Achievement of Target Gain Larger than Unity in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

On December 5, 2022, an indirect drive fusion implosion on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) achieved a target gain G_{target} of 1.5. This is the first laboratory demonstration of exceeding "scientific breakeven" (or G_{target}>1) where 2.05 MJ of 351 nm laser light produced 3.1 MJ of total fusion yield, a result which significantly exceeds the Lawson criterion for fusion ignition as reported in a previous NIF implosion [H. Abu-Shawareb et al. (Indirect Drive ICF Collaboration), Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 075001 (2022)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.129.075001]. This achievement is the culmination of more than five decades of research and gives proof that laboratory fusion, based on fundamental physics principles, is possible. This Letter reports on the target, laser, design, and experimental advancements that led to this result.

Thermal Shock Viral RNA Release in COVID-19 Testing

Introduction/Objective

The public health emergency of the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the crucial role of medical laboratory professionals and scientists in molecular diagnostics laboratories to ensure success in infection control strategies. The demand for laboratory testing using nucleic acid amplification tests to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA imposed strains in laboratory supplies. Here, we explored an alternative cost-effective solution that will simplify the pre-PCR steps by using a simple heating method to release viral RNA.

Methods/Case Report

Samples tested using the reference automated extraction method were used:100 samples identified as positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and 500 samples tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA were used for the study and sorted with equal distribution according to Ct values of (a) <20, (b) 20–30, and (c) >30.100 ul from swab preserved in Universal Transport Medium was treated with 30 μg of proteinase K, and another set was tested without proteinase K pre-treatment. All samples with or without proteinase K were diluted to minimize PCR inhibitors. The thermal shock protocol was set at (98°C, 5 minutes; 4°C, 2 minutes) and screened for purity. Performance and method verification studies were performed. Internal extraction, positive template, and no template controls were markers used for testing quality. The experimental study was performed by qualified testing personnel and all under the same experimental conditions.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

The Ct values from the thermal shock RNA release were compared to the automated extraction method and statistically analyzed.The criteria for acceptability for validation of this new RNA extraction proceeding were set to 100% concordance compared to the commercial kit using an automated extraction. PCR efficiency was at 98% and a slope of -3.3. Within run precision of 2% and limits of detection from 200 to 20,000 copies/uL The method 100% (50/50) concordance on samples previously identified as negative by automated methods and identified 86% (86/100) with a mean difference of 3 Ct.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the thermal shock treatment of nasopharyngeal swabs in viral transport media can successfully extract viral nucleic acid for nucleic acid amplification and is a reasonable alternative for chemical extraction methods when molecular diagnostic laboratories persistently encounter supply chain issues.

Lawson Criterion for Ignition Exceeded in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

For more than half a century, researchers around the world have been engaged in attempts to achieve fusion ignition as a proof of principle of various fusion concepts. Following the Lawson criterion, an ignited plasma is one where the fusion heating power is high enough to overcome all the physical processes that cool the fusion plasma, creating a positive thermodynamic feedback loop with rapidly increasing temperature. In inertially confined fusion, ignition is a state where the fusion plasma can begin "burn propagation" into surrounding cold fuel, enabling the possibility of high energy gain. While "scientific breakeven" (i.e., unity target gain) has not yet been achieved (here target gain is 0.72, 1.37 MJ of fusion for 1.92 MJ of laser energy), this Letter reports the first controlled fusion experiment, using laser indirect drive, on the National Ignition Facility to produce capsule gain (here 5.8) and reach ignition by nine different formulations of the Lawson criterion.

