Outposts of science; the knowledge trade and the expansion of scientific community in post-Civil War America

By the second half of the nineteenth century, local and regional voluntary societies were among the most widespread, accessible, and familiar public scientific institutions in America. Collectively, they made up an institutional network that converted individuals' private interest in science into a public activity. They played an essential role in the dissemination of scientific information, the growth of a scientifically literate population, and the extension of public support for science in the decades after the Civil War. This essay delineates and maps the spread of these societies throughout the country, as well as the flow of scientific information both among societies and between a society and its regional hinterland. Using the Davenport [Iowa] Academy of Natural Sciences as an example, it demonstrates how local societies were embedded in a national scientific community and mediated between it and local scientific enthusiasts, to the benefit of both.

Asymptomatic anterior perforation of an ICD lead into subcutaneous tissues

A 71-year-old woman underwent routine implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation. On a predischarge check the next day, electrical signals and thresholds were excellent and similar to those at implant. The chest X-ray was unremarkable and showed good lead position at the right ventricular apex (RVA). At a routine one-month postimplant visit, electrograms were found to be miniscule, and pacing could not be achieved. Chest X-ray and fluoroscopy suggested perforation, then this was confirmed by computed tomography scan. The tip of the lead was estimated to be within 7 mm of the surface of the skin. The system was removed surgically, and the patient continued to do well.

Observations of the Askaryan effect in ice

We report on observations of coherent, impulsive radio Cherenkov radiation from electromagnetic showers in solid ice. This is the first observation of the Askaryan effect in ice. As part of the complete validation process for the ANITA experiment, we performed an experiment at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center in June 2006 using a 7.5 metric ton ice target. We measure for the first time the large-scale angular dependence of the radiation pattern, a major factor in determining the solid-angle acceptance of ultrahigh-energy neutrino detectors.

Gemcitabine with a specific conformal 3D 5FU radiochemotherapy technique is safe and effective in the definitive management of locally advanced pancreatic cancer

The aim of this phase II study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of a specific three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy technique with concurrent continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil (CI 5FU) sandwiched between gemcitabine chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. Patients with inoperable cancer in the pancreatic head or body without metastases were given gemcitabine at 1000 mg m(-2) weekly for 3 weeks followed by a 1-week rest and a 6-week period of radiotherapy and concurrent CI 5FU (200 mg m(-2) day(-1)). The defined target volume was treated to 54 Gy in 30 daily fractions of 1.8 Gy. After 4 weeks' rest, gemcitabine treatment was re-initiated for three cycles (days 1, 8, 15, q28). Forty-one patients were enrolled. At the end of radiotherapy, one patient (2.4%) had a complete response and four patients (9.6%) had a partial response; at the end of treatment, three patients (7.3%) had a complete response and two patients (4.9%) had a partial response. Median survival time was 11.7 months, median time to progression was 7.1 months, and median time to failure of local control was 11.9 months. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 46.3 and 9.8%, respectively. Treatment-related grade 3 and 4 toxicities were reported by 16 (39.0%) and four (9.8%) patients, respectively. Sixteen out of 41 patients did not complete the planned treatment and nine due to disease progression. This approach to treatment of locally advanced pancreatic cancer is safe and promising, with good local control for a substantial proportion of patients, and merits testing in a randomised trial.

Safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of AMG 706 with panitumumab plus FOLFIRI or FOLFOX for the treatment of patients (pts) with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC)

