patients who develop radiation pneumonitis (RP). Methods and Materials: A total of 106 patients who received radiation therapy (RT) for esophageal cancer were retrospectively identified under institutional review board approval. For each patient, diagnostic computed tomography (CT) scans were acquired before (0-168 days) and after (5-120 days) RT, and a treatment planning CT scan with an associated dose map was obtained. 32- × 32-pixel regions of interest (ROIs) were randomly identifiedmore » in the lungs of each pre-RT scan. ROIs were subsequently mapped to the post-RT scan and the planning scan dose map by using deformable image registration. The changes in 20 feature values (ΔFV) between pre- and post-RT scan ROIs were calculated. Regression modeling and analysis of variance were used to test the relationships between ΔFV, mean ROI dose, and development of grade ≥2 RP. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was calculated to determine each feature's ability to distinguish between patients with and those without RP. A classifier was constructed to determine whether 2- or 3-feature combinations could improve RP distinction. Results: For all 20 features, a significant ΔFV was observed with increasing radiation dose. Twelve features changed significantly for patients with RP. Individual texture features could discriminate between patients with and those without RP with moderate performance (AUCs from 0.49 to 0.78). Using multiple features in a classifier, AUC increased significantly (0.59-0.84). Conclusions: A relationship between dose and change in a set of image-based features was observed. For 12 features, ΔFV was significantly related to RP development. This study demonstrated the ability of radiomics to provide a quantitative, individualized measurement of patient lung tissue reaction to RT and assess RP development.« less

  16. Total target volume is a better predictor of whole brain dose from gamma stereotactic radiosurgery than the number, shape, or location of the lesions

    PubMed Central

    Narayanasamy, Ganesh; Smith, Adam; Van Meter, Emily; McGarry, Ronald; Molloy, Janelle A.

    2013-01-01

    Purpose: To assess the hypothesis that the volume of whole brain that receives a certain dose level is primarily dependent on the treated volume rather than on the number, shape, or location of the lesions. This would help a physician validate the suitability of GammaKnife® based stereotactic radiosurgery (GKSR) prior to treatment. Methods: Simulation studies were performed to establish the hypothesis for both oblong and spherical shaped lesions of various numbers and sizes. Forty patients who underwent GKSR [mean age of 54 years (range 7–80), mean number of lesions of 2.5 (range 1–6), and mean lesion volume of 4.4 cm3 (range 0.02–22.2 cm3)] were also studied retrospectively. Following recommendations of QUANTEC, the volume of brain irradiated by the 12 Gy (VB12) isodose line was measured and a power-law based relation is proposed here for estimating VB12 from the known tumor volume and the prescription dose. Results: In the simulation study on oblong, spherical, and multiple lesions, the volume of brain irradiated by 50%, 10%, and 1% of maximum dose was found to have linear, linear, and exponentially increasing dependence on the volume of the treated region, respectively. In the retrospective study on 40 GKSR patients, a similar relationship was found to predict the brain dose with a Spearman correlation coefficient >0.9. In both the studies, the volume of brain irradiated by a certain dose level does not have a statistically significant relationship (p ≥ 0.05) with the number, shape, or position of the lesions. The measured VB12 agrees with calculation to within 1.7%. Conclusions: The results from the simulation and the retrospective clinical studies indicate that the volume of whole brain that receives a certain percentage of the maximum dose is primarily dependent on the treated volume and less on the number, shape, and location of the lesions. PMID:24007147

  17. Analyses of the peripheral immunome following multiple administrations of avelumab, a human IgG1 anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody.

    PubMed

    Donahue, Renee N; Lepone, Lauren M; Grenga, Italia; Jochems, Caroline; Fantini, Massimo; Madan, Ravi A; Heery, Christopher R; Gulley, James L; Schlom, Jeffrey

    2017-01-01

    Multiple anti-PD-L1/PD-1 checkpoint monoclonal antibodies (MAb) have shown clear evidence of clinical benefit. All except one have been designed or engineered to omit the possibility to mediate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) as a second potential mode of anti-tumor activity; the reason for this is the concern of lysis of PD-L1 positive immune cells. Avelumab is a fully human IgG1 MAb which has been shown in prior in vitro studies to mediate ADCC versus a range of human tumor cells, and clinical studies have demonstrated anti-tumor activity versus a range of human cancers. This study was designed to investigate the effect on immune cell subsets in the peripheral blood of cancer patients prior to and following multiple administrations of avelumab. One hundred twenty-three distinct immune cell subsets in the peripheral blood of cancer patients ( n  = 28) in a phase I trial were analyzed by flow cytometry prior to and following one, three, and nine cycles of avelumab. Changes in soluble (s) CD27 and sCD40L in plasma were also evaluated. In vitro studies were also performed to determine if avelumab would mediate ADCC of PBMC. No statistically significant changes in any of the 123 immune cell subsets analyzed were observed at any dose level, or number of doses, of avelumab. Increases in the ratio of sCD27:sCD40L were observed, suggesting potential immune activation. Controlled in vitro studies also showed lysis of tumor cells by avelumab versus no lysis of PBMC from five donors. These studies demonstrate the lack of any significant effect on multiple immune cell subsets, even those expressing PD-L1, following multiple cycles of avelumab. These results complement prior studies showing anti-tumor effects of avelumab and comparable levels of adverse events with avelumab versus other anti-PD-1/PD-L1 MAbs. These studies provide the rationale to further exploit the potential ADCC mechanism of action of avelumab as well as other human IgG1 checkpoint inhibitors. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01772004 (first received: 1/14/13; start date: January 2013) and NCT00001846 (first received date: 11/3/99; start date: August 1999).

  18. SU-E-T-86: A Systematic Method for GammaKnife SRS Fetal Dose Estimation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Geneser, S; Paulsson, A; Sneed, P

    Purpose: Estimating fetal dose is critical to the decision-making process when radiation treatment is indicated during pregnancy. Fetal doses less than 5cGy confer no measurable non-cancer developmental risks but can produce a threefold increase in developing childhood cancer. In this study, we estimate fetal dose for a patient receiving Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKSRS) treatment and develop a method to estimate dose directly from plan details. Methods: A patient underwent GKSRS on a Perfexion unit for eight brain metastases (two infratentorial and one brainstem). Dose measurements were performed using a CC13, head phantom, and solid water. Superficial doses to themore » thyroid, sternum, and pelvis were measured using MOSFETs during treatment. Because the fetal dose was too low to accurately measure, we obtained measurements proximally to the isocenter, fitted to an exponential function, and extrapolated dose to the fundus of the uterus, uterine midpoint, and pubic synthesis for both the preliminary and delivered plans. Results: The R-squared fit for the delivered doses was 0.995. The estimated fetal doses for the 72 minute preliminary and 138 minute delivered plans range from 0.0014 to 0.028cGy and 0.07 to 0.38cGy, respectively. MOSFET readings during treatment were just above background for the thyroid and negligible for all inferior positions. The method for estimating fetal dose from plan shot information was within 0.2cGy of the measured values at 14cm cranial to the fetal location. Conclusion: Estimated fetal doses for both the preliminary and delivered plan were well below the 5cGy recommended limit. Due to Pefexion shielding, internal dose is primarily governed by attenuation and drops off exponentially. This is the first work that reports fetal dose for a GK Perfexion unit. Although multiple lesions were treated and the duration of treatment was long, the estimated fetal dose remained very low.« less

  19. Optimizing bevacizumab dosing in glioblastoma: less is more.

    PubMed

    Ajlan, Abdulrazag; Thomas, Piia; Albakr, Abdulrahman; Nagpal, Seema; Recht, Lawrence

    2017-10-01

    Compared to traditional chemotherapies, where dose limiting toxicities represent the maximum possible dose, monoclonal antibody therapies are used at doses well below maximum tolerated dose. However, there has been little effort to ascertain whether there is a submaximal dose at which the efficacy/complication ratio is maximized. Thus, despite the general practice of using Bevacizumab (BEV) at dosages of 10 mg/kg every other week for glioma patients, there has not been much prior work examining whether the relatively high complication rates reported with this agent can be decreased by lowering the dose without impairing efficacy. We assessed charts from 80 patients who received BEV for glioblastoma to survey the incidence of complications relative to BEV dose. All patients were treated with standard upfront chemoradiation. The toxicity was graded based on the NCI CTCAE, version 4.03. The rate of BEV serious related adverse events was 12.5% (n = 10/80). There were no serious adverse events (≥grade 3) when the administered dose was (<3 mg/kg/week), compared to a 21% incidence in those who received higher doses (≥3 mg/kg/week) (P < 0.01). Importantly, the three patient deaths attributable to BEV administration occurred in patients receiving higher doses. Patients who received lower doses also had a better survival rate, although this did not reach statistical significance [median OS 39 for low dose group vs. 17.3 for high dose group (P = 0.07)]. Lower rates of serious BEV related toxicities are noted when lower dosages are used without diminishing positive clinical impact. Further work aimed at optimizing BEV dosage is justified.

  20. Decay of Sabin inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV)-boosted poliovirus antibodies.

    PubMed

    Resik, Sonia; Tejeda, Alina; Fonseca, Magile; Sein, Carolyn; Hung, Lai Heng; Martinez, Yenisleidys; Diaz, Manuel; Okayasu, Hiromasa; Sutter, Roland W

    We conducted a follow-on study to a phase I randomized, controlled trial conducted in Cuba, 2012, to assess the persistence of poliovirus antibodies at 21-22 months following booster dose of Sabin-IPV compared to Salk-IPV in adults who had received multiple doses of oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) during childhood. In 2012, 60 healthy adult males aged 19-23 were randomized to receive one booster dose, of either Sabin-inactivated poliovirus vaccine (Sabin-IPV), adjuvanted Sabin-IPV (aSabin-IPV), or conventional Salk-IPV. In the original study, blood was collected at days 0 (before) and 28 (after vaccination), respectively. In this study, an additional blood sample was collected 21-22 months after vaccination, and tested for neutralizing antibodies to Sabin poliovirus types 1, 2 and 3. We collected sera from 59/60 (98.3%) subjects; 59/59 (100%) remained seropositive to all poliovirus types, 21-22 months after vaccination. The decay curves were very similar among the study groups. Between day 28 and 21-22 months, there was a reduction of ⩾87.4% in median antibody levels for all poliovirus types in all study groups, with no significant differences between the study groups. The decay of poliovirus antibodies over a 21-22-month period was similar regardless of the type of booster vaccine used, suggesting the scientific data of Salk IPV long-term persistence and decay may be broadly applicable to Sabin IPV.

  1. Cartilage preservation by inhibition of Janus kinase 3 in two rodent models of rheumatoid arthritis

    PubMed Central

    Milici, Anthony J; Kudlacz, Elizabeth M; Audoly, Laurent; Zwillich, Samuel; Changelian, Paul

    2008-01-01

    Introduction CP-690550 is a small molecule inhibitor of Janus kinase 3 (JAK3), a critical enzyme in the signaling pathway of multiple cytokines (interleukin (IL)-2, -7, -15 and -21) that are important in various T cell functions including development, activation and homeostasis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate CP-690550 in murine collagen-induced (CIA) and rat adjuvant-induced (AA) models of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods CIA and AA were induced using standard protocols and animals received the JAK3 inhibitor via osmotic mini-pump infusion at doses ranging from 1.5–15 mg/kg/day following disease induction. Arthritis was assessed by clinical scores in the CIA models and paw swelling monitored using a plethysmometer in the AA model until study conclusion, at which time animals were killed and evaluated histologically. Results CP-690550 dose-dependently decreased endpoints of disease in both RA models with greater than 90% reduction observed at the highest administered dose. An approximate ED50 of approximately 1.5 mg/kg/day was determined for the compound based upon disease endpoints in both RA models examined and corresponds to CP-690550 serum levels of 5.8 ng/ml in mice (day 28) and 24 ng/ml in rats (day 24). The compound also reduced inflammatory cell influx and joint damage as measured histologically. Animals receiving a CP-690550 dose of 15 mg/k/d showed no histological evidence of disease. Conclusion The efficacy observed with CP-690550 in CIA and AA suggests JAK3 inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of RA. PMID:18234077

  2. Topogram-based tube current modulation of head computed tomography for optimizing image quality while protecting the eye lens with shielding.

    PubMed

    Lin, Ming-Fang; Chen, Chia-Yuen; Lee, Yuan-Hao; Li, Chia-Wei; Gerweck, Leo E; Wang, Hao; Chan, Wing P

    2018-01-01

    Background Multiple rounds of head computed tomography (CT) scans increase the risk of radiation-induced lens opacification. Purpose To investigate the effects of CT eye shielding and topogram-based tube current modulation (TCM) on the radiation dose received by the lens and the image quality of nasal and periorbital imaging. Material and Methods An anthropomorphic phantom was CT-scanned using either automatic tube current modulation or a fixed tube current. The lens radiation dose was estimated using cropped Gafchromic films irradiated with or without a shield over the orbit. Image quality, assessed using regions of interest drawn on the bilateral extraorbital areas and the nasal bone with a water-based marker, was evaluated using both a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-noise ratio (CNR). Two CT specialists independently assessed image artifacts using a three-point Likert scale. Results The estimated radiation dose received by the lens was significantly lower when barium sulfate or bismuth-antimony shields were used in conjunction with a fixed tube current (22.0% and 35.6% reduction, respectively). Topogram-based TCM mitigated the beam hardening-associated artifacts of bismuth-antimony and barium sulfate shields. This increased the SNR by 21.6% in the extraorbital region and the CNR by 7.2% between the nasal bones and extraorbital regions. The combination of topogram-based TCM and barium sulfate or bismuth-antimony shields reduced lens doses by 12.2% and 27.2%, respectively. Conclusion Image artifacts induced by the bismuth-antimony shield at a fixed tube current for lenticular radioprotection were significantly reduced by topogram-based TCM, which increased the SNR of the anthropomorphic nasal bones and periorbital tissues.

