Risk of urinary tract infection after biopsy of the highest prostate in men with previous infections

Risk of urinary tract infection after biopsy of the highest prostate in men with previous infections -

risk of urinary tract infections after prostate biopsy the higher in men with previous infections or significant comorbidities, Swedish researchers report in T he Journal of Urology ^®

ultrasound TRUS-guided biopsy is the gold standard for detecting prostate cancer, but international reports have suggested that the number of risks associated with the procedure increases. In a new study based on the population nationwide, Swedish researchers found that six percent of men filled a prescription for antibiotics for a urinary tract infection within 30 days after having a prostate biopsy, with a double increase in hospital admissions over five years, reports the Journal of Urology®.

previous studies reported serious side effects after prostate biopsy, including infection of febrile urinary tract and urosepsis in one to four percent of men, despite the use prophylactic antibiotics. There have also been reports that chronic diseases such as diabetes, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and a history of urinary tract infection increases the risk of infections.

To estimate the incidence of infection after prostate biopsy and evaluate infection risk factors and mortality at 0 days in Sweden, researchers examined more than 51,000 men enrolled in folders Swedish prostate cancer database who underwent transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy between 06 and 2011. They also compiled the data from the National Register of prostate cancer (NPCR) of Sweden, which captures more 96 percent of all newly diagnosed cancers of the prostate in the country.

"We sought to estimate the frequency and severity of infectious complications in men diagnosed with prostate cancer after prostate biopsy by examining how many men prescriptions of antibiotics related to tract infections urinary, hospitalization rates within 30 days, and death due to infection filled, "says lead investigator Karl-Johan Lundström, MD, Department of surgery and perioperative Sciences, Urology, Andrology, Umeå University , Ostersund, Sweden. "We also capitalized on the unique databases at national health care crosslinked scale in Sweden to make a more comprehensive assessment of potential risk factors for infectious complications," he added.

Among men who filled a prescription for antibiotics urinary tract within 30 days of biopsy, 54 percent completed the requirement in the first week after the biopsy. One percent of men were hospitalized with a urinary tract infection.

Between 06 and 2011, the number of men getting a prescription for antibiotics after the biopsy has declined, while the number who were hospitalized increased. Was observed no significant increase in mortality of 0 days, however.

The most risk of antibiotic prescribing factors were multiple comorbidities, especially diabetes, and prior infection. Overall, about two percent of the men had a urinary tract infection in the six months preceding the biopsy.

"Our data show that severe infections requiring hospitalization after prostate biopsy increases in Sweden. The rate of admission to hospital has increased twofold during this five-year period. However, the risk to die of infection after prostate biopsy is very small, "observed Dr Lundström. "The risk of post-biopsy infection is highest among men with a history of urinary tract infections and those with significant comorbidities. The increased risk of hospitalization is concerning and highlights the importance of 'carefully assess indications for biopsy particularly in men at increased risk of infection, "he concludes.

Patients with intestinal polyps are less likely to die from cancer

Patients with intestinal polyps are less likely to die from cancer -

Patients with intestinal polyps have a lower risk of dying from cancer that 'previously thought, according to Norwegian researchers.

This group of patients may therefore need supervision colonoscopy less frequent than what is common today. As a potential concequence, the researchers argue, resources of health services can be diverted to other patient groups.

The results were published today in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM).

The world's largest
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the Norwegian study is the world's largest of its kind , and involved the monitoring of patients over a longer time than has been done period.

researchers estimated the risk of colorectal mortality among more than 40,000 Norwegian patients who underwent removal of polyps. They were then followed for up to 19 years. All deaths were recorded.

No increased risk
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"The results indicate that patients who had colorectal polyps removed, not have a higher risk of death from colorectal cancer than the general population in Norway, "says co-author Dr. Mette Kalager.

a public health problem
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is the colorectal cancer one of the most common cancers in Norway and is a major public health problem. More than 3,0 new cases are registered in the country every year, and the incidence has increased rapidly in recent decades.

According to national guidelines in Norway, patients who previously have removed polyps are recommended screening by colonoscopy. This is recommended because of the assumption that these patients have an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

The number of patients waiting in line for this kind of testing is growing rapidly, however, later put pressure on hospital resources.