Integrating Research into the Undergraduate Curriculum: 2. Scaffolding Research Skills and Transitioning toward Independent Research

Undergraduate research experiences are widely regarded as high-impact practices that foster meaningful mentoring relationships, enhance retention and graduation, and stimulate postbaccalaureate enrollment in STEM graduate and professional programs. Through immersion in a mentored original research project, student develop and apply their skills in critical thinking, problem solving, intellectual independence, communication, collaboration, project ownership, innovation, and leadership. These skills are readily transferable to a wide array of future careers in and beyond STEM that are well-served by evidence-based approaches. The 2019 Society for Neuroscience meeting included a well-attended workshop on integrating research into the curriculum at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs). This article is the second of three articles that summarize, analyze, and expand the workshop discussions. In this second article, we specifically describe approaches to transitional research courses that prepare students for independent research experiences such as undergraduate research theses. Educators can intentionally scaffold research experience and skills across the curriculum, to foster participation in scientific research and enhance diversity, equity, and inclusivity in research training. This article provides an overview of important goals and considerations for intermediate undergraduate research experiences, specific examples from several institutions of transitional courses that scaffold research preparation using different structures, and a summary of lessons learned from these experiences.

Integrating Research into the Undergraduate Curriculum: 1. Early Research Experiences and Training

Undergraduate research experiences have emerged as some of the most beneficial high-impact practices in education, providing clear benefits to students that include improved critical thinking and scientific reasoning, increased academic performance, and enhanced retention both within STEM majors and in college overall. These benefits extend to faculty members as well. Several disciplines, including neuroscience, have implemented research as part of their curriculum, yet many research opportunities target late stage undergraduates, despite evidence that early engagement can maximize the beneficial nature of such work. A 2019 Society for Neuroscience professional development workshop provided multiple examples of integrating research into an undergraduate curriculum, including early engagement (Fernandes, 2020). This article is the first in a series of three that expands upon the information presented in those workshop discussions, focusing on ways to promote early research opportunities. The benefits and challenges associated with early research engagement suggest thoughtful consideration of the best mechanisms for implementation are warranted; some options might include apprenticeship models or course-based approaches. Regardless of mechanism, early research can serve to initiate more prolonged, progressive, scaffolded experiences that span the academic undergraduate career.

Integrating Research into the Undergraduate Curriculum: 3. Research Training in the Upper-level Neuroscience Curriculum

The benefits of undergraduate training in research are significant. Integration of such training into the undergraduate experience, however, can be challenging at institutions without extensive research programs, and may inadvertently exclude some populations of students. Therefore, inclusion of research into the academic curriculum ensures all students can access this important training. The 2019 annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience included a workshop on integrating research into the curriculum at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs). In this last article of a three-part series, we describe models for integrating research into advanced stages of the undergraduate curriculum, specifically for juniors and seniors. First, we describe multiple models of faculty-mentored group-based research. Second, we detail a peer-mentored research system, in which seniors mentor groups of first through third year students. Third, we describe multiple examples of integrating research into "capstone" courses for seniors. Fourth, we describe models in which a senior thesis is a graduation requirement for all students. Lastly, we describe several models of implementing an optional honors thesis for students. Although similarities exist across these programs, their differences allow for specific secondary objectives to be met, which are often unique to institutions and/or departments. Therefore, for each of these examples, we describe the context, specific design, and required student assessments. We conclude by discussing some of the key successes and challenges of developing programs that facilitate undergraduate research by upper-level students, and suggest a number of concepts that should be considered by individuals developing and assessing new programs.

Personalized antibodies for gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (PANGEA): Secondary and final primary efficacy analyses