  3. Pharmacokinetic profiles of a biosimilar filgrastim and Amgen filgrastim: results from a randomized, phase I trial

    PubMed Central

    Bronchud, Miguel; Mair, Stuart; Challand, Rodeina

    2010-01-01

    Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (filgrastim) has multiple hematologic and oncologic indications as Neupogen® (Amgen filgrastim). Hospira has developed a biosimilar filgrastim (Nivestim™). Here, results are reported from a phase I trial, primarily designed to compare the pharmacokinetic profiles of Hospira filgrastim and Amgen filgrastim. A phase I, single-center, open-label, randomized trial was undertaken to demonstrate equivalence of the pharmacokinetic characteristics of Hospira filgrastim and Amgen filgrastim. Forty-eight healthy volunteers were randomized to receive intravenous (i.v.) or subcutaneous (s.c.) dosing and then further randomized to order of treatment. Volunteers in each of the two dosing groups received a single 10µg/kg dose of Hospira filgrastim or Amgen filgrastim, with subsequent crossover. Bioequivalence was evaluated by analysis of variance; if the estimated 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for the ratio of ‘test’ to ‘reference’ treatment means were within the conventional equivalence limits of 0.80–1.25, then bioequivalence was concluded. Forty-six volunteers completed the study. Geometric mean area under the curve from time 0 to the last time point (primary endpoint) was similar in volunteers given Hospira filgrastim or Amgen filgrastim following i.v. (ratio of means: 0.96; 90% CI: 0.90–1.02) or s.c. (ratio of means: 1.02; 90% CI: 0.95–1.09) dosing; 90% CIs were within the predefined range necessary to demonstrate bioequivalence. Hospira filgrastim was well tolerated with no additional safety concerns over Amgen filgrastim. Hospira filgrastim is bioequivalent with Amgen filgrastim in terms of its pharmacokinetic properties and may provide a clinically effective alternative. PMID:20428872

  4. The relationship between the parenteral dose of fish oil supplementation and the variation of liver function tests in hospitalized adult patients.

    PubMed

    Badia-Tahull, Maria B; Leiva-Badosa, Elisabet; Jodar-Masanes, Ramon; Ramon-Torrell, Josep Maria; Llop-Talaveron, Josep

    2015-07-02

    Hepatic dysfunction is a complication associated with parenteral nutrition (PN). Our primary objective was to study the relationship between doses of intravenous fish oil (FO) emulsion in PN and the variation in the main liver function tests (LFTs) in hospitalized PN-treated adults. As a secondary objective, we studied the safety of FO administration. We conducted a retrospective study in adult patients receiving FO supplementation in PN. Demographic, nutritional and safety variables were collected. Variation of LFTs was defined as the difference between values just before the first administration of FO and values at the end of PN. A multiple linear regression was performed to study the association between PN-lipids (FO or vegetable) and the variation of each LFT; the following variables were used to adjust the effect of lipids: sepsis, length of stay in the intensive care unit and lipids dose. Student t-test was used to study safety variables. Data were analyzed using SPSS 19.0. Patients (53, median age 68 years (24-90); 62% men) with the principal diagnosis of digestive neoplasm (42%) received PN for a median of 19 (7-75) days. In the multivariate analysis, the amount of FO was related to a decrease in gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (B = -2.23;CI95 % = -4.41/-0.05), a decrease in alkaline phosphatase (AP) (B = -1.23;CI95 % = -2.07/-0.37), and a decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (B = -0.82; CI95 % = -1.19/-0.44). No differences were found in safety variables. GGT, AP and ALT improved with FO PN-supplementation. Moreover, the improvement was greater when the doses of FO were higher. FO administration in PN is safe.

  5. Symptom relief in patients with pneumonia and dementia: implementation of a practice guideline.

    PubMed

    van der Maaden, Tessa; van der Steen, Jenny T; Koopmans, Raymond T C M; Doncker, Sarah M M M; Anema, Johannes R; Hertogh, Cees M P M; de Vet, Henrica C W

    2017-08-01

    This study aimed to assess the degree of implementation and barriers encountered in the use of a practice guideline for optimal symptom relief for patients with dementia and pneumonia in Dutch nursing homes. A process evaluation included assessment of reach, fidelity, and dose delivered using researcher's observations, and dose received was addressed in a question "use of the practice guideline," which the physicians completed for each patient included in the study. Perceived barriers were assessed with a structured questionnaire (response 69%) and semi-structured interviews (n = 14), which were subject to qualitative content analysis. Of the 55 physicians involved in the intervention phase, 87% attended an implementation meeting; 20 physicians joined the study later (reach). The intervention was implemented as planned, and all intervention components were delivered by the researchers (fidelity and dose delivered). Thirty-six physicians included 109 patients. For 81% of the patients, the treating physician stated to have used the guideline (dose received). The guideline was perceived as providing a good overview of current practice, but some physicians had expected a more directive protocol or algorithm. Further, recommended regular observations of symptoms were rarely performed. Physician's often felt that "this is not different from what we usually do," and with the acute illness, there was not always enough time to (re)familiarize with the contents. The physicians used the practice guideline frequently despite important barriers. Future implementation may involve strategies such as multiple interactive meetings. Further, the greatest potential to alter usual practice should be emphasized, such as using observational instruments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  6. Implications of chronic daily anti-oxidant administration on the inflammatory response to intracortical microelectrodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Potter-Baker, Kelsey A.; Stewart, Wade G.; Tomaszewski, William H.; Wong, Chun T.; Meador, William D.; Ziats, Nicholas P.; Capadona, Jeffrey R.

    2015-08-01

    Objective. Oxidative stress events have been implicated to occur and facilitate multiple failure modes of intracortical microelectrodes. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the ability of a sustained concentration of an anti-oxidant and to reduce oxidative stress-mediated neurodegeneration for the application of intracortical microelectrodes. Approach. Non-functional microelectrodes were implanted into the cortex of male Sprague Dawley rats for up to sixteen weeks. Half of the animals received a daily intraperitoneal injection of the natural anti-oxidant resveratrol, at 30 mg kg-1. The study was designed to investigate the biodistribution of the resveratrol, and the effects on neuroinflammation/neuroprotection following device implantation. Main results. Daily maintenance of a sustained range of resveratrol throughout the implantation period resulted in fewer degenerating neurons in comparison to control animals at both two and sixteen weeks post implantation. Initial and chronic improvements in neuronal viability in resveratrol-dosed animals were correlated with significant reductions in local superoxide anion accumulation around the implanted device at two weeks after implantation. Controls, receiving only saline injections, were also found to have reduced amounts of accumulated superoxide anion locally and less neurodegeneration than controls at sixteen weeks post-implantation. Despite observed benefits, thread-like adhesions were found between the liver and diaphragm in resveratrol-dosed animals. Significance. Overall, our chronic daily anti-oxidant dosing scheme resulted in improvements in neuronal viability surrounding implanted microelectrodes, which could result in improved device performance. However, due to the discovery of thread-like adhesions, further work is still required to optimize a chronic anti-oxidant dosing regime for the application of intracortical microelectrodes.

  7. Ultra-low Doses of Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Progesterone Attenuate the Severity of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Features in a Hyperandrogenized Mouse Model

    PubMed Central

    Tessaro, Irene; Modina, Silvia; Lodde, Valentina; Sivelli, Giulia; Franciosi, Federica; Terzaghi, Laura; Luchini, Patrizia; Rumio, Cristiano; Luciano, Alberto Maria

    2017-01-01

    Background: Polycystic-ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a reproductive illness characterized by hyperandrogenism and anovulation. Using hyperandrogenized mice, it was demonstrated that the oral administration of incremental dose of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) attenuated some of PCOS characteristics. This work aimed to study the effect of ultra-low doses of combined FSH and progesterone orally administered on PCOS murine model. Moreover, the effect of sequential kinetic activation of administered hormones was tested. Methods: Thirty-two female mice were used as animal model (four groups of eight animals each). Mice were hyperandrogenized by injection of dehyidroepiandrosterone diluted in sesame oil. Control group received only oil. Simultaneously, each animal daily received per os an activated or a not-activated combination of FSH (0.44 pg) plus progesterone (0.44 pg) or saline solution as control. Serum testosterone, estradiol, progesterone and luteinizing hormone were analyzed as endocrine markers and a morphological study of antral follicle was conducted. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, followed by multiple comparison test. The p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Dehyidroepiandrosterone treatment increased both estradiol and progesterone serum levels, besides testosterone, while reduced luteinizing hormone (p<0.05); histological examination revealed an increase of cystic follicles (p<0.05). Irrespective of activation, the combined FSH and progesterone treatments restored estradiol level (p>0.05 vs. control group) and reduced cystic signs in the follicles (p<0.05 vs. dehyidroepiandrosterone treatment). Conclusion: This study indicate that ultra-low doses of FSH and progesterone orally administrated can reduce the sternness of PCOS in the mouse model and open a route for the study of innovative approaches for PCOS treatment. PMID:29062793

  8. Pulsed reduced dose-rate radiotherapy as re-irradiation for brain metastasis in a patient with lung squamous-celled carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Li, Guang-Hui; Liu, Yong; Tang, Jin-Liang; Zhang, Dong; Zhou, Pu; Yang, Ding-Qiang; Ma, Chuan-Kun

    2012-09-01

    The recurrence and progression of brain metastases after brain irradiation are a major cause of mortality and morbidity in patients with cancer. The risk of radiation-induced neurotoxicity and efficacy probably leads oncologists to not consider re-irradiation. We report the case of a 48-year-old Asian male diagnosed with squamous cell lung cancer and multiple brain metastases initially treated with 40 Gy whole-brain radiotherapy and 20 Gy partial brain boost. Fourteen gray stereotactic radiosurgery as salvage for brain metastases in the left occipital lobe was performed after initial irradiation. The recurrence of brain metastases in the left occipital lobe was demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging at 9 months after initial radiotherapy. He received the second course of 28 Gy stereotactic radiosurgery for the recurrent brain metastases in the left occipital lobe. The third relapse of brain metastases was demonstrated by a magnetic resonance imaging scan at 7 months after the second radiotherapy. The third course of irradiation was performed because he refused to undergo surgical resection of the recurrent brain metastases. The third course of irradiation used a pulsed reduced dose-rate radiotherapy technique. It was delivered in a series of 0.2 Gy pulses separated by 3-min intervals. The recurrent brain metastases were treated with a dose of 60 Gy using 30 daily fractions of 2 Gy. Despite the brain metastases receiving 162 Gy irradiation, this patient had no apparent acute or late neurologic toxicities and showed clinical improvement. This is the first report of the pulsed reduced dose-rate radiotherapy technique being used as the third course of radiotherapy for recurrent brain metastases.

  9. Uptake and timeliness of rotavirus vaccination in Norway: The first year post-introduction.

    PubMed

    Valcarcel Salamanca, Beatriz; Hagerup-Jenssen, Maria Elisabeth; Flem, Elmira

    2016-09-07

    To minimise vaccine-associated risk of intussusception following rotavirus vaccination, Norway adopted very strict age limits for initiating and completing the vaccine series at the time rotavirus vaccination was included in the national immunisation programme, October 2014. Although Norway has a high coverage for routine childhood vaccines, these stringent age limits could negatively affect rotavirus coverage. We documented the status and impact of rotavirus vaccination on other infant vaccines during the first year after its introduction. We used individual vaccination data from the national immunisation register to calculate coverage for rotavirus and other vaccines and examine adherence with the recommended schedules. We identified factors associated with completing the full rotavirus series by performing multiple logistic regression analyses. We also evaluated potential changes in uptake and timeliness of other routine vaccines after the introduction of rotavirus vaccine using the Kaplan-Meier method. The national coverage for rotavirus vaccine achieved a year after the introduction was 89% for one dose and 82% for two doses, respectively. Among fully rotavirus-vaccinated children, 98% received both doses within the upper age limit and 90% received both doses according to the recommended schedule. The child's age at the initiation of rotavirus series and being vaccinated with diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio and Haemophilus influenzae type b (DTaP/IPV/Hib) and pneumococcal vaccines were the strongest predictors of completing the full rotavirus series. No major changes in uptake and timeliness of other paediatric vaccines were observed after introduction of rotavirus vaccine. Norway achieved a high national coverage and excellent adherence with the strict age limits for rotavirus vaccine administration during the first year of introduction, indicating robustness of the national immunisation programme. Rotavirus vaccination did not impact coverage or timeliness of other infant vaccines. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  10. Dose rate effect on micronuclei induction in human blood lymphocytes exposed to single pulse and multiple pulses of electrons.

    PubMed

    Acharya, Santhosh; Bhat, N N; Joseph, Praveen; Sanjeev, Ganesh; Sreedevi, B; Narayana, Y

    2011-05-01

    The effects of single pulses and multiple pulses of 7 MV electrons on micronuclei (MN) induction in cytokinesis-blocked human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) were investigated over a wide range of dose rates per pulse (instantaneous dose rate). PBLs were exposed to graded doses of 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 Gy of single electron pulses of varying pulse widths at different dose rates per pulse, ranging from 1 × 10(6) Gy s(-1) to 3.2 × 10(8) Gy s(-1). Different dose rates per pulse were achieved by changing the dose per electron pulse by adjusting the beam current and pulse width. MN yields per unit absorbed dose after irradiation with single electron pulses were compared with those of multiple pulses of electrons. A significant decrease in the MN yield with increasing dose rates per pulse was observed, when dose was delivered by a single electron pulse. However, no reduction in the MN yield was observed when dose was delivered by multiple pulses of electrons. The decrease in the yield at high dose rates per pulse suggests possible radical recombination, which leads to decreased biological damage. Cellular response to the presence of very large numbers of chromosomal breaks may also alter the damage.

  11. Effectiveness of Jeryl Lynn-containing vaccine in Spanish children.

    PubMed

    Castilla, Jesús; García Cenoz, Manuel; Arriazu, Maite; Fernández-Alonso, Mirian; Martínez-Artola, Víctor; Etxeberria, Jaione; Irisarri, Fátima; Barricarte, Aurelio

    2009-03-26

    We evaluated the effectiveness of the Jeryl Lynn strain vaccine in a large outbreak of mumps in Navarre, Spain, 2006-2008. Each of the 241 cases of mumps occurring in children over 15 months of age born between 1998 and 2005 was compared with 5 controls individually matched by sex, birth date, district of residence and paediatrician. Vaccination history was obtained blindly from clinical records. Conditional logistic regression was used to obtain the matched odds ratios (ORs), and effectiveness was calculated as 1-OR. Some 70% of cases had received one dose of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, and 24% had received two doses. Overall vaccine effectiveness was 72% (95% CI, 39-87%). Two doses were more effective (83%; 54-94%) than a single dose (66%; 25-85%). Among vaccinated children, risk was higher in those who had received the first dose after 36 months of age (OR=3.1; 1.2-8.4) and those who had received the second dose 3 or more years before study enrolment (OR=10.2; 1.5-70.7). Early waning of immunity in children after the second dose may contribute to reduced vaccine effectiveness for mumps prevention.