Say Dr. Magnus Løberg, author and principal member research team

"Patients with polyps patients may not need such surveillance colonoscopy Frequently we have today the resources could instead be used in symptomatic patients. ".

research team members are affiliated with Oslo University Hospital and the University of Oslo.

TGen to lead the first patient in the clinical trial studies to test new drugs for glioblastoma

TGen to lead the first patient in the clinical trial studies to test new drugs for glioblastoma -

glioblastoma pilot funded by the Ivy Foundation

in 2012, the Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation awarded $ 10 million in grants to two research projects on the brain revolutionary cancer at the Translational Genomics research Institute (TGen). One project officially received final regulatory approval from the University of California, San Francisco, meaning that patient enrollment in the trial can begin.

In the proposed $ 5 million, "Genomics Enabled Medical glioblastoma trial," TGen and its clinical partners lead early in patients of clinical trial studies that will test promising new drugs that could extend the survival of GBM patients. This multi-part study will take place in clinics across the country and TGen laboratories.

"GBM is one of the top three most cancers kill fast-la- low and it affects people of all ages, "said Catherine (Bracken) Ivy, founder and president of the Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation. "It is essential that we fund research that will help patients live longer so we can investigate and treat brain cancer."

The project began with a pilot study on 15 patients, using whole genome sequencing to study their tumor samples to help doctors determine which medications might be more beneficial.

to support clinical decisions molecularly, the TGen lab also examine genomic data from at least 536 past cases of glioblastoma, and new cases of tumor samples, development tools for produce more insight into how glioblastoma tumors grow and survive. TGen also conduct a series of pioneering laboratory tests to measure cell responses cell to various drugs.

"GBM is a disease that needs answers now, and we firmly believe these answers are found in the genome," said Dr. David Craig, TGen Deputy Director of Bioinformatics, Director of the Neurogenomics Division TGen, and one of the principal investigators projects. "Identifying the genes that contribute to the survival of glioblastoma will provide valuable information on how to treat it, and can also lead to a better understanding of what motivates other cancers."

for new treatments to patients as quickly as possible, this five-year study will include a feasibility study involving up to 30 patients, follow-up Phase II clinical trial with as many as 70 patients. TGen teamed with Ivy Early clinical trials Consortium phase which comprises: University of California, San Francisco; University of California, Los Angeles; the MD Anderson Cancer Center; Cancer Center Memorial Sloan Kettering; University of Utah; and the Dana-Farber / Harvard Cancer Center.

The results of these clinical trials should not only help patients who join them, but also to provide the data necessary for FDA approval and availability of new drugs that could benefit tens of thousands of brain cancer patients in the future.

"Working with doctors, the project will aim to include treatment as part of the molecular profile of the tumor. We have the opportunity to determine when combinations of drugs may be more effective than ' use a single drug, quickly identify therapies that do not work, and to accelerate the discovery of those who could prove promising for future development, "said Dr. John Carpten, deputy director of TGen basic sciences, director integrated genomics Division TGen cancer, and one of the principal investigators of the project.

in addition to helping patients as quickly as possible, the project is expected to significantly expand the network of Arizona expert brain cancer.

Factor in the cells of naked mole rats protects proteasome activity

Factor in the cells of naked mole rats protects proteasome activity -

Scientists at the Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, part of School of medicine at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, found another secret to longevity in the tissues of the longest rodent, the naked mole-rat.

They reported that a factor in the cells of naked mole rats protects and modifies the activity of the proteasome, a garbage disposal for obsolete and damaged proteins.

The factor also protects proteasome function in human cells, mouse and yeast when challenged with various poisons proteasome, studies have shown. These proteasomes usually quickly stop the operation, leading to the accumulation of damaged proteins which further compromise the function of cells, which contributes to the vicious cycle that leads to cell death.

"I think this factor is part of a global process or mechanism by which the moles nude rats maintain quality protein," first study author Karl Rodriguez, Ph.D., said, .

in general, as an organism ages, not only are there more of damaged proteins in need of disposal, but the proteasome itself becomes

accordingly, the decline the quality of the damaged protein and less effective in the elimination of damaged proteins. which contributes to the functional decline observed during aging. Improved quality proteins, in turn, leads to a longer life in yeast, worms, flies and fruit naked mole rats, Dr. Rodriguez said.

