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Background: This study aimed to retrospectively assess the safety and usefulness of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with cisplatin in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and Child-Pugh (C-P) score ≥ 8, who were refractory to or ineligible for transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Methods: In this study, 28 cisplatin-naïve patients with HCC, C-P score ≥ 8, and no evidence of extrahepatic lesions were treated using HAIC with cisplatin between July 2004 and July 2 013. Results: Of 28 patients, 10 were refractory to TACE and 18 ineligible for TACE. In terms of C-P score, 17 patients had a score of 8, 6 a score of 9, and 5 a score of 10. The injected dose of cisplatin was reduced in 64.3% of cases. The overall response rate was 10.7%, with a disease control rate of 35.7%. Overall, median survival time (MST) and progression-free survival were 186 and 80 days, respectively. In patients with macroscopic vascular invasion (MVI-positive; n = 9), these values decreased to 161 and 72 days, respectively; while they increased to 341 and 87 days, respectively, in MVI-negative patients (n = 19). Patients achieving partial response (PR) and stable disease (SD) status as well as those achieving SD status showed significantly better survival than patients with progressive disease (PD status): PR+ SD vs. PD: MST = 447 vs. 123 days, P < 0.001; SD vs. PD: MST = 447 vs. 123 days, P = 0.001). No serious adverse event or treatment-related death occurred. Conclusions: HAIC with cisplatin can be safely administered in patients with HCC and C-P score ≥ 8, who are TACE-refractory or -ineligible. An extended survival time is expected when the treatment outcome is either SD or more favorable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is the second most common malignancy arising from the liver. ICC makes up about 10% of all cholangiocarcinomas. It arises from the peripheral bile ducts within the liver parenchyma, proximal to the secondary biliary radicals. Histologically, the majority of ICCs are adenocarcinomas. Only a minority of patients (15%) present with resectable disease, with a median survival of less than 3 years. Multidisciplinary management of ICC is complicated by large differences in disease course for individual patients both across and within tumor stages. Risk models and nomograms have been developed to more accurately predict survival of individual patients based on clinical parameters. Predictive risk factors are necessary to improve patient selection for systemic treatments. Molecular differences between tumors, such as in the epidermal growth factor receptor status, are promising, but their clinical applicability should be validated. For patients with locally advanced disease, several treatment strategies are being evaluated. Both hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy with floxuridine and yttrium-90 embolization aim to downstage locally advanced ICC. Selected patients have resectable disease after downstaging, and other patients might benefit because of postponing widespread dissemination and biliary obstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The feasibility and efficacy of adjuvant hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) in preventing the development of liver metastases in patients with advanced colon carcinoma have not been validated. The aim of this randomized controlled study was to compare the feasibility of HAI and the protective effect against liver metastasis after curative resection to those of systemic chemotherapy.Methods: Between July 2000 and June 2003, 91 patients were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) via continuous venous infusion (CVI) or intra-hepatic arterial weekly high-dose 5-FU (WHF). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS).Results: In the WHF group, the cumulative failure rate of hepatic arterial catheterization was 16.7% at 6 months. The occurrence of grade 3 adverse events was comparable between the groups. The 5-year OS rates were 59.0% in the CVI group and 34.9% in the WHF group (P = 0.164). CVI tended to show a protective effect against liver metastasis regarding the 5-year liver-specific cumulative recurrence rate: CVI, 45.0% vs. WHF, 68.3%; P = 0.037).Conclusion: HAI therapy has a certain protective effect against liver metastasis after curative resection in patients with colorectal cancer. However, this therapy did not contribute to any marked improvement in their overall survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cerebral vasospasm is still considered the most devastating complication for the patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of intra-arterial nimodipine administration in cerebral vasospasm diminutions and outcome of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Intra-arterial administration of radiographic contrast media (CM) is discussed to impair renal perfusion. The pathogenesis of contrast-induced Nephropathy (CIN) is still not clarified. OBJECTIVE: This trial was performed to prove the effects of two CM with different molecular structure on renal perfusion. METHODS: A prospective, randomized study on 16 pigs was designed to compare the outcome after application of a low-osmolar iodinated CM (770mOsm/kg H2O-Group 1) and an iso-osmolar iodinated CM (290mOsm/kg H2o-Group2). Color Coded Doppler Sonography (LOGIQ E9, GE, Milwaukee, USA) was applied for measuring the Renal Resistive Index (RRI) before and after the first, fifth, and tenth bolus of CM. Statistics was performed using analysis of variance for repeated measurements with the Factor "CM". RESULTS: All flow spectra were documented free of artifacts and Peak Systolic Velocity (PSV), Enddiastolic Velocity (EDV) and RRI respectively could be calculated. Mean PSV in Group 1 led to a decrease while in Group 2 PSV showed a significant increase after CM (p = 0,042). The course of the mean EDV in both groups deferred accordingly (p = 0,033). Mean RRI over time significantly deferred in both groups (p = 0,001). It showed a biphasic course in Group 2 and a decrease over time in Group 2. CONCLUSION: While iso-osmolar CM induced an increase of PSV and EDV together with a decrease of RRI, low-osmolar CM could not show this effect or rather led to the opposite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vasospasm still is a major cause of morbidity after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The purpose of this report is to describe the successful management of severe refractory vasospasm with continuous intra-arterial nimodipine (IAN) treatment. Case description: A 72-year old right handed woman was admitted with non-traumatic SAH WFNS grade 1. Cerebral computed tomography demonstrated thick blood filling of the basal cisterns, and intraventricular hemorrhage. Cerebral angiogram failed to detect a vascular abnormality. After an uneventful initial course the patient developed symptomatic left middle cerebral artery vasospasm with aphasia and corresponding restriction in diffusion weighted images in the left frontal lobe. Bolus IAN only transiently improved cerebral circulation and clinical signs and symptoms. Continuous-IAN was started and led to full clinical recovery and normalisation of MRI diffusion restrictions. Discussion and conclusions: Continuous selective intra-arterial infusion of nimodipine may be an option in selected patients with symptomatic vasospasm refractory to conventional treatment after careful consideration of benefits and procedure-related risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which is based on the activation of photosensitizers with light, can be used to reduce plaque burden. We hypothesized that intra-arterial photosensitizer administration and photo-activation will lead to high and rapid accumulation within the plaque