  12. Use of multi-dose activated charcoal in phenytoin toxicity secondary to genetic polymorphism.

    PubMed

    Chan, Betty S H; Sellors, Kate; Chiew, Angela L; Buckley, Nicholas A

    2015-02-01

    Phenytoin is metabolised in the liver by cytochrome (CYP)2C9 and 2C19 enzymes. Due to saturation of enzyme capacity, the elimination half-life is prolonged at supratherapeutic levels. Genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C9 and 2C19 are reasonably common and further prolong the elimination of phenytoin. There are conflicting reports regarding whether multiple-dose activated charcoal (MDAC) significantly increases the clearance of phenytoin in poisoning. We present 3 patients with phenytoin toxicity and very slow elimination secondary to reduced CYP enzyme function from genetic polymorphisms. MDAC was used in two patients and led to rapid and large reductions in the measured elimination half-lives. This is contrasted with very prolonged elimination in a third patient who did not receive MDAC. MDAC may play a role in the management of chronic phenytoin toxicity, especially in those with very slow endogenous elimination secondary to genetic polymorphisms.

  13. Myristicin and phenytoin toxicity in an infant

    PubMed Central

    Sivathanu, Shobhana; Sampath, Sowmya; David, Henry Suresh; Rajavelu, Kulandai Kasthuri

    2014-01-01

    A developmentally normal infant presented with repeated episodes of afebrile status epilepticus following nutmeg ingestion. He had developed two episodes of afebrile status epilepticus and had received different treatments earlier, but the details of treatment were not available. On admission, he redeveloped convulsions and loading doses of phenytoin, phenobarbitone and midazolam were administered. However, seizures persisted and extrapyramidal movements, nystagmus and visual dysfunction were noted. Iatrogenic phenytoin toxicity was considered and confirmed by drug levels. His symptoms completely disappeared after discontinuation of phenytoin therapy. The initial seizures were attributed to myristicin, an active component of nutmeg, because of the temporal association. However, the subsequent seizures were due to phenytoin toxicity caused by administration of multiple loading doses. This case highlights that nutmeg, a spice, can cause serious toxic effects like status epilepticus. Furthermore, treatment of status epilepticus with phenytoin can cause iatrogenic seizures due to its narrow therapeutic range. PMID:24903724

  14. Differential tolerance to biological and subjective effects of four closely spaced doses of N,N-dimethyltryptamine in humans.

    PubMed

    Strassman, R J; Qualls, C R; Berg, L M

    1996-05-01

    Tolerance of the behavioral effects of the short-acting, endogenous hallucinogen, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is seen inconsistently in animals, and has not been produced in humans. The nature and time course of responses to repetitive, closely spaced administrations of an hallucinogenic dose of DMT were characterized. Thirteen experienced hallucinogen users received intravenous 0.3 mg/kg DMT fumarate, or saline placebo, four times, at 30 min intervals, on 2 separate days, in a randomized, double-blind, design. Tolerance to "psychedelic" subjective effects did not occur according to either clinical interview or Hallucinogen Rating Scale scores. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), prolactin, cortisol, and heart rate responses decreased with repeated DMT administration, although blood pressure did not. These data demonstrate the unique properties of DMT relative to other hallucinogens and underscore the differential regulation of the multiple processes mediating the effects of DMT.

  15. Efficacy and safety of the third-generation chloroethylnitrosourea fotemustine for the treatment of chemorefractory T-cell lymphomas.

    PubMed

    Corazzelli, Gaetano; Frigeri, Ferdinando; Arcamone, Manuela; Aloj, Luigi; Capobianco, Gaetana; Becchimanzi, Cristina; Morelli, Emanuela; Volzone, Francesco; Marcacci, Gianpaolo; Russo, Filippo; De Filippi, Rosaria; Lastoria, Secondo; Pinto, Antonio

    2011-12-01

    Patients with recurring T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (T-NHL) are incurable and candidate for investigational agents. Here, we report on five patients with T-NHL refractory to multiple chemotherapy lines, including in all cases alkylators and gemcitabine, who received the third-generation chloroethylnitrosourea fotemustine at a dose of 120 mg/m(2) every 21 d, up to eight courses. Median actual dose intensity was 79%; toxicity was manageable and mainly hematological. One complete remission, one partial remission, two protracted disease stabilization, and one transient, minor response were achieved. Time to progression ranged from 48 to 240+ d. This is the first evidence ever reporting the activity of fotemustine in end-stage T-NHL. Formal studies with this agent are warranted in T-cell malignancies. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

  16. Therapeutic effect of meropenem on an experimental guinea pig model of meningitis with type b β-lactamase-nonproducing ampicillin-resistant Haemophilus influenzae.

    PubMed

    Fujimoto, Koichi; Kanazawa, Katsunori; Takemoto, Koji; Urasaki, Kokichi; Ueda, Yutaka; Ubukata, Kimiko; Sunakawa, Keisuke

    2013-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between efficacy and percentage of time above the MIC (%T>MIC) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for different dosing regimens of meropenem against an experimental lethal meningitis model in guinea pigs with type b β-lactamase-nonproducing ampicillin-resistant Haemophilus influenzae (Hib BLNAR). Guinea pigs were intrathecally inoculated with 10(8) CFU/head of Hib BLNAR 8 h before the start of therapy. A single dose of 20, 40, or 80 mg/kg meropenem or multiple doses of 40 mg/kg meropenem were subcutaneously administered. Numbers of bacteria in CSF were counted 8 h after the start of therapy. Meropenem concentration in serum and CSF were determined in infected guinea pigs receiving a single dose of 40 mg/kg. In the single-dose regimen, 40 and 80 mg/kg meropenem significantly reduced the number of bacteria in CSF compared with the control, but 20 mg/kg meropenem did not. The %T>MIC for an 8-h period of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg meropenem were 41, 52, and 62, respectively. Two and four doses of 40 mg/kg meropenem, for both of which %T>MIC was calculated as 100, had similar efficacy and were significantly superior to a single-dose of 40 mg/kg. In conclusion, meropenem had high efficacy when %T>MIC in the CSF was increased because of the high dose level and shortening of the dosing interval in a guinea pig meningitis model caused by Hib BLNAR, suggesting that high and frequent doses of meropenem are useful for treatment of meningitis with Hib BLNAR.

  17. Phenytoin pharmacokinetics and clinical effects in African children following fosphenytoin and chloramphenicol coadministration

    PubMed Central

    Ogutu, Bernhards R; Newton, Charles R J C; Muchohi, Simon N; Otieno, Godfrey O; Kokwaro, Gilbert O

    2002-01-01

    Aims Some children with malaria and convulsions also have concurrent bacterial meningitis. Chloramphenicol is used to treat the latter whereas phenytoin is used for convulsions. Since chloramphenicol inhibits the metabolism of phenytoin in vivo, we studied the effects of chloramphenicol on phenytoin pharmacokinetics in children with malaria. Methods Multiple intravenous (i.v.) doses of chloramphenicol succinate (CAP) (25 mg kg−1 6 hourly for 72 h) and a single intramuscular (i.m.) seizure prophylactic dose of fosphenytoin (18 mg kg−1 phenytoin sodium equivalents) were concomitantly administered to 15 African children with malaria. Control children (n= 13) with malaria received a similar dose of fosphenytoin and multiple i.v. doses (25 mg kg−1 8 hourly for 72 h) of cefotaxime (CEF). Blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, level of consciousness and convulsion episodes were monitored. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma phenytoin concentrations were determined. Results The area under the plasma unbound phenytoin concentration-time curve (AUC(0,∞); means (CAP, CEF): 58.5, 47.6 µg ml−1 h; 95% CI for difference between means: −35.0, 11.4), the peak unbound phenytoin concentrations (Cmax; medians: 1.12, 1.29 µg ml−1; 95% CI: −0.5, 0.04), the times to Cmax(tmax; medians: 4.0, 4.0 h; 95% CI: −2.0, 3.7), the CSF:plasma phenytoin ratios (means: 0.21, 0.22; 95% CI: −0.8, 0.10), the fraction of phenytoin unbound (means: 0.06, 0.09; 95% CI: −0.01, 0.07) and the cardiovascular parameters were not significantly different between CAP and CEF groups. However, mean terminal elimination half-life (t1/2,z) was significantly longer (23.7, 15.5 h; 95% CI: 1.71, 14.98) in the CAP group compared with the CEF group. Seventy per cent of the children had no convulsions during the study period. Conclusions Concomitant administration of chloramphenicol and a single i.m. dose of fosphenytoin alters the t1/2,z but not the other pharmacokinetic parameters or clinical effects of phenytoin in African children with severe malaria. Moreover, a single i.m. dose of fosphenytoin provides anticonvulsant prophylaxis in the majority of the children over 72 h. However, a larger study would be needed to investigate the effect of concomitant administration of multiple doses of the two drugs in this population of patients. PMID:12492612

  18. Febrile Neutropenia Rates According to Body Mass Index and Dose Capping in Women Receiving Chemotherapy for Early Breast Cancer.

    PubMed

    Lote, H; Sharp, A; Redana, S; Papadimitraki, E; Capelan, M; Ring, A

    2016-09-01

    Studies suggest worse outcomes in obese women with breast cancer than in non-obese women. One potential reason may be that oncologists 'dose cap' adjuvant chemotherapy in obese patients in order to avoid excessive toxicity. Reductions from standard dosing may compromise survival outcomes in the curative setting. Here we describe the body mass index (BMI) distribution of patients in a non-trial population, the frequency with which oncologists dose cap and its effect on febrile neutropenia chemotherapy toxicity. In this non-randomised study, electronic patient records retrospectively identified patients with early breast cancer who initiated neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy at the Royal Marsden Hospital between 1 January and 31 December 2013. Baseline data included age, BMI, performance status, tumour characteristics, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and comorbidities. Chemotherapy doses, rates of dose capping across BMI groups and rates of febrile neutropenia were reported. In total, 325 patients were eligible: 79 (24.5%) were obese (BMI ≥ 30), 109 (33.5%) were overweight (BMI ≥25 - <30) and 137 (42%) were normal bodyweight (BMI < 25). Sixteen patients (20.5%) in the obese group received dose-capped chemotherapy. Overall, 62 patients (19%) had an episode of febrile neutropenia. Obese patients receiving uncapped chemotherapy did not experience a significant difference in febrile neutropenia rates when compared with overweight or normal bodyweight groups (P = 0.5798). The febrile neutropenia rate in obese patients receiving capped chemotherapy was 6.5%, compared with 24% in obese patients receiving uncapped chemotherapy (P = 0.1216). In a non-trial population of obese patients, dose capping is frequently used. Obese patients receiving uncapped chemotherapy do not experience increased febrile neutropenia rates when compared with uncapped overweight or normal bodyweight patients. Furthermore, dose capping was associated with a trend towards lower rates of febrile neutropenia than in other groups and may indicate relative under-dosing of chemotherapy. This supports international guidelines that state that obese patients should not be dose capped. Copyright © 2016 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Flucytosine Pharmacokinetics in a Critically Ill Patient Receiving Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy.

    PubMed

    Kunka, Megan E; Cady, Elizabeth A; Woo, Heejung C; Thompson Bastin, Melissa L

    2015-01-01

    Purpose. A case report evaluating flucytosine dosing in a critically ill patient receiving continuous renal replacement therapy. Summary. This case report outlines an 81-year-old male who was receiving continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) for acute renal failure and was being treated with flucytosine for the treatment of disseminated Cryptococcus neoformans infection. Due to patient specific factors, flucytosine was empirically dose adjusted approximately 50% lower than intermittent hemodialysis (iHD) recommendations and approximately 33% lower than CRRT recommendations. Peak and trough levels were obtained, which were supratherapeutic, and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. The patient experienced thrombocytopenia, likely due to elevated flucytosine levels, and flucytosine was ultimately discontinued. Conclusion. Despite conservative flucytosine dosing for a patient receiving CVVH, peak and trough serum flucytosine levels were supratherapeutic (120 μg/mL at 2 hours and 81 μg/mL at 11.5 hours), which increased drug-related adverse effects. The results indicate that this conservative dosing regimen utilizing the patient's actual body weight was too aggressive. This case report provides insight into flucytosine dosing in CVVH, a topic that has not been investigated previously. Further pharmacokinetic studies of flucytosine dosing in critically ill patients receiving CVVH are needed in order to optimize pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters while avoiding toxic flucytosine exposure.

  20. Emesis as a Screening Diagnostic for Low Dose Rate (LDR) Total Body Radiation Exposure.

    PubMed

    Camarata, Andrew S; Switchenko, Jeffrey M; Demidenko, Eugene; Flood, Ann B; Swartz, Harold M; Ali, Arif N

    2016-04-01

    Current radiation disaster manuals list the time-to-emesis (TE) as the key triage indicator of radiation dose. The data used to support TE recommendations were derived primarily from nearly instantaneous, high dose-rate exposures as part of variable condition accident databases. To date, there has not been a systematic differentiation between triage dose estimates associated with high and low dose rate (LDR) exposures, even though it is likely that after a nuclear detonation or radiologic disaster, many surviving casualties would have received a significant portion of their total exposure from fallout (LDR exposure) rather than from the initial nuclear detonation or criticality event (high dose rate exposure). This commentary discusses the issues surrounding the use of emesis as a screening diagnostic for radiation dose after LDR exposure. As part of this discussion, previously published clinical data on emesis after LDR total body irradiation (TBI) is statistically re-analyzed as an illustration of the complexity of the issue and confounding factors. This previously published data includes 107 patients who underwent TBI up to 10.5 Gy in a single fraction delivered over several hours at 0.02 to 0.04 Gy min. Estimates based on these data for the sensitivity of emesis as a screening diagnostic for the low dose rate radiation exposure range from 57.1% to 76.6%, and the estimates for specificity range from 87.5% to 99.4%. Though the original data contain multiple confounding factors, the evidence regarding sensitivity suggests that emesis appears to be quite poor as a medical screening diagnostic for LDR exposures.

  1. Effects of caffeine, sleep loss, and stress on cognitive performance and mood during U.S. Navy SEAL training. Sea-Air-Land.