Dr. Rodriguez, a native of San Antonio who completed both doctoral Health Sciences Centre and his master, is a postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory Rochelle Buffenstein, Ph.D., professor of physiology at the Barshop Institute. For this study, the laboratory Buffenstein also collaborated with Pawel Osmulski, Ph.D., assistant professor of molecular medicine; Susan Weintraub, PhD, professor of biochemistry; and Maria Gaczynska, Ph.D., associate professor of molecular medicine.

naked mole rats, digging underground tunnels in their native East Africa, are almost hairless rodents. They live as long as 32 years. naked mole rats maintain good health and reproductive potential without cancer well into their third decade of life.

Appointment signals a new approach to politics of drug abuse

Appointment signals a new approach to politics of drug abuse -

The appointment of Michael Botticelli to head the Office of National Drug Control Policy symbolizes transition to treatment with the drug use as public health rather than a criminal justice issue, writes the Washington post. Reuters examines how opioid abuse fears keep cancer patients to get relief from pain

The Washington Post :. The White House is spending billions to fight against drugs, but drug use is increasing
The White House officially named Michael Botticelli on Thursday to lead the Office of National Drug Control Policy, the office responsible supervise and administer the federal drug policy. The White House has been moving towards the treatment of drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal justice. The appointment of Botticelli, himself a recovering alcoholic, perhaps the most significant concrete sign of this change to date (Ingraham, 8/29)

Reuters :. The Addiction fears Keep Cancer Patients From Getting Pain Relief
Fears of opiate abuse and dependence could keep patients with advanced cancer to get pain medicine enough, say researchers. "At the end of life, we should feel comfortable providing everything needed to control the pain," said Joel Hyatt, assistant regional director at Kaiser Permanente (Belisomo, 8/29).

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This article was reprinted from kaiserhealthnews.org with permission from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. Kaiser health News, an editorially independent news service, is a Kaiser Family Foundation program, a professional politician health research nonpartisan organization affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.

Diabetes linked to increased risk head and neck

Diabetes linked to increased risk head and neck -

By Laura Cowen, medwireNews Reporter

risk People with diabetes mellitus have a significant increase in the development of head and neck cancer (HNC) compared to those without the condition, show the results of a large study conducted in Taiwan.

Yung-Song Lin (Taipei Medical University) and colleagues have shown that the incidence of CST was 1.47 times higher in a cohort of over 89,000 patients with diabetes than it was in a size equal control group matched for age, sex, geographic location, income and comorbidities, including obesity, coronary heart disease, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (used as a substitute for smoking).

These findings "underscore the importance of monitoring patients with [diabetes mellitus] to CST," the researchers note.

This may be particularly true for men and patients aged 40-65 years, as the incidence was highest in these groups.

among the specific evaluated CST, cancer of the oral cavity had the highest incidence in both groups but was significantly more common in patients with diabetes (0.41%) than controls (0.24%) during the follow-up period, which began in 02 and continued until the death of the participant or at the end of 2011, whichever comes first.

oropharyngeal cancer and nasopharyngeal carcinoma were also significantly more frequent in the diabetes group.

After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidity, patients with diabetes had once 1.48 increased risk of CST compared to controls. The risk was 1.74 times higher for the oral cavity cancer, 1.53 times higher for cancer of the oropharynx and 1.40 times higher for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. No increased risk was observed for cancers of the hypopharynx, or larynx rhinosinusitis.

Note, the researchers observed no significant difference in overall survival between the diabetes and control groups that developed CST, but they suggest that this may be because the follow -up periods have been limited by the reduced overall survival observed in participants who developed CST.

Writing in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery , Lin and his team say that the mechanisms underlying the association between diabetes and the development of HNC remain unclear.

They suggest that long-term exposure to insulin may be a factor as "[i] nsulin is a powerful growth factor that promotes proliferation and carcinogenesis in various ways, directly. and through [insulin-like growth factors] "

They add:" Another reasonable explanation is hyperglycemia, which can promote tumors directly :. cancer cells based on increased consumption of glucose "

licensed medwireNews with permission of Springer Healthcare Ltd. © Springer Healthcare Ltd. All rights reserved. None of these parties endorse or recommend any commercial products, services or equipment.

