Comparative efficacy and safety of subcutaneous infliximab and vedolizumab in patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis included in randomised controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: While indirect comparison of infliximab (IFX) and vedolizumab (VDZ) in adults with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) shows that IFX has better effectiveness during induction, and comparable efficacy during maintenance treatment, comparative data specific to subcutaneous (SC) IFX (i.e., CT-P13 SC) versus VDZ are limited. AIM: Pooled analysis of randomised studies to compare efficacy and safety with IFX SC and VDZ in moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS: Parallel-group, randomised studies evaluating IFX SC and VDZ in patients with moderate-to-severe CD or UC were identified. Eligible studies reported ≥ 1 prespecified outcome of interest at Week 6 (reflecting treatment during the induction phase) and/or at 1 year (Weeks 50-54; reflecting treatment during the maintenance phase). Prespecified efficacy and safety outcomes considered in this pooled analysis included the proportions of patients achieving disease-specific clinical responses, clinical remission, or discontinuing due to lack of efficacy, and the proportions of patients experiencing adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, infections, serious infections, or discontinuing due to AEs. Data from multiple studies or study arms were extracted and pooled using a random-effect model; comparative analyses were performed separately for patients with CD and UC. RESULTS: We identified three eligible CD trials and four eligible UC trials that assigned over 1200 participants per disease cohort to either IFX SC or VDZ. In patients with CD, intravenous induction therapy with IFX demonstrated better efficacy (non-overlapping 95% confidence intervals [CIs]) compared with VDZ; during the maintenance phase, IFX SC showed numerically better efficacy (overlapping 95% CIs) than VDZ. A lower proportion of IFX SC-treated patients discontinued therapy due to lack of efficacy over 1 year. In patients with UC, efficacy profiles were similar with IFX SC and VDZ during the induction and maintenance phases, and a lower proportion of IFX SC-treated patients discontinued therapy due to lack of efficacy over 1 year. In both cohorts, safety profiles for IFX SC and VDZ were generally comparable during 1 year. CONCLUSION: IFX SC demonstrated better efficacy than VDZ in patients with CD, and similar efficacy to VDZ in patients with UC; 1-year safety was comparable with IFX SC and VDZ.

Efficacy of subcutaneous vs intravenous infliximab in rheumatoid arthritis: a post-hoc analysis of a randomized phase III trial.

OBJECTIVES: The primary endpoint of the pivotal phase III study of infliximab (IFX) s.c. demonstrated non-inferiority of s.c. to i.v. IFX, based on 28-joint DAS-CRP (DAS28-CRP) improvement at week (W) 22 (NCT03147248). This post-hoc analysis investigated whether numerical differences in efficacy outcomes at W30/54 were statistically significant, using conservative imputation methods. METHODS: Patients with active RA and inadequate response to MTX received IFX i.v. 3 mg/kg at W0 and W2 (induction) and were randomized (1:1) to IFX s.c. 120 mg every 2 weeks or i.v. 3 mg/kg every 8 weeks thereafter (maintenance). Patients randomized to IFX i.v. switched to IFX s.c. from W30-54. This post-hoc analysis compared efficacy outcomes for s.c. and i.v. groups pre-switch (W30) and post-switch (W54) using last observation carried forward (LOCF) and non-responder imputation (NRI) methods. RESULTS: Of 343 randomized patients, 165 (IFX s.c.) and 174 (IFX i.v.) were analysed. At W30, significantly improved outcomes were identified with s.c. vs i.v. IFX for DAS28-CRP/DAS28-ESR/Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI)/Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) scores (LOCF); ACR/good EULAR responses, DAS28-CRP/Boolean remission, and DAS28-CRP/DAS28-ESR/CDAI/SDAI low disease activity and remission (LOCF and/or NRI); and minimal clinically important difference in HAQ score (LOCF and NRI). After switching to IFX s.c. from IFX i.v., fewer significant between-group differences were identified at W54. CONCLUSION: IFX s.c. showed improved efficacy at W30 compared with IFX i.v., and the reduced between-group difference in efficacy outcomes at W54 after switching supports the results suggesting benefits of IFX s.c. compared with IFX i.v. at W30. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClincialTrials.gov, http://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03147248, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03147248.