with reduced systemic adverse effects. Thus, this "intra-arterial" PDT would be expected to have less side effects and due to the short time involved would be compatible with percutaneous coronary interventions. Aim: We characterized the dose-dependent uptake and efficacy of intra-arterial PDT using Liposomal Verteporfin (Visudyne®), efficient for cancer-PDT but not tested before for PDT of atherosclerosis. Methods and Results: Visudyne® (100, 200, and 500 ng/ml) was perfused for 5-30 min in atherosclerotic aorta isolated from ApoE-/- mice. The fluorescence Intensity (FI) after 15 min of Visudyne® perfusion increased with doses of 100 (FI-5.5 ± 1.8), 200 (FI-31.9 ± 1.9) or 500 ng/ml (FI-42.9 ± 1.2). Visudyne® (500 ng/ml) uptake also increased with the administration time from 5 min (FI-9.8 ± 2.5) to 10 min (FI-23.3 ± 3.0) and 15 min (FI-42.9 ± 3.4) before reaching saturation at 30 min (FI-39.3 ± 2.4) contact. Intra-arterial PDT (Fluence: 100 and 200 J/cm2, irradiance-334mW/cm2) was applied immediately after Visudyne® perfusion (500 ng/ml for 15 min) using a cylindrical light diffuser coupled to a diode laser (690 nm). PDT led to an increase of ROS (Dihydroethidium; FI-6.9 ± 1.8, 25.3 ± 5.5, 43.4 ± 13.9) and apoptotic cells (TUNEL; 2.5 ± 1.6, 41.3 ± 15.3, 58.9 ± 6%), mainly plaque macrophages (immunostaining; 0.3 ± 0.2, 37.6 ± 6.4, 45.3 ± 5.4%) respectively without laser irradiation, or at 100 and 200 J/cm2. Limited apoptosis was observed in the medial wall (0.5 ± 0.2, 8.5 ± 4.7, 15.3 ± 12.7%). Finally, Visudyne®-PDT was found to be associated with reduced vessel functionality (Myogram). Conclusion: We demonstrated that sufficient accumulation of Visudyne® within plaque could be achieved in short-time and therefore validated the feasibility of local intravascular administration of photosensitizer. Intra-arterial Visudyne®-PDT preferentially affected plaque macrophages and may therefore alter the dynamic progression of plaque development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with hepatic vein tumor thrombosis (HVTT) extending to the inferior vena cava (IVC) have an extremely poor prognosis. Here we report a case of HCC with HVTT and renal dysfunction after hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) successfully treated by liver resection and active veno-venous bypass.Case Presentation: A 77-year-old man was diagnosed to have a large HCC with intrahepatic metastases and HVTT extending to the IVC. Due to the advanced stage, HAIC with cisplatin was performed 13 times in a period of 17 months. As a consequence of this treatment, the size of the main HCC markedly decreased, and the advanced part of the HVTT went down to the root of the right hepatic vein (RHV). However, because of renal dysfunction, HAIC with cisplatin was discontinued and right hepatectomy with patch graft venoplasty of the root of the RHV was performed. Because progression of renal dysfunction had to be avoided, veno-venous bypass was activated during IVC clamping to prevent renal venous congestion and hypotension. Histological examination showed foci of a moderately differentiated HCC with extensive fibrosis and necrosis in the main HCC. Histologically, the HVTT in the RHV showed massive necrosis and tightly adhered to the vascular wall of the RHV. The postoperative function of the remnant liver was good, and no further deterioration of renal function was detected. The patient did not show signs of recurrence 15 month after surgery.Conclusion: In the present case, HAIC using cisplatin in combination with hepatic resection and patch graft venoplasty of the IVC provided a good long-term outcome with no HCC recurrence. Renal function was preserved by using active veno-venous bypass during IVC clamping to prevent renal venous congestion and hypotension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Patients with acute ischemic stroke due to intracranial large vessel occlusion benefit from intra-arterial therapy. Uncertainty exists about the effect of intra-arterial therapy in patients with contraindications for treatment with intravenous alteplase treatment. Our aim was to describe the clinical characteristics of this subgroup of patients and whether intra-arterial therapy is as safe and effective as it is after intravenous alteplase treatment. Methods: All 500 MR CLEAN patients were included and we distinguished between patients who were and were not treated with intravenous alteplase treatment. We estimated the effect of intra-arterial therapy on the shift on the modified Rankin Scale score with ordinal logistic regression analysis and tested for interaction of intravenous alteplase treatment with intra-arterial therapy on outcome. Furthermore, safety parameters and serious adverse events were analyzed. Results: Fifty-five patients (11%) were not treated with intravenous alteplase treatment, mostly because of prolonged coagulation time tests or recent surgery. These patients were older and more often had atrial fibrillation or other vascular comorbidity. There was no interaction between intravenous alteplase treatment and intervention effect (p=0.927). Intra-arterial therapy effect size in patients without intravenous alteplase treatment was 2.06 [95% CI: 0.69–6.13] and in patients with intravenous alteplase treatment 1.71 [95% CI: 1.22–2.40]. There were no safety issues. Conclusions: For patients with acute ischemic anterior circulation stroke caused by intracranial large vessel occlusion, who have contraindications for intravenous alteplase, intra-arterial treatment is not less effective or less safe than in patients who receive the treatment after intravenous alteplase. Clinical trial registration: Clinical trial registration-URL: http://www.trialregister.nl. Unique identifier: (NTR)1804. Clinical trial registration-URL: http://www.controlled-trials.com. Unique identifier: ISRCTN10888758. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prognosis of unresectable locally advanced gastric cancer is poor. We applied preoperative chemotherapy via intra-arterial and intravenous administration to convert an initially unresectable gastric cancer to a resectable cancer.Methods: From January 2005 to December 2010, 105 patients with unresectable locally advanced gastric cancer (T3-4N1-3M0) were selected for preoperative chemotherapy with 5-FU + leucovorin + etoposide + oxaliplatin + epirubicin (FLEEOX) regimen. 5-Fu (370 mg/m(2)) and leucovorin (200 mg/m(2)) were administered by intravenous infusion on days 1-5. Intra-arterial administration of etoposide (80 mg/m(2)), oxaliplatin (80 mg/m(2)), and epirubicin (30 mg/m(2)) was performed by Seldinger method on days 6 and 20, repeated two cycles. Patients who achieved partial response (PR) or complete response (CR) underwent D2 dissection, followed by four to six cycles of XELOX chemotherapy. The response rate, 1- and 3-year survival rate, and R0 resection rate were evaluated.Results: The response rate of preoperative chemotherapy was 78.1 % (82 of 105 patients), with 7 cases of CR and 75 cases of PR, respectively. After chemotherapy, a total of 78 patients (74.3 %) underwent surgery, and 67 cases achieved R0 resection (85.9 %). The 1- and 3-year overall survival (OS) rate of all 105 patients was 71.9 and 31.7 % (median survival time, 18 months). The 1- and 3-year OS rate among the 78 patients treated with chemotherapy plus surgery was 84.5 and 40 % (median survival time, 30 months). Patients treated with chemotherapy plus surgery had significantly longer OS times than patients who underwent chemotherapy alone (P < 0.01).Conclusions: Patients with unresectable gastric cancer may obtain a survival benefit from preoperative chemotherapy via intra-arterial and intravenous administration and subsequent surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the effectiveness of subarachnoid continuous drug infusion has been established in cancer pain