5-LO enzyme plays an important role in the survival of leukemic stem cells AML

5-LO enzyme plays an important role in the survival of leukemic stem cells AML -

inhibitors of 5-LO remove the cultured cells and mouse models

Despite the improvement in therapy, only one in two adult patients survive acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The median survival for this disease, which occurs mainly in older people, is less than a year for patients over 65 years. It is assumed that the leukemic stem cells that can not be completely eliminated during processing, are the source of relapse. However, as was discovered by a team of researchers based in Frankfurt, these cells have a weakness in the current edition of the journal of high impact " Cancer Research ", they report that the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) plays an important role in the survival of leukemic stem cells AML.

5-LO is known for his role in inflammatory diseases such as asthma. a team led by Dr. Ruthardt Marin Department of Hematology of the medical Clinic II and Dr. Jessica Roos, Prof. Diester Steinhilber and Prof. Thorsten J-rgen Maier pharmaceutical chemistry Institute showed that leukemia stem cells in a subgroup MLF could be selectively and effectively attacked by 5-LO inhibitors. This has been demonstrated in cell culture models, as well as in mouse leukemia models.

"These results provide the basis for the possible implementation of the 5-LO inhibitors as therapeutic agents of stem cells for extended AML cure, although this needs to be studied further in preclinical and clinical studies in humans, "says Dr. Ruthardt. "In addition, there are plans for molecular biological studies to understand exactly how the inhibitors of 5-LO act on the leukemic cells." Teacher. Maier continued.

Experts explain the advantages and disadvantages of over-the-counter enzymes

Experts explain the advantages and disadvantages of over-the-counter enzymes -

Enzyme supplements available without prescription are increasingly popular, but should all add to their shopping list? Brent Bauer, MD, director of complementary medicine program and integrative Mayo Clinic, is co-author of a new paper in the medical journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings on the advantages and disadvantages of over-the-counter enzymes. Here, Dr. Bauer answers some common questions about these dietary supplements:.

What is the problem

"They have become so popular Like many nutritional supplements, patients are looking for something to help their health, so they read about over-the-counter enzymes as one of the many dietary supplements, and all of a sudden we see sales go through the roof. a huge challenge food supplements is that most have not tested as most drugs are. We have a lot of information, but we do not have definitive information. so our patients hear many positive things, but they are not always understood or not the negative effects side. therefore, we try to be very evidence-based. We do not want to say no, there is no reason to ever take an over-the-counter enzyme. However, we do not just want to rush and buy because we heard someone say something good on TV. "

What are some of the reasons why people take enzyme supplements?

" We have many natural enzymes in our body. They help us digest food. There are clearly medical reasons to use enzymes. If the pancreas of a patient does not, for example, the patient may need to take a medically prescribed enzyme supplement. Here is a little different story of a healthy person who wants to use over-the-counter bromelain, papain or - enzymes that come from pineapple and papaya - or trypsin or chymotrypsin. The reasons why people could use those center around the digestion: Maybe they get older, they have more gas and bloating, so they think that if they take an enzyme, it will help digestion. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, so some people will use these enzymes to try to reduce inflammation, may help osteoarthritis. And there is a long history of these being used as anti-cancer agents. The challenge from the perspective of doctors is that the evidence for each of these is quite limited. We do not just have the data to say: No, it does not. Yes, it works. "We're stuck. "

What if I want to try over-the-counter enzymes? Are there any side effects?

" Fortunately, most sur- -against enzymes, unless you take super-high doses, the risks are quite minimal. Some people have gastrointestinal problems or irritation. I'm going this conversation with my patients: If they want to try enzymes, I want them to understand the risks, potential benefits, the limited amount of evidence. And if we will use it, I try to do in a short trial period, use it for two or three weeks. If you notice a big improvement, it does not mean that it works, but it may mean to you, it is something you might want to pursue. If this does not work, do not keep only to take more and hoping something magical to happen. "

Is there anyone who should not take these?

" bromelain enzyme from pineapple, can have a anti-platelet activity. So for people taking blood thinners or have an anti-platelet activity, theoretically there could be an increased risk of bleeding. For children with cystic fibrosis, there was some bad adverse reactions which those who take enzymes prescription may get a bad disorder of the colon called fibrosing irritable bowel syndrome. "

How consumer advertising claims judge ?