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Background: Targeted therapies (tx) have had limited benefit in advanced (aGEA) due to baseline spatial (primary vs metastatic tumor PT/MT) & temporal molecular heterogeneity (BMH/TMH). We previously reported PANGEA methods & results: 35% BMH rate & 10 OS results achieving 1yr OS of 66% & mOS of 16.4 months (m) using the personalized tx strategy (Catenacci et al. GI ASCO 2020 Abstr356). Here we will report the TMH rates at progressive disease points (PD1 & PD2), ORR/PFS/DCR in each of 3 tx lines, time to strategy failure (TTF), & updated OS/safety. Methods: PANGEA enrolled newly diagnosed aGEA pts who then received up to 3 cytotoxic (cx) tx lines (L). Baseline tissue biomarker profiling (BP) was mandated on PT/MT & PD1/PD2, & ctDNA analysis throughout. After initiating 1L cx & upon learning MT BP results, antibody (AN) was added by a predefined prioritized tx algorithm incorporating tissue & blood BP (Table). At PD1, pts went to 2L cx + initial AN. Upon results of PD1 BP, pts changed AN only if BP evolved per tx algorithm. The same was done at PD2. The 10 endpoint was 1yr OS; enrolling 68 pts provided 80% power to detect a 63% 1yr OS compared to historical 50% 1yr OS (HR 0.67), using a 1-sided test (0.10 alpha). Results: 80 pts were enrolled, & 68 tx’d per protocol. At data cut-off 2/1/20, 15 pts were still on trial with only 2 of these pts on tx <12m (8 pts in 1L, 5 in 2L, 2 in 3L). All 68 pts had at least 1 dose of 1L tx, 87% 2L tx, & 36% 3L tx. AN assigned by the tx algorithm at 1L, OS, TTF, & ORR1/PFS1/DCR1 of 1L tx are shown in Table; 2L & 3L ORR/DCR outcomes will be shown. The 3yr & 4yr OS rates were 12% & 8%. TMH leading to molecular subgroup change by tx algorithm was 51% after 1L & 36% after 2L; details & results by subgroup will be provided. Any grade >3 non-heme tox thru all 3 tx lines was seen in 25% of pts. Conclusions: PANGEA showed superior 10 & 20 endpoint efficacy, even when excluding HER2- pts, compared to historical outcomes. Clinical trial information: NCT02213289 . [Table: see text]

Evaluation of the Association of Perioperative UGT1A1 Genotype-Dosed gFOLFIRINOX With Margin-Negative Resection Rates and Pathologic Response Grades Among Patients With Locally Advanced Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma: A Phase 2 Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (ie, stage ≥T3 and/or node positive) have high rates of recurrence despite surgery and adjunctive perioperative therapies, which also have high toxicity profiles. Evaluation of pharmacogenomically dosed perioperative gFOLFIRINOX (fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and UGT1A1 genotype-directed irinotecan) to optimize efficacy while limiting toxic effects may have value.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the coprimary end points of margin-negative (R0) resection rates and pathologic response grades (PRGs) of gFOLFIRINOX therapy among patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This single-group phase 2 trial, conducted at 2 academic medical centers from February 2014 to March 2019, enrolled 36 evaluable patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction, and gastric body. Data analysis was conducted in May 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients received biweekly gFOLFIRINOX (fluorouracil, 2400 mg/m2 over 46 hours; oxaliplatin, 85 mg/m2; irinotecan, 180 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 6/6, 135 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 6/7, or 90 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 7/7; and prophylactic peg-filgastrim, 6 mg) for 4 cycles before and after surgery. Patients with tumors positive for ERBB2 also received trastuzumab (6-mg/kg loading dose, then 4 mg/kg).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Margin-negative resection rate and PRG.