Meiotic prophase roles of Rec8 in crossover recombination and chromosome structure.

Rec8 is a prominent component of the meiotic prophase chromosome axis that mediates sister chromatid cohesion, homologous recombination and chromosome synapsis. Here, we explore the prophase roles of Rec8. (i) During the meiotic divisions, Rec8 phosphorylation mediates its separase-mediated cleavage. We show here that such cleavage plays no detectable role for chromosomal events of prophase. (ii) We have analyzed in detail three rec8 phospho-mutants, with 6, 24 or 29 alanine substitutions. A distinct 'separation of function' phenotype is revealed. In the mutants, axis formation and recombination initiation are normal, as is non-crossover recombination; in contrast, crossover (CO)-related events are defective. Moreover, the severities of these defects increase coordinately with the number of substitution mutations, consistent with the possibility that global phosphorylation of Rec8 is important for these effects. (iii) We have analyzed the roles of three kinases that phosphorylate Rec8 during prophase. Timed inhibition of Dbf4-dependent Cdc7 kinase confers defects concordant with rec8 phospho-mutant phenotypes. Inhibition of Hrr25 or Cdc5/polo-like kinase does not. Our results suggest that Rec8's prophase function, independently of cohesin cleavage, contributes to CO-specific events in conjunction with the maintenance of homolog bias at the leptotene/zygotene transition of meiotic prophase.

Scaled Signal Intensity of Uterine Fibroids on T2-Weighted MR Imaging as a Predictor of the Potential Response to Uterine Fibroid Embolization.

PURPOSE: To determine feasibility of scaled signal intensity (SSI) of uterine fibroids on T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images to predict volume reduction rate (VRR) after uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 66 premenopausal women underwent UFE. Patients underwent follow-up MR imaging 3 months after UFE. SSI of predominant fibroids was measured on T2-weighted MR images obtained before the procedure by standardizing the mean signal intensity to a 0-to-100 scale, with 0 representing rectus abdominis muscle and 100 representing subcutaneous fat (100) for reference values. RESULTS: VRR of predominant fibroids was 12.3%-99.0% (mean 53.7%). SSI of predominant fibroids was 0.9-73.6 (mean 24.6). SSI was significantly related to VRR of fibroids (P < .01). The optimal SSI cutoff value to predict VRR > 50% was 18.16 with sensitivity of 78.8% and specificity of 66.7%. The optimal SSI cutoff value to predict VRR < 30% was 14.38 with sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 70.7%. CONCLUSIONS: SSI of fibroids was significantly related to fibroid VRR after UFE. SSI may be useful in the quantified prediction of volume reduction.

New organ-based tube current modulation method to reduce the radiation dose during computed tomography of the head: evaluation of image quality and radiation dose to the eyes in the phantom study.

A new organ-based tube current modulation (NOB-TCM) method was designed with the intent to decrease tube current by 30% over a prescribed 90° radial arc across the anterior aspect of the radiosensitive organ, without increasing tube current in the remaining radial arc. We compared a reference scan and five other dose-reducing methods with regard to effects on dose, practicality, and image quality to determine the most effective method for the reduction of the radiation dose to the eyes during CT examinations of the head. We compared the radiation doses to the eyes and physical image quality in different regions of interest for TCM and shielding scans. Three types of TCM scans were performed: longitudinal TCM, angular TCM, and NOB-TCM. A bismuth sheet and lead goggles were each applied for the shielding scan. Relative to the reference scan, the dose to the eye was reduced to 25.88% with NOB-TCM, 44.53% with lead goggles, and 36.91% with a bismuth shield. Relative to the reference scan, the mean signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was decreased to 8.02% with NOB-TCM, 28.36% with lead goggles, and 32.95% with the bismuth shield. The SNR of the anterior region of interest was decreased to 11.89% with NOB-TCM and 87.89% with the bismuth shield. The average figure of merit was increased by 11.7% with longitudinal TCM and 13.39% with NOB-TCM, compared with the reference scan. NOB-TCM is a superior solution for head CT, including the orbital area, due to the reduction in radiation exposure without significant loss in image quality.

Scaled signal intensity of uterine fibroids based on T2-weighted MR images: a potential objective method to determine the suitability for magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery of uterine fibroids.