    PubMed

    Lieberman, Harris R; Tharion, William J; Shukitt-Hale, Barbara; Speckman, Karen L; Tulley, Richard

    2002-11-01

    When humans are acutely exposed to multiple stressors, cognitive performance is substantially degraded. Few practical strategies are available to sustain performance under such conditions. This study examined whether moderate doses of caffeine would reduce adverse effects of sleep deprivation and exposure to severe environmental and operational stress on cognitive performance. Volunteers were 68 U.S. Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) trainees, randomly assigned to receive either 100, 200, or 300 mg caffeine or placebo in capsule form after 72 h of sleep deprivation and continuous exposure to other stressors. Cognitive tests administered included scanning visual vigilance, four-choice visual reaction time, a matching-to-sample working memory task and a repeated acquisition test of motor learning and memory. Mood state, marksmanship, and saliva caffeine were also assessed. Testing was conducted 1 and 8 h after treatment. Sleep deprivation and environmental stress adversely affected performance and mood. Caffeine, in a dose-dependent manner, mitigated many adverse effects of exposure to multiple stressors. Caffeine (200 and 300 mg) significantly improved visual vigilance, choice reaction time, repeated acquisition, self-reported fatigue and sleepiness with the greatest effects on tests of vigilance, reaction time, and alertness. Marksmanship, a task that requires fine motor coordination and steadiness, was not affected by caffeine. The greatest effects of caffeine were present 1 h post-administration, but significant effects persisted for 8 h. Even in the most adverse circumstances, moderate doses of caffeine can improve cognitive function, including vigilance, learning, memory, and mood state. When cognitive performance is critical and must be maintained during exposure to severe stress, administration of caffeine may provide a significant advantage. A dose of 200 mg appears to be optimal under such conditions.

  2. Developmental changes rather than repeated administration drive paracetamol glucuronidation in neonates and infants.

    PubMed

    Krekels, Elke H J; van Ham, Saskia; Allegaert, Karel; de Hoon, Jan; Tibboel, Dick; Danhof, Meindert; Knibbe, Catherijne A J

    2015-09-01

    Based on recovered metabolite ratios in urine, it has been concluded that paracetamol glucuronidation may be up-regulated upon multiple dosing. This study investigates paracetamol clearance in neonates and infants after single and multiple dosing using a population modelling approach. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed in NONMEM VI, based on paracetamol plasma concentrations from 54 preterm and term neonates and infants, and on paracetamol, paracetamol-glucuronide and paracetamol-sulphate amounts in urine from 22 of these patients. Patients received either a single intravenous propacetamol dose or up to 12 repeated doses. Paracetamol and metabolite disposition was best described with one-compartment models. The formation clearance of paracetamol-sulphate was 1.46 mL/min/kg(1.4), which was about 5.5 times higher than the formation clearance of the glucuronide of 0.266 mL/min/kg. The renal excretion rate constants of both metabolites was estimated to be 11.4 times higher than the excretion rate constant of unchanged paracetamol, yielding values of 0.580 mL/min/kg. Developmental changes were best described by bodyweight in linear relationships on the distribution volumes, the formation of paracetamol-glucuronide and the unchanged excretion of paracetamol, and in an exponential relationship on the formation of paracetamol-sulphate. There was no evidence for up-regulation or other time-varying changes in any of the model parameters. Simulations with this model illustrate how paracetamol-glucuronide recovery in urine increases over time due to the slower formation of this metabolite and in the absence of up-regulation. Developmental changes, described by bodyweight-based functions, rather than up-regulation, explain developmental changes in paracetamol disposition in neonates and infants.

  3. Optimal conditions of LDR to protect the kidney from diabetes: exposure to 12.5 mGy X-rays for 8 weeks efficiently protects the kidney from diabetes.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Jie; Li, Fengsheng; Cui, Jiuwei; Guo, Weiying; Li, Cai; Li, Wei; Wang, Guixia; Xing, Xiao; Gao, Ying; Ge, Yuanyuan; Wang, Guanjun; Cai, Lu

    2014-05-08

    We reported the attenuation of diabetes-induced renal dysfunction by exposure to multiple low-dose radiation (LDR) at 25 mGy every other day by suppressing renal oxidative damage. We here explored the optimal conditions of LDR to protect the kidney from diabetes. Male C57BL/6J mice with type 1 diabetes were induced with multiple injections of low-dose streptozotocin. Diabetic mice received whole body X-irradiation at a dose of 12.5, 25 or 50 mGy every other day for either 4 or 8 weeks. Age-matched normal mice were similarly irradiated at the dose of 25 mGy for 4 or 8 weeks. The renal function and histopathological changes were examined at the 4th and 8th weeks of the study. Diabetes induced renal dysfunction is shown by the decreased creatinine and increased microalbumin in the urine. Renal oxidative damage, detected by protein nitration and lipid oxidation, and remodeling, reflected by increased expression of connective tissue growth factor, collagen IV and fibronectin, were significantly increased in diabetic mice. All these renal pathological and function changes in diabetic mice were significantly attenuated by exposure to LDR at all regimens, among which, however, exposure to LDR at 12.5 mGy for 8 weeks provided the best protective effect on the kidney of diabetic mice. Our results suggest that whole-body LDR at 12.5 mGy every other day for 8 weeks is the optimal condition of LDR to protect the kidney from diabetes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Real-time eye lens dose monitoring during cerebral angiography procedures.

    PubMed

    Safari, M J; Wong, J H D; Kadir, K A A; Thorpe, N K; Cutajar, D L; Petasecca, M; Lerch, M L F; Rosenfeld, A B; Ng, K H

    2016-01-01

    To develop a real-time dose-monitoring system to measure the patient's eye lens dose during neuro-interventional procedures. Radiation dose received at left outer canthus (LOC) and left eyelid (LE) were measured using Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor dosimeters on 35 patients who underwent diagnostic or cerebral embolization procedures. The radiation dose received at the LOC region was significantly higher than the dose received by the LE. The maximum eye lens dose of 1492 mGy was measured at LOC region for an AVM case, followed by 907 mGy for an aneurysm case and 665 mGy for a diagnostic angiography procedure. Strong correlations (shown as R(2)) were observed between kerma-area-product and measured eye doses (LOC: 0.78, LE: 0.68). Lateral and frontal air-kerma showed strong correlations with measured dose at LOC (AKL: 0.93, AKF: 0.78) and a weak correlation with measured dose at LE. A moderate correlation was observed between fluoroscopic time and dose measured at LE and LOC regions. The MOSkin dose-monitoring system represents a new tool enabling real-time monitoring of eye lens dose during neuro-interventional procedures. This system can provide interventionalists with information needed to adjust the clinical procedure to control the patient's dose. Real-time patient dose monitoring helps interventionalists to monitor doses. Strong correlation was observed between kerma-area-product and measured eye doses. Radiation dose at left outer canthus was higher than at left eyelid.

  5. Radiation Exposure to Relatives of Patients Treated with Iodine-131 for Thyroid Cancer at Siriraj Hospital.

    PubMed

    Tonnonchiang, Siriporn; Sritongkul, Nopamon; Chaudakshetrin, Pachee; Tuntawiroon, Malulee

    2016-02-01

    Thyroid cancer patients treated with 1-131 are potential source of radiation exposure to relatives who are knowingly and willingly exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of providing comfort to patients undergoing I-131 therapy. This study aims to determine radiation dose received by relatives who care for non self-supporting 1-131 patients at Siriraj Hospital. Twenty caregivers of 20 patients underwent I-131 therapy for thyroid cancer with a standard protocol were given specific instructions with regard to radiation safety and provided with electronic digital dosimeter to continuously measure radiation dose received on daily basis, three days in the hospital. On the day patient is released, thyroid uptake estimates were performed to assess internal radiation dose received by caregivers. The 3-day accumulative doses to caregivers to patients receiving 150 mCi (n = 11) and 200 mCi (n = 9) of I-131 ranged from 37 to 333 uSv and 176 to 1,920 pSv respectively depending on the level of supports required. Thyroid uptake estimates in all caregivers were undetectable. Dosimeter indicated a maximum whole-body dose of1.92 mSv was more than the public dose limit of] mSv but within the dose constraint of 5 mSv for caregivers. Radiation dose to caregivers of a non self-supporting hospitalized patient undergoing 1-131 therapy were well below the limits recommended by the ICRP. The patients can be comforted with confidence that dose to caregivers will be less than the limit. This study provides guidance for medical practitioners to obtain practical radiation safety concerns associated with hospitalized patients receiving I-131 therapy especially when patient needs assistance.

  6. Utility of antimicrobial susceptibility testing in Trichomonas vaginalis-infected women with clinical treatment failure.

    PubMed

    Bosserman, Elizabeth A; Helms, Donna J; Mosure, Debra J; Secor, W Evan; Workowski, Kimberly A

    2011-10-01

    Antimicrobial resistance is one of the causes of treatment failure in women after standard nitroimidazole therapy for Trichomonas vaginalis infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides drug susceptibility testing and guidance for treatment failures but the efficacy of the alternate recommendations has not been assessed. T. vaginalis isolates from women who had failed at least 2 courses of standard therapy for trichomoniasis were submitted to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for susceptibility testing. Alternative treatment recommendations were provided based on in vitro drug susceptibility results and clinical outcomes were collected. Drug susceptibility results were available for 175 women tested between January 2002 and January 2008. In vitro, 115 of the 175 isolates demonstrated metronidazole resistance. For all isolates resistant to metronidazole, in vitro resistance to tinidazole was similar or lower. Clinical treatment outcomes were available for 72 women. Of the women receiving an alternative recommended nitroimidazole regimen, 30 (83%) of 36 were cured compared with 8 (57%) of 14 women who received a lower dose than recommended. Clinical and microbiologic success was attained in 59 (82%) of 72 women whose follow-up information was available, with some women requiring multiple treatment courses. Clinical and microbiologic cure rates were higher for women who were treated in accordance with the recommendation provided after in vitro testing compared with those who received a lower dose or a different drug. Susceptibility testing leading to tailored treatment may have a beneficial role for management of women with persistent trichomoniasis.

  7. Development of Levofloxacin inhalation solution to treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with cystic fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Stockmann, Chris; Sherwin, Catherine M.T.; Ampofo, Krow; Spigarelli, Michael G.

    2017-01-01

    Inhaled therapies allow for the targeted delivery of antimicrobials directly into the lungs and have been widely used in the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) acute pulmonary exacerbations. Nebulized levofloxacin solution (MP-376) is a novel therapy that is currently being evaluated in phase I, II, and III clinical trials among patients with stable CF and recent isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from sputum. Phase I studies have investigated the single and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of MP-376 and shown that it is rapidly absorbed from the lungs and results in low systemic concentrations. A subsequent phase IB study found that MP-376 pharmacokinetics were comparable among adults and children 6–16 years of age. Further phase II studies reported that sputum P. aeruginosa density decreased in a dose-dependent manner among patients who were randomized to MP-376 when compared with patients who received placebo. Improvements in pulmonary function and a decrease in the need for other antipseudomonal antibiotics were also reported for patients who received inhaled levofloxacin. The most common adverse event was dysgeusia (abnormal taste sensation), which was reported by nearly half of the participants who received MP-376. No serious drug-related adverse events were reported. These findings are encouraging; however, data from the two ongoing phase III trials are needed to determine whether MP-376 demonstrates substantial evidence of safety and efficacy as a chronic CF maintenance therapy and therefore may be useful in routine clinical practice. PMID:24334337

  8. Evidence for a pharmacokinetic interaction between eslicarbazepine and rosuvastatin: Potential effects on xenobiotic transporters.

    PubMed

    Gidal, Barry E; Mintzer, Scott; Schwab, Matthias; Schutz, Ralph; Kharidia, Jahnavi; Blum, David; Grinnell, Todd; Sunkaraneni, Soujanya

    2017-09-01

    Patients with partial-onset seizures and comorbid cardiovascular disease may concomitantly receive eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL), an antiepileptic drug, and rosuvastatin, an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. This study evaluated the effect of multiple-dose ESL on the pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of a single dose of rosuvastatin in healthy subjects. This was a Phase I, single-center, fixed-sequence, open-label study. Healthy subjects received two treatments, in sequence. Treatment A: a single 40mg oral dose of rosuvastatin on Day 1, followed by a washout period (Days 1-4); treatment B: titration of ESL (400-800mg once daily) on Days 5-18, followed by ESL 1200mg once daily on Days 19-35, with a single dose of rosuvastatin (40mg) on Day 32. Subjects then entered a 2-week follow-up period. Plasma concentrations of rosuvastatin were quantified for PK analyses. Safety and tolerability were assessed throughout the study. Thirty-three healthy subjects were enrolled and 30 completed the study. Mean rosuvastatin (standard deviation) t 1/2 was similar when rosuvastatin was used concomitantly with ESL and when it was used alone (26.5 [16.3]h, and 22.4 [9.5]h, respectively). The geometric least squares mean ratios (90% confidence intervals) of rosuvastatin exposure levels between rosuvastatin used concomitantly with ESL and rosuvastatin used alone were as follows: C max , 64.0% (55.9-73.3%); AUC (0-∞) , 63.0% (57.1-69.4%); and AUC (0-last) , 60.9% (55.2-67.1%). Concomitant use of ESL and rosuvastatin was generally well tolerated. Rosuvastatin exposure was 36-39% lower with steady-state administration of ESL, potentially due to reduced oral bioavailability of rosuvastatin. Consequently, when rosuvastatin is used with ESL, a rosuvastatin dose adjustment may be necessary if a clinically significant change in lipids is noted. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  9. Rituximab in highly sensitized kidney transplant recipients.

    PubMed

    Munoz, A S; Rioveros, A A; Cabanayan-Casasola, C B; Danguilan, R A; Ona, E T

    2008-09-01

    Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapy, depletes B cells and suppresses antibody production. This study sought to describe the efficacy and safety of rituximab among seven highly sensitized kidney transplant patients. A highly sensitized patient was defined as panel-reactive antibody (PRA) >30%, more than three pregnancies, or history of positive tissue crossmatch. Demographics, immunological risk profile, and immunosuppression were collected on all highly sensitized patients transplanted from March to July 2007 and given rituximab. We noted graft function as well as clinical events posttransplantation. The seven patients included in the study showed a mean age of 39 years (range = 17-60) and a mean follow-up of 3 months (range = 1.5-5). Their average PRA was 62% with mean HLA mismatches of three. Five patients (71%) were retransplantations; one had a history of a positive crossmatch, and two had multiple pregnancies. Two had donor-specific antibody, but negative tissue crossmatches. All had living donors. Six patients received a single dose of rituximab (375 mg/m2) 1 day prior to transplantation and one received two doses after 19 sessions of plasmapheresis. All were given tacrolimus, mycophenolate, and steroids combined with induction therapy using 30 mg alemtuzumab in 33%; two doses of 20 mg basiliximab in 33%; and seven doses of 1 mg/kg/dose of daclizumab in 14%. Mean shown creatinine levels were 1.1 and 1.2 mg/dL at 1 and 6 months posttransplantation. Two recipients experienced acute humoral rejections within 1 month after transplantation. Both were given steroid pulsing, one of whom was steroid-resistant necessitating alemtuzumab therapy and plasmapheresis. Graft function of both improved with creatinine values of 1.3 mg/dL on discharge. No episodes of infection were noted. Rituximab can be safely administered and may be effective to improve outcomes among highly sensitized kidney transplant patients.