management, its clinical use in children is rare. A 14-year-old girl with neurofibromatosis type I complained of right leg pain stemming from a growing tumor on her right buttock. Continuous and breakthrough right leg pain were unbearable, even at high doses of systemic opioids that caused severe constipation and deep sedation. Subsequent continuous infusion of bupivacaine and morphine through a subarachnoid catheter effectively relieved the girl's pain. The corresponding decrease in systemic opioid also improved her activities of daily living. The patient eventually died of cachexia due to the rapidly growing buttock lesion that was pathologically confirmed post-mortem as a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. Subarachnoid continuous drug infusion may be very useful in controlling severe pain with few side-effects, even in the field of pediatric palliative care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For patients with liver metastases from gastric cancer (LMGC), combination chemotherapy with fluoropyrimidines and platinum agents has been recognized as standard treatment. However, the prognosis of hepatic progression after first-line treatment failure remains poor. When hepatic progression occurs, hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) chemotherapy may be helpful for preventing disease progression.Purpose: To retrospectively assess the feasibility and efficacy of HAI chemotherapy using 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin, and mitomycin C (FEM) for patients with LMGC after failure of systemic S-1 plus cisplatin.Material and Methods: We reviewed the records of patients who received HAI chemotherapy using FEM for LMGC that progressed during systemic S-1 plus cisplatin treatment while extrahepatic disease was decreased or did not appear. HAI chemotherapy was given as second-line therapy using 5-fluorouracil (330 mg/m(2) weekly), epirubicin (30 or 40 mg/m(2) every 4 weeks), and mitomycin C (2.7 mg/m(2) biweekly).Results: Fourteen patients were analyzed. Toxicity of HAI chemotherapy was generally mild. The objective response rate was 42.9%, including a complete response rate of 14.3%. Median times to hepatic and extrahepatic progression were 9.2 and 7.4 months, respectively. Of 12 patients with documented progression after HAI chemotherapy, 10 patients (83.3%) received additional treatment, including irinotecan or taxanes. Overall, median survival was 12.7 months.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that HAI chemotherapy using FEM is a feasible and effective treatment for patients with LMGC after failure of systemic S-1 plus cisplatin. HAI chemotherapy employed in the second-line setting is useful for achieving long-term disease control of LMGC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of short-term hormone replacement therapy with tibolone 2.5 mg daily on endothelial function of healthy postmenopausal women, using flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery. MethodsWe performed a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. A total of 100 healthy postmenopausal women were randomly allocated to receive tibolone (n = 50) or placebo (n = 50) for 28 days. Measurement of the FMD of the brachial artery was performed before and after the use of tibolone and placebo. ResultsA total of 31 women completed the study in the tibolone group, and 32 women completed the study in the control group. The results of the FMD measurements obtained from the women in the two groups before treatment were similar (0.018 and 0.091, for tibolone and placebo,p = 0.57). The values of the FMD in women who used tibolone and placebo, before and after the treatment, were similar in both groups. The numbers of women who presented an increase in the values of the FMD in both groups were also similar. ConclusionOur results demonstrate that the administration of 2.5 mg tibolone to healthy postmenopausal women for 28 days does not promote endothelial-dependent vasodilation, measured by FMD of the brachial artery. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A promising strategy for liver cancer treatment is to deliver chemotherapeutic agents with multifunctional carriers into the tumor tissue via intra-arterial (IA) transcatheter infusion. These carriers should release drugs within the target tissue for prolonged periods and permit intra-procedural multi-modal imaging of selective tumor delivery. This targeted transcatheter delivery approach is enabled via the arterial blood supply to liver tumors and utilized in current clinical practice which is called chemoembolization or radioembolization. During our study, we developed Doxorubicin (Dox) loaded porous magnetic nano-clusters (Dox-pMNCs). The porous structure and carboxylic groups on the MNCs achieved high-drug loading efficiency and sustained drug release, along with magnetic properties resulting in high MRI T2-weighted image contrast. Dox-pMNC within iodinated oil, Dox-pMNCs, and Dox within iodinated oil were infused via hepatic arteries to target liver tumors in a rabbit model. MRI and histological evaluations revealed that the long-term drug release and retention of Dox-pMNCs within iodinated oil induced significantly enhanced liver cancer cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Secondary vasospasm and disturbances in cerebrovascular autoregulation are associated with the development of delayed cerebral ischemia after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. An intra-arterial application of nimodipine has been shown to increase the vessel diameter, although this effect is transient. The feasibility of long-term, continuous, intra-arterial nimodipine treatment and its effects on macrovasospasm, autoregulation parameters, and outcome were evaluated in patients with refractory severe macrovasospasm. Methods Ten patients were included with refractory macrovasospasm despite bolus nimodipine application ( n = 4) or with primary severe vasospasm ( n = 6). The patients were assessed with continuous multimodal neuromonitoring (mean arterial pressure, intraceranial pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, brain tissue oxygen tension probe), daily transcranial Doppler examinations, and computed tomography angiography/perfusion. Autoregulation indices, the pressure reactivity index, and oxygen reactivity index were calculated. Indwelling microcatheters were placed in the extracranial internal carotid arteries and 0.4 mg nimodipine was continuously infused at 50 mL/hour. Results The duration of continuous, intra-arterial nimodipine ranged from 9 to 15 days. During treatment intracranial pressure remained stable, transcranial Doppler flow velocity decreased, and brain tissue oxygen tension improved by 37%. Macrovasospasm, as assessed via computed tomography angiography, had improved ( n = 5) or disappeared ( n = 5) at the end of treatment. Cerebrovascular autoregulation according to the pressure reactivity index and oxygen reactivity index significantly worsened during treatment. All patients showed a favorable outcome (median Glasgow Outcome Scale 5) at 3 months. Conclusions In well-selected patients with prolonged severe macrovasospasm, continuous intra-arterial nimodipine treatment can be applied as a rescue therapy with relative safety for more than 2 weeks to prevent secondary cerebral ischemia. The induced impairment of cerebrovascular autoregulation during treatment seems to have no negative effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is still a major health problem in the world. Ischemic stroke accounts for 87% of all acute stroke occurrences. In 2013, the American Heart Association (AHA)/American Stroke Association (ASA), published a Guideline for the Early Management of Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke. The managements consist of the use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA), endovascular