4081

Background: AMG 706 is an oral, investigational multikinase (MKI) inhibitor with antiangiogenic and direct antitumor activity, selectively targeting VEGF, PDGF and Kit receptors. Methods: This is an ongoing phase 1b, open-label, dose-finding study of AMG 706 with panitumumab plus FOLFIRI or FOLFOX in pts with mCRC. Objectives are to establish safety, PK, and the maximum tolerated dose of AMG 706 with this regimen. Pts =18 yrs with mCRC, ECOG 0–1, =1 prior chemotherapy for advanced disease and no prior oral VEGFr MKIs or anti-EGFR therapy, received either FOLFIRI or FOLFOX (based on prior therapy) plus panitumumab (6mg/kg IV day 1 of each 2-wk cycle), and escalating doses of AMG 706 (50, 75, 125mg QD; 75mg BID) given continuously from day 3 of cycle 1. Assessments included dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) during the first 2 cycles and tumor response (every 6–8 wks from wk 6). Results: As of Nov 2006, 45 pts were enrolled and received at least 1 dose of AMG 706 (FOLFIRI/FOLFOX n=33/12); 64% had prior chemotherapy. There were 6 DLTs: FOLFIRI n=4, all grade 3 (diarrhea n=2: 50mg QD, 75mg BID; deep vein thrombosis n=1: 75mg QD; high GI output n=1: 75mg BID); FOLFOX n=2 (all fatigue, grade 3: 50mg QD). Treatment-related adverse events (AE) occurring in =10% of pts included: any AE, FOLFIRI/FOLFOX 88/92% of pts (grade 3, 21/58%); fatigue 55/58% (12/33%), anorexia 24/50% (0/0%), diarrhea 24/33% (0/8%), epistaxis 27/0% (0/0%) and hypertension 15/8% (0/0%). There were no grade 4/5 AEs. 2 cases of cholecystitis (grade 3, n=1) occurred. Preliminary data showed that AMG 706 PK at 50mg QD (FOLFOX) and 50–125mg QD (FOLFIRI) was comparable to data from monotherapy studies at the same dose levels. AMG 706 did not markedly alter the PK profiles of irinotecan or its metabolites. Objective tumor response per RECIST is shown in the table . Conclusions: In this study of pts with mCRC, AMG 706 was tolerable when combined with panitumumab and FOLFIRI or FOLFOX, with little effect on AMG 706 PK.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II trial of paclitaxel in front-line therapy of hormone refractory metastatic prostate cancer

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Hormone refractory prostate cancer patients have poor prognosis with median survival of only 16 months. They are frequently elderly men with many co-morbid conditions unable to tolerate treatments with substantial toxicity. Docetaxel, the only drug shown to prolong survival causes significant toxicities, requires steroids administration, may cause poorly reversible neuropathy and requires long infusion times, all limiting its use in elderly men that are mostly affected by hormone refractory prostate cancer. Abraxane is a novel agent delivering paclitaxel without steroids, requires only 30 minutes infusion times and low toxicity potential that may be effective and more tolerable in patients with prostate cancer. The goal of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness and toxicity of Abraxane in first line chemotherapy of men with hormone refractory prostate cancer. Considering the favorable toxicity profile of Abraxane and in an effort to make our results applicable to the majority of prostate cancer patients we are including men with performance status of 2. Main eligibility criteria are: hormone refractory metastatic prostate cancer documented by PSA progression, no prior chemotherapy, PSA >5 and performance status 0–2. Primary endpoint is efficacy based on PSA response. Secondary endpoints are time to PSA progression, overall survival, and toxicities. The clinical trial has been opened at Kaiser Permanente Northern California since September 2005. There are 15 patients enrolled. All have been evaluable for toxicity and the drug is very well tolerated so far by this population of patients. Out of 15 patients 12 are evaluable for response. Two patients have recently started the protocol therapy and have not met the time point for disease assessment. One patient discontinued the treatment after one infusion due to toxicity (elevated LFTs). One patient completed 11 cycles of Abraxane, while maintaining stable disease on bone scan and achieved a PR by PSA. Ten patients have come off study due to progressive disease based on clinical presentation, rising PSA or signs of radiological progression. There are currently 4 patients actively receiving therapy. Updated results will be presented at the time of ASCO 2007 meeting.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A placebo-controlled trial of Sertraline's effects on symptoms, well-being and survival in advanced cancer: The ZEST Trial

9002

Background: Depression, anxiety, fatigue and impaired well-being are common, important and closely related in advanced cancer. We sought to determine the effects of sertraline (a well-tolerated, SSRI antidepressant) on these symptoms and survival in a broad cross-section of people with advanced cancer but without major depression. Methods: 189 participants (pts) were randomly allocated to sertraline 50 mg daily or placebo. Assessments were at baseline; months 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12; and, then 3-monthly. Outcome measures rated by pts included the: Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D); Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A, HADS-D); and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy General and Fatigue scales (FACT-G and FACT-F). Clinicians completed Spitzer's Quality of Life Index (SQLI). Outcomes on all scales are expressed from 0 (worst) to 100 (best). The primary analyses of sertraline's effects on quality of life were based on scores at 4 and 8 weeks adjusted for baseline scores using generalised estimating equations. Efficacy analyses are by intention to treat; toxicity analyses by treatment received. P-values and 95% confidence intervals (CI) are 2-sided. Results: Recruitment was stopped after the first planned interim analysis of 150 pts showed a trend in overall survival favouring placebo (univariable logrank p=0.04; multivariable Cox model hazard ratio 1.61, CI 1.1 to 2.5, p=0.02). This trend was weaker at the final analysis including all 189 patients and longer follow-up (univariable logrank p=0.09); and, after accounting for baseline factors (multivariable Cox model hazard ratio 1.27, CI 0.87 to 1.8, p=0.2). Sertraline had no significant effects (scale: benefit over placebo, 95% CI) on depression (CES-D: 0.4, −2.6 to 3.4), anxiety (HADS-A: 2.0, −1.5 to 5.5), fatigue (FACT-F: 0.3, −4.3 to 4.9), overall quality of life (FACT-G: 1.7, −1.3 to 4.7) or clinicians’ ratings (SQLI: 2.0, −2.5 to 6.5). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses also excluded significant benefits. Sertraline was discontinued more often and earlier than placebo (logrank p = 0.03). The trial was closed for lack of benefit. Conclusions: Sertraline did not improve symptoms, well-being or survival and should be reserved for those with a proven indication.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