OBJECTIVES: Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS) is a non-invasive method to treat uterine fibroids. To help determine the patient suitability for MRgFUS, we propose a new objective measure: the scaled signal intensity (SSI) of uterine fibroids in T2 weighted MR images (T2WI). METHODS: Forty three uterine fibroids in 40 premenopausal women were included in this retrospective study. SSI of each fibroid was measured from the screening T2WI by standardizing its mean signal intensity to a 0-100 scale, using reference intensities of rectus abdominis muscle (0) and subcutaneous fat (100). Correlation between the SSI and the non-perfused volume (NPV) ratio (a measure for treatment success) was calculated. RESULTS: Pre-treatment SSI showed a significant inverse-correlation with post treatment NPV ratio (p < 0.05). When dichotomizing NPV ratio at 45 %, the optimal cut off value of the SSI was found to be 16.0. CONCLUSIONS: A fibroid with SSI value 16.0 or less can be expected to have optimal responses. The SSI of uterine fibroids in T2WI can be suggested as an objective parameter to help in patient selection for MRgFUS. KEY POINTS: • Signal intensity of fibroid in MR images predicts treatment response to MRgFUS. • Signal intensity is standardized into scaled form using adjacent tissues as references. • Fibroids with SSI less than 16.0 are expected to have optimal responses.

Dephosphorylation of Orc2 by protein phosphatase 1 promotes the binding of the origin recognition complex to chromatin.

Phosphorylation of Orc2, one of the six subunits of the origin recognition complex (ORC), by cyclin A/CDK2 during S phase leads to the dissociation of Orc2, Orc3, Orc4, and Orc5 subunits (Orc2-5) from human chromatin and replication origins. Dephosphorylation of the phosphorylated Orc2 by protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) is accompanied by the binding of the dissociated subunits to chromatin. Here we show that PP1 physically interacts with Orc2. The binding of PP1 to Orc2 and the dephosphorylation of Orc2 by PP1 occurred in a cell cycle-dependent manner through an interaction with 119-KSVSF-123, which is the consensus motif for the binding of PP1, of Orc2. The dephosphorylation of Orc2 by PP1 is required for the binding of Orc2 to chromatin. These results support that PP1 dephosphorylates Orc2 to promote the binding of ORC to chromatin and replication origins for the subsequent round of the cell cycle.

Upregulation of death receptor 5 and activation of caspase 8/3 play a critical role in ergosterol peroxide induced apoptosis in DU 145 prostate cancer cells.

BACKGROUND: Though ergosterol peroxide (EP) derived from Neungyi mushrooms (Sarcodon aspratus) was known to have cytotoxic, apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antimycobacterial effects, the underlying molecular mechanism of EP still remains unclear. Thus, in the present study, the apoptotic mechanism of EP was elucidated in DU 145 prostate cancer cells. METHODS: Cell viability of prostate cancer cells was measured by MTT assay. To see whether EP induces the apoptosis, FACS, western blot and TUNEL assay were performed. To determine the role of Death receptor (DR) 5 molecules in EP-induced apoptosis in DU 145 prostate cancer cells, the silencing of DR 5 was performed by using siRNAs. RESULTS: EP showed significant cytotoxicity against DU 145, PC 3, M2182 prostate cancer cells. Also, EP effectively increased the sub G1 population and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase DUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells in DU 145 prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, western blotting revealed that EP cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and caspase 8/3, attenuated the expression of fluorescence loss in photobleaching (FLIP), Bcl-XL and Bcl-2 as well as activated Bax, Fas-associated death domain (FADD) and DR 5 in a concentration dependent manner in DU 145 prostate cancer cells. Conversely, caspase 8 inhibitor Z-IETD-FMK blocked the apoptotic ability of EP to cleave PARP and an increase of sub G1 population in DU 145 prostate cancer cells. Likewise, the silencing of DR 5 suppressed the cleavages of PARP induced by EP in DU 145 prostate cancer cells. CONCLUSION: Overall, our findings suggest that ergosterol peroxide induces apoptosis via activation of death receptor 5 and caspase 8/3 in DU 145 prostate cancer cells as a cancer chemopreventive agent or dietary factor.

