MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Journal of Neuro-Oncology' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:41:43 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5666753&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy3262k2w0ugtj785%2F Abstract  Survival of glioblastoma patients has been linked to the completeness of surgical resection. Available data, however, were generated with adjuvant radiotherapy. Data confirming that extensive cytoreduction remains beneficial to patients treated with the current standard, concomitant temozolomide radiochemotherapy, are limited. We therefore analyzed the efficacy of radiochemotherapy for patients with little or no residual tumor after surgery. In this prospective, non-interventional multicenter cohort study, entry criteria were histological diagnosis of glioblastoma, small enhancing or no residual tumor on post-operative MRI, and intended temozolomide radiochemotherapy. The primary study objective was progression-free survival; secondary study objectives were surviv... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5666753 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:53:11 +0100 5666753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5666754&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe72j6481511u4622%2F Abstract  Central neurocytoma was originally described as a rare benign neuronal tumor. However, progression and local recurrences after surgery are well recognized. Stereotactic radiosurgery is another option for treatment of CN. In order to evaluate the efficacy of SRS, we performed a quantitative systematic review of the available data on SRS for CN. To identify eligible studies, systematic searches for all CNs treated with SRS were conducted in major scientific publication databases. English studies published prior to May 2011 were reviewed and summarized with reference to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Tumor local control was analyzed. Heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed, and the summary control rate and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5666754 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:58:52 +0100 5666754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5647039&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F75027v32117t0m15%2F The objective of this study was to retrospectively investigate MGMT promoter hypermethylation status for a series of 350 human brain tumors, including 275 gliomas of different malignancy grade, 21 glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell lines, and 75 non-glial tumors. The analysis was performed by methylation-specific PCR and capillary electrophoresis. MGMT expression at the protein level was also evaluated by both immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting analysis. Associations of MGMT hypermethylation with IDH1/IDH2 mutations, EGFR amplification, TP53 mutations, and 1p/19q co-deletion, and the prognostic significance of these, were investigated for the gliomas. MGMT promoter hypermethylation was identified in 37.8% of gliomas, but was not present in non-glial tumors, with the excepti... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5647039 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:38 +0100 5647039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5647040&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq77834141t045301%2F We report a third case of a neonate who presented with the appearance of a metastatic brain tumor involving the orbit, sella, and cerebellum that was ultimately proven to be IPEH. A thorough literature review of IPEH is presented and we discuss this clinical entity and its management. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11060-012-0799-2Authors Chie-Schin Shih, Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Room 4340, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USARichard Burgett, Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University, Indianapolis and Midwest Eye Institute, 200 West 103rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46290, USAJose Bonnin, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, India... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5647040 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:04:09 +0100 5647040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5638070&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn001363422777q4j%2F Abstract  With the exception of radiation-induced tumors, benign meningiomas that are known to have developed within a defined time period are extremely rare. We have genetically characterized two cases of radiographically defined de novo, sporadic meningiomas—a 5-cm, left parasagittal tumor in a 61-year-old male and a 2.3-cm, right falx tumor in a 53-year-old female. Neither tumor was observed during MRIs performed for unrelated complaints 49 and 28 months before surgery, respectively. Both tumors were totally resected, and histopathological examination revealed WHO grade I meningiomas. In both cases, the MIB-1 staining indices were high for grade I meningioma (5.6% for case 1 and 9.1% for case 2), and abnormal accumulation of p53 were observed by immunohistochemist... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5638070 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:10:08 +0100 5638070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5638071&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F712760825303q858%2F In conclusion, MGMT methylation and IDH1 mutation are rare events in gliosarcomas, and only aggressive and repetitive local control seems to be effective in treatment of gliosarcoma. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical StudyPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0790-3Authors Dakeun Lee, Department of Pathology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, KoreaSo Young Kang, Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 50 Irwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 135-710 Republic of KoreaYeon-Lim Suh, Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 50 Irwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 135-710 Republic of KoreaJi Yun Jeong, Department of Pathology, S... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5638071 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:32:32 +0100 5638071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5638073&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F67331515q0075115%2F Abstract  Glioblastomas are known to be highly chemoresistant, but HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) have been shown to be of therapeutic relevance for this aggressive tumor type. We treated U87 glioblastoma cells with trichostatin A (TSA) to define potential epigenetic targets for HDACi-mediated antitumor effects. Using a cDNA array analysis covering 96 cell cycle genes, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21WAF1 was identified as the major player in TSA-induced cell cycle arrest. TSA slightly inhibited proliferation and viability of U87 cells, cumulating in a G1/S cell cycle arrest. This effect was accompanied by a significant up-regulation of p53 and its transcriptional target p21WAF1 and by down-regulation of key G1/S regulators, such as cdk4, cdk6, and cyclin D1. Nevertheless, TSA... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5638073 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:32:31 +0100 5638073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5638072&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe5005w3j17308067%2F Abstract  Glioblastoma is the most common and most aggressive primary brain tumor. Despite maximum treatment, patients only have a median survival time of 15 months, because of the tumor’s resistance to current therapeutic approaches. Thus far, methylation of the O 6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter has been the only confirmed molecular predictive factor in glioblastoma. Novel “genome-wide” techniques have identified additional important molecular alterations as mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) and its prognostic importance. This review summarizes findings and techniques of genetic, epigenetic, transcriptional, and proteomic studies of glioblastoma. It provides the clinician with an up-to-date overview of current identified molecu... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5638072 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:32:31 +0100 5638072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5638074&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm07213372v2rtg02%2F Abstract  Awake surgery with intraoperative brain mapping is highly recommended for patients with diffuse low-grade gliomas in language areas, to maximise the extent of resection while preserving the integrity of functional networks and thus quality of life. The picture-naming test “DO.80” is the gold standard for language assessment before, during, and after surgery. Cognitive functioning is correlated with quality of life, itself linked with return to work. Our objective was to evaluate the significance of measuring naming speed, and its correlation with the return to professional activities. Two complementary studies are reported. In the first retrospective study, eleven patients were examined post-operatively. Five patients were selected because they were not able t... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5638074 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:32:29 +0100 5638074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619678&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fln47g4700802k187%2F This report describes the first known experience of patients with RPCNSL treated with bendamustine. Therapy was well-tolerated and best response was noted as stable disease after eight cycles of bendamustine followed by a subsequent local systemic recurrence found at five months follow-up. CNS involvement in this patient remained stable 20 + months post-bendamustine treatment. Based on our observations, further neuropharmacokinetic and efficacy studies with bendamustine may be warranted in this patient population. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0788-xAuthors Jaclyn J. Renfrow, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USAAlisha DeTroye, Department of Internal Medicine, Section on Hematology and Oncology, C... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619678 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:19:32 +0100 5619678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619677&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv7263225041m7025%2F Abstract  It is essential to be familiar with normal patterns of 18F FDG distribution in the whole body for accurate PET interpretation. We assessed FDG uptake by the spinal cord to evaluate its characteristics in cancer patients. For 101 cancer patients who underwent 18F FDG PET/CT the spinal cord along its segments was visually assessed for FDG uptake, regarding MaxSUV-measurement ≥1 as cut-off point. This assessment was correlated with the patient’s database variables. MRI and FDG PET-CT follow-up were included in the evaluation of positive subjects with FDG cord uptake. Forty-nine (48.5%) were positive for FDG cord uptake. The most encountered sites were the eleventh and twelfth dorsal vertebrae (36/49; 73.5%), all cervical (24/49; 49%), and the first lumbar segments ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619677 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:19:32 +0100 5619677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619676&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd41746283777544l%2F Abstract  Glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) may be the initiating cells in glioblastoma (GBM) and contribute to the resistance of these tumors to conventional therapies. Development of novel chemotherapeutic agents and treatment approaches against GBM, especially those specifically targeting GSCs are thus necessary. In the present study, we found that a novel Janus kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway inhibitor (WP1193) significantly decreased the proliferation of established glioma cell lines in vitro and inhibit the growth of glioma in vivo. To test the efficacy of WP1193 against GSCs, we then administrated WP1193 to GSCs isolated and expanded from multiple human GBM tumors. We revealed that WP1193 suppressed phosphorylation of JAK2... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619676 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:19:32 +0100 5619676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619679&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu24j2p6v5t9n2743%2F Abstract  The role of repeat resection in the multimodal treatment of gliomas is unclear. Repeat surgery theoretically carries a higher risk of inducing neurological deficits, which might even out any advantage of cytoreduction. We sought to determine whether the occurrence of perioperative infarction is higher for repeat surgery than for first surgery, and sought to identify factors associated with the occurrence of postoperative infarction. Therefore, we searched our database to identify patients who were operated for primary or recurrent glial tumors between October 2007 and October 2010. We analyzed 177 procedures, of which 130 (73.4%) were first surgeries and 47 (26.5%) were repeat. Initial WHO grades, KPS scores, and age were evenly distributed between the groups. For... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619679 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:19:31 +0100 5619679 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5608146&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fmw08ku69544kj647%2F The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of Aurora Kinase A inhibition in ATRT cell lines. Our analysis revealed that inhibition of Aurora Kinase A induces cell death in ATRT cells and the small molecule inhibitor MLN 8237 sensitizes these cells to radiation. Furthermore, inhibition of Aurora Kinase A resulted in decreased activity of pro-proliferative signaling pathways. These data indicate that inhibition of Aurora Kinase A is a promising small molecule target for ATRT therapy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory InvestigationPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0795-yAuthors Sujatha Venkataraman, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USAIrina Alimova, Depa... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5608146 Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:41:36 +0100 5608146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5608147&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv60v657284882w16%2F Abstract  The treatment for spinal sarcomas is difficult due to inadequate surgical margin and an inability to deliver high dose radiation. Advanced technology of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) enabled higher biological effective doses of radiation to be delivered to spinal sarcomas by hypofractionation method. The authors evaluated local control rate following SRS for primary and metastatic spinal sarcomas. Thirty-two spinal sarcomas (10 primary tumors, 22 metastatic tumors) in 27 patients were treated by SRS from November 2002 to September 2009. Patients were assessed for pain status, neurological status and radiological response by regular follow-up. Overall survival and local progression-free survival were calculated and prognostic factors were sought. Median tumor vol... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5608147 Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:41:35 +0100 5608147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5596933&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fxn52712187434h85%2F In this study, we sought to characterize post-therapy MRI changes mimicking progression, which we refer to as “spurious progression” (SP) in children with brain tumors. We analyzed whether SP is associated with particular tumor types or therapeutic modalities. Between 2000 and 2009, we identified 181 consecutive children <21 years of age at our center who were treated for brain tumors and had at least three MRI scans within a year after completing therapy. SP was defined as MRI abnormalities characterized by increase in size, enhancement, edema, or cystic changes within 12 months following therapy, and stabilization or improvement on subsequent imaging. One-hundred forty-one patients with brain tumors were evaluable. Fifty-six (40%) had imaging abnormalities initiall... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5596933 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:42:15 +0100 5596933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5596934&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw351p04j5mp18303%2F In conclusion, ONG are rare tumors seen predominantly in children. The overall prognosis of high-grade tumors remains poor in all age groups despite multi-modality treatment. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical StudyPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0783-2Authors Mark V. Mishra, Department of Radiation Oncology, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA, USADavid W. Andrews, Department of Neurosurgery, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA, USAJon Glass, Department of Neurosurgery, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA, USAJames J. Evans, Department of Neurosurgery, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA, USAAdam P. Dicker, Department of Radiation Oncology, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA, USAXinglei Shen, Department of Radiation Oncology, Jef... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5596934 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:42:14 +0100 5596934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5596935&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl6884m1064lm46x0%2F Abstract  The prognosis for diffuse infiltrating pontine gliomas (DIPG) remains extremely poor, with the majority of patients surviving less than 2 years. Here, we have adapted standard xenograft techniques to study glioma growth in the mouse brainstem, and have utilized the mouse model for studying a relevant therapeutic for treating DIPGs. bioluminescence imaging monitoring revealed a progressive increase in signal following the injection of either of two tumor cell types into the brainstem. Mice with orthotopic GS2 tumors, and receiving a single 100 mg/kg dose of temozolomide showed a lengthy period of decreased tumor luminescence, with substantially increased survival relative to untreated mice (P < 0.001). A small molecule inhibitor that targets c... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5596935 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:34:42 +0100 5596935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5571953&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F93741l40814385l2%2F Abstract  The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of cytological analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the diagnostic work-up of breast cancer patients who present with neurological symptoms suspected for central nervous system (CNS) metastases. In the period 1989–2009, a total of 81 patients with breast cancer underwent CSF cytological examination. Relevant tumour characteristics, clinical presentation and radiological findings were scored. The CSF cytological diagnosis was classified according to the 1996 NCI-sponsored conference approach as malignant, suspicious for malignancy, atypical, benign or inadequate. During the course of 20 years, 145 CSF cytological examinations were performed. Relatively common neurological symptoms resulting in cytolo... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5571953 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:58:45 +0100 5571953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5571954&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F33345570584g6p34%2F We examined patients with low grade supratentorial brain tumors to determine characteristics of patients who underwent AED withdrawal. A retrospective chart review was performed in patients who underwent resection between 1/1/2004 and 12/31/2005 at a single center. Data were collected regarding the use of postoperative AEDs, occurrence of postoperative seizures, and patient/tumor characteristics. We examined 169 patients with a median follow-up of 3.1 years. AEDs were withdrawn or never started in 111 patients; post-withdrawal seizures occurred in 11 (9.9%). The rate was similar between meningiomas and primary brain tumors. No independent risk factors for post-withdrawal seizures were found. Of 58 patients whose AEDs were not withdrawn, postoperative seizures occurred in 28 (48... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5571954 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:53:20 +0100 5571954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5552023&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F84n881368622m813%2F We report our experience with bevacizumab (BEV), a VEGF targeting antibody, following failure of a VEGF receptor targeting tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). We retrospectively identified patients treated on clinical trials with VEGFR–TKIs for recurrent GBM followed by BEV at next recurrence. Survival was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Fourteen patients were identified (six women; median age 57). All received VEGFR–TKIs (sunitinib 11, cediranib 2, sorafenib 1) then BEV at next recurrence. There were no radiographic responses to VEGFR–TKIs; best response was stable disease in 50% (7/14). Patients received BEV alone (21%, 3/14) or in combination with chemotherapy (79%, 11/14). On BEV, 29% (4/14) had a partial response, and 36% (5/14) stabilized. Of evaluable patients, 42% ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5552023 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:53:39 +0100 5552023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5544156&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fvk322q4978753501%2F Abstract  Intramedullary spinal cord metastases of solid neoplasms are associated with poor long-term survival. As the characteristics of secondary intramedullary spinal cord non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) are not well understood, we sought to describe its clinical features and outcome. We retrospectively reviewed the Mayo Clinic patient database, lymphoma database, and pathology records from 1996 to 2010 and identified patients with clinical myelopathy and neuroimaging evidence of secondary intramedullary spinal cord involvement from pathologically confirmed systemic NHL. Seven patients were included in this study. The median age was 61 years (range, 41–81). Symptom onset was subacute (≤8 weeks) in six. Four patients were wheelchair-dependent at diagnosis. Sp... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5544156 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 06:44:04 +0100 5544156 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5537460&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Far25p6576h44v81t%2F In this study, we aimed to determine whether high micro-vessel density (MVD) expressed by RECK in glioma tissue is correlated with grades of glioma. We also compared RECK expression with that of the formerly known vessel marker, CD34, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). RECK, CD34, and VEGF immuno-reactivities of 72 glioma tissues were studied. RECK was seen in microvessels of glioma tissues. CD34 showed a similar pattern to RECK, whereas VEGF showed positive staining in cytoplasm of tumor cells and endothelial cells. Average MVD with RECK was 107.6 microvessels (range 7–290). RECK was positively correlated with grades of glioma. RECK and CD34 also showed a strong correlation (P = 0.001). Higher frequency of VEGF staining was also correlated with higher grade of... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5537460 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:47:31 +0100 5537460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5524120&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Frh27gw81w0122864%2F We report six patients with cancer treated with rTPA at our institution, four of whom had early neurologic recovery. Only one of our six patients suffered minor bleeding as a complication of rTPA. Acute stroke in patients with cancer may be treated with rTPA, and active cancer should not be considered an absolute contraindication to rTPA use. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Study - Patient StudyPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0780-5Authors Jerome J. Graber, Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USALakshmi Nayak, Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USALisa M. DeAngelis, Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 127... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5524120 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 16:43:39 +0100 5524120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5515046&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1648603865504775%2F Abstract  For medulloblastoma patients, the current therapeutic paradigm of surgery followed by radiation and chemotherapy can lead to long-term remission. However, the sequelae of treatment can be very debilitating, particularly in young children. Immunotherapy is an attractive treatment approach to optimize the targeting of tumor cells while sparing the vulnerable surrounding brain that is still developing in children. Understanding the relationship between medulloblastoma and the immune system is critical to develop effective immunologic-based treatment strategies for these patients. This review focuses on current knowledge of tumor immunology and the factors that contribute to the lack of immune system recognition of these tumors. The specificity of tumor antigens prese... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5515046 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:51:12 +0100 5515046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5515047&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F617614358506j477%2F Abstract  The prognostic value of PET with (18F)-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG) has been shown in high-grade gliomas (HGG), but not compared with consensual prognostic factors. We sought to evaluate the independent predictive value of pre-treatment FDG-PET on overall (OS) and event-free survival (EFS). We retrospectively analyzed 41 patients with histologically-confirmed HGG (31 glioblastomas and 10 anaplastic gliomas). The pre-treatment uptake of FDG was assessed qualitatively by five-step visual metabolic grading, and quantitatively by the ratio between the tumor and contralateral maximal standardized uptake value (T/CL). EFS and OS following PET were compared with FDG uptake by univariate analysis, and by two multivariate analyses: one including main consensual prognostic... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5515047 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:43:55 +0100 5515047 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5515048&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3324j7u476175754%2F Abstract  Tumors are usually characterized by an imbalance in cytosine methylation, including hypomethylation of CpG islands. In this study, bisulfite sequencing PCR was used to assess the promoter methylation status of coagulation factor X (F10) gene in tumors of 96 glioma patients and in glioma cells U251, SF767, and SF126, and the effect of promoter hypomethylation on protein expression was evaluated immunohistochemically. The study showed that the demethylation ratio of F10 in SF126, SF767, and U251 cells was 38.6, 26.4, and 24.3% respectively. Hypomethylation of F10 was detected in 82.3% of glioma specimens and in no normal brain tissues, with significant correlation with its protein expression. However there was no remarkable relationship between F10 hypomethylation a... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5515048 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 06:57:24 +0100 5515048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5504338&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F0j246lr84151j832%2F In this study, we report that β-elemene disrupted the formation of the Hsp90/Raf-1 complex, a key step in maintaining the conformation stability of Raf-1, and caused deactivation of Raf-1 and inhibition of the ERK pathway, thereby leading to apoptosis of glioblastoma cells. Specifically, treatment of glioblastoma cell lines with β-elemene attenuated phosphorylation of multiple members of the kinase families in the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK cascade, including Raf-1 and ERK as well as downstream signaling targets such as Bcl-2. These results suggest that the Hsp90/Raf-1 complex could be a promising molecular target for new drug development for the treatment of glioblastoma. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory Investigation - Human/Animal TissuePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-07... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5504338 Sun, 11 Dec 2011 06:33:35 +0100 5504338 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5476152&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F2507q0183q28g875%2F Abstract  Visual field deficits can be a consequence of brain tumor location or treatment. The prevalence of unrecognized visual field deficits in children diagnosed with brain tumors is not known. All children at a single tertiary care pediatric children’s hospital diagnosed with a primary brain tumor were tested for visual field deficits by a child neurologist and neuro-ophthalmologist over 16 months. Children with reproducible visual field deficits on two separate occasions were included in the analysis. Patients with optic glioma, craniopharyngioma, or previously known visual field deficits were excluded. Fourteen of 92 (15.2%) children (average 8.9 years, 8 girls) had undiagnosed visual field deficits. Average time between diagnosis of tumor and unrecognized... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5476152 Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:50:40 +0100 5476152 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5476153&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx028h8046t055225%2F Abstract  Despite active and aggressive therapeutic measures, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RTs) are without doubt one of the most malignant brain tumors that occur during childhood. These tumors are more prevalent in children less than 3 years of age, and the prognosis is worse in these young children. Medical records of 14 patients diagnosed at our institution were reviewed. Patients diagnosed with AT/RT at our institution between 1997 and 2009 were identified. Clinical data for those patients with pathologic confirmation of AT/RTs were reviewed regarding surgery, adjuvant treatment, and survival. A total of 14 patients were identified. One patient who died 3 days after initial surgery was excluded, and 13 patients were recruited. Of the 13 patients, 7 w... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5476153 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:47:36 +0100 5476153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5468407&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn83q2504w4074874%2F Abstract  Hydroxyurea (HU), an orally administered chemotherapy, has become the de facto standard chemotherapeutic agent in patients with surgically and radiation refractory meningiomas based on a limited literature. A retrospective case series of 35 patients with recurrent WHO Grade 2 (n = 22) or 3 (n = 13) meningioma treated with HU following progression after surgery and radiotherapy was collated with primary study objectives of overall response rate, median and progression free survival (PFS) at 6-months. Thirty-five patients (25 women; 10 men: median age 63 years, range 34–86) with recurrent high-grade meningioma were treated with HU (1,000 mg/m2 orally divided twice per day; one cycle operationally defined as 4 weeks of daily HU). Pat... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5468407 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:54:49 +0100 5468407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5456979&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F40646213172r12pu%2F Abstract  Clinical experience suggests that application of the fundamental principles of rehabilitation medicine can improve the care of patients with cancer. Despite the high incidence of neurological and functional deficits in patients affected by brain tumours (BTs), rehabilitation treatment of this population is not as well established as it is for patients with other neurological conditions. To assess functional outcome in brain tumour inpatients who underwent early rehabilitation after surgery. 75 patients who had undergone neurosurgery for primary BTs and 75 patients affected by stroke were enrolled in a case-control study. All patients were evaluated by means of a core set of clinical scales (Functional Independence Measure, Sitting Balance score, Standing Balance s... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5456979 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:50:13 +0100 5456979 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5456980&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb36365x213352101%2F Abstract  The paucity of cell culture models for childhood brain tumors prompted us to establish pediatric cell lines for use in biological experiments and preclinical developmental therapeutic studies. Three cell lines were established, CHLA-200 (GBM), CHLA-259 (anaplastic medulloblastoma) and CHLA-266 (atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor, AT/RT). Consistent with an AT/RT origin, CHLA-266 lacked INI1 expression and had monosomy 22. All lines had unique DNA short tandem repeat “fingerprints” matching that of the patient’s tumor tissue and were adherent on tissue culture plastic, but differed in morphology and doubling times. CHLA-200 had a silent mutation in TP53. CHLA-259 and CHLA-266 had wild-type TP53. All three lines were relatively resistant to multiple drugs when co... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5456980 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 16:48:04 +0100 5456980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5449521&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv595816217085462%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0773-4Authors German Reyes-Botero, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie Mazarin, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, FranceJaime Gállego Pérez-Larraya, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie Mazarin, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, FranceMarc Sanson, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie Mazarin, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-594X (Source: Journal of Neuro-Oncology) Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5449521 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:56:56 +0100 5449521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5449520&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F53400jh10q497331%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0767-2Authors François Mercier, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114, USAMarie-Christine Guiot, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, CanadaMichel W. Bojanowski, Centre Hospitalier de l’Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Canada Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-594X (Source: Journal of Neuro-Oncology) Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5449520 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:56:56 +0100 5449520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5449522&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy511443467152u7l%2F Abstract  Glioblastoma is a disease with poor outcomes despite standard therapy. Specific targeting of the DNA damage response is a strategy that is becoming increasingly employed in oncology and has intriguing potential for improving outcomes in glioblastoma. DNA damage targeting has implications for improving current therapy as well as the potential to leverage inherent differences in glioblastoma cells to widen the therapeutic window. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-15DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0765-4Authors Brian M. Alexander, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, ASB1-L2, Boston, MA 02115, USANancy Pinnell, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber/Brigh... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5449522 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:42:39 +0100 5449522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5449523&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw62688vl6664vn45%2F Abstract  Development of glioma-specific nanoparticles has been an area of intense research over the past several years. Iron oxide, multifunctional superparamagnetic, and NaYF4:Yb,rare-earth upconversion nanoparticles, conjugated with chlorotoxin (CTX, a key toxin in scorpion venom which has been shown to bind specifically to glioma cell surface as a specific chloride channel and matrix metalloproteinase-2 blocker), exhibit high affinity for glioma and direct tumor visualization. We review the latest improvements of CTX-modified nanoparticle platforms which might enable development of more effective therapeutic agents in clinical treatment of glioma. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0763-6Authors Yuejun Fu, Key Laborator... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5449523 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:56:32 +0100 5449523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5440338&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk420176111462531%2F Abstract  The landmark Stupp study demonstrated a survival advantage with concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ) with standard radiotherapy (RT) in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients but excluded those older than 70 years. The prospective Roa study of older GBM patients treated with hypofractionated 3-week course RT demonstrated equivalence to standard 6-week course RT. Taken together, these trials suggest hypofractionated RT with TMZ may be a reasonable treatment option for elderly GBM patients. We conducted a retrospective review of GBM patients (age ≥60 years) treated with hypofractionated RT and temozolomide at our institution between 2000 and 2010. We identified 112 patients who received hypofractionated RT, with 57 receiving concurrent and adjuvan... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5440338 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:07:25 +0100 5440338 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5440339&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn02485t7n3856036%2F Abstract  The standard treatment of patients with high-grade gliomas based on conformal radiation therapy (RT) with or without chemotherapy (CT) may induce endocrine deficiencies of pituitary and subsequently also of peripheral hormones. In 24 premenopausal women with high-grade gliomas treated with RT and CT, hormonal changes and their impact on quality of life were investigated. Serum concentrations of gonadal, pituitary and of thyroid hormones were measured at various time points after initial anti-neoplastic therapy. Additionally, endovaginal ultrasound was performed and patients’ quality of life (QLQ) and female role functioning were assessed. Of 24 patients, 23 (96%) reported a change in their menstrual pattern. Twenty-one patients reported at least transient amenor... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5440339 Sat, 19 Nov 2011 16:54:50 +0100 5440339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5431349&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F2030l508028l5100%2F Abstract  The search for molecular markers which predict response to chemotherapy is an important aspect of current neuro-oncology research. MGMT promoter methylation is the only proved marker of glioblastoma. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of topoisomerase expression on glioblastoma survival and study the mechanisms involved. The transcript levels of all isoforms of the topoisomerase family in all grades of diffuse astrocytoma were assessed. A prospective study of patients with glioblastoma treated by a uniform treatment procedure was performed with the objective of correlating outcome with gene expression. The ability of TOP2A enzyme to relax the super coiled plasmid DNA in the presence of temozolomide was evaluated to assess its effect on TOP2A. The t... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5431349 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:32:22 +0100 5431349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5431350&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F931n387j4h0q48w1%2F Abstract  The lack of serum biomarkers for assessing the prognosis of patients with cerebral glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) prompted the present study in order to evaluate the significance of serum YKL-40 values in patients operated on for glioblastoma. An homogeneous population of 60 patients who underwent surgical removal of GBM underwent a standard treatment (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy in the same schedule) and standard radiological monitoring (same MRI sequences at pre-defined stages). Serum YKL-40 levels (Quidel Corporation, San Diego, CA) were evaluated after dividing patients into two groups on the basis of the extent of resection (total or sub-total) according to the MRI results obtained within 48 h following surgery. YKL-40 serum values, significantly ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5431350 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:32:21 +0100 5431350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5431351&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk2h576x546715184%2F Abstract  Over the past decade, the development and refinement of minimally invasive spine surgery techniques has lead to procedures with the potential to minimize iatrogenic and post-operative sequelae that may occur during the surgical treatment of various pathologies. In a similar manner, parallel advances in other current treatment technologies have led to the development of other minimally invasive treatments of spinal malignancies. These advances include percutaneous techniques for vertebral reconstruction, including vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, the development of safe and effective spinal radiosurgery, and minimal-access spinal surgical procedures that allow surgeons to safely decompress and reconstruct the anterior spinal column. The advent of these new technique... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5431351 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 07:00:57 +0100 5431351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5431352&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6566367575837386%2F The objective of this study was to clarify the relationship between tumor characteristics and 11C-methionine and FDG uptake in meningiomas. For 68 meningiomas in 51 cases, 11C-methionine uptake was evaluated by measuring both mean and maximum tumor/normal (T/N) ratio for the whole area of the tumors. FDG uptake in 44 of those meningiomas was also analyzed. Tumor size was measured volumetrically, and tumor-doubling time was estimated. Histopathological evaluation was performed in 19 surgical cases. Mean and maximum T/N ratios of 11C-methionine PET were significantly higher in skull-base lesions than in non-skull-base lesions. Correlations of mean and maximum T/N ratio of 11C-methionine PET with tumor-doubling time, MIB-1 labeling index, microvessel density and World Health Organization g... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5431352 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:58:55 +0100 5431352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5421605&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fcw723734l776rm27%2F Abstract  Livin, a novel member of the human inhibitors of apoptosis protein family, plays an important role in tumor progression and occurrence by inhibiting cell apoptosis. It is selectively expressed in the most common human neoplasms and appears to be involved in tumor cell resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. The present study was designed to investigate the potential of using RNA interference (RNAi) technique to downregulate Livin expression, and the subsequent effect on human glioma cells. The results showed that knockdown of Livin expression by short interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly inhibited glioma cell proliferation and increased cell apoptosis through cell arrest in the G1/G0 phase of cell cycle in vitro. Furthermore, Livin siRNA significantly suppress... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5421605 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 06:49:23 +0100 5421605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5421606&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe037727m706q6743%2F Abstract  Cavernous sinus hemangioma is a rare and complex vascular tumor. A direct microsurgical approach usually results in massive hemorrhage. Stereotactic radiosurgery has emerged as a treatment alternative to microsurgery. To conduct a meta-analysis assessing the effect and complications of stereotactic radiosurgery in cavernous sinus hemangioma, a systematic review and meta-analysis of all cases of cavernous hemangioma in the cavernous sinus treated with stereotactic radiosurgery was performed. The search revealed ten papers with a total enrollment of 59 patients. Tumor size ranged from 1.5–51.4 cm3 (mean 9.6 cm3). The mean follow-up period was 49.2 months (range 6–156 months). The most recent MR images demonstrated remarkable tumor shrinkage in... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5421606 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:57:11 +0100 5421606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5421607&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F62377118g1228508%2F Abstract  Papillary tumor of the pineal region (PTPR) is a rare neuroepithelial tumor that arises in the pineal region. The optimal treatment for PTPR remains controversial, as no definitive treatment strategy exists for this lesion. It is not clear whether aggressive surgical removal is superior to biopsy followed by radiotherapy. The majority of cases in the literature have undergone attempted gross total resection with a supracerebellar-infratentorial or a transcallosal-transventricular approach. In this report, we describe a case of PTPR in a 23 year-old male that presented as a third ventricular mass causing obstructive hydrocephalus. An endoscopic third ventriculostomy was performed followed by an endoscopic biopsy. Postoperative radiotherapy resulted in complete... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5421607 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:57:10 +0100 5421607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5421608&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu014795243371426%2F Abstract  Glioneuronal tumor with neuropil-like islands (GTNI) is considered a rare variant of astrocytoma, characterized by discrete aggregates of cells expressing neuronal markers that punctuate a GFAP-positive glial background. Of the 24 published GTNI cases, only two occurred in adult spinal cords; none occurred concurrent with another CNS tumor; and none of those tested exhibited the 1p/19q deletion typical of oligodendroglioma. A 48-year-old man without significant past medical history was diagnosed with a WHO grade II oligodendroglioma by stereotactic biopsy of a lesion discovered after the patient suffered a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. By FISH analysis, this tumor exhibited the 1p/19q deletion present in up to 80% of oligodendrogliomas. The patient received 14... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5421608 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:56:03 +0100 5421608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5407116&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl0ng460k41l22627%2F Abstract  Human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSC) can be used as a drug delivery vehicle for the treatment of GBM. However, tracking the migration and distribution of these transplanted cells is necessary to interpret therapeutic efficacy. We compared three labeling techniques for their ability to track the migration of transplanted hMSC in an orthotopic mouse xenograft model. hMSC were labeled with three different imaging tags (fluorescence, luciferase or ferumoxide) for imaging by fluorescence, bioluminescence or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), respectively. hMSC were labeled for all imaging modalities without the use of transfection agents. The labeling efficacy of the tags was confirmed, followed by in vitro and in vivo migration assays to track hMSC migration towards ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5407116 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 06:47:36 +0100 5407116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5407117&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx5x81166787q2553%2F Abstract  The present study evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of tandem high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDCT/autoSCT) in very young children with anaplastic ependymoma. We aimed both to improve survival and to avoid unacceptable late adverse effects of radiation therapy (RT) by avoiding or deferring RT until 3 years of age. Five consecutive patients younger than 3 years of age with anaplastic ependymoma were enrolled from April 2006 to November 2008. Tandem HDCT/autoSCT was given following six cycles of induction chemotherapy. RT was either not given or deferred until 3 years of age if the patient was in complete response after tandem HDCT/autoSCT. Median age at diagnosis was 16 (range 12–28) months. Four patients ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5407117 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:45:50 +0100 5407117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5407118&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv55469v2p7583562%2F Abstract  Bevacizumab is one of the rare drugs that could improve high-grade glioma outcome after failure of chemoradiotherapy. However, to date, there is no biomarker predictive for efficacy of bevacizumab therapy in terms of survival improvement for patients with high-grade glioma. We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical factors associated with patient survival using a training cohort of 110 consecutive patients treated with bevacizumab for recurrent high-grade glioma and an independent validation cohort of 109 patients. In the training cohort, 110 consecutive patients received bevacizumab-based therapy. The number of chemotherapy cycles delivered was 1,411. Median follow-up was 12 months. Thirty-four patients (31%) had objective partial response and 24% ha... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5407118 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:55:18 +0100 5407118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5407119&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F44157r875gh24j14%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0752-9Authors German Reyes-Botero, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie Mazarin, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, FranceJaime Gallego Pérez-Larraya, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie Mazarin, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, FranceMarc Sanson, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie Mazarin, Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-594X (Source: Journal of Neuro-Oncology) Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5407119 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:55:17 +0100 5407119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5407120&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3051115571652u10%2F We present a short case-illustrated review on these remarkable issues. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0746-7Authors Pietro Ciccarino, Department of Neurosurgery, Padua University Hospital, Via Giustiniani 2, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 35128 Padua, ItalyAntonino Rotilio, Department of Neurosurgery, Padua University Hospital, Via Giustiniani 2, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 35128 Padua, ItalyMarta Rossetto, Department of Neuroscience, Padua University Hospital, Padua, ItalyRenzo Manara, Department of Neuro-Radiology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, ItalyEnrico Orvieto, Department of Pathology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, ItalyFranco Berti, Department of Radiotherapy, IOV IRCCS of Padua, Padua, ItalyGiuseppe Lombardi, Depar... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5407120 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:45:35 +0100 5407120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5407121&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb52506ul1g445481%2F Abstract  Because of the variety of factors affecting glioma prognosis, prediction of patient survival is particularly difficult. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks have been considered with regard to how their spatial characteristics relate to glioma. However, the dynamic nature of PPIs in vivo makes them temporally and spatially complex events. Integration of prognosis-specific co-expression information adds further dynamic features to these networks. Although some biomarkers for glioma prognosis have been identified, none is sufficient for accurate prediction of either prognosis or improved survival. We have established co-expressed protein-interaction networks that integrate protein–protein interactions with glioma gene-expression profiles related to differen... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5407121 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:58:59 +0100 5407121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384555&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn30v1241w6832qn1%2F Abstract  We evaluated the efficacy and safety of gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKSR) followed by bevacizumab combined with chemotherapy in 11 patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme who experienced tumor progression despite aggressive initial multi-modality treatment. Our experience included eight male and three female patients. The median patient age at GKSR was 62 years (range 46–72 years). At the time of GKSR, seven patients had a first recurrence and four had two or more recurrences. The median interval from the initial diagnosis until GKSR was 17 months (range 5–34.5 months). The median tumor volume was 13.6 cm3 (range 1.2–45.1 cm3) and the median margin dose of GKSR was 16 Gy (range 13–18 Gy). Following ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384555 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:48:07 +0100 5384555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384556&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fetu3277j0k57h681%2F In this study, we have evaluated the effect of p38SJ, a novel member of the DING family of proteins, derived from Hypericum perforatum calluses, on the growth of malignant glioma cell lines, T98G and U-87MG by focusing on cell cycle and signaling pathways controlled by phosphorylation of various regulatory proteins including ERK. p38SJ, which exhibits profound phosphatase activity, shows the capacity to affect the phosphorylation status of several important kinases modulating signaling pathways, and cell growth and proliferation. Our results demonstrate that p38SJ reduces glioma cell viability and arrests cell cycle progression at G0/G1. The observed growth inhibitory effect of p38SJ is likely mediated by the downregulation of several cell cycle gatekeeper proteins, including cyclin E... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384556 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:43:56 +0100 5384556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384557&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm837404u12r50753%2F Abstract  Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) of compounds into brain tumors reportedly circumvents the blood brain barrier. CED intends to increase drug delivery to malignant cells, reaching high local therapeutic concentration and decreasing or eliminating systemic side effects. Clinical experience and published data on catheter placement (CP) surgery are scarce. We propose practical and technical guidelines for planning CED based on our experience. We retrospectively analyzed the medical charts and relevant neuroimages of 25 patients following the insertion of 64 CED catheters. The patients were enrolled in at least one of four clinical trials using CED for treating recurrent glioblastoma multiforme in our institution between 2003–2006. Intra- and postoperative complica... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384557 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:43:53 +0100 5384557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384558&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm0154077788648u4%2F Abstract  Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors (DNTs) are typically hypometabolic but can show increased amino acid uptake on positron emission tomography (PET). To better understand mechanisms of amino acid accumulation in epileptogenic DNTs, we combined quantitative α-[11C]methyl-l-tryptophan (AMT) PET with tumor immunohistochemistry. Standardized uptake values (SUVs) of AMT and glucose were measured in 11 children with temporal lobe DNT. Additional quantification for AMT transport and metabolism was performed in 9 DNTs. Tumor specimens were immunostained for the l-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), a key enzyme of the immunomodulatory kynurenine pathway. All 11 tumors showed glucose hypometabolism, while mean AMT SUVs were high... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384558 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:54:34 +0100 5384558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384559&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5hp58l872j641516%2F Abstract  This phase II trial was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of TLN-4601 in patients with glioblastoma (GBM) at first progression. TLN-4601 inhibits the Ras-MAPK signaling pathway, and in animal models crosses the blood–brain barrier and accumulates in implanted gliomas, possibly by binding specifically to the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor. A maximum of 40 patients with recurrent GBM were to be enrolled in this study. TLN-4601 was administered at a dose of 480 mg/m2/day by continuous intravenous (CIV) administration. Each 21-day cycle consisted of a 14-day CIV administration and a 7-day recovery period. Samples were obtained from all patients for pharmacokinetic evaluations (PK) and for Raf-1 and pERK biomarker assessment using immunohistochemistry and f... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384559 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:54:33 +0100 5384559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384560&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr46781t1712212l8%2F Abstract  The standard-of-care treatment for newly diagnosed glioblastoma changed in 2005, when radiation therapy plus temozolomide chemotherapy replaced radiation therapy alone. It is not yet clear how this change in treatment has influenced patient survival in routine clinical practice, or if a survival benefit extends to patients older than those enrolled in the trial. Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program was analyzed to compare survival of adult glioblastoma patients diagnosed from 2000–2003 to patients diagnosed from 2005–2008, in order to evaluate pre-temozolomide and post-temozolomide periods. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models were used. 6,673 patients with glioblastoma diagnosed from 2000–2003 and... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384560 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:52:57 +0100 5384560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5359962&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F9766407362137465%2F Abstract  Temozolomide (TMZ) is given in addition to radiotherapy in glioma patients, but its interaction with the commonly prescribed antiepileptic drug valproic acid (VPA) is largely unknown. Induction of DNA demethylation by VPA could potentially induce expression of the O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) protein, causing resistance to TMZ and thereby antagonizing its effect. Therefore, this study investigates the interaction between VPA, TMZ, and γ-radiation. Two glioma cell lines were used that differ in TMZ sensitivity caused by the absence (D384) or presence (T98) of the MGMT protein. VPA was administered before (24/48 h) or after (24 h) single doses of γ-radiation; or, after 24 h, VPA treatment was accompanied by a single dose of TMZ for a... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5359962 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:24:08 +0100 5359962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5359961&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr12628p761m73621%2F We report a patient who developed Epstein-Barr virus related primary CNS-PTLD following allogeneic HSCT who was treated with the monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody rituximab and reduction of immunosuppression. In addition, we review the literature and discuss treatment options for patients with primary CNS-PTLD following allogeneic HSCT. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0739-6Authors Frank Lieberman, Divisions of Hematology-Oncology, and Hematopathology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5150 Center Ave., Suite. 572, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USAVictor Yazbeck, Divisions of Hematology-Oncology, and Hematopathology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5359961 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:24:08 +0100 5359961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5359960&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F26258r7801652901%2F In this study, we found a significant incidence of HDGF prevalence between the different pathological types and stages of glioma in 105 patients. We also found a prognostic significance in 41 glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients, with prevalence of nuclear HDGF predicting short survival of patients with GBM after surgery. To delineate the mitogenic role of HDGF in gliomagenesis, an adenoviral-expressed HDGF small interfering RNA (Ad-HDGF siRNA) was used to knock down expression of nuclear HDGF. After knocking down nuclear HDGF expression in human GBM cells, cell growth and cell invasion and induction on apoptosis by caspase-3 activation were significantly inhibited. We conclude that HDGF is a mitogenic growth factor in glioma progression and can be a useful prognostic marker for GB... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5359960 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:24:08 +0100 5359960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5346885&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg6211644vt468412%2F In conclusion, water-suppressed proton (1H) MRS provides a non-invasive measure of 2-HG in gliomas, and may serve as a potential biomarker for patients with IDH1 mutant brain tumors. In addition to 2-HG, alterations in several other metabolites measured by MRS correlate with IDH1 mutation status. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Study – Patient StudyPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0737-8Authors Whitney B. Pope, Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USARobert M. Prins, Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, Gonda Building, Room 3357, 695 Charles Young Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1761, USAM. Alber... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5346885 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 05:48:27 +0100 5346885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5335135&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F846t23p1158k4326%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0742-yAuthors Oliver Grauer, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053 Regensburg, GermanyChristina Pascher, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053 Regensburg, GermanyChristian Hartmann, Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology (G380), German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, GermanyFlorian Zeman, Center for Clinical Studies, University Medical Center Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, GermanyMichael Weller, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zürich, Frauenklinikstrasse 26, 8091 Zurich, SwitzerlandMartin Proescholdt, Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Cente... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5335135 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:44:43 +0100 5335135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5335136&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fvm2344567175u013%2F Abstract  Meningiomas are the second most common primary tumor of the brain. Surgical resection is the preferred treatment for easily accessible tumors that can be safely removed. However, many tumors arise deep within the skull base making complete surgical resection difficult or impossible. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a highly effective alternative to surgical resection that has been used as a primary therapy for benign meningiomas as well as an adjuvant treatment for residual or recurrent tumors. The 5-year tumor control rates for stereotactic radiosurgery are equivalent to gross-total resection with lower morbidity than surgery, especially for skull base lesions. Additionally, adjuvant treatment of subtotally resected tumors results in tumor control rates equivalent to... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5335136 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:00:53 +0100 5335136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5323656&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa966661445kg6725%2F This article will review how the glioblastoma genomic data set serves as an illustrative platform for the concepts put forward by Hanahan and Weinberg on the cancer phenotype. The picture emerging suggests that most glioblastomas evolve along a multitude of pathways rather than a single defined pathway. In this context, the article will further provide a discussion of the subtypes of glioblastoma as they relate to key principles of developmental neurobiology. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-12DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0714-2Authors Kimberly Ng, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USARyan Kim, Department of Neurology, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USASantosh Kesari, Depar... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5323656 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 05:49:39 +0100 5323656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5323657&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F884144qq421qp820%2F Abstract  Although outcome following bevacizumab among recurrent grade IV malignant glioma patients is documented as poor by several analyses, outcome for recurrent grade III patients following bevacizumab therapy has not been specifically evaluated. We performed a pooled analysis of 96 recurrent grade III malignant glioma patients enrolled on three consecutive phase II bevacizumab salvage trials to evaluate overall outcome following bevacizumab trial discontinuation. Outcome on the three bevacizumab trials, which included similar eligibility, treatment and assessment criteria, was comparable. Forty-nine patients who progressed on bevacizumab trial therapy and remained alive for at least 30 days elected to receive additional therapy. These patients achieved a median PF... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5323657 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:48:16 +0100 5323657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313875&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg2q55rw338031836%2F Abstract  Central nervous system (brain or leptomeningeal) metastases (BLm) are considered rare in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients. Now that docetaxel has become the reference drug for first-line treatment of CRPC, patients whose disease is not controlled by hormonal manipulations may live much longer than before and have higher risk of developing BLm. We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients with CRPC attending our centres from 2002 to 2010, and identified all of those who were diagnosed as having BLm and received (or were considered to have been eligible to receive) docetaxel-based treatment. We identified 31 cases of BLm (22 brain metastases and 9 leptomeningeal metastases) with an incidence of 3.3%. BLm-free survival was 43.5 mont... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313875 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:50:34 +0100 5313875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313876&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F56l3u41063k4m614%2F Abstract  We evaluated the efficacy of carboplatin, irinotecan, and bevacizumab among bevacizumab-naïve, recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) patients in a phase 2, open-label, single arm trial. Forty eligible patients received carboplatin (area under the plasma curve [AUC] 4 mg/ml-min) on day one, while bevacizumab (10 mg/kg) and irinotecan (340 mg/m2 for patients on CYP3A-enzyme-inducing anti-epileptics [EIAEDs] and 125 mg/m2 for patients not on EIAEDs) were administered on days 1 and 14 of every 28-day cycle. Patients were evaluated after each of the first two cycles and then after every other cycle. Treatment continued until progressive disease, unacceptable toxicity, non-compliance, or voluntary withdrawal. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313876 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 05:51:40 +0100 5313876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313877&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv41326u8312072t2%2F Abstract  The EORTC/NCIC 22981/26981 study demonstrated an improvement in median overall survival (OS) from 12.1 to 14.6 months in patients with glioblastoma (GBM) who received temozolomide with post-operative radiotherapy (RT). The current study was performed to determine if those results translated into a survival benefit in a population-based cohort. Patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2006 with a GBM who underwent surgery and post-operative RT were selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database. Patients were grouped into time periods: 2000–2001, 2002–2003, 2004 and 2005–2006 (which represented those treated after the EORTC/NCIC trial presentation in 2004). Relative survival (RS) was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method, and Cox multi... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313877 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 15:44:19 +0100 5313877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313879&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj30204n7w7402865%2F Abstract  High-mobility group A1 (HMGA1) protein is an architectural transcription factor widely expressed during embryonic development and tumor progression. The purpose of this research was to investigate the expression of HMGA1 in malignant gliomas with different WHO classification and to study the correlation of HMGA1 expression with tumor proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis. Expression of HMGA1, Ki-67, MMP-9, VEGF-A, and MVD in malignant gliomas and their correlation were studied in 60 samples of different WHO classification by use of immunohistochemistry, and in 27 randomly selected samples by use of real-time quantitative PCR. Immunohistochemistry results showed that nuclear immunostaining of HMGA1 protein was not observed in normal brain tissues but was observ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313879 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 05:52:22 +0100 5313879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313878&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft8r1615667004235%2F Abstract  Bevacizumab is frequently used to treat patients with recurrent high-grade glioma (HGG), but responses are generally not durable. Panobinostat is a histone deacetylase inhibitor with anti-neoplastic and anti-angiogenic effects and may work synergistically with VEGF inhibitors. We performed a phase I study to evaluate the safety and tolerability of the combination of orally administered panobinostat with bevacizumab in patients with recurrent HGG. Patients with recurrent HGG were treated on a 3 + 3 trial design. Patients received bevacizumab 10 mg/kg every other week in combination with oral panobinostat. The starting dose of panobinostat was 20 mg three times per week, weekly (cohort 1). Due to concerns for thrombocytopenia with the weekly dosin... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313878 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 05:52:22 +0100 5313878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5304083&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm27h3666750jptg4%2F Abstract  Brain tumors, benign or malignant, are characterized by a very high degree of vascularization. Recent accumulating evidence suggests that during development the neuronal wiring follows the same routes as the vasculature and that these two systems may share some of the same factors for guidance. Thus, expression of dual angiogenic/neurogenic growth factors was evaluated by in situ hybridization in human primary brain tumors of three different types, i.e., astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas, of increasing grades, in relation with the grade and type of the tumor. For this evaluation we selected vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) and its receptors VEGF-R1 and VEGF-R2 and the neuropilins 1 and 2 (NRP-1 and NRP-2), which have proangioge... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5304083 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 05:44:52 +0100 5304083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5304084&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5108kk254802834g%2F In this study, we profiled a series of 25 MB with a 32K BAC array covering 99% of the current assembly of the human genome for the identification of genetic copy number alterations possibly important in MB. Previously known aberrations as well as several novel focally amplified loci could be identified. As expected, the most frequently observed alteration was the combination of 17p loss and 17q gain, which was detected in both high- and standard-risk patients. We also defined minimal overlapping regions of aberrations, including 16 regions of gain and 18 regions of loss in various chromosomes. A few noteworthy narrow amplified loci were identified on autosomes 1 (38.89–41.97 and 84.89–90.76 Mb), 3 (27.64–28.20 and 35.80–43.50 Mb), and 8 (119.66–139.79 Mb... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5304084 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 05:44:51 +0100 5304084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5304085&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc5753m760520r717%2F Abstract  Temozolomide (TMZ) is the standard chemotherapeutic agent for human malignant glioma, but intrinsic or acquired chemoresistance represents a major obstacle to successful treatment of this highly lethal group of tumours. Obtaining better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying TMZ resistance in malignant glioma is important for the development of better treatment strategies. We have successfully established a passage control line (D54-C10) and resistant variants (D54-P5 and D54-P10) from the parental TMZ-sensitive malignant glioma cell line D54-C0. The resistant sub-cell lines showed alterations in cell morphology, enhanced cell adhesion, increased migration capacities, and cell cycle arrests. Proteomic analysis identified a set of proteins that showed... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5304085 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 05:44:50 +0100 5304085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296594&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm071m603g5626861%2F Abstract  The role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the pathogenesis of meningiomas is unknown. Cell cultures from three human leptomeninges, five WHO grade I and seven grade II meningiomas were treated with remnant CSF from 22 patients with no central nervous system disease and normal cell indices. Cells were evaluated by CyQUANT for DNA synthesis/cell proliferation and by western blots for phosphorylation/activation of growth regulatory pathways activated in meningiomas including JAK1–STAT3, MEK1–p44/42MAPK, Akt–mTOR and Rb. Analysis of Caspase 3 activation and survivin was also performed. Finally, the effects of PDGF neutralizing antibody and cucurbitacin, a STAT3 inhibitor on CSF stimulation were tested. Compared to controls and the mitogen PDGF-BB, various CSF sam... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296594 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:48:13 +0100 5296594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296593&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fek5601246157qjk1%2F This article reviews the literature, specifically in relation to the role of corticosteroids in primary and secondary brain tumour patients. Areas reviewed include corticosteroid pharmacology, indications, mechanism of action, toxicity profile, prescribing practices, and corticosteroid-sparing agents. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-11DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0713-3Authors Richella Ryan, Palliative Care Department, Elsworth House, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UKSara Booth, Palliative Care Department, Elsworth House, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UKStephen Price, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296593 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:48:13 +0100 5296593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296596&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc517830370110066%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0732-0Authors M. Maschio, Department of Neuroscience and Cervical-Facial Pathology, Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, National Institute for Cancer, “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, ItalyL. Dinapoli, Department of Neuroscience and Cervical-Facial Pathology, Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, National Institute for Cancer, “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, ItalyF. Sperati, Department of Epidemiology, National Institute for Cancer, “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, ItalyA. Fabi, Department of Oncology, National Institute for Cancer, “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, ItalyA. Pace, Department of Neuroscience and Cervical-Facial Pathol... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296596 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:48:12 +0100 5296596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296595&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl848673667844545%2F Abstract  The central nervous system Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor (CNS AT/RT) is a highly malignant neoplasm that commonly affects infants and young children, and has an extremely poor prognosis. Recently, a small subset of ion channels have been found to be over-expressed in a variety of malignant cells, thus emerging as potential therapeutic targets for difficult to treat tumors. We have studied the electrophysiological properties of AT/RT cell lines with particular attention to cell volume sensitive ion channels (VSC). This class of membrane proteins can play a fundamental role in cellular processes relevant to tumor development. We have found that chloride selective VSCs are particularly active in AT/RT cell lines, compared to non-tumor cells. We evaluated specific ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296595 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:48:12 +0100 5296595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296597&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F955tr354h657v954%2F Abstract  Quality of life and well-being in caregivers are usually partly neglected since all attention is focused on patients and the way they react to the illness. Carers also usually neglect their own needs, especially when the illness of the patient is as complex as a brain tumor. The aim of this study is to investigate how caregivers deal with a diagnosis of brain tumor in their relatives and how they manage their quality of life and psychosocial well-being. One hundred primary caregivers of patients with brain tumors were interviewed and were asked to fill in self–administered questionnaires detecting multidimensional levels of quality of life, anxiety, depression, and psychosocial reaction to the patient’s illness. Data were related with some functional and psych... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296597 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:50:48 +0100 5296597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296599&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq1333r44l11172g2%2F Abstract  Favorable responses to temozolomide chemotherapy have recently been reported in primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) patients who are refractory to high-dose methotrexate therapy. The gene encoding the DNA repair enzyme O 6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is transcriptionally silenced by promoter methylation in several human tumors, including gliomas and systemic lymphomas. MGMT promoter methylation is also a prognostic marker in glioblastoma patients treated with temozolomide. To validate temozolomide treatment in PCNSL, we applied methylation-sensitive high resolution melting (MS-HRM) analysis to quantitate MGMT methylation in PCNSL. MGMT promoter methylation was detected in tumors from 23 (51%) of 45 PCNSL patients, 11 of which were consider... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296599 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:50:47 +0100 5296599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296598&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F16005421n0r710u3%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0724-0Authors Nadège Limousin, Department of Neurology, CHRU, 2, Boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours cedex, FranceJulien Praline, Department of Neurology, CHRU, 2, Boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours cedex, FranceOana Motica, Department of Neurology, CHRU, 2, Boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours cedex, FranceJean Philippe Cottier, Department of Neuroradiology, CHRU, Tours, FranceCecilia Rousselot-Denis, Department of Pathology, CHRU, Tours, FranceKarima Mokhtari, Department of Pathology, Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, FranceAlberto Gonzalez-Aguilar, Department of Neuro-oncology, Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, FranceBertrand De Toffol, Department of Neurology, CHRU, 2, Boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours cedex, Fra... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296598 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:50:47 +0100 5296598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5296600&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F88t4817714310n62%2F Abstract  To estimate the sustained (≥8 weeks) objective response rate in pediatric patients with recurrent or progressive high-grade gliomas (HGG, Stratum A) or brainstem gliomas (BSG, Stratum B) treated with the combination of O6-benzylguanine (O6BG) and temozolomide® (TMZ). Patients received O6BG 120 mg/m2/d IV followed by TMZ 75 mg/m2/d orally daily for 5 consecutive days of each 28-day course. The target objective response rate to consider the combination active was 17%. A two-stage design was employed. Forty-three patients were enrolled; 41 were evaluable for response, including 25 patients with HGG and 16 patients with BSG. The combination of O6BG and TMZ was tolerable, and the primary toxicities were myelosuppression and gastrointestinal symptoms. O... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5296600 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:50:45 +0100 5296600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5285161&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ftp7p3g61x31481g6%2F We report two cases of metastatic GBM seen within an 8-week period followed by a literature review. We attempted to identify common factors or a causative mechanism. Factors that predominated among the reviewed cases included male gender, tumor location, and younger age. Causative mechanisms were not apparent. While metastatic disease remains rare, it might be occurring with increasing frequency. This trend might be due to increased diagnosis, better imaging, a more extensive physician workup, or an increase in survival. Metastatic GBM can present and progress quite rapidly, and repeat evaluations of persistent or worsening complaints among GBM patients are warranted. Early diagnosis of metastatic disease spread can help to expedite alleviation of patients’ discomfort, in an alrea... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5285161 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 05:46:55 +0100 5285161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5285162&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa0671m8688758120%2F Abstract  Limited research is available regarding the efficacy of psychostimulants in treating cognitive function in primary brain tumor patients. An open-label, randomized, pilot trial examined both the general and differential efficacy of 4 weeks of methylphenidate (MPH) and modafinil (MOD) in 24 brain tumor patients. Participants completed cognitive tests and self-report measures of fatigue, sleep disturbance, mood and quality of life at baseline and after 4 weeks. Following stimulant treatment, there was evidence of a beneficial effect on test performance in speed of processing and executive function requiring divided attention. Patients with the greatest deficit in executive function at baseline appeared to derive the greatest benefit following stimulant ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5285162 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 05:46:54 +0100 5285162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5285163&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr38l1j1541613744%2F In conclusion, downregulation of uPAR and cathepsin B induced apoptosis by targeting calcineurin A to BAD via Bcl-2 in glioma. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory Investigation - Human/Animal TissuePages 1-12DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0727-xAuthors Rama Rao Malla, Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, One Illini Drive, Peoria, IL 61605, USASreelatha Gopinath, Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, One Illini Drive, Peoria, IL 61605, USAChristopher S. Gondi, Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, One Illini Drive, Peoria, IL 61605, USAKiranmai Alapati, Department of Cancer Biology and Pharma... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5285163 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 05:46:53 +0100 5285163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5285164&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft287273h5w684w88%2F Abstract  Little is known about pediatric spinal cord high grade gliomas (SCHGG) beyond their dismal prognosis. Here, we analyzed the HIT-GBM® database for the influence of surgical resection on survival. Between 1991 and 2010 the HIT-GBM group collected data from European children diagnosed with high grade glioma. Patients with the following inclusion criteria were analyzed in this study: astrocytic histology, WHO grade III or IV, age at diagnosis <18 years, and tumor localized to the spinal cord. 28 patients (mean age 11.28 years, 14 male) with primary SCHGG were identified. The tumor sizes were measured by the span across adjacent vertebrae and varied greatly (range: 1–20, median: 4). Histology was classified as WHO grade III in 15 and grade IV in 13 tumo... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5285164 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 05:45:56 +0100 5285164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5285165&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fjv1j7p744185g180%2F This study shows the feasibility of optical monitoring of BBB disruption with intravenous (IV) ICG injections. Virtual real-time optical monitoring of the BBB disruption could help improve intraarterial delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory Investigation - Human/Animal TissuePages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0711-5Authors Aysegul Ergin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USAMei Wang, Department of Anesthesiology, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, 630 West 168th Street, P&S P Box 46, New York, NY 10032, USAJane Y. Zhang, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USAJeffrey N. Bruce, Department of Neurosurgery, College of Physicians and Surge... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5285165 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 05:45:55 +0100 5285165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5273229&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft66340842667jwv1%2F Abstract  The biological process of aging encompasses a multitude of complex physiological and lifestyle changes that may alter the way typical prognostic factors affect survival among older ependymoma patients. Because very little is known about the clinical significance of traditional prognostic factors and the magnitude of their effects among older individuals, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations between survival and demographic and tumor characteristics among patients with ependymoma who were 60 years of age or older. Using the 1973–2007 dataset from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) program, we evaluated the impact of several factors on both overall and ependymoma-specific survival, utilizing multivariable Cox proportio... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5273229 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 05:54:36 +0100 5273229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5273230&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn7401p4873246r50%2F In this study, one delayed radiation necrosis model (dose, 40 Gy; radiation field, 10 × 10 mm2; n = 13) and two orthotopic glioma models in rats (9L gliosarcoma, n =8; human glioma xenografts, n = 5) were compared using multiple diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) indices. A visible isotropic apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) pattern was observed in the lesion due to radiation necrosis, which consisted of a hypointense central zone and a hyperintense peripheral zone. There were significantly lower ADC, parallel diffusivity, and perpendicular diffusivity in the necrotic central zone than in the peripheral zone (all P < 0.001). When radiation-induced necrosis was compared with viable tumor, radiation necrosis had significantly lowe... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5273230 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:54:31 +0100 5273230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5260142&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb7q5455842l46220%2F Abstract  We prospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of imatinib plus hydroxyurea in patients with progressive/recurrent meningioma. A total of 21 patients with progressive/recurrent meningioma were enrolled in this dual center, single-arm, phase II trial. All patients received 500 mg of hydroxyurea twice a day. Imatinib was administered at 400 mg/day for patients not on CYP3A enzyme inducing anti-epileptic drugs (EIAEDs) and at 500 mg twice a day for patients on EIAEDs. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival at 6 months (PFS-6) and secondary endpoints were safety, radiographic response rate, and overall survival (OS). Best radiographic response was stable disease and was observed in 14 patients (67%). PFS-6 for all patients, those wit... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5260142 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 06:37:29 +0100 5260142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5260144&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fhxr10017224n3326%2F Abstract  Central nerve system (CNS) metastases are a feared complication of breast cancer and are associated with poor prognosis. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical characteristics of CNS metastases and to clarify the prognostic factors after CNS metastases in breast cancer at a single institution over a long time period. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of breast cancer patients diagnosed at Seoul National University Hospital from 1981 to 2009 and identified the patients who experienced CNS metastases. We collected the data, including demographics, clinico-pathologic characteristics, dates of diagnosis of original breast cancer and subsequent metastases, and date of death, and correlated the findings with the clinical outcome. A total ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5260144 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 06:37:28 +0100 5260144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5260143&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa2t5171577441652%2F Abstract  R-flurbiprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug derivative, has been shown to inhibit colonic adenoma formation in mice. We investigated the effects of R-flurbiprofen on cell proliferation and apoptosis in pituitary adenoma cell lines. GH4C1 rat pituitary cell line cultures and low-passage human primary pituitary cell cultures were treated with varying concentrations of R-flurbiprofen (0.1–1.0 mM). R-flurbiprofen inhibited cell proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion. A terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay and chromatin condensation/dead cell apoptosis assay demonstrated induction of apoptosis at higher concentrations of R-flurbiprofen. R-flurbiprofen decreases cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in pituitary adeno... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5260143 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 06:37:28 +0100 5260143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5260145&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fdh0j8k262214p501%2F In conclusion, our data suggest that post-transcriptional control abnormalities mediated by HuR are necessary to sustain the rapid growth of this devastating type of cancer. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory Investigation - Human/Animal TissuePages 1-12DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0707-1Authors Federico Bolognani, Department of Neurosurgery, The Methodist Hospital and The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, 6560 Fannin Street, Scurlock Tower Suite 944, Houston, TX 77030, USAAnne-Isabelle Gallani, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, SwitzerlandLena Sokol, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, SwitzerlandDavid S. Baskin, Department of Neurosurgery, The Methodist Hospital and The Methodist Hospital Resea... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5260145 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:47:51 +0100 5260145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5236793&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fpt6316nk3k1641r2%2F Abstract  Glioblastoma (GB) is a highly infiltrative tumor recurring in 90% of cases within a few centimeters of the resection cavity, even in cases of complete tumor resection and adjuvant chemo/radiotherapy. This observation highlights the importance of understanding this special zone of brain tissue surrounding the tumor. It is becoming clear that the nonneoplastic stromal compartment of most solid cancers plays an active role in tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Very little information, other than that concerning angiogenesis and immune cells, has been collected for stromal cells from GB. As part of a translational research program, we have isolated a new stromal cell population surrounding GB by computer-guided stereotaxic biopsies and primary culture. We ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5236793 Sat, 17 Sep 2011 17:07:11 +0100 5236793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224736&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn541n3vxh4x5n404%2F In this study, the human glioblastoma cell lines SHG-44 and U251 were stably transfected with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting cyclin D1 or with ectogenic cyclin D1 by lentivirus-mediated transfection. Glioblastoma cells overexpressing or underexpressing cyclin D1 were then examined by in vitro growth assays, apoptosis assays, cell cycle analysis, and invasion assays. Cyclin D1 knockdown in SHG-44 cells inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and attenuated migration across Matrigel, a model of invasive capacity. Western blot analysis and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) revealed that cells underexpressing CCND1 exhibited decreased multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) express... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224736 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 05:50:21 +0100 5224736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224737&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5236022k06117571%2F Abstract   NDRG2, a member of the N-Myc downstream-regulated gene family, was shown to be a putative tumor suppressor gene in glioblastoma and other cancers. Through a bioinformatic analysis, we found that NDRG2 protein contains an acyl carrier domain. In the current study, we therefore hypothesized that NDRG2 may play an important role in the regulation of histone acetylation. Treatment of U251 and U87 glioma cells with trichostatin A, an inhibitor of histone deacetylase, upregulated the expression of NDRG2 and acetylated forms of histones H3 and H4, reduced tumor cell viability and arrested the cell cycle at the G1/G0 phase. Overexpression of NDRG2 by transfecting glioma cells with adenovirus containing the NDRG2 gene upregulated the levels of acetylated forms of H3 and H... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224737 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 05:50:20 +0100 5224737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224738&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fwn460u45634286x8%2F Abstract  We compared pentavalent technetium-99m dimercaptosuccinic acid (Tc-99m (V) DMSA) brain single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) for the detection of residual or recurrent gliomas after surgery and radiotherapy. A total of 24 glioma patients, previously operated upon and treated with radiotherapy, were studied. SPECT was acquired 2–3 h post-administration of 555–740 MBq of Tc-99m (V) DMSA. Lesion to normal (L/N) delayed uptake ratio was calculated as: mean counts of tumor ROI (L)/mean counts of normal mirror symmetric ROI (N). 1H-MRS was performed using a 1.5-T scanner equipped with a spectroscopy package. SPECT and 1H-MRS results were compared with pathology or follow-up neuroimaging studies. SPE... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224738 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:53:30 +0100 5224738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207892&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu1658445r264457p%2F Abstract  To identify therapeutic molecular targets for glioma, we performed modified serological identification of antigens by recombinant complementary DNA (cDNA) expression cloning using sera from a mouse glioma model. Two clones, kinesin family member 23 (Kif23) and structural maintenance of chromosomes 4 (Smc4), were identified as antigens through immunological reaction with sera from mice harboring synergic GL261 mouse glioma and intratumoral inoculation with a mutant herpes simplex virus. The human Kif23 homolog KIF23 is a nuclear protein that localizes to the interzone of mitotic spindles, acting as a plus-end-directed motor enzyme that moves antiparallel microtubules in vitro. Expression analysis revealed a higher level of KIF23 expression in glioma ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207892 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 06:00:04 +0100 5207892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207893&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm0r4t22185742707%2F Abstract  Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) nearly exclusively affects children. The prognosis of DIPGs has remained grim despite more than three decades of clinical research and numerous clinical trials. More than 90% of the children with DIPG will succumb within 2 years of diagnosis. The tumor’s incidence is still undefined, but data suggest 100–150 affected children annually in the US. The single proven effective treatment modality in DIPG remains radiation therapy. For the majority of patients however this treatment is only of transient effectiveness. Recent breakthroughs in the understanding of the molecular biology of DIPG have raised new hope and opened new avenues for therapeutic options. The advancement of basic and translational research and coopera... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207893 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 05:58:27 +0100 5207893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207894&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx017373077mg2048%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0708-0Authors M. Balducci, Bio-Images and Radiological Sciences Department, Radiotherapy Institute, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, ItalyS. Chiesa, Bio-Images and Radiological Sciences Department, Radiotherapy Institute, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, ItalyD. Chieffo, Neurosurgery Institute, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, ItalyS. Manfrida, Bio-Images and Radiological Sciences Department, Radiotherapy Institute, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, ItalyN. Dinapoli, Bio-Images and Radiological Sciences Department, Radiotherapy Institute, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, ItalyA. Fiorentino, Bio-Images and Radiological Sciences Department, Radiotherapy Institute, Catholic U... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207894 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:49:34 +0100 5207894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207895&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F9838j775205w452q%2F In conclusion, a population of CD105-positive TICs with some traits of MPCs was identified in RM and might provide a promising therapeutic target in management of malignant meningioma. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory Investigation - Human/Animal TissuePages 1-13DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0705-3Authors Dezhi Hu, Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, ChinaXiaomei Wang, Department of Neurology, The Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, ChinaYing Mao, Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, ChinaLiangfu Zhou, Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-594X (Source: Journal of... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207895 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 16:14:38 +0100 5207895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207897&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu8055228n92g7642%2F Abstract  We have previously shown that activation of RhoA by bradykinin (BK) is associated with cytoskeleton rearrangement, tight junction (TJ) protein disassembly, and an increase in blood–tumor barrier (BTB) permeability in rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (RBMECs). Subsequently, we investigated whether Rho-kinases (ROCKs), a family of downstream effectors of activated RhoA known to stimulate F-actin rearrangement, play a key role in the above-mentioned processes in RBMECs. Our study uses primary RBMECs as an in vitro BTB model and a specific ROCK inhibitor (Y-27632) and ROCK II small interfering RNA (siRNA) to establish whether ROCK plays a role in the process of TJ opening by BK. Y-27632 and ROCK II siRNA could partially inhibit endothelial le... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207897 Sun, 04 Sep 2011 10:45:39 +0100 5207897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207896&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl477788044620036%2F Abstract  A dosimetric comparison of linear accelerator (LA)-based (BrainLAB) and robotic radiosurgery (RS) (CyberKnife) systems for acoustic schwannoma (Acoustic neuroma, AN) was carried out. Seven patients with radiologically confirmed unilateral AN were planned with both an LA-based (BrainLAB) and robotic RS (CyberKnife) system using the same computed tomography (CT) dataset and contours. Gross tumour volume (GTV) was contoured on post-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan [planning target volume (PTV) margin 2 mm]. Planning and calculation were done with appropriate calculation algorithms. The prescribed isodose in both systems was considered adequate to cover at least 95% of the contoured target. Plan evaluations were done by examining the target coverage... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207896 Sun, 04 Sep 2011 10:45:39 +0100 5207896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5183332&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb641m682321l14u0%2F In conclusion, we found that more aggressive therapy was associated with better survival, even among elderly Veterans and whether compared overall or by age group, VA patients showed decreased survival relative to a national cohort. We believe this potential disparity warrants further investigation. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Study – Patient StudyPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0702-6Authors Robert T. Arrigo, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USAMaxwell Boakye, Outcomes Research Lab, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USAStephen L. Skirboll, Outcomes Research Lab, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA Journal Journal of Neuro-Oncology... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5183332 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:55:29 +0100 5183332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5183333&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F045472457r44v32g%2F This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of an 800 cGy × 3 daily fractions CyberKnife® HSRS regimen for irradiation of large resection cavity. The efficacy compares favorably to historical data derived from patients undergoing WBRT, SRS, or brachytherapy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Study – Patient StudyPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0697-zAuthors Che-Chuan Wang, Department of Neurosurgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, TaiwanScott R. Floyd, Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USAChin-Hong Chang, Department of Neurosurgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, TaiwanPeter C. Warnke, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USAChung-Ching Chio, Department of... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5183333 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 05:52:39 +0100 5183333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5175465&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy711p22448606055%2F Abstract  Leptomeningeal metastasis is a devastating complication of the central nervous system in patients with late-stage solid or hematological cancers. Leptomeningeal metastasis results from the multifocal seeding of the leptomeninges by malignant cancer cells. Although central nervous system metastasis usually presents in patients with widely disseminated and progressive late-stage cancer, malignant cells may spread to the cerebrospinal fluid during earlier disease stages in particularly aggressive cancers. Treatment of leptomeningeal metastasis is largely palliative but will often provide stabilization and protection from further neurological deterioration and improve quality of life. There is a need to raise awareness of the impact of leptomeningeal metastases on can... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5175465 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 15:49:29 +0100 5175465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5175467&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F98l7078431854025%2F Abstract  In 1991, a prospective phase II trial was initiated to evaluate the efficacy of treatment for adults with medulloblastoma (MB). After surgery, patients were staged with a neuroradiologic examination of the brain and neuroaxis and by cerebrospinal fluid cytology. All patients received three cycles of upfront cisplatinum (cisplatinum) and etoposide (VP16) chemotherapy followed by cranio-spinal radiation therapy. The current article reports on the long-term results from that trial. After a median follow-up of 14.9 years, among a total of 28 adults with MB, the overall progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) rates at 5 years were 57.6 and 80%, respectively. The median OS for the whole group of patients was 11.3 years. The observed toxicity w... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5175467 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 05:57:11 +0100 5175467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5175466&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F11167v60r167254g%2F Germinoma occurring 2 years after total resection of an intracranial epidermoid cyst in the pineal region Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0683-5Authors Qing Mao, Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Wai Nan Guo Xue Xiang 37, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, ChinaLu Ma, Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Wai Nan Guo Xue Xiang 37, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, ChinaZhongguo Pang, Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, ChinaJiagang Liu, Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Wai Nan Guo Xue Xiang 37, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5175466 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 05:57:11 +0100 5175466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5175468&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fcrn5h70821u10407%2F Abstract  Thalidomide and procarbazine have demonstrated single agent activity against malignant gliomas (MG). We evaluated the combination of thalidomide and procarbazine with a single arm phase II trial in adults with recurrent or progressive MG. Procarbazine was given at a dose of 250 mg/m2/d × 5day q 28 days. Thalidomide was administered at a dose of 200 mg/day continuously. Intrapatient dose escalation of thalidomide was attempted (increase by 100 mg/day weekly as tolerated) to a maximum of 800 mg/day. The primary outcome was tumor response, assessed by MRI and CT. Secondary outcomes were progression free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and toxicity. In addition, quality of life questionnaires were performed at baseline and prio... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5175468 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:51:25 +0100 5175468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161011&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy7h2823lj34387l8%2F Abstract  Pediatric infratentorial ependymomas are difficult to cure. Despite the availability of advanced therapeutic modalities for brain tumors, total surgical resection remains the most important prognostic factor. Recently, histological grade emerged as an independent prognostic factor for intracranial ependymoma. We retrospectively reviewed the treatment outcome of 33 pediatric patients with infratentorial ependymoma. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were calculated and relevant prognostic factors were analyzed. Fourteen patients (42%) were under the age of 3 at diagnosis. Gross total resection was achieved in 16 patients (49%). Anaplastic histology was found in 13 patients (39%). Adjuvant therapies were delayed until progression in 12 p... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161011 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:55:38 +0100 5161011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161013&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1016r400178v0070%2F In this study, we used RT-PCR to systematically investigate the expression of HESRG in various types of intracranial tumors and found that HESRG was expressed only in germinoma and embryonal carcinoma, but hardly at all in other types of brain tumors. Real-time PCR results further confirmed this expression pattern. Subsequently, we tested 134 intracranial non-germ cell tumors and 64 intracranial germ cell tumors by immunohistochemistry. Our results showed that HESRG was expressed strongly and diffusively in the nuclei of tumor cells in intracranial germinoma and embryonal carcinoma as well as in human embryonic stem cells. No positive staining signal was observed in any other type of intracranial tumors. In germinomas, 25 of 31 showed intensive (3+) expression, four cases showed mode... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161013 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 05:54:48 +0100 5161013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161012&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Frw1w24q85r779723%2F Abstract  Craniopharyngiomas are slow-growing tumors found in the suprasellar region, with especially high incidence in Japanese children. Due to the location, proximity and adhesiveness of the tumor to adjacent critical structures, these tumors remain a significant clinical challenge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of single and hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) with CyberKnife for craniopharyngioma. Forty-three patients (21 men and 22 women; median age 44 years; range 3–85 years) were treated at two institutions. Three cases were treated in a single fraction to a marginal dose of 13–16 Gy. The other 40 cases were treated in 2–5 fractions to a marginal dose of 13–25 Gy. Tumor volumes ranged from 0.09... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161012 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 05:54:48 +0100 5161012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161014&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5846742542375k26%2F Abstract  Herein we continue the study of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) with respect to glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell tumorigenicity and angiogenesis. A model of tumorigenicity with cells stably altered to over-express or knock-down MMP-1 revealed that it significantly increases tumor incidence and size. Organized endothelial growth in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC)-GBM co-cultures was significantly increased in the presence of MMP-1. CD31 analysis of model tumors elucidated a substantial recruitment of endothelium in MMP-1 enhanced samples. Antibody arrays indicated an inverse expression of certain anti-angiogenic factors with respect to MMP-1, the most notable of which was a significant increase in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-4 (TIMP-4) ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161014 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 15:52:31 +0100 5161014 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161015&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu113722615m650u3%2F Abstract  The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of radiation therapy (RT) with concurrent temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy followed by adjuvant TMZ in children with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). Newly diagnosed patients younger than 18 years with histologically proven DIPG were treated with focal radiotherapy to a dose of 54 Gy in 30 fractions along with concurrent daily TMZ (75 mg/m2/day). Four weeks after completing the initial RT–TMZ schedule, adjuvant TMZ (200 mg/m2/day, days 1–5) was given every 28 days up to six cycles. Responses/progressions were assessed by clinical and 2-monthly MRI follow-up studies. Between September 2005 and September 2009, 21 patients with newly diagnosed histologically confirmed... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161015 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 05:42:27 +0100 5161015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161016&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk3054t0xp0j117r2%2F Abstract  Recurrent diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG) are traditionally treated with palliative care since no effective treatments have been described for these tumors. Recently, clinical studies have been emerging, and individualized treatment is attempted more frequently. However, an informative way to compare the treatment outcomes has not been established, and historical control data are missing for recurrent disease. We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with recurrent DIPG treated between 1998 and 2010. Response progression-free survival and possible influencing factors were evaluated. Thirty-one patients were identified who were treated in 61 treatment attempts using 26 treatment elements in 31 different regimens. The most frequently used drugs... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161016 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 05:42:26 +0100 5161016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161018&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp576807187145406%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-13DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0663-9Authors Courtney Corle, Department of Neurosciences, UC San Diego, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, 3855 Health Sciences Drive, MC 0819, La Jolla, CA 92093-0819, USAMilan Makale, Department of Neurosciences, UC San Diego, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, 3855 Health Sciences Drive, MC 0819, La Jolla, CA 92093-0819, USASantosh Kesari, Department of Neurosciences, UC San Diego, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, 3855 Health Sciences Drive, MC 0819, La Jolla, CA 92093-0819, USA Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-594X (Source: Journal of Neuro-Oncology) Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161018 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:49:36 +0100 5161018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161017&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp765745108600k23%2F Abstract  Central nervous system (CNS) lesions that are discovered incidentally when imaging children for problems that were unrelated to the detected lesion pose a dilemma to physicians. Because there are few data on the outcome of such cases, we retrospectively reviewed the clinical course of a group of children followed at our institution with brain lesions found incidentally on neuro-imaging. A database of all children with brain lesions followed at the University of Rochester medical center from 2000 to 2010 was reviewed. Data were obtained regarding presentation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features, treatment, progression-free survival, and overall survival of children with brain lesions found incidentally. Of the 244 children with brain lesions seen over this t... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161017 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:49:36 +0100 5161017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161020&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc67n56858703wg51%2F In conclusion high dose chemotherapy with HSCR might lead to survival primarily in younger children with relapsed sPNET even in the absence of concomitant use of radiotherapy, whereas the outcome in older children and/or in pineal location is extremely poor with this modality. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Topic ReviewPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0690-6Authors C. P. Raghuram, Children and Young People’s Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Downs Road, Sutton, SM2 5PT UKL. Moreno, Children and Young People’s Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Downs Road, Sutton, SM2 5PT UKS. Zacharoulis, Children and Young People’s Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Downs Road, Sutton, SM2 5PT UK Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 157... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161020 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:50:00 +0100 5161020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161019&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Flu0186w594311g71%2F Abstract  Secreted WNT proteins signal through ten receptors of the frizzled (FZD) family. Because of the relevance of the WNT/β-catenin (CTNNB1) signaling pathway in medulloblastomas (MBs), we investigated the expression of all ten members of the FZD gene family (FZD1-10) in 17 human MBs, four MB cell lines and in normal human cerebellum, using real-time PCR. We found that FZD2 transcript was over-expressed in all MBs and MB cell lines. Western blot analysis confirmed the expression of FZD2 at the protein level. Moreover, the levels of FZD2 transcript were found to correlate with those of ASPM transcript, a marker of mitosis essential for mitotic spindle function. Accordingly, ASPM mRNA was expressed at a very low level in the adult, post-mitotic, human cerebellum, at higher... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161019 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:50:00 +0100 5161019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161022&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Feq1040v11q379552%2F This study challenged this issue by performing voxel-wise analysis of 18F-fluorodeoxy glucose (FDG) and 11C-methionine positron emission tomography (PET) in peritumoral brain edemas. The authors studied ten malignant glioma and nine meningioma patients with peritumoral brain edema. A voxel-wise analysis of FDG and 11C-methionine PET was performed in order to quantify the correlation between uptake of these tracers in normal brain tissue and peritumoral brain edema. Decoupling score of the uptake of two tracers was calculated as the z-score from the estimated correlation between uptake of the two tracers in normal brain tissue. The decoupling score was also converted into images for visual inspection. Average decoupling score in the peritumoral brain edema was calculated and compared be... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161022 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 05:53:27 +0100 5161022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161021&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn10254786k111438%2F This study provides evidence that celecoxib suppresses the growth of GBM cell lines partly by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Laboratory Investigation - Human/Animal TissuePages 1-11DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0662-xAuthors Gangadhara Reddy Sareddy, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046 IndiaKhamushavalli Geeviman, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046 IndiaChinta Ramulu, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046 IndiaPhanithi Prakash Babu, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046 India Journal Journal of Neur... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161021 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 05:53:27 +0100 5161021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161023&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fwnr671mv1837v751%2F Abstract  We conducted a prospective, observational study to verify the efficacy, tolerability and impact on quality of life, mood and global neurocognitive performances of oxcarbazepine monotherapy in patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE). Patients were followed for 12 months. We recruited 25 patients (11 females 14 males; mean age 49.7) affected with BTRE (17 de novo patients and 7 in monotherapy with other antiepileptics) and introduced oxcarbazepine monotherapy because of uncontrolled seizures and/or side effects. At first visit, patients underwent neurological examination, Qolie 31P V2, EORTC QLQC30, Zung self-depression rating scale (ZSDRS) and adverse events profile. A seizure diary was given to each patient. Follow-up duration was 1–12 months... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161023 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 05:53:26 +0100 5161023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5143180&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm84p110822457903%2F Abstract  Interstitial chemotherapeutic drug infusion can bypass the blood–brain barrier, and provide high regional drug concentrations without systemic exposure. However, toxicity and efficacy for drugs administered via interstitial continuous (i.c.) infusion have not been characterized. In the current study, vincristine (VIN) was infused into the right frontal lobes of healthy Fisher 344 rats at 30, 45, 60, and 120 μg/ml over a period of 7 days at 1 μl/h, using an Alzet osmotic pump to evaluate toxicity. C6 rat glioblastoma cells transduced with a luciferase gene were inoculated into the right frontal lobe of a second group of rats. VIN was administered to tumor bearing rats via i.c. infusion 7 days later and tumor growth was monitored by biolumines... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5143180 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 05:45:40 +0100 5143180 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131699&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff6v613xt15932564%2F Abstract  Oligodendrogliomas are rare central nervous system (CNS) tumors in children. The purpose of this study was to identify prognostic factors for progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in pediatric patients with oligodendrogliomas. We retrospectively analyzed clinical data on 37 pediatric patients with oligodendroglial tumors treated at Washington University. Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate survival rates. Log-rank was used to detect the difference between survival curves. The median age was 11.1 years (range 10 months–18 years), and median follow-up was 4.5 years (range 2 months–30.5 years). The 5-year PFS and OS were 66.4 and 93.4%, respectively. Mixed histology was associated with worse OS compared to ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131699 Sat, 13 Aug 2011 06:13:11 +0100 5131699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131698&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F064048224142t82l%2F Abstract  Gliomas are the most common type of malignant primary brain tumor. Despite advances in surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, the prognosis of patients with gliomas has not significantly improved. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, 21–25 nucleotides long, negatively regulate the expression of target genes by interacting with specific sites in mRNAs, and play a critical role in the development of gliomas. The EGFR/PTEN/AKT pathway is a promising target for anti-glioma therapy. Recent studies have showed that regulation of the EGFR/PTEN/AKT pathway by miRNAs plays a major role in glioma progression, indicating a novel way to investigate the tumorigenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of gliomas. Here, we focus on recent findings of miRNAs with respec... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131698 Sat, 13 Aug 2011 06:13:11 +0100 5131698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131697&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8484134352x82648%2F Abstract  Brain and spinal tumors are the second most common malignancies in childhood after leukemia, and they remain the leading cause of death from childhood cancer. Autophagy is a catabolic cellular process that is thought to regulate chemosensitivity, however its role in pediatric tumors is unknown. Here we present studies in pediatric medulloblastoma cell lines (DAOY, ONS76) and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor cell lines (BT-16, BT-12) to test this role. Autophagy was inhibited using siRNA against autophagy-related genes ATG12 and ATG7 or pharmacologically induced or inhibited using rapamycin and chloroquine to test the effect of autophagy on chemosensitivity. Autophagic flux was measured using Western blot analysis of LC3-II and p62 and cell viability was determined... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131697 Sat, 13 Aug 2011 06:13:11 +0100 5131697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131700&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd11w7105n8281351%2F Abstract  We observed a patient with subcutaneous seeding from gliomatosis cerebri with a low-grade histopathology. A 33-year-old woman with neurofibromatosis type 1 presented with progressive headache, diplopia, dysphagia, and a rightward instability. On neurological examination dysarthria, gait ataxia, and left-sided central facial and hypoglossal palsies were determined. MRI of the brain demonstrated diffuse, infiltrative non-enhancing lesions in the pons, both cerebellar hemispheres, the parahippocampal gyrus, and the thalamus. A stereotactic biopsy demonstrated an astrocytoma WHO grade 2. These characteristics confirmed gliomatosis cerebri. Three months later, the patient presented with hydrocephalus and a subcutaneous swelling directly underneath the surgical scar. Th... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131700 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 06:18:36 +0100 5131700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131701&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4370352307475j4l%2F Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0675-5Authors J. Paul Duic, Long Island Brain Tumor Center at Neurological Surgery, P.C. 600 Northern Blvd Suite 113, Great Neck, NY 11021, USAJai Grewal, Long Island Brain Tumor Center at Neurological Surgery, P.C. 600 Northern Blvd Suite 113, Great Neck, NY 11021, USAKerry McConie, Long Island Brain Tumor Center at Neurological Surgery, P.C. 600 Northern Blvd Suite 113, Great Neck, NY 11021, USAHarry Staszewski, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, NY 11501, USAJonathan Haas, Department of Radiation Oncology, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, NY 11501, USASantosh Kesari, Department of Neurosciences, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive, ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131701 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:03:16 +0100 5131701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131702&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb1m834266566l7tl%2F In this study we asked if type 2 DM and elevated body mass index (BMI) are independent risk factors for poor prognosis in patients with high-grade glioma (HGG.). We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 171 patients surgically treated for HGG at a single institution. BMI and records of pre-existing type 2 DM were obtained from medical histories. Variables associated with survival in a univariate analysis were included in the multivariate Cox model if P < 0.10. Variables with probability values >0.05 were then removed from the multivariate model in a step-wise fashion. Mean age at diagnosis was 55.0 ± 17.3 years. Fifteen (8.8%) patients had a history of type 2 DM. Fifty-eight (35.8%) patients had a BMI < 25, 55 (34.0%) BMI 25–30,... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131702 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:03:15 +0100 5131702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5126097&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F982046704172qw1h%2F In conclusion, for localized intracranial pediatric ependymomas, adjuvant RT is associated with improved PFS, even after adjusting for EOR. Our findings suggest the benefit of RT even in the presence of GTR. Future prospective studies with larger sample number are needed to validate our findings. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0671-9Authors Sunanda Pejavar, Departments of Radiation Oncology, Neurosurgery, and Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, 1600 Divisadero Street, Suite H1031, San Francisco, CA 94115-1708, USAMei-Yin Polley, Departments of Radiation Oncology, Neurosurgery, and Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, 1600 Divisadero Street, Su... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5126097 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 05:43:43 +0100 5126097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103734&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4t48544g501w7736%2F We report two cases of gemcitabine related myositis identified at our institution, and perform a literature review of cases which meet the criteria for gemcitabine induced myositis associated to either radiation therapy or chemotherapy alone. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0672-8Authors Elena Pentsova, Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USAAnli Liu, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Weill Cornell College of Medicine of Cornell University, New York, NY, USAMarc Rosenblum, Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USAEileen O’Reilly, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USAXi Chen, Departm... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103734 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 05:44:43 +0100 5103734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103733&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc6p3w0g488622382%2F This study included total of 20 cases of meningioma mimics. The clinical, radiological and histopathological findings were evaluated. Tissue fixed in 10% formalin was routinely processed and 5 μ thick sections were cut and stained with hematoxylin & eosin. Histochemistry and immunohistochemistry using avidin–biotin complex immunoperoxidase method was done wherever indicated. In the present study group, 15 were male and 5 female with a male: female ratio of 3:1. The age ranged from 14 to 78 years. Radiologically all these lesions were extra-axial in location, predominantly hypointense on T2W, isointense on T1W images and showed intense homogenous enhancement on contrast administration. Four cases were in pediatric age group with histopathological diagnosis of Rosai Dorfm... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103733 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 05:44:43 +0100 5103733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5087229&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm132l3x775008p1k%2F We report our long-term, single-institution experience of adult MB and a review of the literature. We analysed adult patients with histologically proved MB treated by postoperative radiotherapy. Primary endpoints were local control (LC), disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS). Acute toxicity was reported according to CTC-NCI score vers. 3.0 and specific neuropsychological assessment analysis was performed to define late brain toxicity. From 1990–2008, 13 patients were treated by craniospinal (CSI, 12/13) or cranial irradiation (1/13, because of bad clinical conditions). Median follow up was 101 months (64–218). Complete radiological response was observed in 12/13 patients and a partial response in 1/13. Ten-year LC, OS, and DFS were 91, 76, and 84%, respectiv... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5087229 Sat, 30 Jul 2011 15:52:26 +0100 5087229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5087230&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fdt51102g420526n0%2F In this study, 169 patients with metastatic MB registered in the multicentre HIT2000 trial of the German Society of Pediatric Oncology and Haematology (GPOH) have been investigated to determine the importance of p53 protein expression in predicting survival. At a median follow-up of 4.1 years, 159 patients with p53-negative tumours had significantly better four-year event-free survival (EFS) and progression-free survival (PFS) (56 ± 11, 59 ± 4%) than 10 patients with p53-positive tumours (40 ± 16, 40 ± 16%; P = 0.018 for EFS, P = 0.007 for PFS, respectively). Furthermore, four-year overall survival (OS) of children with p53-negative tumours was higher than for children with p53-positive tumours (72 ± 4 vs. 35 ± 18%, P = 0.05). Three of the p53-posit... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5087230 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 17:02:42 +0100 5087230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5087231&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F41k8p0n441177w30%2F This study demonstrates that MGMT methylation is not restricted to glioblastoma cells. Additionally, methylation-specific HRM is a feasible approach that can be readily applied to the methylation analysis of MGMT. A further study will be needed to determine the dynamic change of MGMT methylation in the tumor environment. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0668-4Authors Seung-Ho Yang, Department of Neurosurgery, St. Vincent’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, KoreaKeun Soo Lee, Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, 505 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 137-701 KoreaHea Jung Yang, Institute of Medical Science, St. Vincent’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, KoreaByeong Hw... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5087231 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 05:49:52 +0100 5087231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5087232&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq175621465t8twq1%2F In this study we perform immunohistochemical analysis of PDGFRα expression in a series of 33 primary intramedullary spinal cord gliomas of different types and grades. PDGFRα was seen to be expressed in a significant subset of these tumors across all major glioma types including ependymoma, oligodendroglioma, pilocytic astrocytoma, astrocytoma, and glioblastoma. These results support the hypothesis that growth factor signaling through the PDGFR may be important for the development of at least a subset of human spinal cord gliomas. Further studies investigating the prognostic significance of PDGFR expression as well as the role of PDGF signaling on the development of intramedullary spinal cord gliomas are warranted. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0666... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5087232 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 05:48:24 +0100 5087232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5087233&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg5212308l3018370%2F Conclusion: Intraventricular BCM can be administered to rabbits without clinical or pathologic neurotoxicity. Survival following one dose of BCM in rabbits with LC should be cautiously interpreted given uncertainties regarding the dose, schedule, and limited expected benefit of this non-rabbit antibody. This neurotoxicity study provides safety data to allow phase I/II studies in humans with treatment refractory LC. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0655-9Authors Priscilla K. Brastianos, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, 44 Binney Street, Smith 353, Boston, MA 02115, USAHarry C. Brastianos, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USAWesley Hsu, Departme... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5087233 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 05:48:23 +0100 5087233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5063307&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg71g3576v7822003%2F We report two additional cases of intracranial PCG exclusively involving the brain parenchyma. A 47 year-old woman, presenting with partial motor seizures and fluent aphasia, underwent complete excision of a well-demarcated, enhancing left parietal mass. The second patient was a 56 year-old man presenting with headaches and right-sided weakness who underwent stereotactic biopsy of an ill-defined, heterogeneously enhancing lesion in the left basal ganglia. Immunohistochemical analysis of surgical specimens showed polyclonal plasma cells and mature lymphocytes but no etiological agent. A histopathologic diagnosis of intracranial PCG was made in both cases. PCG should be part of the differential diagnosis of enhancing mass lesions of the brain. The etiology and natural history... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5063307 Sat, 23 Jul 2011 15:49:35 +0100 5063307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5063308&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb7l0x534638597m6%2F Abstract  Diffuse WHO grade II (GIIG) may be unresectable when involving critical structures. To assess the feasibility and functional tolerance (cognition and quality of life) of an original therapeutic strategy combining neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgical resection for initially inoperable GIIG. Ten patients underwent Temozolomide for unresectable GIIG, as initial treatment or at recurrence after previous partial resection, due to invasion of eloquent areas or bi-hemispheric diffusion preventing a total/subtotal removal. Functional outcome after both treatments was assessed, with evaluation of seven cognitive domains. Chemotherapy induced tumor shrinkage (median volume decrease 38.9%) in ipsilateral functional areas in six patients and in the contralateral hemi... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5063308 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:04:24 +0100 5063308 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5063309&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fjx0vg42128881384%2F Abstract  Brain metastases (BM) are treated with surgical resection when feasible. Unfortunately this occurs only in a small subset of patients. The optimal treatment for patients with intracranial metastases non amenable to surgical resection has not been identified. Radiotherapy improves symptom control and survival but long-term local control has been poor. Conventional chemotherapies have generally produced disappointing results possibly due to their limited ability to penetrate the blood brain barrier. Therefore, newer treatments are required for patients with unresectable BM. Targeted therapies such as bevacizumab, erlotinib, gefitinib, sunitinib and sorafenib, are all licensed and have demonstrated improved survival in patients with metastatic disease. In this review... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5063309 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:04:22 +0100 5063309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5063310&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw751883803865566%2F Abstract  Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is a rare complication of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with varied outcomes. We contribute two additional cases of CLL with CNS involvement. The clinical course and response to treatment are described. All 78 previously reported cases of CLL with CNS involvement are presented in this comprehensive review of the literature. CNS involvement of CLL is a rare complication that does not seem to correlate with any evident risk factors. Resolution of CNS symptoms can often be accomplished with intrathecal chemotherapy or irradiation. Early detection and treatment may result in better outcomes in this rare complication. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-16DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0636-zAuthors Alan A. Moazzam, Departmen... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5063310 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 06:41:17 +0100 5063310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5030054&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fbu5763712012v303%2F Abstract  The effectiveness of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in high grade gliomas (HGG) depends on tumor micro-environment. We summarize our experience of the influence of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) on this micro-environment. Patients with HGG (n = 26) were assessed pre- and post-SCS, using: (1) Doppler in middle cerebral arteries (MCA) and (2) in common carotid arteries (CCA); (3) tumor blood-flow using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT); (4) tumor-pO2 (mmHg) using polarographic probes (eight tumor areas from five patients); and (5) tumor glucose metabolism using 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (18FDG) positron emission tomography (18FDG-PET). Pre-SCS: tumor blood-flow was lower (P < 0.001) than peri-tumor areas and healthy contra-lateral a... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5030054 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 05:57:03 +0100 5030054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5030055&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj493v310n8pg87t5%2F Abstract  Low grade gliomas (LGG) contribute to 50% of all central nervous tumors in children and 15% of all gliomas in adults. Temozolomide (TMZ) is an oral alkylating agent with activity in high and LGG. Various regimens of TMZ are currently in use. We attempted to assess the impact of different TMZ regimens on the treatment of LGG. A systematic review of the literature identified all the studies published in Pubmed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases which met the inclusion criteria. The primary outcome measure was the impact of different TMZ regimens on the 12 month progression-free survival (PFS) rates of patients diagnosed with progressive LGG. Secondary outcome measures looked at the ability of the three regimens to elicit an objective response and the associated tox... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5030055 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 05:57:01 +0100 5030055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020054&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F912322341476634u%2F Abstract  We determined the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) of the oral vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) inhibitor, sunitinib, when administered with irinotecan among recurrent malignant glioma (MG) patients. For each 42-day cycle, sunitinib was administered once a day for four consecutive weeks followed by a 2 week rest. Irinotecan was administered intravenously every other week. Each agent was alternatively escalated among cohorts of 3–6 patients enrolled at each dose level. Patients on CYP3A-inducing anti-epileptic drugs were not eligible. Twenty-five patients with recurrent MG were enrolled, including 15 (60%) with glioblastoma (GBM) and 10 (40%) with grade 3 MG. Five patients progressed previously on bevacizumab and ... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020054 Sat, 09 Jul 2011 06:18:14 +0100 5020054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020053&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh7744u272q5v0208%2F Abstract  Gefitinib, a selective epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is under clinical testing and use in cancer patients, including glioma. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in gefitinib-mediated anticancer effects against glioma remain largely uncharacterized. Gefitinib inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in human glioma cells. Gefitinib also induces death of H4 cells with characteristics of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, including Bax mitochondrial translocation, mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, cytochrome c cytosolic release, and caspase-9/caspase-3 activation. The importance of Bax in mediating gefitinib-induced apoptosis was confirmed by the attenuation of apoptosis by Bax siRNA and Bax channel blocker. Gefitinib... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020053 Sat, 09 Jul 2011 06:18:14 +0100 5020053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020056&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F066t6j7033104286%2F Abstract  MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that function as post-transcriptional regulators of tumor suppressors and oncogenes. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNAs may contribute to carcinogenesis by altering expression of miRNAs and their targets. A G>C polymorphism (rs2910164) in the miR-146a precursor sequence leads to a functional change associated with the risk for numerous malignancies. A role for this SNP in glioma pathogenesis has not yet been examined. We investigated whether rs2910164 genotypes influence glioma risk and prognosis in a multi-center case–control study comprised of 593 Caucasian glioma cases and 614 community-based controls. Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020056 Sat, 09 Jul 2011 06:18:13 +0100 5020056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020055&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F073105987n270644%2F A new tool for grade II glioma studies: plotting cumulative time with quality of life versus time to malignant transformation Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11060-011-0659-5Authors Emmanuel Mandonnet, Department of Neurosurgery, Hôpital Lariboisière, 2 rue Ambroise Paré, 75010 Paris, FranceHugues Duffau, Department of Neurosurgery, Hôpital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, FranceLuc Bauchet, Department of Neurosurgery, Hôpital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France Journal Journal of Neuro-OncologyOnline ISSN 1573-7373Print ISSN 0167-594X (Source: Journal of Neuro-Oncology) Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020055 Sat, 09 Jul 2011 06:18:13 +0100 5020055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020057&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft43p84w01568078h%2F We report a retrospective single center study of a cohort of 69 patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma who had been treated with a regimen that combined high intravenous doses of Methotrexate, CCNU, procarbazine and methylprednisolone. Before 2000, patients systematically received intrathecal prophylaxis including Methotrexate, cytarabine, and hydrocortisone delivered either by intraventricular or lumbar injection along with the systemic chemotherapy (group A, n = 39). After this date, the procedure was changed and intrathecal chemotherapy was withdrawn from the protocol (group B, n = 30). The median age and Karnofsky index were comparable in both groups. At the time of analysis, we found no significant difference between patients with and without in... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020057 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:30:03 +0100 5020057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020058&cid=s_33361_6_f&fid=33361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3873l24l703u3541%2F This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and tumor delivery of cilengitide in patients with recurrent glioblastoma. Patients with recurrent glioblastoma who require a surgical resection for optimal clinical care received 3 intravenous doses of cilengitide at either 500 or 2000 mg (day -8, -4, -1) prior to undergoing tumor resection with corresponding blood samples for plasma to tumor comparisons. After recovery from surgery, patients were treated with cilengitide (2000 mg i.v. twice weekly, maximum of 2 years of treatment). The study accrued 30 patients with recurrent glioblastoma, 26 were evaluable for efficacy. The 6-month progression free survival rate was 12%. Cilengitide was detected in all tumor specimens with higher levels in the group receiving 2000&nbs... Journal of Neuro-Oncology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020058 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:30:02 +0100 5020058