  10. Clinical Significance of Accounting for Tissue Heterogeneity in Permanent Breast Seed Implant Brachytherapy Planning

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mashouf, Shahram; Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario; Fleury, Emmanuelle

    Purpose: The inhomogeneity correction factor (ICF) method provides heterogeneity correction for the fast calculation TG43 formalism in seed brachytherapy. This study compared ICF-corrected plans to their standard TG43 counterparts, looking at their capacity to assess inadequate coverage and/or risk of any skin toxicities for patients who received permanent breast seed implant (PBSI). Methods and Materials: Two-month postimplant computed tomography scans and plans of 140 PBSI patients were used to calculate dose distributions by using the TG43 and the ICF methods. Multiple dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters of clinical target volume (CTV) and skin were extracted and compared for both ICF and TG43more » dose distributions. Short-term (desquamation and erythema) and long-term (telangiectasia) skin toxicity data were available on 125 and 110 of the patients, respectively, at the time of the study. The predictive value of each DVH parameter of skin was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for each toxicity endpoint. Results: Dose-volume histogram parameters of CTV, calculated using the ICF method, showed an overall decrease compared to TG43, whereas those of skin showed an increase, confirming previously reported findings of the impact of heterogeneity with low-energy sources. The ICF methodology enabled us to distinguish patients for whom the CTV V{sub 100} and V{sub 90} are up to 19% lower compared to TG43, which could present a risk of recurrence not detected when heterogeneity are not accounted for. The ICF method also led to an increase in the prediction of desquamation, erythema, and telangiectasia for 91% of skin DVH parameters studied. Conclusions: The ICF methodology has the advantage of distinguishing any inadequate dose coverage of CTV due to breast heterogeneity, which can be missed by TG43. Use of ICF correction also led to an increase in prediction accuracy of skin toxicities in most cases.« less

  11. Clinical Significance of Accounting for Tissue Heterogeneity in Permanent Breast Seed Implant Brachytherapy Planning.

    PubMed

    Mashouf, Shahram; Fleury, Emmanuelle; Lai, Priscilla; Merino, Tomas; Lechtman, Eli; Kiss, Alex; McCann, Claire; Pignol, Jean-Philippe

    2016-03-15

    The inhomogeneity correction factor (ICF) method provides heterogeneity correction for the fast calculation TG43 formalism in seed brachytherapy. This study compared ICF-corrected plans to their standard TG43 counterparts, looking at their capacity to assess inadequate coverage and/or risk of any skin toxicities for patients who received permanent breast seed implant (PBSI). Two-month postimplant computed tomography scans and plans of 140 PBSI patients were used to calculate dose distributions by using the TG43 and the ICF methods. Multiple dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters of clinical target volume (CTV) and skin were extracted and compared for both ICF and TG43 dose distributions. Short-term (desquamation and erythema) and long-term (telangiectasia) skin toxicity data were available on 125 and 110 of the patients, respectively, at the time of the study. The predictive value of each DVH parameter of skin was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for each toxicity endpoint. Dose-volume histogram parameters of CTV, calculated using the ICF method, showed an overall decrease compared to TG43, whereas those of skin showed an increase, confirming previously reported findings of the impact of heterogeneity with low-energy sources. The ICF methodology enabled us to distinguish patients for whom the CTV V100 and V90 are up to 19% lower compared to TG43, which could present a risk of recurrence not detected when heterogeneity are not accounted for. The ICF method also led to an increase in the prediction of desquamation, erythema, and telangiectasia for 91% of skin DVH parameters studied. The ICF methodology has the advantage of distinguishing any inadequate dose coverage of CTV due to breast heterogeneity, which can be missed by TG43. Use of ICF correction also led to an increase in prediction accuracy of skin toxicities in most cases. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Potential Offsite Radiological Doses Estimated for the Proposed Divine Strake Experiment, Nevada Test Site

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ron Warren

    2006-12-01

    An assessment of the potential radiation dose that residents offsite of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) might receive from the proposed Divine Strake experiment was made to determine compliance with Subpart H of Part 61 of Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, National Emission Standards for Emissions of Radionuclides Other than Radon from Department of Energy Facilities. The Divine Strake experiment, proposed by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, consists of a detonation of 700 tons of heavy ammonium nitrate fuel oil-emulsion above the U16b Tunnel complex in Area 16 of the NTS. Both natural radionuclides suspended, and historicmore » fallout radionuclides resuspended from the detonation, have potential to be transported outside the NTS boundary by wind. They may, therefore, contribute radiological dose to the public. Subpart H states ''Emissions of radionuclides to the ambient air from Department of Energy facilities shall not exceed those amounts that would cause any member of the public to receive in any year an effective dose equivalent of 10 mrem/yr'' (Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 61.92) where mrem/yr is millirem per year. Furthermore, application for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval of construction of a new source or modification of an existing source is required if the effective dose equivalent, caused by all emissions from the new construction or modification, is greater than or equal to 0.1 mrem/yr (40 CFR 61.96). In accordance with Section 61.93, a dose assessment was conducted with the computer model CAP88-PC, Version 3.0. In addition to this model, a dose assessment was also conducted by the National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center (NARAC) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. This modeling was conducted to obtain dose estimates from a model designed for acute releases and which addresses terrain effects and uses meteorology from multiple locations. Potential radiation dose to a hypothetical maximally exposed individual at the closest NTS boundary to the proposed Divine Strake experiment, as estimated by the CAP88-PC model, was 0.005 mrem with wind blowing directly towards that location. Boundary dose, as modeled by NARAC, ranged from about 0.006 to 0.007 mrem. Potential doses to actual offsite populated locations were generally two to five times lower still, or about 40 to 100 times lower then the 0.1 mrem level at which EPA approval is required pursuant to Section 61.96.« less

  13. Sex hormone-binding globulin and antithrombin III activity in women with oral ultra-low-dose estradiol.

    PubMed

    Matsui, Sumika; Yasui, Toshiyuki; Kasai, Kana; Keyama, Kaoru; Yoshida, Kanako; Kato, Takeshi; Uemura, Hirokazu; Kuwahara, Akira; Matsuzaki, Toshiya; Irahara, Minoru

    2017-07-01

    Oral oestrogen increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and increases production of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in a dose-dependent manner. SHBG has been suggested to be involved in venous thromboembolism. We examined the effects of oral ultra-low-dose oestradiol on circulating levels of SHBG and coagulation parameters, and we compared the effects to those of transdermal oestradiol. Twenty women received oral oestradiol (500 μg) every day (oral ultra-low-dose group) and 20 women received a transdermal patch (50 μg) as a transdermal group. In addition, the women received dydrogesterone continuously (5 mg) except for women who underwent hysterectomy. Circulating SHBG, antithrombin III (ATIII) activity, d-dimer, thrombin-antithrombin complex and plasmin-α2 plasmin inhibitor complex were measured before and 3 months after the start of treatment. SHBG was significantly increased at 3 months in the oral ultra-low-dose group, but not in the transdermal group. However, percent changes in SHBG were not significantly different between the two groups. In both groups, ATIII was significantly decreased at 3 months. In conclusion, even ultra-low-dose oestradiol orally increases circulating SHBG level. However, the magnitude of change in SHBG caused by oral ultra-low-dose oestradiol is small and is comparable to that caused by transdermal oestradiol. Impact statement Oral oestrogen replacement therapy increases production of SHBG which may be related to increase in VTE risk. However, the effect of oral ultra-low-dose oestradiol on SHBG has not been clarified. Even ultra-low-dose oestradiol orally increases circulating SHBG levels, but the magnitude of change in SHBG caused by oral ultra-low-dose oestradiol is small and is comparable to that caused by transdermal oestradiol. VTE risk in women receiving oral ultra-low-dose oestradiol may be comparable to that in women receiving transdermal oestradiol.

  14. Effect of altering the intervals between consecutive superovulatory doses of porcine follicle-stimulating hormone on ovarian responses and embryo yields in anestrous ewes.

    PubMed

    Bartlewski, P M; Murawski, M; Schwarz, T; Oliveira, M E F

    2017-05-01

    The effect of varying intervals between successive gonadotropin injections on the superovulatory outcomes in anestrous Rideau Arcott ewes superstimulated for ovarian follicular development with multiple doses of porcine FSH (pFSH) was evaluated in a single study. Twenty-five animals received six (1×2.5ml and 5×1.25ml) injections of Folltropin ® -V given at 0800 and 1600h or at 0800 and 2000h in Group 1 (n=9) or Group 2 (n=16), respectively. An i.m. injection of 500 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG; Folligon ® ) was given concurrently with the first pFSH dose. Time of estrus was synchronized among ewes with intravaginal sponges containing 60mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate (Veramix ® ) that were left in place for 14days; sponges were removed at the time of the 5th pFSH injection. Six days after insertion of MAP sponges, all ewes received an i.m. injection of estradiol-17β dissolved in 1ml of sesame oil (350μg/ewe) to synchronize follicular wave emergence. Following the last pFSH dose, all animals were given a single i.m. injection of 50μg of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; Cystorelin ® ) to induce ovulations before placing in a pen with four fertile rams for 36h. The ovarian responses were assessed and embryos recovered surgically 7days after GnRH injections. The mean number of corpora lutea was greater (P<0.05) in Group 1 compared with Group 2 ewes (21.0±2.9 compared with 10.4±1.6, respectively; mean±SEM) but there was no difference (P>0.05) in the number of transferable embryos (5.4±2.4 compared with 5.4±1.3/ewe, respectively), and Group 1 animals had significantly more degenerated embryos than Group 2 ewes (2.6±1.2 compared with 0.6±0.3/ewe, respectively). A superovulatory protocol wherein pFSH injections were given at 0800 and 1600h was more effective in terms of inducing multiple ovulations than the protocol with 12-h intervals between consecutive pFSH doses, but it was not associated with an increased production of transferable quality embryos by anestrous ewes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Estimation of doses received in a dry-contaminated residential area in the Bryansk region, Russia, since the Chernobyl accident.

    PubMed

    Andersson, K G; Roed, J

    2006-01-01

    In nuclear preparedness, an essential requirement is the ability to adequately predict the likely consequences of a major accident situation. In this context it is very important to evaluate which contributions to dose are important, and which are not likely to have significance. As an example of this type of evaluation, a case study has been conducted to estimate the doses received over the first 17 years after the Chernobyl accident in a dry-contaminated residential area in the Bryansk region in Russia. Methodologies for estimation of doses received through nine different pathways, including contamination of streets, roofs, exterior walls, and landscape, are established, and best estimates are given for each of the dose contributions. Generally, contaminated soil areas were estimated to have given the highest dose contribution, but a number of other contributions to dose, e.g., from contaminated roofs and inhalation of contaminants during the passage of the contaminated plume, were of the same order of magnitude.

  16. SU-F-T-637: Single-Isocenter Versus Multiple-Isocenter VMAT SRS for Unusual Multiple Metastasis Case with Two Widely Separated Lesions

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Thomas, EM; Popple, RA; Fiveash, JB

    Purpose: Single-isocenter (SI) volumetric modulated arc therapy has been shown to be an effective and efficient approach to multiple metastasis radiosurgery. However, certain extreme cases raise the question of whether multiple-isocenter (MI) approaches can still generate superior plans. In this study, we ask this question with respect to a clinical case with two very widely separated lesions. Methods: A patient with two widely separated (d = 12cm) tumors was treated with SI-VMAT SRS using 10MV flattening filter free (FFF) beam with high-definition multi-leaf collimator (HD-MLC, 2.5/5mm) in two non-coplanar arcs using concentric rings to enforce steep gradient. Because of lesionmore » positioning with respect to collimator angle selection, lesions were treated by 5mm leaves. We re-planned the case with a congruent arc arrangement but separate isocenter for each lesion. In this manner, lesions were treated by 2.5mm leaves. Conformity index (CI), V50%, and mean brain dose were compared. Results: Neither conformity (CI-SI = 1.12, CI-MI = 1.08) nor V50% (V50%-SI =8.82cc, V50%-MI =8.81cc) were improved by utilizing a separate isocenter for each lesion. Mean brain dose was slightly reduced (dmean-SI = 118.4 cGy, dmean-MI = 88.7 cGy) by using multiple isocenters. Conclusion: For this case with a lesion at the apex of the brain and another distantly located at the base of skull, employing a separate isocenter for each target did not meaningfully improve plan quality. Single-isocenter VMAT has been shown feasible and equivalent to multiple-isocenter VMAT for multiple metastasis cases in general. In this extreme case, single- and multiple- isocenter VMAT were also equivalent. If rotational setup errors are appropriately corrected, the increased delivery efficiency of the single-isocenter approach renders it preferable to the multiple isocenter approach. Dr’s Thomas, Popple, and Fiveash have all received honoraria from Varian Medical Systems for discussing their experiences with stereotactic radiosurgery.« less

  17. Current practice of antibiotic prophylaxis for surgical fixation of closed long bone fractures: a survey of 297 members of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association.

    PubMed

    Gans, Itai; Jain, Amit; Sirisreetreerux, Norachart; Haut, Elliott R; Hasenboehler, Erik A

    2017-01-01

    The risk of postoperative surgical site infection after long bone fracture fixation can be decreased with appropriate antibiotic use. However, there is no agreement on the superiority of a single- or multiple-dose perioperative regimen of antibiotic prophylaxis. The purpose of this study is to determine the following: 1) What are the current practice patterns of orthopaedic trauma surgeons in using perioperative antibiotics for closed long bone fractures? 2) What is the current knowledge of published antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines among orthopaedic trauma surgeons? 3) Are orthopaedic surgeons willing to change their current practices? A questionnaire was distributed via email between September and December 2015 to 955 Orthopaedic Trauma Association members, of whom 297 (31%) responded. Most surgeons (96%) use cefazolin as first-line infection prophylaxis. Fifty-nine percent used a multiple-dose antibiotic regimen, 39% used a single-dose regimen, and 2% varied this decision according to patient factors. Thirty-six percent said they were unfamiliar with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines; only 30% were able to select the correct CDC recommendation from a multiple-choice list. However, 44% of surgeons said they followed CDC recommendations. Fifty-six percent answered that a single-dose antibiotic prophylaxis regimen was not inferior to a multiple-dose regimen. If a level-I study comparing a single preoperative dose versus multiple perioperative antibiotic dosing regimen for treatment of closed long bone fractures were published, most respondents (64%) said they would fully follow these guidelines, and 22% said they would partially change their practice to follow these guidelines. There is heterogeneity in the use of single- versus multiple-dose antibiotic prophylaxis for surgical repair of closed long bone fractures. Many surgeons were unsure of current evidence-based recommendations regarding perioperative antibiotic use. Most respondents indicated they would be receptive to high-level evidence regarding the single- versus multiple-dose perioperative prophylactic antibiotics for the treatment of closed long bone fractures.