treatment, etc. Unlike acute ischemic stroke, until now, no guidelines have been provided about the management of chronic ischemic stroke that approved universally. The result of the study with the title of "Intra Arterial Heparin Flushing Increases Manual Muscle Test - Medical Research Councils (MMT-MRC) Score in Chronic Ischemic Stroke Patient" is very interesting, because it is a new attempt to treat patients with chronic ischemic stroke. The purpose of this article is to review the study mentioned above, in accordance with the applied scientific principles and is based on the standard literatures and guidelines. Our review is limited only to the discussion of the study results. From this discussion can be proved the existing references that support and/or refuse the study results. Based on the discussions and conclusions of this study, there were no references to support that IAHF can improve motor functions (muscles) in patients with chronic ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mesenchymal stem cell therapy in renal failure is rarely used because of low rates of cell engraftment after systemic delivery. Repeated intra-arterial cell administration may improve results; however, no current delivery method permits repeated intra-arterial infusions in a rat model. In this study, we developed an intra-arterial delivery system for repeated stem cell infusion via the aorta, catheterizing the left femoral artery to the suprarenal aorta under fluoroscopic guidance in rats with adenosine-induced renal failure. Methods: First, we compared our intra-arterial catheter system (C group, n = 3) with tail vein injection (V group, n = 3) for engraftment efficacy, using mesenchymal stem cells from luciferase transgenic rats. Rats were infused with the cells and euthanized the following day; we performed cell-tracking experiments using a bioluminescence imaging system to assess the distribution of the infused cells. Second, we assessed the safety of the system over a 30-day period in a second group of six rats receiving infusions every 7 days. Results: Cells infused through our delivery system efficiently engrafted into the kidney, compared with peripheral venous infusion. In five of the six rats in the safety study, the delivery system remained patent for at least 9 days (range, 9-24 days). Complications became evident only after 10 days. Conclusion: Our intra-arterial catheter system was effective in delivering cells to the kidney and permitted repeated injection of cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is associated with poor survival. This study compared the outcomes of patients with unresectable ICC treated with hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) plus systemic chemotherapy (SYS) with the outcomes of patients treated with SYS alone.Methods: Consecutive patients with ICC were retrospectively reviewed. Clinicopathologic data were reviewed. Survival rates were compared by Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank testing.Results: Between January 2000 and August 2012, 525 patients with ICC were evaluated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and 236 patients with unresectable tumors (locally advanced or metastatic) were analyzed. Disease was confined to the liver in 104 patients, who underwent treatment with combined HAI and SYS (n = 78 or 75%) or SYS alone (n = 26 or 25%). The response rate in the combined group was better than the rate in the group receiving SYS alone, although this did not reach statistical significance (59% vs 39%, P = .11). Overall survival for the combined group was longer than overall survival for the patients who received SYS alone (30.8 vs 18.4 months, P < .001), and this difference was maintained when patients with portal lymph node disease were included in the survival analysis (29.6 months with HAI and SYS [n = 93] vs 15.9 months with SYS [n = 74], P < .001). Eight patients who initially presented with unresectable tumors responded enough to undergo complete resection and had a median overall survival of 37 months (range, 10.4-92.3 months).Conclusions: In patients with unresectable ICC confined to the liver or with limited regional nodal disease, a combination of SYS and HAI chemotherapy is associated with greater survival than SYS alone. Cancer 2016;122:758-765. © 2015 American Cancer Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Proton beam therapy (PBT), compared with conventional radiotherapy, can deliver high-dose radiation to a tumor, while minimizing doses delivered to surrounding normal tissues. The better dose distribution of PBT may contribute to the improvement in local control rate and reduction in late adverse events. We evaluated therapeutic results and toxicities of PBT combined with selective intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy (PBT-IACT) in patients with stage III-IVB squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. Materials and methods: After 2 systemic chemotherapy courses and whole-neck irradiation (36 Gy in 20 fractions), we administered concurrent chemoradiotherapy comprising PBT for the primary tumor [28.6-33 Gy(RBE) in 13-15 fractions] and for the metastatic neck lymph node [33-39.6 Gy(RBE) in 15-18 fractions] with weekly retrograde intra-arterial chemotherapy by continuous infusion of cisplatin with sodium thiosulfate. Results: Between February 2009 and September 2012, 33 patients were enrolled. The median follow-up duration was 43 months. The 3-year overall survival, progression-free survival, local control rate, and regional control rate for the neck were 87.0, 74.1, 86.6, and 83.9 %, respectively. Major acute toxicities >grade 3 included mucositis in 26 cases (79 %), neutropenia in 17 cases (51 %), and dermatitis in 11 cases (33 %). Late grade 2 osteoradionecrosis was observed in 1 case (3 %). Conclusions: PBT-IACT for stage III-IVB tongue cancer has an acceptable toxicity profile and showed good treatment results. This protocol should be considered as a treatment option for locally advanced tongue cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Portal vein tumor thrombosis is a critical complication in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This prospective multicenter trial assessed the efficacy of hepatic arterial infusion chemoembolization therapy with cisplatin suspended in lipiodol combined with 5-fluorouracil for HCC patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis.Methods: We enrolled 52 HCC patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis. They received hepatic arterial infusion chemoembolization therapy with cisplatin suspension in lipiodol and 5-fluorouracil. The primary efficacy endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), while the secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), tumor response rate, safety, and tolerability. Independent factors for survival were also evaluated.Results: The median PFS and OS were 8.6 and 27.0 months, respectively. Ten patients showed complete response, while 29 had partial response (response rate, 75.0 %). The median survival time of 10 patients with complete response and 29 with partial response was 32 months, while that of 15 patients with partial response who later showed disappearance of HCC following additional therapies was 50 months. Multivariate analysis identified response to treatment and disappearance of viable HCC as independent predictors of survival. The treatment was well tolerated, and the only encountered Grade 3 toxicities were thrombocytopenia and hyperbilirubinemia.Conclusions: Hepatic arterial infusion chemoembolization therapy with cisplatin suspension in lipiodol combined with 5-fluorouracil is effective treatment for unresectable HCC with portal vein tumor thrombosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cancer patients with predominantly hepatic metastases have