Machine learning approach to predict venous thromboembolism among patients undergoing multi-level spinal posterior instrumented fusion.

Background: The absence of consensus for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in spine surgery underscores the importance of identifying patients at risk. This study incorporated machine learning (ML) models to assess key risk factors of VTE in patients who underwent posterior spinal instrumented fusion. Methods: Data was collected from the IBM MarketScan Database [2009-2021] for patients ≥18 years old who underwent spinal posterior instrumentation (3-6 levels), excluding traumas, malignancies, and infections. VTE incidence (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) was recorded 90-day post-surgery. Risk factors for VTE were investigated and compared through several ML models including logistic regression, linear support vector machine (LSVM), random forest, XGBoost, and neural networks. Results: Among the 141,697 patients who underwent spinal fusion with posterior instrumentation (3-6 levels), the overall 90-day VTE rate was 3.81%. The LSVM model demonstrated the best prediction with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.68. The most important features for prediction of VTE included remote history of VTE, diagnosis of chronic hypercoagulability, metastatic cancer, hemiplegia, and chronic renal disease. Patients who did not have these five key risk factors had a 90-day VTE rate of 2.95%. Patients who had an increasing number of key risk factors had subsequently higher risks of postoperative VTE. Conclusions: The analysis of the data with different ML models identified 5 key variables that are most closely associated with VTE. Using these variables, we have developed a simple risk model with additive odds ratio ranging from 2.80 (1 risk factor) to 46.92 (4 risk factors) over 90 days after posterior spinal fusion surgery. These findings can help surgeons risk-stratify their patients for VTE risk, and potentially guide subsequent chemoprophylaxis.

Protective effects of PDGF-AB/BB against cellular senescence in human intervertebral disc.

Cellular senescence, characterized by a permanent state of cell cycle arrest and a secretory phenotype contributing to inflammation and tissue deterioration, has emerged as a target for age-related interventions. Accumulation of senescent cells is closely linked with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, a prevalent age-dependent chronic disorder causing low back pain. Previous studies have highlighted that platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) mitigated IVD degeneration through anti-apoptosis, anti-inflammation, and pro-anabolism. However, its impact on IVD cell senescence remains elusive. In this study, human NP and AF cells derived from aged, degenerated IVDs were treated with recombinant human (rh) PDGF-AB/BB for 5 days and changes of transcriptome profiling were examined through mRNA sequencing. NP and AF cells demonstrated similar but distinct responses to the treatment. However, the effects of PDGF-AB and BB on human IVD cells were comparable. Specifically, PDGF-AB/BB treatment resulted in downregulation of gene clusters related to neurogenesis and response to mechanical stimulus in AF cells while the downregulated genes in NP cells were mainly associated with metabolic pathways. In both NP and AF cells, PDGF-AB and BB treatment upregulated the expression of genes involved in cell cycle regulation, mesenchymal cell differentiation, and response to reduced oxygen levels, while downregulating the expression of genes related to senescence associated phenotype, including oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondria dysfunction. Network analysis revealed that PDGFRA and IL6 were the top hub genes in treated NP cells. Furthermore, in irradiation-induced senescent NP cells, PDGFRA gene expression was significantly reduced compared to non-irradiated cells. However, rhPDGF-AB/BB treatment increased PDGFRA expression and mitigated the senescence progression through increased cell population in the S phase, reduced SA-ß-Gal activity, and decreased expression of senescence related regulators including P21, P16, IL6, and NF-κB. Our findings reveal a novel anti-senescence role of PDGF in the IVD, demonstrating its ability to alleviate the senescent phenotype and protect against the progression of senescence. This makes it a promising candidate for preventing or treating IVD degeneration by targeting cellular senescence.

Machine learning approach to predict acute kidney injury among patients undergoing multi-level spinal posterior instrumented fusion.