ABC; An AGITG trial of fixed dose rate (FDR) gemcitabine (gem) and cisplatin for patients (pts) with advanced biliary tract cancer (ABC)

15015

Background: No standard regimen exists for pts with ABC. Previous studies suggest that FDR optimises gem activity. This study evaluated the activity of FDR gem with low dose cisplatin using a previously identified schedule. Methods: Single arm, multi- centre phase II trial, planned to enrol 45 pts > 18 years, ECOG PS = 2, with previously untreated histologically / cytologically confirmed, inoperable locally advanced or metastatic ABC. Treatment consisted of FDR gem 1000 mg/m2 (10 mg/m2/min) and cisplatin 20 mg/m2 days 1& 8 q21 days until progression or intolerable toxicity. The primary end point was response rate (RR) by RECIST. Secondary end points included tolerability and safety, progression free and overall survival (PFS, OS) and response duration (RD). Results: 50 pts were enrolled from Feb 05 to Oct 06. Mean age was 60y (39–78); 88% had ECOG PS 0–1; 54% were female. Primary sites were gall bladder 45%, biliary tree 51%, ampulla 4%. Distant metastases were present in 63%. Past treatments included biliary stent in 29%, bypass in 6%, and an external drain in 4%. With a minimum follow-up of 12 weeks, best response was a confirmed PR in 11 pts (RR 22%, 95% CI 11 - 36) and SD (after 4 cycles) in 11 pts (22%), 1 (2%) unevaluable. CA19–9 responses occurred in 6 of 33 pts (18%). Median OS was 7 mo (0.3–13), PFS 4.4 mo (0.3–13), and RD 8 mo (5–12). One year survival rate was 30%. The median number of cycles was 4 (1–16). Treatment was delayed at least once in 45% of pts; mean delay 9d. Grade 3/4 (NCI/CTC) toxicities included infection 9%, fatigue 9%, anorexia/nausea 11%, vomiting 9%, anaemia 9%, neutropenia 28%, thrombocytopenia 15%, abnormal ALP 25%, GGT 47%, AST 6%. There was 1 treatment related death (hematemesis with grade 4 thrombocytopenia). Exploratory analysis of CA 19–9 and its association with response assessment and overall survival will be presented in June. Conclusions: This combination was well tolerated. The observed response rate is consistent with the expected 35% rate and may be superior to that expected with gem monotherapy. Further testing of this dose and scheduling is warranted. The authors thank Lilly for an unrestricted grant to conduct this study.

[Table: see text]

When the goal is not cure: A randomized trial of a patient decision aid in advanced colorectal cancer