  18. ASSESSING POPULATION EXPOSURES TO MULTIPLE AIR POLLUTANTS USING A MECHANISTIC SOURCE-TO-DOSE MODELING FRAMEWORK

    EPA Science Inventory

    The Modeling Environment for Total Risks studies (MENTOR) system, combined with an extension of the SHEDS (Stochastic Human Exposure and Dose Simulation) methodology, provide a mechanistically consistent framework for conducting source-to-dose exposure assessments of multiple pol...

  19. A Phase I Study of Reduced-Intensity Conditioning and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation Followed by Dose Escalation of Targeted Consolidation Immunotherapy with Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin in Children and Adolescents with CD33+ Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

    PubMed

    Zahler, Stacey; Bhatia, Monica; Ricci, Angela; Roy, Sumith; Morris, Erin; Harrison, Lauren; van de Ven, Carmella; Fabricatore, Sandra; Wolownik, Karen; Cooney-Qualter, Erin; Baxter-Lowe, Lee Ann; Luisi, Paul; Militano, Olga; Kletzel, Morris; Cairo, Mitchell S

    2016-04-01

    Myeloablative conditioning and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (alloHSCT) in children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in first complete remission (CR1) may be associated with significant acute toxicity and late effects. Reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) and alloHSCT in children is safe, feasible, and may be associated with less adverse effects. Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) induces a response in 30% of patients with CD33+ relapsed/refractory AML. The dose of GO is significantly lower when combined with chemotherapy. We examined the feasibility and toxicity of RIC alloHSCT followed by GO targeted immunotherapy in children with CD33+ AML in CR1/CR2. Conditioning consisted of fludarabine 30 mg/m2 × 6 days, busulfan 3.2 to 4 mg/kg × 2 days ± rabbit antithymocyte globulin 2 mg/kg × 4 days followed by alloHSCT from matched related/unrelated donors. GO was administered ≥60 days after alloHSCT in 2 doses (8 weeks apart), following a dose-escalation design (4.5, 6, 7.5, and 9 mg/m2). Fourteen patients with average risk AML received RIC alloHSCT and post-GO consolidation: median age 13.5 years at transplant (range, 1 to 21), male-to-female 8:6, and disease status at alloHSCT 11 CR1 and 3 CR2. Eleven patients received alloHSCT from 5-6/6 HLA-matched family donors: 8 received peripheral blood stem cells, 2 received bone marrow, and 1 received related cord blood transplantation. Three patients received an unrelated allograft (two 4-5/6 and one 9/10) from unrelated cord blood unit and bone marrow, respectively. Neutrophil and platelet engraftment was observed in all assessable patients (100%), achieved at median 15.5 days (range, 7 to 31) and 21 days (range, 10 to 52), respectively. Three patients received GO at dose level 1 (4.5 mg/m2 per dose), 5 at dose level 2 (6 mg/m2 per dose), 3 at dose level 3 (7.5 mg/m2 per dose), and 3 at dose level 4 (9 mg/m2 per dose). Three of 14 patients received only 1 dose of GO after alloHSCT. One patient experienced grade III transaminitis, which resolved; no grade IV transaminitis, no grade III/IV hyperbilirubinemia, or sinusoidal obstructive syndrome were observed. The second dose of GO was given at median of 143 days (range, 120 to 209) after alloHSCT. Probability of grades II to IV acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease were 21% and 33.5%, respectively. Probability of overall survival after RIC alloHSCT and GO consolidation at 1 and 5 years was 78% and 61%, respectively. Probability of 5-year event-free survival after RIC alloHSCT and GO consolidation in patients in CR1 was 78%. No dose-limiting toxicities probably or directly related to GO were observed in this cohort. This preliminary data demonstrate that RIC followed by alloHSCT and consolidation with GO appears to be safe in children and adolescents with CD33+ AML in CR1/CR2. A phase II trial is currently underway investigating this approach with a GO dose of 9 mg/m2 per dose. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Genotoxicity, mutagenicity and cytotoxicity of carotenoids extracted from ionic liquid in multiples organs of Wistar rats.

    PubMed

    Larangeira, Paula Martins; de Rosso, Veridiana Vera; da Silva, Victor Hugo Pereira; de Moura, Carolina Foot Gomes; Ribeiro, Daniel Araki

    2016-11-01

    The ionic liquid or melted salt 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium is an alternative process to extract natural pigments, such as carotenoids. Lycopene represents 80-90% of total of carotenoids presents in tomatoes and it has been widely studied due its potent antioxidant action. The aim of this study was to evaluate genotoxicity, mutagenicity and cytotoxicity of carotenoids extracted from ionic liquid using experimental model in vivo. For this purpose, a total of 20 male Wistar rats were distributed into four groups (n=5), as follows: control group; received a corresponding amount of corn oil for 7days by intragastric gavage (i.g.), ionic liquid group, received 10mgkg -1 body weight for 7days by gavage; 10mg carotenoids group, received 10mgkg -1 bw dissolved in corn oil for 7days by gavage and 500mg carotenoids group, received 500mgkg -1 bw dissolved in corn oil for 7days by gavage. Rat liver treated with ionic liquid exhibited moderate histopathological changes randomly distributed in the parenchyma, such as cytoplasmic eosinophilia, apoptotic bodies, inflammatory infiltrate and focal necrosis. DNA damage was found in peripheral blood and liver cells of rats treated with ionic liquid or carotenoids at 500mg. An increase of micronucleated cells and 8-OhDG immunopositive cells were also detected in rats treated with carotenoids at 500mg. In summary, our results demonstrate that recommended dose for human daily intake of carotenoids extracted by ionic liquid did not induce genotoxicity, mutagenicity and cytotoxicity in multiple organs of rats. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  1. Immunogenicity of aluminum-adsorbed hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix®) administered as a third dose after primary doses of Japanese aluminum-free hepatitis A vaccine (Aimmugen®) for Japanese travelers to endemic countries.

    PubMed

    Fukushima, Shinji; Kiyohara, Tomoko; Ishii, Koji; Nakano, Takashi; Hamada, Atsuo

    2017-11-07

    Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for travelers to endemic countries. Several inactivated aluminum-adsorbed hepatitis A vaccines are available worldwide, but only one licensed hepatitis A vaccine is available in Japan. This vaccine is a lyophilized inactivated aluminum-free hepatitis A vaccine (Aimmugen®). The standard schedule of Aimmugen® is three doses (at 0, 2-4 weeks, and 6 months). Japanese people will go abroad after receiving 2 doses of Aimmugen®. Some long-term travelers will receive the third dose of hepatitis A vaccine at their destination, at 6-24 months after 2 doses of Aimmugen®. Aimmugen® is not available in countries other than Japan. They receive inactivated aluminum-adsorbed hepatitis A vaccine instead of a third dose of Aimmugen®. This study was undertaken to determine whether the booster vaccination with an aluminum-adsorbed hepatitis A vaccine is effective following two doses of Aimmugen®. Subjects were healthy Japanese adults aged 20 years or older who had received two doses of Aimmugen®. Subjects received a booster dose of Havrix®1440 intramuscularly as the third dose. Serology samples for hepatitis A virus antibody titers were taken 4-6 weeks later. Anti-hepatitis A virus antibody titers were measured by an inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Subjects were 20 healthy Japanese adults, 6 men and 14 women. The mean age ± standard deviation was 37.2 ± 13.3. The seroprotection rate (SPR, anti-hepatitis A virus antibody titer ≥10 mIU/mL) was 85% at enrollment, and increased to 100% after vaccination with Havrix®. The geometric mean anti-hepatitis A virus antibody titer increased from 39.8 mIU/mL to 2938.2 mIU/mL. The three scheduled doses consisting of two doses of Aimmugen® plus a third dose with Havrix® is more immunogenic than using only two doses of Aimmugen®. The vaccination with Havrix® could be allowed to be used instead of a third dose of Aimmugen®. (UMIN000009351). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Randomized Trial of 2 Versus 1 Dose of Measles Vaccine: Effect on Hospital Admission of Children After 9 Months of Age.

    PubMed

    Brønd, Marie; Martins, Cesario L; Byberg, Stine; Benn, Christine S; Whittle, Hilton; Garly, May-Lill; Aaby, Peter; Fisker, Ane B

    2017-06-15

    Two doses of measles vaccine (MV) might reduce the nonmeasles mortality rate more than 1 dose of MV does. The effect of 2 versus 1 dose on morbidity has not been examined. Within a randomized trial of the effect of 2 doses versus 1 dose of MV on mortality in Guinea-Bissau, we investigated the effect on hospital admissions. Children were randomly assigned 1:2 to receive MV at 4.5 and 9 months of age or the currently recommended dose at 9 months. We compared hospital admission rates among children between 9 and 18 months of age in a Cox regression model with age as the underlying time scale. Half of the children had received neonatal vitamin A supplementation (NVAS) in another trial. The beneficial effect of MV at 4.5 and 9 months on mortality was limited to children who had not received NVAS; therefore, we investigated the interaction of MV with NVAS on admission rates. Among 5626 children (2 doses of MV, 1960 children; 1 dose of MV, 3666), we identified 311 hospital admissions of children between 9 and 18 months of age. Overall, compared to 1 dose of MV, 2 doses reduced the risk of hospital admission for children who had not received NVAS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.66 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.47-0.93]), but we found no effect among NVAS recipients (HR, 1.16 [95% CI, 0.82-1.63]) (P = .02 for interaction). The benefit of 2 doses of MV was limited to children who had not received NVAS. NVAS is not generally recommended; hence, an early 2-dose measles vaccination policy might reduce hospital admissions more than the current policy of providing the first MV at 9 months of age. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00168558. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  3. Development of a vancomycin dosing approach for critically ill patients receiving hybrid hemodialysis using Monte Carlo simulation.

    PubMed

    Lewis, Susan J; Mueller, Bruce A

    2018-01-01

    Prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy is an increasingly popular treatment for acute kidney injury in critically ill patients that runs at different flow rates and durations than conventional hemodialysis or continuous renal replacement therapies. Pharmacokinetic studies conducted in patients receiving prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy are scarce; consequently, clinicians are challenged to dose antibiotics effectively. The purpose of this study was to develop vancomycin dosing recommendations for patients receiving prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy. Monte Carlo simulations were performed in thousands of virtual patients derived from previously published demographic, pharmacokinetic, and dialytic information derived from critically ill patients receiving vancomycin and other forms of renal replacement therapy. We conducted "in silico" vancomycin pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamics analyses in these patients receiving prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy to determine what vancomycin dose would achieve vancomycin 24-h area under the curve (AUC 24h ) of 400-700 mg·h/L, a target associated with positive clinical outcomes. Nine different vancomycin dosing regimens were tested using four different, commonly used prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy modalities. A dosing nomogram based on serum concentration data achieved after the third dose was developed to individualize vancomycin therapy. An initial vancomycin dose of 15 or 20 mg/kg immediately followed by 15 mg/kg after subsequent prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy treatments achieved AUC 24h of ≥400 mg·h/L for ≥90% of patients regardless of prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy duration, modality, or time of vancomycin dose relative to prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy. Many patients experienced AUC 24h of ≥700 mg·h/L, but once the dosing nomogram was applied to serum concentrations obtained after the third vancomycin dose, 67%-88% of patients achieved AUC 24h of 400-700 mg·h/L. An initial loading dose of 15-20 mg/kg followed by a maintenance regimen of 15 mg/kg after every prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy session coupled with serum concentration monitoring should be used to individualize vancomycin dosing. These predictions need clinical verification.

  4. SU-F-T-538: CyberKnife with MLC for Treatment of Large Volume Tumors: A Feasibility Study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bichay, T; Mayville, A

    2016-06-15

    Purpose: CyberKnife is a well-documented modality for SRS and SBRT treatments. Typical tumors are small and 1–5 fractions are usually used. We determined the feasibility of using CyberKnife, with an InCise multileaf collimator option, for larger tumors undergoing standard dose and fractionation. The intent was to understand the limitation of using this modality for other external beam radiation treatments. Methods: Five tumors from different anatomical sites with volumes from 127.8 cc to 1,320.5 cc were contoured and planned on a Multiplan V5.1 workstation. The target average diameter ranged from 7 cm to 13 cm. The dose fractionation was 1.8–2.0 Gy/fractionmore » and 25–45 fractions for total doses of 45–81 Gy. The sites planned were: pancreas, head and neck, prostate, anal, and esophagus. The plans were optimized to meet conventional dose constraints based on various RTOG protocols for conventional fractionation. Results: The Multiplan treatment planning system successfully generated clinically acceptable plans for all sites studied. The resulting dose distributions achieved reasonable target coverage, all greater than 95%, and satisfactory normal tissue sparing. Treatment times ranged from 9 minutes to 38 minutes, the longest being a head and neck plan with dual targets receiving different doses and with multiple adjacent critical structures. Conclusion: CyberKnife, with the InCise multileaf collimation option, can achieve acceptable dose distributions in large volume tumors treated with conventional dose and fractionation. Although treatment times are greater than conventional accelerator time; target coverage and dose to critical structures can be kept within a clinically acceptable range. While time limitations exist, when necessary CyberKnife can provide an alternative to traditional treatment modalities for large volume tumors.« less

  5. Effect of Repeated Glucagon Doses on Hepatic Glycogen in Type 1 Diabetes: Implications for a Bihormonal Closed-Loop System

    PubMed Central

    El Youssef, Joseph; Bakhtiani, Parkash A.; Cai, Yu; Stobbe, Jade M.; Branigan, Deborah; Ramsey, Katrina; Jacobs, Peter; Reddy, Ravi; Woods, Mark; Ward, W. Kenneth