poor outcomes and limited options. Hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) of a therapeutic agent may be an appropriate option for producing increased drug concentrations at the tumor sites while reducing systemic adverse effects in normal tissues.Methods: Patients with predominantly hepatic metastases (n = 48) were placed in 6 groups according to nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab-paclitaxel) dose level using a 3 + 3 design plus dose expansion for responsive tumor types. We evaluated the toxicity, antitumor activity, and pharmacokinetics of nab-paclitaxel delivered via HAI.Results: Thirty-eight and ten patients underwent HAI over 1 and 4 h, respectively, at doses of up to 300 mg/m(2). The treatment was safe and exhibited antitumor activity. Pharmacokinetic analyses revealed that HAI of nab-paclitaxel over 4 h resulted in markedly lower peak drug concentrations (C max) and longer times to peak concentration (T max) than that over 1 h. The self-control pharmacokinetic studies showed that HAI of nab-paclitaxel led to much lower C max and areas under the curve (AUC), compared with intravenous infusion.Conclusions: HAI of nab-paclitaxel at up to 300 mg/m(2) over 4 h was well tolerated. Pharmacokinetic evaluation of C max, T max, and AUC implied that 4-h HAI enhanced hepatic extraction of nab-paclitaxel. Further preclinical and clinical studies are required to develop reliable methods of evaluation of hepatic extraction (clinicaltrials.gov registration number NCT00732836, first registered on August 8, 2008, and last updated on October 27, 2014). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the technical feasibility of transfemoral intra-arterial chemotherapy for head and neck cancer using a 3-French catheter system (3-Fr).Materials and Methods: Sixty-two patients with head and neck cancer who underwent transfemoral intra-arterial chemotherapy were included in this study. Thirty-three patients underwent treatment using a 3-Fr (group 3-Fr). Twenty-nine patients underwent treatment using a 4-French catheter system (group 4-Fr). The technical success rate, duration of the procedure with fluoroscopy, and rate of procedure-related complications were compared between group 3-Fr and group 4-Fr. In addition, in group 3-Fr, bleeding at the puncture site after 1.5 h of bed rest was evaluated.Results: The technical success rate was 100% in both groups. The duration of the procedure with fluoroscopy didn't differ between group 3-Fr (mean 28.0 min) and group 4-Fr (mean 30.2 min) (p = 0.524). There was no procedure-related complication in either group. In group 3-Fr, no hemorrhagic complication was observed.Conclusion: A 3-French catheter system can be used to perform transfemoral intra-arterial chemotherapy for head and neck cancer and is technically feasible with approximately the same duration of the procedure with fluoroscopy. Furthermore, this method may shorten the bed rest time without hemorrhagic complication, and may reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of the para-aortic lymph node metastasis (PALM) in patients with advanced gastric cancer is 6 to 33 %. The prognosis is poor and the 5-year survival rate is only 12 to 23 % after gastrectomy with super-extended lymph node dissection. We applied an individualized comprehensive treatment for affected patients including neoadjuvant chemotherapy via intra-arterial and intravenous administration, surgery and radiotherapy, to investigate the safety and prognostic value.Methods: Between January 2005 and December 2010, 47 advanced gastric cancer patients with PALM received 5-Fu (370 mg/m(2)) and leucovorin (200 mg/m(2)) intravenously on days 1-5, and intra-arterial infusion of etoposide (80 mg/m(2)) and oxaliplatin (80 mg/m(2)) on days 6 and 20, repeated 2 cycles. Patients achieved PR or CR of the para-aortic lymph node (PAL) were performed D2 dissection, followed by 6 cycles chemotherapy with XELOX regimen, oxaliplatin (130 mg/m(2)) on day 1 and xeloda (1000 mg/m(2)) on days 1 to 14 of a 28-day cycle, and radiotherapy to the region of PALM.Results: Forty-six patients completed 2 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The overall response rate of the primary tumor was 80.4 % (37/46). The response rate of PAL was 76.1 % (35/46). Thirty-two patients underwent D2 dissection and six cases achieved pathological complete response (pCR). The toxicity profile was well tolerable and there was no treatment-related death. The median survival time for all patients was 23 months, and for nonsurgical and surgical patients were 12 and 29 months (p < 0.001), respectively. The 1-year, 2-year and 3-year survival rate was 70.96, 43.27 and 35.48 % for all patients, and for surgical patients was 96.875, 68.75, and 40.63 %.Conclusion: Advanced gastric cancer patients with PALM can obtain a survival benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy, subsequent surgery and radiotherapy.Trial Registration: Current Controlled Trials ChiCTR-TRC-12002046 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The anatomical complexity of the horse's head limits the abilities of radiography. Computed tomography (CT) in combination with contrast enhanced CT is used more often for diagnosing various head pathology in horses. The objective of this study was to compare intravenous and intra-arterial contrast-enhancement techniques and describe normal and abnormal contrast enhancement in the horse's head. Results: All 24 horses included in the study recovered without complication from the procedures. Compared to the pre-contrast studies, post-contrast studies showed significant contrast enhancement in the pituitary gland (IA: p < 0.0001; IV: p < 0.0001), IA nose septum (p = 0.002), nose mucosa (IA: p < 0.0001; IV: p = 0.02), parotid salivary gland (IA: p < 0.0001; IV p < 0.0001), cerebrum (IA: p < 0.0001; IV: p < 0.0001), rectus capitis muscle (IA: p < 0.0001; IV p = 0.001), IA temporal muscle (p < 0.0001), IA masseter muscle (p <0.0001) and IV brainstem (p = 0.01). No significant contrast enhancement was seen in the eye (IA: p = 0.23; IV p = 0.33), tongue (IA p = 0.2; IV p = 0.57), IA brainstem (p = 0.88), IV nose septum (p = 0.26), IV temporal muscle (p = 0.09) and IV masseter muscle (p = 0.46). Three different categories of abnormal enhancement were detected: a strong vascularised mass, an enhanced rim surrounding an unenhanced structure and an inflamed anatomical structure with abnormal contrast enhancement. Conclusion: Using the intra-arterial technique, similar contrast enhancement is achieved using less contrast medium compared to the intravenous technique. And a potential major advantage of the IA technique is the ability to evaluate lesions that are characterized by increased blood flow. Using the intravenous technique, a symmetrical and homogenous enhancement is achieved, however timing is more crucial and the contrast dosage is more of influence in the IV protocol. And a potential major advantage of the IV technique is the ability to evaluate lesions that are characterized by increased vascular permeability. Knowing the different normal contrast enhancement patterns will facilitate the recognition of abnormal contrast enhancements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop a population pharmacokinetic model of sufentanil and to assess the influence of covariates in critically ill children admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit. After institutional approval, 41 children were enrolled in the study. Blood samples for pharmacokinetic (PK) assessment were collected from routinely placed arterial catheters during and after discontinuation of infusion. Population nonlinear mixed-effects modeling was performed using NONMEM. A 2-compartment model described sufentanil PK sufficiently. Typical values of the central and peripheral volume of distribution and the metabolic and