6509

Background: With improvements in treatment and supportive care, decisions in advanced cancer are increasingly complex. To facilitate decision-making, we developed a decision aid (DA) for patients considering first-line chemotherapy for incurable colorectal cancer, reviewing treatment options, prognostic information and toxicities. We examined its impact on patient understanding, consultation and decision- making satisfaction, anxiety, decisional conflict, quality of life, information preferences, and treatment decisions made. Methods: 207 newly diagnosed advanced colorectal cancer patients at 5 cancer centers in Australia and Canada were randomized to receive either a standard medical oncology consultation, or the same plus the DA, (take-home booklet with audio-recording, selected review by oncologist). Results: 100 were randomized to the control arm, 107 to receive the DA. Sample characteristics: median age 62 years, 58% male, 89% PS 0/1, 36% prior adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients in the DA arm demonstrated a greater increase in understanding of prognosis, options, benefits and toxicities (+19% vs +5.6%, p 0.001), with higher overall understanding (72% vs 60%, p<0.0001). Decision and consultation satisfaction, decisional conflict and quality of life were similar between groups. Anxiety, measured serially over 4–6 weeks, was similar and decreased over time. Most arrived at a decision during the first consultation; 80% chose chemotherapy, 7.5% supportive care alone, 10.5% a wait and watch strategy, with no differences between arms. 87% wanted as much information as possible, 82% wished to share decision-making with the physician, and only 15% felt the doctor alone should make the decision. More patients who received the decision aid felt they received all possible details about therapy, (72% vs 63%). 90% felt the decision was shared in part between physician and patient. Conclusion: This first randomized trial of a decision aid in advanced cancer patients shows that its use in advanced colorectal cancer improved patient understanding of prognosis, treatment options, risks and benefits without increasing anxiety. Decision aids can improve informed consent and decision-making, and can be tested through randomized trials even in the setting of advanced cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Influence of oil droplet surface charge on the performance of antibody--emulsion conjugates

Targeted drug delivery requires binding of (and subsequent uptake by) the carrier to target cells. The purpose of our present study is to compare the binding and uptake of emulsions with different electric surface properties to SK-BR3 cell line, which over-expresses the HER2 receptor. Cationic emulsion was prepared by incorporating 0.25% w/w of the cationic lipid, stearylamine in the formulation while the anionic emulsion formulation was identical but lacking stearylamine. Immunoemulsions were prepared by conjugating the 2-iminothiolane derivative of the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (Herceptin) through the reactive maleimide group of the octadecyl-4-(maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-carboxylic amide linker which was incorporated in the oil phase of the anionic and cationic emulsions. Cationic emulsion exhibited a droplet size of approximately 130 nm and a zeta potential of +50 mV compared to anionic emulsion with a droplet size of approximately 140 nm and a zeta potential of -30 mV which decreased to -5 mV following antibody coupling. There was no significant difference in the coupling efficiency of trastuzumab to anionic and cationic emulsions which was in the range of 60-70%. The cationic emulsion and immunoemulsion appeared to be physically stable over a long period of time, as indicated by particle-size measurements while the droplets of the anionic immunoemulsion coalesced with time resulting in phase separation within 20 days storage at 4 degrees C. The results of binding and uptake to cells showed that both cationic and anionic immunoemulsions bind and internalized to cells much more than the respective blank emulsions. The enhanced penetration of the probe coumarin-6 with both immunoemulsions clearly indicated that the internalization process was mainly controlled by a cell-receptor endocytosis mechanism mediated by the binding affinity of trastuzumab to the cell surface receptor since the uptake of the cationic immunoemulsion was not significantly different from the uptake of the anionic immunoemulsion. However, only the cationic immunoemulsion might be considered for further investigation in view of its long standing physical stability.

Management of metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumour in the Glivec era: a practical case-based approach

Gastrointestinal stromal tumour is now recognized as a distinct pathological malignancy and has received much attention over the last few years. Despite almost universal resistance to chemotherapy, a novel therapy, Imatinib, which targets the KIT receptor, has changed the natural history of this disease. We have audited the first 26 consecutive patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumour treated over 4 years at a single institution. A practical guide to the management of common toxicities and drug resistance is reported with a review of the published reports. Many of the strategies used are likely to be widely applicable to the use of targeted therapies in other malignancies.

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy for inoperable advanced pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer has a poor prognosis. The benefit of chemotherapy, radiotherapy or both as a palliative treatment of advanced or relapsed disease is uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy in the management of pancreatic adenocarcinoma in people with inoperable advanced disease.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), which includes the Cochrane Upper Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Diseases (UGPD) Group Trials Register (The Cochrane Library 2005, Issue 1); CANCERLIT (1975-2002); MEDLINE (1966 to January 2005); and EMBASE (1980 to January 2005). We handsearched reference lists from trials revealed by electronic searches to identify further relevant trials. We searched published abstracts from relevant conference proceedings. We contacted colleagues and experts in the field, and asked them to provide details of outstanding clinical trials and any relevant unpublished materials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (single- or double-blind) in patients with advanced inoperable pancreatic cancer, in which one of the intervention types (chemotherapy or radiotherapy) was contrasted with either placebo or another type of intervention. Studies comparing non-chemotherapy agents such as biological agents, hormones, immunostimulants, vaccines and cytokines were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Studies were assessed for eligibility and quality. Data were extracted by groups of two independent reviewers, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Study authors were contacted for more information.