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) after spinal fusion is a significant morbidity that can lead to poor post-surgical outcomes. Identifying AKI risk factors and developing a risk model can raise surgeons' awareness and allow them to take actions to mitigate the risks. The objective of the current study is to develop machine learning (ML) models to assess patient risk factors predisposing to AKI after posterior spinal instrumented fusion. Methods: Data was collected from the IBM MarketScan Database (2009-2021) for patients >18 years old who underwent spinal fusion with posterior instrumentation (3-6 levels). AKI incidence (defined by the International Classification of Diseases codes) was recorded 90-day post-surgery. Risk factors for AKI were investigated and compared through several ML models including logistic regression, linear support vector machine (LSVM), random forest, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and neural networks. Results: Among the 141,697 patients who underwent fusion with posterior instrumentation (3-6 levels), the overall rate of 90-day AKI was 2.96%. We discovered that the logistic regression model and LSVM demonstrated the best predictions with area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.75. The most important AKI prediction features included chronic renal disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus ± complications, older age (>50 years old), and congestive heart failure. Patients who did not have these five key risk factors had a 90-day AKI rate of 0.29%. Patients who had an increasing number of key risk factors subsequently had higher risks of postoperative AKI. Conclusions: The analysis of the data with different ML models identified 5 key variables that are most closely associated with AKI: chronic renal disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus ± complications, older age (>50 years old), and congestive heart failure. These variables constitute a simple risk calculator with additive odds ratio ranging from 3.38 (1 risk factor) to 91.10 (5 risk factors) over 90 days after posterior spinal fusion surgery. These findings can help surgeons risk-stratify their patients for AKI risk, and potentially guide post-operative monitoring and medical management.

Development of an International AO Spine Guideline for the Use of Osteobiologics in Anterior Cervical Fusion and Decompression (AO-GO).

STUDY DESIGN: Methodological study for guideline development. OBJECTIVE: AO Spine Guideline for Using Osteobiologics (AO-GO) project for spine degenerative pathologies was an international, multidisciplinary collaborative initiative to identify and evaluate evidence on existing use of osteobiologics in Anterior Cervical Fusion and Decompression (ACDF). The aim was to formulate precisely defined, clinically relevant and internationally applicable guidelines ensuring evidence-based, safe and effective use of osteobiologics, considering regional preferences and cost-effectiveness. METHODS: Guideline was completed in two phases: Phase 1- evidence synthesis; Phase 2- recommendation development based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. In Phase 1, key questions identified by a panel of experts were addressed in a series of systematic reviews of randomized and non-randomized studies. In Phase 2, the GRADE approach was used to formulate a series of recommendations, including expert panel discussions via web calls and face-to-face meetings. DISCUSSION: AO-GO aims to bridge an important gap between evidence and use of osteobiologics in spine fusion surgeries. Owing to differences in osteobiologics preparation and functional characteristics, regulatory requirements for approval may vary, therefore it is highly likely that these products enter market without quality clinical trials. With a holistic approach the guideline aims to facilitate evidence-based, patient-oriented decision-making processes in clinical practice, thus stimulating further evidence-based studies regarding osteobiologics usage in spine surgeries. In Phase 3, the guideline will be disseminated and validated using prospectively collected clinical data in a separate effort of the AO Spine Knowledge Forum Degenerative in a global multicenter clinical study.

Database analysis comparing incidence and complication rates between inpatient and outpatient laminotomies for lumbar disc herniation.

Background: Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common condition that can be characterized with disabling pain. While most patients recover without surgery, some still require operative intervention. The epidemiology and trends of laminotomy for LDH have not been recently studied, and current practice patterns might be different from historical norms. This study aimed to investigate the trends of inpatient and outpatient laminotomies for LDH and compare complication rates between these two sites of service. Methods: A large, national database was utilized to identify patients > 8 years old who underwent a laminotomy for LDH between 2009 and 2019. Two cohorts were created based on site of surgery: inpatient versus outpatient. The outpatient cohort was defined as patients who had a length of stay less than 1 day without any associated hospitalization. Epidemiologic analyses for these cohorts were performed by demographics. Patients in both groups were then 1:1 propensity-score matched based on age, sex, insurance type, geographic region, and comorbidities. Ninety-day postoperative complications were compared between cohorts utilizing multivariate logistic regressions. Results: The average incidence of laminotomy for LDH was 13.0 per 10,000 persons-years. Although the national trend in incidence had not changed from 2009 to 2019, the proportion of outpatient laminotomies significantly increased in this time period (p=.02). Outpatient laminotomies were more common among younger and healthier patients. Patients with inpatient laminotomies had significantly higher rates of surgical site infections (odds ratio [OR] 1.61, p<.001), venous thromboembolism (VTE) (OR 1.96, p<.001), hematoma (OR 1.71, p<.001), urinary tract infections (OR 1.41, p<.001), and acute kidney injuries (OR 1.75, p=.001), even when controlling for selected confounders. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated an increasing trend in the performance of laminotomy for LDH toward the outpatient setting. Even when controlling for certain confounders, patients requiring inpatient procedures had higher rates of postoperative complications. This study highlights the importance of carefully evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of performing these procedures in an outpatient versus inpatient setting.