intercompartmental clearance for a theoretical patient weighing 70 kg were VC = 7.90 l, VT = 481 L, Cl =45.3 L/h, and Q = 38.3 L/h, respectively. High interindividual variability of all PK parameters was noted. Allometric/isometric principles to scale sufentanil PK revealed that to achieve the same steady-state sufentanil concentrations in plasma for pediatric patients of different body weights, the infusion rate should follow the formula (infusion rate for a 70-kg adult patient, µg/h) x (body weight/70 kg)0.75. Severity of illness described by PRISM score, the monitored physiological and laboratory parameters, and coadministered drugs such as vasopressors were not found to be significant covariates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We analyzed the effect of nitroglycerin on radial artery occlusion (RAO) in women undergoing transradial catheterization. Methods: A total of 1706 patients undergoing transradial catheterization were randomized to receive either 500μg intra-arterial nitroglycerin or placebo at the end of the radial procedure. We explored the gender-based analysis between women (n=539) and men (n=1167). The primary outcome was the incidence of RAO as confirmed by absence of antegrade flow at one day after the transradial procedure evaluated by duplex ultrasound of the radial artery. Results: The use of nitroglycerin, as compared with placebo, did not significantly reduce the risk of RAO in women patients [odds ratio, 0.69; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.38 to 1.26; P=0.147]. The risk of RAO was higher in women age <60years as compared with women age ≥60years [5.6% vs. 3.5%; odds ratio, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.18 to 3.94; P=0.008]. In women age <60years (n=237), both counter puncture technique and a duration of hemostasis ≥4h were associated with a similar enhanced risk of developing RAO (odds ratio, 3.51; 95% CI, 1.59 to 7.72; P<0.001). Conclusions: The administration of nitroglycerin at the end of a transradial catheterization in women did not reduce the risk of RAO as determined by ultrasound one day after the radial procedure. Age <60years was associated with a higher risk of RAO compared with age ≥60years in women. Further strategies to reduce RAO in women are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the case of an 80-year-old female who was presented to a center due to sudden onset of three subcutaneous nodules on her right limb. She has a clinical history of melanoma on the right leg that was excised surgically 40 years before. Based on positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), she was positive in all lesions of the limb. She was confirmed to have V600E-mutated melanoma based on BRAF gene mutation test and was treated with dabrafenib.

Carotid artery stenting is a method used in the treatment of extracranial carotid artery stenosis that is becoming increasingly more common. Acute carotid thrombosis following CAS is a very rare and devastating complication that can be lethal for the patient unless treated immediately. We report a case of acute carotid stent thrombosis occurring immediately after emergent revascularization, and that was treated with intraarterial tissue plasminogen activator and intravenous tirofiban infusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective treatment for glioblastoma (GBM) will likely require targeted delivery of several specific pharmacological agents simultaneously. Intra-arterial (IA) delivery is one technique for targeting the tumor site with multiple agents. Although IA chemotherapy for glioblastoma (GBM) has been attempted since the 1950s, the predicted benefits remain unproven in clinical practice. This review focuses on innovative approaches to IA drug delivery in treating GBM. Guided by novel in vitro and in vivo optical measurements, newer pharmacokinetic models promise to better define the complex relationship between background cerebral blood flow and drug injection parameters. Advanced optical technologies and tracers, unique nanoparticles designs, new cellular targets, and rational drug formulations are continuously modifying the therapeutic landscape for GBM. Personalized treatment approaches are emerging; however, such tailored approaches will largely depend on effective drug delivery techniques and on the ability to simultaneously deliver multidrug regimens. These new paradigms for tumor-selective drug delivery herald dramatic improvements in the effectiveness of IA chemotherapy for GBM. Therefore, within this context of so-called “precision medicine,” the role of IA delivery for GBM is thoroughly reassessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate if autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could treat osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) and what the fate and distribution of the cells are in dogs. Twelve Beagle dogs were randomly divided into two groups: MSCs group and SHAM operated group. After three weeks, dogs in MSCs group and SHAM operated group were intra-arterially injected with autologous MSCs and 0.9% normal saline, respectively. Eight weeks after treatment, the necrotic volume of the femoral heads was significantly reduced in MSCs group. Moreover, the trabecular bone volume was increased and the empty lacunae rate was decreased in MSCs group. In addition, the BrdU-positive MSCs were unevenly distributed in femoral heads and various vital organs. But no obvious abnormalities were observed. Furthermore, most of BrdU-positive MSCs in necrotic region expressed osteocalcin in MSCs group and a few expressed peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ). Taken together, these data indicated that intra-arterially infused MSCs could migrate into the necrotic field of femoral heads and differentiate into osteoblasts, thus improving the necrosis of femoral heads. It suggests that intra-arterial infusion of autologous MSCs might be a feasible and relatively safe method for the treatment of femoral head necrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the expression level of miR-142-5p and its potential target gene endothelial PAS domain protein 1(EPAS1) in Stage III colorectal cancer during Transcatheter arterial infusion chemotherapy (TAI).Materials and Methods: Illumina high-throughput sequencing was used to obtain miRNA expression profiles of paired tumor and adjacent normal tissues from one patient received TAI 1 week before the operation and another patient directly underwent an operation. The expression levels of miR-142-5p was measured with both high-throughput sequencing and quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction.Results: The expression levels of miR-142-5p, were significantly reduced in tumor tissues of stage III CRC, then significantly increased in tumor tissues receiving TAI and higher than tumor tissues without TAI. The apoptosis rate of HT-29 colon cancer cells was mildly increased after transfection with pre-miR-142. miR-142-5p could bind directly to the 3'untranslated region of endothelial PAS domain protein 1 and reduce its expression.Conclusions: miR-142-5p is a potential tumor suppressor in CRC and is upregulated in tumor tissues after TAI, suggesting its potential clinical values for testing the functionality of TAI and predicting the progress of CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Survival after liver resection for HCC is compromised by a high rate of intrahepatic recurrence. Adjuvant treatment with a single, postoperative dose of intra-arterial I131 lipiodol has shown promise, as a means of prolonging disease-free survival (DFS). Methodology. DFS and overall survival (OS) after a single dose of postoperative I131 lipiodol were compared to liver resection alone, for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Data were collected retrospectively for patients who had a curative resection for HCC between December 1993 and September 2011. Seventy-two patients were given I131 lipiodol after surgery and 70 patients had surgery alone. Results. The DFS at 1, 3, and 5 years was 72%, 43%, and 26% in the surgery group and 70%, 39%, and 29% in the adjuvant I131 lipiodol group (p=0.75). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS was 83%, 64%, and 52% in the surgery group and 96%, 72%, and 61% in the adjuvant I131 lipiodol group (p=0.16). Conclusion. This retrospective study has found no significant benefit to survival, after adjuvant treatment with I131 lipiodol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Severe angiographic vasospasm (aVSP) is a risk factor for poor functional outcome following subarachnoid hemorrhage. We investigated the impact of angiographic surveillance and intensive endovascular treatment using transluminal balloon angioplasty (TBA) and/or verapamil infusion for severe aVSP through comparison of clinical outcomes in patients of similar presenting grade but with no/mild vasospasm. Methods This was an analysis of prospectively acquired clinical trial data. World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade 1-2 patients presenting within 72 h were included. Angiographic screening for vasospasm was undertaken at days 5-7 or in response to clinical deterioration. Severe aVSP was defined as >50% luminal narrowing on digital subtraction angiography. Treatment was instituted on the basis of radiographic findings and/or clinical deterioration. Discharge destination and favorable clinical outcomes (discharge Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) 4-5, 90 day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0-2, and GOS 4-5) for patients with severe aVSP were compared with those without significant vasospasm. Statistical analysis was undertaken using Fisher's exact test. Results 63 WFNS grade 1-2 patients with minimal vasospasm were compared with 17 WFNS grade 1-2 patients with severe aVSP treated with induced hypertension and endovascular therapy. Results were available in 62 and 16 patients, respectively. Rates of favorable outcome did not differ significantly between the two groups. For patients with treated severe vasospasm, 90 day mRS 0-2 was seen in 15/17 (88.2%) and GOS 4-5 was achieved in 16/17 (94.1%). Conclusions An intensive endovascular approach of TBA and/or intra-arterial verapamil in combination with induced hypertension for severe aVSP may result in comparable clinical outcomes to those without vasospasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective We retrospectively assessed the indications for superselective intra-arterial infusion of cisplatin with concomitant radiotherapy (RADPLAT) in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer (HPC). Methods Between April 2000 and March 2013, 41 previously untreated patients received superselective intra-arterial infusion of cisplatin (100–120 mg/m 2 per week) with simultaneous intravenous infusions of thiosulfate to neutralize cisplatin toxicity and conventional radiotherapy (65–70 Gy). Results During the median follow-up period of 5.5 years, a statistically significant difference in the 5-year overall survival was noted between patients with N0-1 ( n = 14) and N2b-3 disease ( n = 27). One-half of deaths were observed to be the result of distant metastasis. The 5-year local control and overall survival were significantly better in patients with unilateral than in those with bilateral primary tumors. All the patients with T4b disease ( n = 3) died of disease within 2 years. Conclusion Indications for RADPLAT in patients with HPC were defined as patients with unilateral tumors staged as T3-4a and N0-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the wide application of intra-arterial therapy for cerebrovascular disorders, preclinical intra-arterial drug-delivery studies based on middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models have become urgent. In the present study, a novel stroke model was developed for intra-arterial drug delivery: MCAO and drug delivery were accomplished using a microcatheter device. MCAO was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats using the microcatheter device (cMCAO group, n = 10) or a nylon suture (sMCAO group, n = 10). After 24-h occlusion, neurological deficit and infarct volume were compared between the groups. Drug-delivery models used in stroke studies were compared with the present model to verify the drug-delivery ability of the microcatheter device. MCAO was induced using the microcatheter device in 21 Sprague-Dawley rats. At 4 h after occlusion, 2% Evans blue dye was infused using different methods, and 1 h later, the dye was extracted from each hemisphere and spectrophotometrically quantified. All cMCAO group rats showed neurological deficits; none developed subarachnoid hemorrhage or died before sacrifice. Neurological deficits and infarct volumes were similar in the cMCAO and sMCAO groups. Significantly more dye leakage occurred in the ischemic hemispheres of the rats that received the dye via the microcatheter device. Compared to other intra-arterial drug-delivery models used in stroke studies, the present model was easily established, had a high success rate, caused minimal surgical injury, and enabled highly efficient drug delivery. Thus, the present model is an efficient tool for investigating the effect of intra-arterial drug delivery on ischemic cerebral tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of super-selective intracranial artery infusion chemotherapy and to determine correlated prognostic parameters for advanced lung cancer patients with brain metastases.Patients and Methods: Fifty-four lung cancer patients with brain metastasis who had no previous treatment were enrolled for the study. These patients received super-selective intracranial artery infusion chemotherapy, as well as arterial infusion chemotherapy for primary and metastatic lesions. The procedure was performed once every 4 weeks. Patients were monitored to evaluate short-term clinical outcomes 4 weeks after the first 2 treatments, and follow-up visits performed every 4 weeks after the first 4 treatments until the appearance of disease progression or intolerable toxicity.Results: All 54 cases were treated at least 4 times. The overall response rate was 55.56% (30/54), and the disease control rate was 85.19% (46/54). The median overall survival was 7 months, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 5.87-8.13 months, and the median progression-free survival was 4 months, with a 95% CI of 3.20-4.80 months. The 6-month survival rate and 1-year survival rate were 81.48% (44/54) and 18.52% (10/54), respectively.Conclusion: Super-selective intracranial artery infusion chemotherapy provides a clinically efficacious avenue of treatment for lung cancer patients with brain metastases. Pathological classification, Karnofsky performance status, and extracranial metastases may serve as reliable prognostic parameters in determining the clinical outcomes for lung cancer patients with brain metastases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to quantify the effect of an intrauterine infusion of cephapirin on reproductive performance at first service of postpartum dairy cows affected by purulent vaginal discharge (PVD) and cytological endometritis (ENDO) using different diagnostic strategies, and to determine if the presence of prolonged anovulation would influence the magnitude of treatment benefit. In total, 2,259 Holstein cows in 28 herds were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial. At 35 (±7) days in milk (DIM), cows were diagnosed with PVD using the Metricheck device (Simcro, Hamilton, New Zealand), with cytological endometritis using endometrial cytology (ENDO-CYTO), and with cytological endometritis using leukocyte esterase (ENDO-LE). Regardless of reproductive