"If you look at some of the bold headlines on food supplements -" Use our enzymes, we can help prevent cancer "- there is probably a grain of truth in much advertising, but it is hype and is made incredibly good sound. When you hear that kind of hype, these types of exaggerated promises, it's time to step back and say, `Wait a minute, I invested my money in? And then there is a good time to do some research, then it's even a better time to go talk to your doctor and ask if there are risks and interactions with medications you take. "

BioDelivery Sciences updates on topical clonidine gel phase 3 for the treatment PDN

BioDelivery Sciences updates on topical clonidine gel phase 3 for the treatment PDN -

BioDelivery Sciences International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BDSI) announced today that she completed a pre-specified interim analysis of the first pivotal phase 3 trial for clonidine current topical gel for the treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN).

interim analysis was performed on data the first 50% of patients who completed the study. The purpose of the interim analysis was to allow an adjustment of the sample size necessary to maintain the appropriate statistical power to detect a treatment effect between clonidine and placebo topical gel.

ISDB views the result of the analysis as very encouraging. Following the interim analysis, a total of approximately 80 additional patients will be added to the current test in an effort to maintain 0% of the power percent to detect a statistically significant difference between gel and topical clonidine placebo. The analysis was performed by an independent biostatistician.

"We are encouraged by the results of the interim analysis," said Dr. Andrew Finn, Executive Vice President of Product Development at BDSI. "The more patients not only allow us to maintain the probability finally meet the assessment criteria of the study, but given that the registration of the initial study was about three months ahead, we still expect the first results by the end of the first quarter of 2015. Furthermore, the size of the expanded sample will provide a sufficient number of subjects to complete the long-term safety study required that will be part of our NDA package. Also part of the NDA will be a second pivotal trial that we expect from early 2015. "

" the results of the interim analysis is important because it used the actual study data make an adjustment of the sample size to maintain the probability of a positive outcome, "said Dr. Mark A. Sirgo, President and CEO." based on this information, we will continue to progress other aspects of the clinical development program required for NDA. "

Oncolytics Biotech announces its financial results and operational highlights for the second quarter 2014

Oncolytics Biotech announces its financial results and operational highlights for the second quarter 2014 -

Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (TSX: ONC, NASDAQ: ONCY) ( "Oncolytics" or the "Company") today announced its financial results and operational highlights for the second quarter ended June 30, 2014.

"Our randomized clinical program continued to rise during the quarter, have recently reported the completion of enrollment in a Phase II trial using REOLYSIN ^® in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel in patients with pancreatic cancer, "said Dr. Brad Thompson, President and CEO of Oncolytics. "We also strengthened our Board, adding two directors with significant experience in financial and public society."

selected Highlights

Since 1 April 2014, highlights announced by the Company include:

the clinical and preclinical data

• completion patient enrollment in a study two arm randomized phase II of carboplatin, paclitaxel plus REOLYSIN ^® against carboplatin and paclitaxel alone in the first-line treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic pancreatic cancer (OSU-10045);
• the first results of a study looking translational intravenous administration of REOLYSIN ^® for patients with primary or metastatic brain tumors was presented at the annual ASCO meeting Chicago, IL;
• final data from randomized clinical double-blind study of examining Company REOLYSIN ^® in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel in patients with second-line of the head and neck cancers naive taxane refractory plate;
• A series of presentations by research collaborators in 8 ^e Annual International Confe ^r ence on Therapeutics oncolytic viruses held in Oxford, United Kingdom covering
  • early clinical research showing that intravenous REOLYSIN delivered ^® can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the tumor in the human brain;
  • preclinical research examining the synergies associated with the treatment in animal models with GM-CSF prior to administration of REOLYSIN ^®
  • preclinical research focusing on the identification of biomarkers predictive of sensitivity / resistance to reovirus in cell lines of head and neck cancer; and
  • preclinical research in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment associated with infection with hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

governance

• the nomination and election of Linda Hohol and Angela Holtham to the Board of the administration Corporation; and

financial

• On June 30, 2014, the company reported $ 18.9 million in cash, cash equivalents and investments short term.