Comparative Complications Associated With BMP Use In Patients Undergoing ACDF for Degenerative Spinal Conditions: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. OBJECTIVES: To compare complication incidence in patients with or without the use of recombinant human Bone Morphogenic Protein-2 (BMP2) undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for degenerative conditions. METHODS: A systematic search of eight online databases was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria included English language studies with a minimum of 10 adult patients undergoing instrumented ACDF surgery for a degenerative spinal condition in which BMP2 was used in all patients or one of the treatment arms. Studies with patients undergoing circumferential fusions, with non-degenerative indications, or which did not report post-operative complication data were excluded. Patients with and without BMP2 were compared in terms of the incidence of dysphagia/dysphonia, anterior soft tissue complications (hematoma, seroma, infection, dysphagia/dysphonia), nonunion, medical complications, and new neurologic deficits. RESULTS: Of 1832 preliminary search results, 27 manuscripts were included. Meta-analysis revealed the relative risk of dysphagia or dysphonia (RR = 1.39, CI 95% 1.18 - 1.64, P = <.001), anterior soft tissue complications (RR = 1.43, CI 95% 1.25-1.64, P = <.001), and medical complications (RR = 1.32, CI 95% 1.06-1.66, P = .013) were statistically significant in the BMP2 group while the relative risk of non-union (RR = .5, CI 95% .23 - 1.13, P = .09) trended lower in the BMP2 group. Neurological deficit (RR = 1.06, CI 95% .82-1.37, P = .66), and additional medical complications (RR = 1.53, CI 95% .98-2.38, P = .06) were not found to be statistically different between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis identified a high rate of arthrodesis when BMP2 was used in ACDF, but confirmed increased rates of dysphagia and anterior soft tissue complications. Surgeons may consider reserving BMP2 implementation for cases with a high risk of non-union, and should be aware of the risk of airway compromise.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) plus BMP-2 upregulates intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis more than either BMP-2 alone or PEMF alone.

STUDY DESIGN: An in vitro study using human intervertebral disc (IVD) cells. OBJECTIVES: To determine if pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) plus bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 could upregulate IVD-cell matrix synthesis more than either BMP-2 alone or PEMF alone. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: BMP-7 and BMP-2 can both upregulate IVD-cell matrix synthesis. There are problems associated with using either BMP-2 or BMP-7. They can diffuse away rather quickly after injection into the IVD space, they cost a lot, and they have side effects such as soft-tissue inflammation and swelling. PEMF has been reported to stimulate various types of cells. PEMF is safe, inexpensive, and noninvasive, thus multiple use is possible. However, PEMF alone has a rather weak effect on disc cells. We decided to carry out an experiment whereby we combined PEMF with BMP-2. Our thoughts were that BMP-2 plus PEMF could be better than either alone. METHODS: The PEMF signal used was similar to that used in the clinical treatment of fracture nonunions or delayed fracture healing. Human disc cells were treated with BMP-2 alone or PEMF alone or PEMF plus BMP-2. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to determine mRNA expression levels of aggrecan, collagen-2, transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß, BMP-2, and BMP-7. Sulfated glycosaminoglycansynthesis was analyzed using the dimethylmethylene blue method. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the protein levels of TGF-ß, BMP-2, and BMP-7. RESULTS: PEMF plus BMP-2 upregulates IVD-cell matrix synthesis more than BMP-2 alone or PEMF alone, and the effect seems to be synergistic. Also, PEMF plus BMP-2 induces more endogenous BMP-7 and BMP-2 mRNA levels as well as protein levels, as compared with either PEMF alone or BMP-2 alone. CONCLUSIONS: PEMF plus BMP-2 acts in synergy to upregulate intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis more than either BMP-2 alone or PEMF alone.