    2015-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To evaluate subjects with type 1 diabetes for hepatic glycogen depletion after repeated doses of glucagon, simulating delivery in a bihormonal closed-loop system. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Eleven adult subjects with type 1 diabetes participated. Subjects underwent estimation of hepatic glycogen using 13C MRS. MRS was performed at the following four time points: fasting and after a meal at baseline, and fasting and after a meal after eight doses of subcutaneously administered glucagon at a dose of 2 µg/kg, for a total mean dose of 1,126 µg over 16 h. The primary and secondary end points were, respectively, estimated hepatic glycogen by MRS and incremental area under the glucose curve for a 90-min interval after glucagon administration. RESULTS In the eight subjects with complete data sets, estimated glycogen stores were similar at baseline and after repeated glucagon doses. In the fasting state, glycogen averaged 21 ± 3 g/L before glucagon administration and 25 ± 4 g/L after glucagon administration (mean ± SEM) (P = NS). In the fed state, glycogen averaged 40 ± 2 g/L before glucagon administration and 34 ± 4 g/L after glucagon administration (P = NS). With the use of an insulin action model, the rise in glucose after the last dose of glucagon was comparable to the rise after the first dose, as measured by the 90-min incremental area under the glucose curve. CONCLUSIONS In adult subjects with well-controlled type 1 diabetes (mean A1C 7.2%), glycogen stores and the hyperglycemic response to glucagon administration are maintained even after receiving multiple doses of glucagon. This finding supports the safety of repeated glucagon delivery in the setting of a bihormonal closed-loop system. PMID:26341131

  6. Ten-year oral toxicity study with Norlestrin in rhesus monkeys.

    PubMed

    Fitzgerald, J; de la Iglesia, F; Goldenthal, E I

    1982-12-01

    The long term effects of the oral contraceptive, Norlestrin, were evaluated in sexually mature female rhesus (Macaca mulatta) monkeys over a 10 year period. Norlestrin, a combination of norethindrone acetate and ethinylestradiol (50:1) was given orally on a continuous cyclic regimen of 21 d of dosing followed by 7 d without treatment. Groups of 16 monkeys each received the drug at dose levels of 0.05, 0.51, and 2.55 mg/kg representing multiples of 1, 10, and 50 times the human dose, respectively. A comparable group of 16 animals remained untreated and served as controls. Selected clinical and laboratory parameters were monitored throughout the study and all animals were necropsied and evaluated for gross and histopathologic changes. All dose levels were well tolerated and survival was not affected. There were no consistent treatment-related alterations in coagulation or other clinical laboratory parameters. Ophthalmologically, macular pigmentary anomalies were observed in all groups. Treatment-associated pathologic findings, representing exaggerated pharmacological responses with superimposed senile changes, including ovarian and uterine atrophy and dilatation of acini and ducts in the mammary gland. Periodic vaginal cytologic examination and mammary gland palpation did not demonstrate drug related changes. A small number of neoplasms was seen in all groups and a granulosa cell carcinoma of the ovary occurred in a control animal. The benign tumors consisted of three cutaneous papillomas: one in a low dose and one in a high dose animal, a uterine leiomyoma in one high dose animal, and a pancreatic duct adenoma in one low dose animal. The results of this study indicate that Norlestrin had no significant toxic manifestations or tumorigenic potential when administered on a cyclic regimen to female rhesus monkeys at levels up to 50 times the human dose for ten yr.

  7. Cerebrovascular Diseases in Childhood Cancer Survivors: Role of the Radiation Dose to Willis Circle Arteries

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    El-Fayech, Chiraz; Haddy, Nadia; Allodji, Rodrigue Sètchéou

    Background and Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of radiation dose received to the circle of Willis (WC) during radiation therapy (RT) and of potential dose-response modifiers on the risk of stroke after treatment of childhood cancer. Methods: We evaluated the risk factors for stroke in a cohort of 3172 5-year survivors of childhood cancer who were followed up for a median time of 26 years. Radiation doses to the WC and brain structures were estimated for each of the 2202 children who received RT. Results: Fifty-four patients experienced a confirmed stroke; 39 were ischemic. Patientsmore » not receiving RT had a stroke risk similar to that of the general population, whereas those who received RT had an 8.5-fold increased risk (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.3-11.0). The excess of incidence of stroke increased yearly. The dose of radiation to the WC, rather than to other brain structures, was found to be the best predictor of stroke. The relative risk was 15.7 (95% CI: 4.9-50.2) for doses of 40 Gy or more. At 45 years of age, the cumulative stroke incidence was 11.3% (95% CI: 7.1%-17.7%) in patients who received 10 Gy or more to the WC, compared with 1% expected from general population data. Radiation doses received to the heart and neck also increased the risk. Surgery for childhood brain cancer was linked to hemorrhagic strokes in these patients. Conclusion: The WC should be considered as a major organ at risk during RT for childhood brain cancers. The incidence of radiation-induced ischemic stroke strongly increases with long-term follow-up.« less

  8. Outreach hepatitis B vaccination of female sex workers in central-west Brazil: immunization status, compliance, and immune response.

    PubMed

    Carneiro, Luciene Moraes; Mousquer, Gina Jonasson; Pinheiro, Raquel Silva; Castro, Ana Rita Coimbra Motta; França, Divânia Dias Da Silva; Caetano, Karlla Antonieta Amorim; Carneiro, Megmar Aparecida dos Santos; Martins, Regina Maria Bringel; Matos, Marcos André de; Castro, Lisie; Rezende, Grazielli; Teles, Sheila Araujo

    2014-01-01

    To evaluate the hepatitis B immunization status of female sex workers (FSWs) in Central-West Brazil and to evaluate their compliance with and immune response to hepatitis B vaccination delivered using outreach strategies. A total of 721 FSWs recruited in 2 large cities in Central-West Brazil were interviewed and screened for the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers. Hepatitis B vaccine was offered to all women susceptible to HBV, using outreach strategies. The immune response of FSWs who received a full course of vaccine was assessed following the final vaccine dose. We found that 27.6% of FSWs, the majority of whom were aged 18 to 25 years, had serological evidence of previous hepatitis B vaccination. A total of 434 FSWs were eligible for vaccination, 389 (89.6%) of whom accepted the first hepatitis B vaccine dose. Of those, 64% received a second dose and 37.5% received all three doses. Through the outreach strategy, there was a 52.2% increase in the number of women who received the second dose and a 67% increase in the number who received the third dose. Of the 146 women who received a full course of vaccine, 105 accepted testing for quantitative anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface antibody) following the final vaccine dose, and 92.4% of those tested had developed protective levels of anti-HBs. Lower education level, workplace, and length of prostitution were predictors of full-vaccine acceptance. The present findings illustrate the benefits of using outreach strategies to overcome the difficulties of vaccinating hard-to-reach populations such as FSWs.

  9. Double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-ascending-dose study on the pharmacodynamics of ABIO-08/01, a new CNS drug with potential anxiolytic activity. 2. EEG-tomography findings based on LORETA (low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography).

    PubMed

    Saletu, Bernd; Anderer, Peter; Wolzt, Michael; Nosiska, Dorothea; Assandri, Alessandro; Noseda, Emanuele; Nannipieri, Fabrizio; Saletu-Zyhlarz, Gerda M

    2009-01-01

    Effects of ABIO-08/01, a new potentially anxiolytic isoxazoline, on regional electrical brain generators were investigated by 3-dimensional EEG tomography. In a double- blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-ascending-dose study, 16 healthy males (30.2 +/- 5.7 years) received 3 oral drug doses (10, 20, 40 mg) and placebo for 7 days (8-day wash-out) in a randomized non-balanced design for phase-1 studies. A 3-min vigilance-controlled (V) EEG, a 4-min resting (R) EEG with eyes closed, a 1-min eyes-open (EO) EEG and psychometric tests were performed 0, 1 and 6 h after taking the drug on days 1 and 5. Low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (LORETA) was computed from the spectrally analyzed EEG data, and differences between drug and placebo were displayed as statistical parametric maps. Data were registered to the Talairach-Tournoux Human Brain Atlas available as a digitized MRI. An overall omnibus significance test followed by a voxel-by-voxel t test demonstrated significant regional EEG changes after ABIO-08/01 versus placebo, dependent on recording condition, dose and time. While in the EO-EEG specifically the lowest dose of ABIO-08/01 induced pronounced sedative effects (delta/theta and beta increase) 1 h after acute and slightly less so after superimposed administration, in the 6th hour a decrease in alpha and beta activity signaled less sedative and more relaxant action. In the V-EEG these changes were less pronounced, in the R-EEG partly opposite. Hemisphere-specific changes were observed, suggesting increases in LORETA power over the left temporal, parietal, superior frontal regions and decreases over the right prefrontal, temporal pole and occipital regions. These LORETA changes are discussed in the light of neuroimaging findings on anxiety and anxiolytics. 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  10. L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS; droxidopa) in the management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: a multi-national, multi-center, dose-ranging study in multiple system atrophy and pure autonomic failure.

    PubMed

    Mathias, C J; Senard, J M; Braune, S; Watson, L; Aragishi, A; Keeling, J E; Taylor, M D

    2001-08-01

    This study was designed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of increasing doses of L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS) in treating symptomatic orthostatic hypotension associated with multiple system atrophy (MSA) and pure autonomic failure (PAF). Following a one-week run-in, patients (26 MSA; 6 PAF) with symptomatic orthostatic hypotension received increasing doses of L-threo-DOPS (100, 200 and 300 mg, twice daily) in an open, dose-ranging study. Incremental dose adjustment (after weeks two and four of outpatient treatment) was based on clinical need until blood pressure (BP), and symptoms improved. Final dosage was maintained for six weeks. With L-threo-DOPS, systolic BP decrease was reduced during orthostatic challenge (-22+/-28 mm Hg reduction from a baseline decrease of 54.3+/-27.7 mm Hg, p = 0.0001, n = 32; supine systolic BP at final visit was 118.9+/-28.2 mm Hg). By the end of the study, 25 patients (78%) improved, and in 14 patients (44%) orthostatic hypotension was no longer observed. Decreased orthostatic systolic BP decrease occurred in 22% (7/32), 24% (6/25) and 61% (11/18) of patients treated with 100, 200, and 300 mg L-threo-DOPS twice daily, respectively. An improvement occurred in symptoms associated with orthostatic hypotension, such as light-headedness, dizziness (p = 0.0125), and blurred vision (p = 0.0290). L-threo-DOPS was well tolerated, with the 2 serious adverse events reported being a possible complication of the disease under study, and with no reports of supine hypertension. In conclusion, L-threo-DOPS (100, 200, and 300 mg, twice daily) was well tolerated. The dosage of 300 mg twice daily L-threo-DOPS seemed to offer the most effective control of symptomatic orthostatic hypotension in MSA and PAF.

  11. A phase 1b study of isatuximab plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Martin, Thomas; Baz, Rachid; Benson, Don M; Lendvai, Nikoletta; Wolf, Jeffrey; Munster, Pamela; Lesokhin, Alexander M; Wack, Claudine; Charpentier, Eric; Campana, Frank; Vij, Ravi

    2017-06-22

    This phase 1b, open-label, dose-escalation study assessed the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody isatuximab given in 2 schedules (3, 5, or 10 mg/kg every other week [Q2W] or 10 or 20 mg/kg weekly [QW] for 4 weeks and then Q2W thereafter [QW/Q2W]), in combination with lenalidomide 25 mg (days 1-21) and dexamethasone 40 mg (QW), in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Patients received 28-day treatment cycles; the primary objective was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of isatuximab with lenalidomide and dexamethasone. Fifty-seven patients (median 5 [range 1-12] prior regimens; 83% refractory to previous lenalidomide therapy) were treated. Median duration of dosing was 36.4 weeks; 15 patients remained on treatment at data cutoff. Isatuximab-lenalidomide-dexamethasone was generally well tolerated with only 1 dose-limiting toxicity reported (grade 3 pneumonia at 20 mg/kg QW/Q2W); the MTD was not reached. The most common isatuximab-related adverse events were infusion-associated reactions (IARs) (56%), which were grade 1/2 in 84% of patients who had an IAR and predominantly occurred during the first infusion. In the efficacy-evaluable population, the overall response rate (ORR) was 56% (29/52) and was similar between the 10 mg/kg Q2W and 10 and 20 mg/kg QW/Q2W cohorts. The ORR was 52% in 42 evaluable lenalidomide-refractory patients. Overall median progression-free survival was 8.5 months. Isatuximab exposure increased in a greater than dose-proportional manner; isatuximab and lenalidomide pharmacokinetic parameters appeared independent. These data suggest that isatuximab combined with lenalidomide and dexamethasone is active and tolerated in heavily pretreated patients with RRMM. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01749969. © 2017 by The American Society of Hematology.

  12. Effect of Oral Voriconazole on Fungal Keratitis in the Mycotic Ulcer Treatment Trial II (MUTT II): A Randomized Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Prajna, N Venkatesh; Krishnan, Tiruvengada; Rajaraman, Revathi; Patel, Sushila; Srinivasan, Muthiah; Das, Manoranjan; Ray, Kathryn J; O'Brien, Kieran S; Oldenburg, Catherine E; McLeod, Stephen D; Zegans, Michael E; Porco, Travis C; Acharya, Nisha R; Lietman, Thomas M; Rose-Nussbaumer, Jennifer

    2016-12-01

    To compare oral voriconazole with placebo in addition to topical antifungals in the treatment of filamentous fungal keratitis. The Mycotic Ulcer Treatment Trial II (MUTT II), a multicenter, double-masked, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial, was conducted in India and Nepal, with 2133 individuals screened for inclusion. Patients with smear-positive filamentous fungal ulcers and visual acuity of 20/400 (logMAR 1.3) or worse were randomized to receive oral voriconazole vs oral placebo; all participants received topical antifungal eyedrops. The study was conducted from May 24, 2010, to November 23, 2015. All trial end points were analyzed on an intent-to-treat basis. Study participants were randomized to receive oral voriconazole vs oral placebo; a voriconazole loading dose of 400 mg was administered twice daily for 24 hours, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg twice daily for 20 days, with dosing altered to weight based during the trial. All participants received topical voriconazole, 1%, and natamycin, 5%. The primary outcome of the trial was rate of corneal perforation or the need for therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (TPK) within 3 months. Secondary outcomes included microbiologic cure at 6 days, rate of re-epithelialization, best-corrected visual acuity and infiltrate and/or scar size at 3 weeks and 3 months, and complication rates associated with voriconazole use. A total of 2133 patients in India and Nepal with smear-positive ulcers were screened; of the 787 who were eligible, 240 (30.5%) were enrolled. Of the 119 patients (49.6%) in the oral voriconazole treatment group, 65 were male (54.6%), and the median age was 54 years (interquartile range, 42-62 years). Overall, no difference in the rate of corneal perforation or the need for TPK was determined for oral voriconazole vs placebo (hazard ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.57-1.18; P = .29). In prespecified subgroup analyses comparing treatment effects among organism subgroups, there was some suggestion that Fusarium species might have a decreased rate of perforation or TPK in the oral voriconazole-treated arm; however, this was not a statistically significant finding after Holms-Šidák correction for multiple comparisons (effect coefficient, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.26-0.92; P = .03). Patients receiving oral voriconazole experienced a total of 58 adverse events (48.7%) compared with 28 adverse events (23.1%) in the placebo group (P < .001 after Holms-Šidák correction for multiple comparisons). There appears to be no benefit to adding oral voriconazole to topical antifungal agents in the treatment of severe filamentous fungal ulcers. All patients in this study were enrolled in India and Nepal; therefore, it is possible that organisms in this region may exhibit characteristics different from those in other regions of the world. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00996736.