MAIN RESULTS

Fifty trials (7043 participants) were included. Chemotherapy significantly reduced the one-year mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25 to 0.57, P value < 0.00001) when compared to best supportive care. Also, chemoradiation improved one year survival (0% versus 58%, P value 0.001) when compared to best supportive care. There was no significant difference in one-year mortality for 5FU alone versus 5FU combinations (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.30); single-agent chemotherapy versus gemcitabine (OR 1.34, 95% CI 0.88 to 2.02, P value 0.17); or gemcitabine alone versus gemcitabine combinations (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.05). However, subgroup analysis showed that platinum-gemcitabine combinations reduced six-month mortality compared to gemcitabine alone (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.81, P value 0.001). A qualitative overview suggested that chemoradiation produced better survivals than either best supportive care or radiotherapy. Chemoradiation treatment was associated with more toxicity.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Chemotherapy appears to prolong survival in people with advanced pancreatic cancer and can confer clinical benefits and improve quality of life. Combination chemotherapy did not improve overall survival compared to single-agent chemotherapy. Gemcitabine is an acceptable control arm for future trials investigating scheduling and combinations with novel agents. There is insufficient evidence to recommend chemoradiation in patients with locally advanced inoperable pancreatic cancer as a superior alternative to chemotherapy alone.

Randomised phase II study evaluating weekly docetaxel in combination with cisplatin and 5FU or capecitabine in metastatic oesophago-gastric cancer

4067

Background: Docetaxel (T), cisplatin (C) and 5FU (F) are active agents in oesophago-gastric cancer. A recent phase III study using TCF achieved a survival advantage but was associated with high rates of haematological toxicity (30% incidence of febrile neutropenia/neutropenic infection) as well as non-haematological side effects (Moiseyenko et al, 2005 Pr ASCO abstr 4002). Weekly docetaxel is associated with a lower incidence of haematological toxicity. This randomised phase II study aimed to test weekly docetaxel based combination chemotherapy regimens with the aim of maintaining the activity of docetaxel based combination regimens but reducing toxicity. Methods: Eligibility included; histologically confirmed, metastatic oesophageal or gastric (OG) carcinoma, measurable disease, PS0–2, adequate organ function, no prior treatment, informed consent. Pts were randomised to receive weekly (w) T 30 mg/m2 d1, 8 C 60 mg/m2 d1 F 200 mg/m2/d continuously q 3w or wT 30 mg/m2 d1, d8 and capecitabine (×)1600 mg/m2/d d1–14 q3w. The primary endpoint is confirmed response rate (RR), with each arm analysed independently. Simon’s 2 stage design was used, with 5/21 responses required in the first stage to allow continuation to 48 pts per arm. Results: 79 pts enrolled to date. Protocol specified interim analysis of efficacy after 21 pts per arm and of toxicity after 25 pts per arm ( Table ). In the first 21 pts per arm; 12 responses (11 confirmed) in wTCF arm, 6 responses (5 confirmed) in wTX arm. Trial continues accrual to target of 48 pts per arm. Complete accrual expected by April 2006. Updated data will be presented at the meeting. Conclusions: wTCF and wTX have encouraging activity and and a more favourable toxicity profile than TCF administered 3-weekly.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

The time taken to complete quality of life questionnaires in an advanced cancer trial

8592

Background: Respondent burden is important when designing trials in advanced cancer. We determined the time taken to complete a set of quality of life questionnaires (TTTCQ) in a randomized trial of sertraline in advanced cancer. Methods: Participants recorded the times they started and finished an 11 page questionnaire of 187 items including the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy General and Fatigue scales, and 4 other validated instruments. Determinants of the TTTCQ were sought amongst the self-ratings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, trouble concentrating, other aspects of quality of life, and other characteristics including age, Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) and treatment. Distributions are summarised by their median, interquartile range (25th to 75th percentiles, IQR) and interdecile range (10th to 90th percentiles, IDR). Associations were assessed with Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (r), and differences with the Mann-Whitney test. All p-values are two-sided. Results: The TTTCQ was available for 128 of 150 subjects (85%). Median age was 66 (IQR 59 to 73), median KPS was 80 (IQR 70 to 90), and 63% were male. The median TTTCQ was 30 mins (IQR 23 to 40, IDR 15 to 50), equating to a median of 10 secs per item (IQR 7 to 13, IDR 5 to 16). The TTTCQ was modestly correlated with age and KPS (r = 0.19, p = 0.04 for both). Age and KPS were not correlated (r = 0.03, p = 0.8). Subjects aged 60 or older had a median TTTCQ 10 mins longer than those 59 or younger (35 v 25 mins, p = 0.002). Subjects with a KPS of 100, 90, 80, and 70 or less had a median TTTCQ of 20, 25, 31, and 35 mins respectively. TTTCQ was modestly correlated with self-ratings of: problems coping with treatment, dry mouth, feeling dizzy or lightheaded (r = 0.22 to 0.25, p = 0.01). Correlations were weak or non-existent with all measures of depression, anxiety, trouble concentrating, emotional well-being, and overall well-being (r = 0.10 to 0.18, p = 0.04 to 0.25). TTTCQ was unaffected by gender, opioids, steroids and number of previous cytotoxic regimens. Conclusions: Respondent burden was less of a problem than anticipated and little affected by treatments or self-rated psychological problems.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Combined modality therapy for pancreatic carcinoma: An Australian Pancreatic Cancer Group study of the addition of gemcitabine (G) to concurrent infusional 5-fluorouracil (CI 5FU) and 3D conformal radiotherapy (RT)—Final outcomes