Upregulation of intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis by pulsed electromagnetic field is mediated by bone morphogenetic proteins.

STUDY DESIGN: An in vitro study on the effects of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) on intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to determine whether (1) PEMF can upregulate intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis and (2) any upregulation obtained is through transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß or bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: PEMF has been reported to produce cell proliferation, enhance cell function, and upregulate matrix synthesis in cell types such as osteoblasts, chondroblasts, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts through the upregulation of several growth factors. PEMF has been used clinically in the treatment of delayed bone union. However, PEMF has never been tested on human intervertebral disc cells. METHODS: The PEMF signal used was similar to that used in the clinical treatment of delayed fracture healing. Human disc cells were treated with PEMF for 8 hours per day for 3 days. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine mRNA expression levels of aggrecan, collagen-2, TGF-ß, BMP-2, and BMP-7. Sulfated glycosaminoglycan synthesis was analyzed using the dimethylmethylene blue (DMMB) method. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the protein levels of TGF-ß, BMP-2, and BMP-7. To determine whether any action of PEMF was through BMP, recombinant human Noggin was used at a dose of 100 ng/mL to block BMP. RESULTS: PEMF could upregulate intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis. BMP-7 was markedly upregulated by PEMF and was upregulated much more than BMP-2. TGF-ß was not upregulated by PEMF. The effect of PEMF on disc-cell matrix was entirely inhibited in the presence of Noggin. CONCLUSIONS: PEMF acts through BMPs to upregulate intervertebral disc-cell matrix synthesis.

Subcutaneous Infliximab Monotherapy Versus Combination Therapy with Immunosuppressants in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Post Hoc Analysis of a Randomised Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Whether benefits and risks of intravenous (IV) infliximab combotherapy with immunosuppressants versus infliximab monotherapy apply to subcutaneous (SC) infliximab is unknown. This post hoc analysis of a pivotal randomised CT-P13 SC 1.6 trial aimed to compare SC infliximab monotherapy with combotherapy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). METHODS: Biologic-naïve patients with active Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis received CT-P13 IV 5 mg/kg at Week (W) 0 and 2 (dose-loading phase). At W6, patients were randomised (1:1) to receive CT-P13 SC 120 or 240 mg (patients < 80 or ≥ 80 kg) every 2 weeks until W54 (maintenance phase), or to continue CT-P13 IV every 8 weeks until switching to CT-P13 SC from W30. The primary endpoint-non-inferiority of trough serum concentrations-was assessed at W22. We report a post hoc analysis comparing pharmacokinetic, efficacy, safety and immunogenicity outcomes up to W54 for patients randomised to CT-P13 SC, stratified by concomitant immunosuppressant use. RESULTS: Sixty-six patients were randomised to CT-P13 SC (37 monotherapy, 29 combotherapy). At W54, there were no significant differences in the proportions of patients achieving target exposure (5 µg/mL; 96.6% monotherapy vs 95.8% combotherapy; p > 0.999) or meeting efficacy or biomarker outcomes including clinical remission (62.9% vs 74.1%; p = 0.418). Monotherapy and combotherapy groups had comparable immunogenicity (anti-drug antibodies [ADAs]: 65.5% vs 48.0% [p = 0.271], neutralising antibodies [in ADA-positive patients]: 10.5% vs 16.7% [p = 0.630], respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacokinetics, efficacy and immunogenicity were potentially comparable between SC infliximab monotherapy and combotherapy in biologic-naïve IBD patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02883452.

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided focused ultrasound treatment of pedunculated subserosal uterine fibroids: a preliminary report.