RESULTS

A total of 36 evaluable patients (27 [78%] men; median [range] age, 66 [27-85] years; 10 [28%] with gastric body cancer; 24 [67%] with intestinal-type tumors; 6 [17%] with ERBB2-positive tumors; 19 [53%] with UGT1A1 genotype 6/6; 16 [44%] with genotype 6/7; and 1 [3%] with genotype 7/7) were enrolled. Of these, 35 (97%) underwent surgery; 1 patient (3%) died after completing neoadjuvant chemotherapy while awaiting surgery. Overall, R0 resection was achieved in 33 of 36 patients (92%); 2 patients (6%) with linitis plastica achieved R1 resection. Pathologic response grades 1, 2, and 3 occurred in 13 patients (36%), 9 patients (25%), and 14 patients (39%), respectively, and PRG 1 was observed in 11 of 24 intestinal-type tumors (46%). Median disease-free survival was 30.1 months (95% CI, 15.0 months to not reached), and median overall survival was not reached (95% CI, 8.3 months to not reached). There were no differences in outcomes by UGT1A1 genotype group. A total of 38 patients, including 2 (5%) with antral tumors, were evaluable for toxic effects. Grade 3 or higher adverse events occurring in 5% or more of patients during the perioperative cycles included diarrhea (7 patients [18%]; 3 of 19 patients [16%] with genotype 6/6; 2 of 16 patients [13%] with genotype 6/7; 2 of 3 patients [67%] with genotype 7/7), anemia (2 patients [5%]), vomiting (2 patients [5%]), and nausea (2 patients [5%]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, perioperative pharmacogenomically dosed gFOLFIRINOX was feasible, providing downstaging with PRG 1 in more than one-third of patients and an R0 resection rate in 92% of patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02366819.

Personalized ANtibodies for GastroEsophageal Adenocarcinoma (PANGEA): Primary efficacy analysis of the phase II platform trial (NCT02213289)

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Background: 1-yr OS is ~40% for HER2- & ~55% for HER2+ advanced (aGEA). Targeted therapies (tx) have had limited benefit due to molecular heterogeneity. Methods: This phase 2a study of a personalized tx strategy (PTS) enrolled newly diagnosed aGEA pts who then received up to 3 cytotoxic (cx) lines: first line (1L) 5FU + oxaliplatin, 2L 5FU + irinotecan & 3L 5FU + docetaxel. Baseline biomarker profiling (BP) was mandated on primary & metastatic tumors (PT/MT) & progressive disease points (PD1, PD2). Assigned antibody (AN) was added to cx by a predefined prioritized tx algorithm (PTA) (Table) based on the MT BP. At PD1, pts went to 2L cx + initial AN. Upon results of PD1 BP, pts changed AN only if BP evolved per PTA. The same was done at PD2. If AN was unavailable (MET/FGFR2), these pts were tx’d with cx alone (not ITT). The 10 endpt was 1-yr OS of the PTS. Assuming historical 50% 1-yr OS for all aGEA pts, 68 pts tx’d per protocol PTS provided 80% power to detect an HR=0.67, corresponding to a 1-yr OS rate of 63% (under exponential survival), using a 1-sided test at the 0.10 alpha level. 20 endpts: safety, feasibility, PT/MT BP discordance at baseline & over tx line, & OS/PFS/ORR by tx line & BP group. Results: Between 6/2015-5/2019, 80 consecutive pts enrolled at 3 sites: ECOG PS 0-2 40/33/7; Male 80%; median age 60, range 28-81, peritoneal disease 36%. AN assigned by PTA at 1L & 1-yr OS are shown (Table). PT/MT discordance was 37%. Of 68 pts treated by PTS ITT, the 1-yr OS was 69.4% (p<0.001). The mOS was 16.4m [95%CI 13.8-20.8]. Any grade >3 tox thru all 3 tx lines was seen in 32% of pts. 20 analyses will be presented. Conclusions: PANGEA was feasible & met its 10 efficacy objective with observed 1-yr OS of 69.4%, meriting a randomized study. Clinical trial information: NCT02213289 . U.S. National Institutes of Health.[Table: see text]

Perioperative (P) UGT1A1 genotype guided irinotecan (iri) dosing ‘gFOLFIRINOX’ for gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA)