  13. Infant Sleep Location and Breastfeeding Practices in the United States, 2011-2014.

    PubMed

    Smith, Lauren A; Geller, Nicole L; Kellams, Ann L; Colson, Eve R; Rybin, Denis V; Heeren, Timothy; Corwin, Michael J

    2016-08-01

    To describe the prevalence of breastfeeding and sleep location practices among US mothers and the factors associated with these behaviors, including advice received regarding these practices. A nationally representative sample of 3218 mothers who spoke English or Spanish were enrolled at a sample of 32 US birth hospitals between January 2011 and March 2014. Exclusive breastfeeding was reported by 30.5% of mothers, while an additional 29.5% reported partial breastfeeding. The majority of mothers, 65.5%, reported usually room sharing without bed sharing, while 20.7% reported bed sharing. Compared to mothers who room shared without bed sharing, mothers who bed shared were more likely to report exclusive breastfeeding (adjusted odds ratio 2.46, 95% confidence interval 1.76, 3.45) or partial breastfeeding (adjusted odds ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval 1.33, 2.31). The majority of mothers reported usually room sharing without bed sharing regardless of feeding practices, including 58.2% of exclusively breastfeeding mothers and 70.0% of nonbreastfeeding mothers. Receiving advice regarding sleep location or breastfeeding increased adherence to recommendations in a dose response manner (the adjusted odds of room sharing without bed sharing and exclusive breastfeeding increased as the relevant advice score increased); however, receiving advice regarding sleep location did not affect feeding practices. Many mothers have not adopted the recommended infant sleep location or feeding practices. Receiving advice from multiple sources appears to promote adherence in a dose response manner. Many women are able to both breastfeed and room share without bed sharing, and advice to adhere to both of these recommendations did not decrease breastfeeding rates. Copyright © 2016 Academic Pediatric Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Lubiprostone, a locally acting chloride channel activator, in adult patients with chronic constipation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study to evaluate efficacy and safety.

    PubMed

    Johanson, J F; Ueno, R

    2007-06-01

    Lubiprostone, a locally acting type-2 chloride channel activator, induces intestinal fluid secretion. To assess efficacy and safety of oral lubiprostone at multiple doses for the treatment of chronic constipation. A total of 129 patients with chronic constipation were randomized to receive lubiprostone (24, 48 or 72 mcg/day) or placebo for 3 weeks. Spontaneous bowel movement (SBM) frequency, rescue medication use, symptom assessments and adverse events (AEs) were tracked. Over the double-blinded period, mean SBM frequencies were higher for lubiprostone groups (5.1-6.1) vs. placebo (3.8) and the overall difference was statistically significant (P = 0.046). SBM frequencies at week 1 were significantly higher in patients taking lubiprostone 48 or 72 mcg/day (P < or = 0.003) and, at week 2, all three lubiprostone doses yielded significantly higher SBM rates vs. placebo (P < or = 0.020). Significantly larger proportions of patients taking lubiprostone 48 and 72 mcg/day also experienced a SBM on the first treatment day (P < or = 0.009). The most common AEs were nausea, headache and diarrhoea. Lubiprostone improved SBM rates in a dose-dependent manner. AEs were tolerable for most patients. Increased AE severity at 72 mcg/day did not provide a clear risk-to-benefit advantage compared with lubiprostone 48 mcg/day, the dose chosen for subsequent Phase 3 studies.

  15. Opicapone: a short lived and very long acting novel catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitor following multiple dose administration in healthy subjects

    PubMed Central

    Rocha, José Francisco; Almeida, Luis; Falcão, Amílcar; Palma, P Nuno; Loureiro, Ana I; Pinto, Roberto; Bonifácio, Maria João; Wright, Lyndon C; Nunes, Teresa; Soares-da-Silva, Patrício

    2013-01-01

    Aims The aim of this study was to assess the tolerability, pharmacokinetics and inhibitory effect on erythrocyte soluble catechol-O-methyltransferase (S-COMT) activity following repeated doses of opicapone. Methods This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study enrolled healthy male subjects who received either once daily placebo or opicapone 5, 10, 20 or 30 mg for 8 days. Results Opicapone was well tolerated. Its systemic exposure increased in an approximately dose-proportional manner with an apparent terminal half-life of 1.0 to 1.4 h. Sulphation was the main metabolic pathway. Opicapone metabolites recovered in urine accounted for less than 3% of the amount of opicapone administered suggesting that bile is likely the main route of excretion. Maximum S-COMT inhibition (Emax) ranged from 69.9% to 98.0% following the last dose of opicapone. The opicapone-induced S-COMT inhibition showed a half-life in excess of 100 h, which was dose-independent and much longer than plasma drug exposure. Such a half-life translates into a putative underlying rate constant that is comparable with the estimated dissociation rate constant of the COMT–opicapone complex. Conclusion Despite its short elimination half-life, opicapone markedly and sustainably inhibited erythrocyte S-COMT activity making it suitable for a once daily regimen. PMID:23336248

  16. Ampicillin levels in sputum, serum, and saliva

    PubMed Central

    Stewart, Sheila M.; Fisher, Mary; Young, Joy E.; Lutz, W.

    1970-01-01

    The ampicillin levels in sputum, serum, and saliva from 40 patients receiving a dose of 250 mg., 26 patients receiving a dose of 500 mg., and 11 patients receiving a dose of 1 g. were estimated. The ampicillin was given orally four times daily. The 1-2 hour and 2-3 hour sputum levels were similar in individual patients. There was no difference in the range or mean sputum or saliva levels between specimens from patients receiving 250 mg. and 500 mg., but the levels were significantly higher after the 1 g. dose. The mean serum level showed a small increase after 500 mg. ampicillin as compared with the 250 mg. dose and a big increase after the 1 g. dose: only the latter difference was significant. The sputum levels were approximately 30 to 40 times lower than the corresponding serum levels. There was considerable scatter in the sputum level for any level of ampicillin in the serum: in only two of the 1-2 hour sputum specimens was there no detectable ampicillin. There was no correlation between the sputum levels and either the body weight or the dose in milligrams per kilogram. There was no evidence that corticosteroids or diuretics affected the sputum level. It was not possible to demonstrate any relationship between the purulence of the sputum and the level of ampicillin after doses of 250 mg. or 500 mg., but higher levels were found in the more purulent specimens after 1 g. doses. PMID:4318047

  17. Creatinine Versus Cystatin C: Differing Estimates of Renal Function in Hospitalized Veterans Receiving Anticoagulants.

    PubMed

    Wang, Christina Hao; Rubinsky, Anna D; Minichiello, Tracy; Shlipak, Michael G; Price, Erika Leemann

    2018-05-31

    Current practice in anticoagulation dosing relies on kidney function estimated by serum creatinine using the Cockcroft-Gault equation. However, creatinine can be unreliable in patients with low or high muscle mass. Cystatin C provides an alternative estimation of glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) that is independent of muscle. We compared cystatin C-based eGFR (eGFR cys ) with multiple creatinine-based estimates of kidney function in hospitalized patients receiving anticoagulants, to assess for discordant results that could impact medication dosing. Retrospective chart review of hospitalized patients over 1 year who received non-vitamin K antagonist anticoagulation, and who had same-day measurements of cystatin C and creatinine. Seventy-five inpatient veterans (median age 68) at the San Francisco VA Medical Center (SFVAMC). We compared the median difference between eGFR by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) study equation using cystatin C (eGFR cys ) and eGFRs using three creatinine-based equations: CKD-EPI (eGFR EPI ), Modified Diet in Renal Disease (eGFR MDRD ), and Cockcroft-Gault (eGFR CG ). We categorized patients into standard KDIGO kidney stages and into drug-dosing categories based on each creatinine equation and calculated proportions of patients reclassified across these categories based on cystatin C. Cystatin C predicted overall lower eGFR compared to creatinine-based equations, with a median difference of - 7.1 (IQR - 17.2, 2.6) mL/min/1.73 m 2 versus eGFR EPI , - 21.2 (IQR - 43.7, - 8.1) mL/min/1.73 m 2 versus eGFR MDRD , and - 25.9 (IQR - 46.8, - 8.7) mL/min/1.73 m 2 versus eGFR CG . Thirty-one to 52% of patients were reclassified into lower drug-dosing categories using cystatin C compared to creatinine-based estimates. We found substantial discordance in eGFR comparing cystatin C with creatinine in this group of anticoagulated inpatients. Our sample size was limited and included few women. Further investigation is needed to confirm these findings and evaluate implications for bleeding and other clinical outcomes. Not applicable.

  18. Effects of imatinib mesylate on the pharmacokinetics of paracetamol (acetaminophen) in Korean patients with chronic myelogenous leukaemia

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Dong-Wook; Tan, Eugene Y; Jin, Yu; Park, Sahee; Hayes, Michael; Demirhan, Eren; Schran, Horst; Wang, Yanfeng

    2011-01-01

    AIMS The major objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of imatinib on the pharmacokinetics of paracetamol in patients with chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML). METHODS Patients (n= 12) received a single oral dose of acetaminophen 1000 mg on day 1 (control). On days 2–8, imatinib 400 mg was administered daily. On day 8 (treatment), another 1000 mg dose of paracetamol was administered 1 h after the morning dose of imatinib 400 mg. Blood and urine samples were collected for bioanalytical analyses. RESULTS The area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) for paracetamol, paracetamol glucuronide and paracetamol sulphate under control conditions was similar to that after treatment with imatinib; the 90% confidence interval of the log AUC ratio was within 0.8 to 1.25. Urinary excretion of paracetamol, paracetamol glucuronide and paracetamol sulphate was also unaffected by imatinib. The pharmacokinetics of paracetamol and imatinib in Korean patients with CML were similar to previous pharmacokinetic results in white patients with CML. Co-administration of a single dose of paracetamol and multiple doses of imatinib was well tolerated and safety profiles were similar to those of either drug alone. CONCLUSIONS The pharmacokinetics of paracetamol and its major metabolites in the presence of imatinib were similar to those of the control conditions and the combination was well tolerated. These findings suggest that imatinib can be safely administered with paracetamol without dose adjustment of either drug. PMID:21219400

  19. Effect of low-dose atropine administration on dobutamine dose requirement in horses anesthetized with detomidine and halothane.

    PubMed

    Weil, A B; Keegan, R D; Greene, S A

    1997-12-01

    To determine whether a low dose of atropine is associated with decreased requirement for cardiovascular supportive treatment in horses given detomidine prior to maintenance of general anesthesia with halothane. 3 groups of 10 healthy horses. Detomidine (20 micrograms/kg of body weight, i.m.) was administered to all 30 horses. Then, 10 horses received atropine (0.006 mg/kg, i.v.) 1 hour after detomidine administration, 10 horses received atropine (0.012 mg/kg, i.m.) at the time of detomidine administration, and 10 horses served as a control group. Heart rate was measured prior to detomidine administration and at fixed intervals throughout anesthesia. The dobutamine infusion rate necessary to maintain mean arterial blood pressure between 70 and 80 mm of Hg was recorded. Systemic blood pressures, end-tidal halothane, end-tidal CO2, and arterial blood gas tensions were measured at fixed intervals. Mean heart rate was higher among horses receiving atropine i.v. or i.m., compared with that in control horses. Horses that received atropine i.v. had higher systemic arterial blood pressure and required a lower dobutamine infusion rate than did horses of the other groups. Detomidine-treated, halothane-anesthetized horses given atropine i.v. required less dobutamine, compared with horses receiving or not receiving atropine i.m. Complications, such as colic and dysrhythmias, from use of higher doses of atropine, were not observed at this lower dose of atropine. i.v. administration of a low dose of atropine prior to induction of general anesthesia may result in improved blood pressure in horses that have received detomidine before anesthesia with halothane.

  20. Mobilization of peripheral blood progenitor cells by chemotherapy and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor for hematologic support after high-dose intensification for breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Elias, A D; Ayash, L; Anderson, K C; Hunt, M; Wheeler, C; Schwartz, G; Tepler, I; Mazanet, R; Lynch, C; Pap, S

    1992-06-01

    High-dose therapy with autologous marrow support results in durable complete remissions in selected patients with relapsed lymphoma and leukemia who cannot be cured with conventional dose therapy. However, substantial morbidity and mortality result from the 3- to 6-week period of marrow aplasia until the reinfused marrow recovers adequate hematopoietic function. Hematopoietic growth factors, particularly used after chemotherapy, can increase the number of peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs) present in systemic circulation. The reinfusion of PBPCs with marrow has recently been reported to reduce the time to recovery of adequate marrow function. This study was designed to determine whether granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-mobilized PBPCs alone (without marrow) would result in rapid and reliable hematopoietic reconstitution. Sixteen patients with metastatic breast cancer were treated with four cycles of doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, and methotrexate (AFM induction). Patients responding after the first two cycles were administered GM-CSF after the third and fourth cycles to recruit PBPCs for collection by two leukapheresis per cycle. These PBPCs were reinfused as the sole source of hematopoietic support after high doses of cyclophosphamide, thiotepa, and carboplatin. No marrow or hematopoietic cytokines were used after progenitor cell reinfusion. Granulocytes greater than or equal to 500/microL was observed on a median of day 14 (range, 8 to 57). Transfusion independence of platelets greater than or equal to 20,000/microL occurred on a median day of 12 (range, 8 to 134). However, three patients required the use of a reserve marrow for slow platelet engraftment. In retrospect, these patients were characterized by poor baseline bone marrow cellularity and poor platelet recovery after AFM induction therapy. When compared with 29 historical control patients who had received the same high-dose intensification chemotherapy using autologous marrow support, time to engraftment, antibiotic days, transfusion requirements, and lengths of hospital stay were all significantly improved for the patients receiving PBPCs. Thus, autologous PBPCs can be efficiently collected during mobilization by chemotherapy and GM-CSF and are an attractive alternative to marrow for hematopoietic support after high-dose therapy. The enhanced speed of recovery may reduce the morbidity, mortality, and cost of high-dose treatment. Furthermore, PBPC support may enhance the effectiveness of high-dose therapy by facilitating multiple courses of therapy.

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