4104

Background: This open-label Phase II study (B9E-AY-S168) examined whether CI 5FU plus 3D conformal planning RT is well tolerated and may be combined with G pre and post chemoradiotherapy in patients (pts) with pancreatic cancer (PC). Methods: Eligible pts were enrolled in two strata: (1) inoperable PC in head or body without metastases (LAD) or (2) resected PC at high risk of relapse (Surg). G was given at 1000 mg/m2 weekly for 3 wks followed by 1 wk rest and a 5–6 wk period of RT and concurrent CI 5FU (200 mg/m2/day). The defined target volume was treated to 54Gy in 30# of 1.8Gy (LAD) or 45Gy in 25# (Surg). After 4 wks rest, G was given for 12 wks. Results: 63 pts were enrolled: 39 females, 24 males; mean age 61 yr, range 31–79; 43% ECOG PS 0, 51% PS 1, 5% PS 2. Follow-up was 2 yr. 1- and 2-yr survival (KM) were 46% and 10% (LAD) and 59% and 27% (Surg). 1- and 2-yr local control (KM) were 48% and 21% (LAD) and 80% and 80% (Surg). The % planned dose delivered was (i) G pre RT: 87.6% (LAD)/94.6% (Surg); (ii) 5FU: 100.7%/96.4%; (iii) RT: 96.2%/99.5%; (iv) G post RT: 67.4%/65.3%. The baseline CA 19.9 level was significantly associated with a shorter TTPD (p=0.0002) and a shorter survival time (p=0.0071). Using Time Dependent Covariate analysis, CA 19.9 levels were strongly associated with TTPD and survival (both p < 0.0001); a person with a 10-fold higher level has a 1.95-fold higher risk of death over the next time period than their counterpart (95% CI: 1.53–2.49-fold). In 22 pts we found no statistically significant associations between outcome and mutations in K-RAS or TP53 or with microsatellite instability. Grade 3/4 hematological and non-hematological toxicity was reported by 29 (46%) and 42 pts (67%), respectively. There was one treatment-related death. Conclusions: This approach to treatment is safe and promising, with good local control for a substantial proportion of patients, and merits testing in a randomized trial.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

Measurement of bottom-quark hadron masses in exclusive J/psi decays with the CDF detector

We measure the masses of b hadrons in exclusively reconstructed final states containing a J/psi --> mu-mu+ decay using 220 pb(-1) of data collected by the CDF II experiment. We find: m(B+) = 5279.10 +/- 0.41(stat.) +/- 0.36(sys.) MeV/c2, m(B0) = 5279.63 +/- 0.53(stat.) +/- 0.33(sys.) MeV/c2, m(B(s)0) = 5366.01 +/- 0.73(stat.) +/- 0.33(sys.) MeV/c2, m(lambda(b)0) = 5619.7 +/- 1.2(stat.) +/- 1.2(sys.) MeV/c2. m(B+) - m(B0) = -0.53 +/- 0.67(stat.) +/- 0.14(sys.) MeV/c2, m(B(s)0) - m(B0) = 86.38 +/- 0.90(stat.) +/- 0.06(sys.) MeV/c2, m(lambda(b)0) - m(B0) = 339.2 +/- 1.4(stat.) +/- 0.1(sys.) MeV/c2. The measurements of the B(s)0, lambda(b)0 mass, m(B(s)0) - m(B0) and m(lambda(b)0) - m(B0) mass difference are of better precision than the current world averages.