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Background: Complete resection (R0) and pathologic response grade (PRG) correlate with long-term GEA outcome. FOLFIRINOX demonstrated efficacy in advanced GEA; gFOLFIRINOX improved tolerability. We evaluated R0, PRG and tolerability in this pilot P study. Methods: Gastric body (GB) + esophagogastric (EGJ) GEA patients (pts) with ≥T3Nx or TxN+ were enrolled & treated with 4 pre + 4 postoperative biweekly cycles of gFOLFIRINOX (5-FU 2400mg/m2 over 46 hrs; oxaliplatin 85mg/m2; iri: 180mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 6/6, 135mg/m2 for 6/7, 90mg/m2 for 7/7) (+ trastuzumab (T) 6mg/kg then 4mg/kg for HER2+) with prophylactic peg-filgastrim. 1°endpoint R0 resection required 36 pts to assess for a 90% R0 rate (intention to treat (ITT)) with 90% power + 0.05 alpha; ≥30/36 R0 considered positive. Co-1°endpoint was PRG (Becker); 36 pts provided 85% power with 0.05 alpha for a complete (pCR G1a) rate of 16%. 2°endpoints were safety/toxicity, PET response, & R0/PRG by tumor site, histologic subtype, HER2 status, & UGT1A1 genotype. We report efficacy and toxicity data from the neoadjuvant (Neo) portion of the study; postop data & survival outcomes will be presented at the meeting. Results: 4 sites enrolled 36 ITT pts between 2/2014-8/2018; 75% male, median age 66 (range 27-85). All pts completed all 4 cycles of Neo therapy: 10% had any dose reduction of iri (16%/0%/25% by genotype 6/6, 6/7, 7/7); any G3+ toxicity occurred in 35% of pts (32% 6/6, 29% 6/7, 75% 7/7). G3+ toxicity in ≥5% of pts: diarrhea (17.5%; 6/6 21%, 6/7 11%, 7/7 25%), anemia (5%), vomiting (5%). Efficacy is shown in the Table. Of pts going to surgery, both R1 resections were GB linitus. PRG1(a+b) was achieved in 36% of ITT pts, 46% of intestinal type histology. Conclusions: Neo gFOLFIRINOX was tolerable with surrogate efficacy comparable to FLOT. Clinical trial information: NCT02366819. [Table: see text]

Suspected and confirmed germline variants from tumor-only somatic sequencing of 864 gastrointestinal malignancies

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Background: Targeted tumor-only somatic sequencing informs therapies and is becoming a routine part of cancer care. It also identifies patients with possible germline variants who require confirmatory genetic testing. The aim was to identify patients with suspected and confirmed germline variants whose GI tumors underwent somatic sequencing. Methods: 864 patients with GI tumors who had Foundation One (FO) somatic sequencing from 4/2003-3/2018 were evaluated. Inclusion criteria for suspected germline variants were: a) allele frequency ≥ 35% in hereditary cancer genes and b) pathogenic variants by FO and/or ClinVar. Variants in commonly mutated somatic genes ( TP53, KRAS, CDKN2A) were excluded in patients over age 40. Recommendation of genetic evaluation and germline test results were recorded. Patient, family, and tumor characteristics were compared using univariate analysis. Results: 199 of 864 patients had suspected germline pathogenic variants. 50 patients were recommended genetic evaluation, and 26 patients underwent genetic testing. A germline pathogenic variant was confirmed in 15 patients. Among all patients suspected to have germline variants, 8% were confirmed by genetic testing. Patients under age 40 and those with family cancer history were more often referred for testing (Table). Patients with variants in BRCA1, MLH1, MSH2, PMS2, POLE and TP53 were more often referred for testing. Conclusions: A quarter of patients carried a somatic pathogenic variant with allele frequency ≥35% in a hereditary cancer gene. 25% of these patients were recommended for genetic evaluation. Younger patients and those with family history were more often referred. 8% of patients with suspected germline variants were confirmed by genetic testing. These results provide “real world” experience in using somatic only tumor testing to identify patients with germline pathogenic variants who then might benefit from future cancer screening and genetic testing in family members. Comparison of characteristics by recommendation to undergo genetic testing based on somatic tumor sequencing results. [Table: see text]

Initial Report of Second-Line FOLFIRI in Combination with Ramucirumab in Advanced Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinomas: A Multi-Institutional Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