tract disease status, cows were randomly assigned to receive an intrauterine cephapirin infusion or to not be treated. Serum progesterone was measured at 35 and 49 (±7) DIM (14 d apart); cows were considered to have prolonged anovulation if progesterone was <1 ng/mL at both times. Reproductive events of cows were collected until 200 DIM. Statistical analyses were conducted using multivariable mixed logistic regression models. Intrauterine cephapirin treatment was associated with an increased firstservice pregnancy risk in cows diagnosed with PVD (no treatment: 15.4%; treatment: 31.4%), ENDO-CYTO (no treatment: 16.2%, treatment: 24.4%), and ENDOLE (no treatment: 15.8%; treatment: 25.1%), but not in cows unaffected by any form of reproductive tract disease (no treatment: 34.8%; treatment: 32.6%). Cephapirin treatment was also associated with an increased first-service reproductive performance in cows affected simultaneously by both PVD and ENDO-CYTO (no treatment: 8.7%; treatment: 23.4%). The effect of cephapirin treatment in anovular cows (no treatment: 21.0%; treatment: 26.4%) was numerically lower than in cyclic cows (no treatment: 22.7%; treatment: 34.1%). Overall, an intrauterine infusion of cephapirin improved first-service pregnancy risk in cows with postpartum reproductive tract disease and this effect was influenced by postpartum anovulation status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of long-term survival with complete remission after hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) for liver metastasis from gastric cancer. A 62-year-old man underwent radical distal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy for an advanced gastric cancer. Solitary liver metastasis in the S2/3 segment was detected 26 months after initial surgery. The patient underwent HAIC with systemic chemotherapy. Serum CEA levels rapidly decreased, and CT scan showed disappearance of the tumor with complete clinical response 8 months after HAIC. HAIC was performed 83 times in total, until the hepatic artery proper was adequately obstructed. No severe adverse effects were observed during HAIC treatment. The patient is still disease-free without further chemotherapy more than 12 years after HAIC. Our experience suggests that HAIC should be considered as a treatment option in patients with resectable liver metastasis from gastric cancer. However, further studies are needed to verify the validity of HAIC for resectable liver metastasis from gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conclusions: Superselective intra-arterial cisplatin infusion with concomitant radiotherapy (RADPLAT) is considered to be one of the treatments of choice for patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) who prefer not to undergo radical surgery. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of RADPLAT for patients with ACC of the head and neck. Patients and methods: Between 2001-2010, nine patients with untreated ACC were given superselective intra-arterial infusion of cisplatin (100-120 mg/m2/week) with simultaneous intravenous infusion of thiosulfate to neutralize cisplatin toxicity and radiotherapy (65-70 Gy). Results: Five patients had tumors arising in the base of the tongue, two in the maxillary sinus, and the remaining two in the nasopharynx. The median follow-up period was 9 years 7 months (9;7) (range = 4;6-12;5), and the 5-year local control (LC), overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival rates were 88.9%, 88.9%, and 55.6%, respectively. The 10-year OS rate was 57.1%, but all patients who remained alive for over 10 years are still alive with disease. Primary tumor recurrence was observed in five of the nine patients, with the median time to recurrence being 6 years (range = 4-9 years). Five of the nine patients had distant metastasis, and of these three patients also had primary recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Intra-artery infusion of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) has recently been reported to confer neuroprotection against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in animal models; however, the molecular mechanisms are still under investigation. The present study focused on the specific mechanism involved in blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption.Methods: Thirty-six male and nine female Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion to induce focal cerebral ischemia, and administrated rhEPO at a dose of 800 U/kg through MCA infusion at the beginning of reperfusion. Neurobehavioral deficits, brain edema, and infarct volume were evaluated after 2 h of ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion. BBB permeability was assessed by quantifying the extravasation of Evans blue (EB) dye. The expression of tight junction proteins and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) (Claudin-5, Occludin, MMP-2, and MMP-9) in microvessels were detected by immunofluorescence and western blot. The activities of MMPs in the cerebral microvessels were determined by gelatin zymography.Results: Treatment with rhEPO through the MCA strongly alleviated infarct volume, brain edema, and improved neurobehavioral outcomes in male and female rats. In addition, rhEPO remarkably suppressed the EB extravasation induced by brain ischemia. Furthermore, rhEPO prevented degradation of Claudin-5 and Occludin, and reduced the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in isolated brain microvessels.Conclusions: Treatment with rhEPO through MCA infusion prevented brain edema formation and infarction through inhibition of MMP-mediated BBB disruption in acute ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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The article discusses the challenging task of obtaining vascular access in children. Topics discussed include the introduction of specialized vascular access teams in children's hospitals for improved patient experience and reduced need for anaesthesia and sedation. Also emphasized are the venous access strategies and the ideal tip position of centrally placed catheters.

Background Liver metastases are associated with a poor prognosis. We investigated the use of hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) of irinotecan combination therapy in patients with liver metastases. Patients and methods Patients with histologically confirmed advanced cancer with liver metastases that was refractory to standard therapy were eligible. A standard '3 + 3' phase I study design was used to determine the dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Three cohorts were evaluated: HAI of irinotecan with systemic intravenous (IV) (a) bevacizumab, (b) oxaliplatin and bevacizumab, or (c) bevacizumab and cetuximab. Results From October 2009 through December 2013, 98 patients with various tumor types were enrolled (median age, 62 years, range, 34-85; and median number of prior therapies, 4, range, 1-11). In cohorts A and C, dose escalation continued until the highest dose level-considered the MTD-was reached. In cohort B, dose escalation continued until dose level 3, and dose level 2 was considered the MTD. Rates of grade 3/4 adverse events were as follows: diarrhea, 8 %; fatigue, 4 %; neutropenia, 4 %; thrombocytopenia, 2 %; and skin rash, 2 %. Seventy-seven patients were evaluable for response. Partial response was noted in 5 (6.5 %) patients (neuroendocrine cancer, n = 2; CRC, n = 2; NSCLC, n = 1); and stable disease ≥ 6 months in 17 (22.1 %) patients (CRC, n = 13; breast, n = 1; neuroendocrine, n = 1; NSCLC, n = 1; pancreatic, n = 1). Conclusions HAI irinotecan in combination with bevacizumab; oxaliplatin plus bevacizumab; or cetuximab plus bevacizumab was safe and may be a treatment option for selected patients with advanced cancer and liver involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]