PURPOSE: To evaluate magnetic resonance (MR) imaging-guided focused ultrasound (US) as a treatment for pedunculated subserosal fibroids. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Over a 2-year period (March 2007 to March 2009), 135 women with symptomatic uterine fibroids were treated in the authors' institution using MR imaging-guided focused US. Of these women, nine (mean age, 39 years; range, 25-47 y) had a single pedunculated subserosal fibroid. During treatment, these pedunculated fibroids were targeted, while sparing the stalk connection between the fibroid and the uterus. Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MR images were obtained immediately after the treatment to measure the nonperfused volume (NPV) ratio and to check stalk viability. Changes in tumor volume, diameter of the stalk, patient symptoms and adverse events were evaluated 6 months after treatment. RESULTS: The volume of the treated fibroids (n=9) ranged from 79-380cm(3) (mean, 198cm(3)), and NPV ratio ranged from 45%-80% (mean, 67%). MR imaging follow-up at 6 months showed a 14%-48% (mean, 30%) reduction in the volume of the treated fibroids (P =.008). In all cases, the pedunculated subserosal fibroids remained connected to the uterus with a 13% average decrease in the mean diameter of the stalks (from 3.5 to 3.0cm; P=.008). Eight of nine patients (89%) reported improvement in bulk-related fibroid symptoms after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this preliminary study suggest that MR imaging-guided focused US may be a safe and effective treatment for pedunculated subserosal fibroids. Larger prospective studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm the suitability of MR imaging-guided focused US to treat this type of fibroid.

Stepping Forward to the Next Level: Totality of Evidence for the First High-Concentration Adalimumab Biosimilar, CT-P17.

Biosimilar regulatory evaluation considers the totality of evidence gathered through analytical, non-clinical and clinical studies. CT-P17 is the first high-concentration (100 mg/mL), citrate-free adalimumab biosimilar to receive regulatory approval in Europe for all indications held by reference adalimumab, following comprehensive non-clinical and clinical development programmes. State-of-the art physicochemical and biological methods demonstrated quality, analytical and functional comparability between CT-P17 and reference adalimumab; non-clinical in vivo studies supported biosimilarity. Three phase I and two phase III studies were conducted, with pharmacokinetic equivalence of CT-P17 and reference adalimumab shown in healthy volunteers, and equivalent efficacy demonstrated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Safety and immunogenicity profiles were comparable between CT-P17 and reference adalimumab across studies. CT-P17 is available for administration by autoinjector/prefilled pen (AI/PFP), prefilled syringe (PFS) and PFS with needle guard, providing diverse self-injection options for patients. Equivalent pharmacokinetics and comparable overall safety and usability were demonstrated between AI/PFP and PFS devices during the clinical development programme. All CT-P17 devices include fine, 29-gauge needles; combined with the citrate-free, high-concentration formulation, these characteristics reflect the newer reference adalimumab formulation (100 mg/mL) and are associated with reduced injection-site pain. The high-concentration formulation also facilitates treatment delivery via fewer injections. Compared with reference adalimumab, CT-P17 remains stable for longer at room temperature, enhancing ease of storage for patients and healthcare providers. In summary, the totality of evidence supports the biosimilarity of CT-P17 to high-concentration reference adalimumab, and several distinctive features differentiate it from existing adalimumab biosimilars.

A Developer's Perspective on Clinical Evidence and Benefits for Rituximab Biosimilar Uptake, with a Focus on CT-P10.

To date, four rituximab biosimilars have received regulatory approval from the European Medicines Agency and/or US Food and Drug Administration. CT-P10 was the first rituximab biosimilar to be approved by each agency, in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Regulatory approval of CT-P10 followed demonstration of pharmacokinetic equivalence to the reference product in a phase I study in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Phase III pivotal studies of CT-P10 subsequently demonstrated equivalence or non-inferiority of pharmacokinetics and efficacy between CT-P10 and reference rituximab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, advanced-stage follicular lymphoma, and low-tumour-burden follicular lymphoma. Almost 5 years after its initial regulatory approval, significant real-world experience has accumulated with CT-P10 use, particularly in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, one of the indications approved by extrapolation. This article summarises the pivotal data underlying regulatory approval for the four licensed rituximab biosimilars, before focusing on real-world data gathered with CT-P10. These data provide further support for the safety and effectiveness of CT-P10 and should boost healthcare professional and patient confidence in its use. Pharmacoeconomic analyses support the potential healthcare system cost savings offered by rituximab biosimilar uptake, which could lead to improved patient access to biologic treatments. Opportunities arising from biosimilar uptake extend further, potentially enabling innovative investigator-led research and therapeutic advances.