The randomized phase III RAINBOW trial established paclitaxel (pac) plus ramucirumab (ram) as a global standard for second-line (2L) therapy in advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, together gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA). Patients (pts) receiving first-line (1L) FOLFOX often develop neuropathy that renders continued neurotoxic agents in the 2L setting unappealing and other regimens more desirable. As such, FOLFIRI-ram has become an option for patients with 2L GEA. FOLFIRI-ramucirumab (ram) has demonstrated safety and activity in 2L colorectal cancer, but efficacy/safety data in GEA are lacking.

SUBJECTS, MATERIALS, AND METHODS

Patients with GEA treated with 2L FOLFIRI-ram between August 2014 and April 2018 were identified. Clinicopathologic data including oxaliplatin neurotoxicity rates/grades (G), 2L treatment response, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), safety, and molecular features were abstracted from three U.S. academic institutions. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to generate PFS/OS; the likelihood ratio test was used to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS

We identified 29 pts who received 2L FOLFIRI-ram. All pts received 1L platinum + fluoropyrimidine, and 23 of 29 (79%) had post-1L neuropathy; 12 (41%) had G1, and 11 (38%) had G2. Patients were evenly split between esophagus/gastroesophageal junction (12; 41%) and gastric cancer (17; 59%). Among evaluable pts (26/29), the overall response rate was 23% (all partial response) with a disease control rate of 79%. Median PFS was 6.0 months and median OS was 13.4 months among all evaluable pts. Six- and 12-month OS were 90% (n = 18/20) and 41% (n = 7/17). There were no new safety signals.

CONCLUSION

We provide the first data suggesting FOLFIRI-ram is a safe, non-neurotoxic regimen comparing favorably with the combination of pac + ram used in the seminal RAINBOW trial.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Results of this study provide initial support for the safety and efficacy of second-line (2L) FOLFIRI-ramucirumab (ram) after progression on first-line platinum/fluoropyrimidine in patients with gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA). The overall response, progression-free survival, overall survival, and toxicity profile compare favorably with paclitaxel (pac) + ram and highlight the importance of the ongoing phase II RAMIRIS trial examining FOLFIRI-ram versus pac + ram in 2L GEA (NCT03081143). FOLFIRI-ram may warrant consideration for inclusion as an alternate regimen in consensus guidelines for GEA.

Tumor mutational burden (TMB) may be a promising predictive biomarker of response to PD-1/PD-L1 targeting in MSI-H colorectal cancer

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Background: PD-1 targeting with pembrolizumab or nivolumab leads to durable clinical benefits in patients (pts) with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) tumors. However, 30-35% of mCRC pts with MSI-H tumors will experience progressive disease (PD) as a best response when treated with anti-PD1 agents, highlighting the need of additional predictive biomarkers. Methods: We performed a retrospective multi-center clinical investigation to evaluate the impact of TMB, age, gender, stage at initial presentation, pattern of metastatic disease, tumor grade, and RAS/RAF status on response to anti-PD1/PD-L1 in MSI-H mCRC. TMB and MSI status were determined by hybrid capture-based next-generation sequencing (Foundation Medicine [FM]). The TMB distribution in MSI-H CRC was estimated from a large data set from FM. Results: 22 eligible MSI-H mCRC pts were identified across 5 cancer centers: 19 pts received pembrolizumab, 1 pt received nivolumab, 1 pt received nivolumab + ipilimumab, and 1 pt received durvalumab + tremelimumab. Among tested variables, TMB (as a continuous variable) showed the strongest association with an objective response (OR; p < 0.001). Also, both univariate and multivariate analyses supported that TMB serves as an independent prognostic variable in predicting progression-free survival (PFS; p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). Using log-rank statistics, the optimal predictive cut-point for TMB was estimated between 37-41 mutations/Mb to dichotomize pts into TMBhigh and TMBlow groups. All 13 pts (100%) with TMBhigh had an OR, while only 2/9 (22%) pts with TMBlow had an OR and 6/9 had PD. The median PFS for TMBhigh pts has not been reached (no progressors, median follow-up > 18 mos), while the median PFS for TMBlow pts was 2 mos. Amongst 821 MSI-H CRC cases tested at FM, the 25th, 35th, 50th and 75th percentile TMB cutoffs were 33.1, 37.4, 46.1, and 61.8 mutations/Mb, respectively. Our optimal TMB cut-point range suggests that MSI-H mCRC with the lowest 35th percentile of TMB have a low likelihood of benefit from anti-PD1. Conclusions: These TMB findings require validation in prospective trials and may guide the sequencing of PD-1 inhibitor monotherapy in MSI-H mCRC.

Targeted Therapies for Targeted Populations: Anti-EGFR Treatment for EGFR-Amplified Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma

Previous anti-EGFR trials in unselected patients with gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA) were resoundingly negative. We identified EGFR amplification in 5% (19/363) of patients at the University of Chicago, including 6% (8/140) who were prospectively screened with intention-to-treat using anti-EGFR therapy. Seven patients received ≥1 dose of treatment: three first-line FOLFOX plus ABT-806, one second-line FOLFIRI plus cetuximab, and three third/fourth-line cetuximab alone. Treatment achieved objective response in 58% (4/7) and disease control in 100% (7/7) with a median progression-free survival of 10 months. Pretreatment and posttreatment tumor next-generation sequencing (NGS), serial plasma circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) NGS, and tumor IHC/FISH for EGFR revealed preexisting and/or acquired genomic events, including EGFR-negative clones, PTEN deletion, KRAS amplification/mutation, NRAS, MYC, and HER2 amplification, and GNAS mutations serving as mechanisms of resistance. Two evaluable patients demonstrated interval increase of CD3+ infiltrate, including one who demonstrated increased NKp46+, and PD-L1 IHC expression from baseline, suggesting an immune therapeutic mechanism of action. EGFR amplification predicted benefit from anti-EGFR therapy, albeit until various resistance mechanisms emerged.Significance: This paper highlights the role of EGFR inhibitors in EGFR-amplified GEA-despite negative results in prior unselected phase III trials. Using serial ctDNA and tissue NGS, we identified mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance in all patients, as well as potential contribution of antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity to their clinical benefit. Cancer Discov; 8(6); 696-713. ©2018 AACR.See related commentary by Strickler, p. 679This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 663.

The gap between coverage and care-what can Canadian paediatricians do about access to health services for refugee claimant children?

Introduction

In June 2012, the government of Canada severely restricted the scope of the Interim Federal Health Program that had hitherto provided coverage for the health care needs of refugee claimants. The Quebec government decided to supplement coverage via the provincial health program. Despite this, we hypothesized that refugee claimant children in Montreal would continue to experience significant difficulties in accessing basic health care.

Objectives

(1) Report the narrative experiences of refugee claimant families who were denied health care services in Montreal following June 2012, (2) describe the predominant barriers to accessing health care services and understanding their impact using thematic analysis and (3) derive concrete recommendations for child health care providers to improve access to care for refugee claimant children.

Methods

Eleven parents recruited from two sites in Montreal participated in semi-structured interviews designed to elicit a narrative account of their experiences seeking health care. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded using NVivo software and subjected to thematic analysis.

Results

Thematic analysis of the data revealed five themes concerning barriers to health care access: lack of continuous health coverage, health care administrators/providers' lack of understanding of Interim Federal Health Program coverage, refusal of services or fees charged, refugee claimants' lack of understanding about health care rights and services and language barriers, and four themes concerning the impact of denial of care episodes: potential for adverse health outcomes, psychological distress, financial burden and social stigma.

Conclusion

We propose eight action points for advocacy by Canadian paediatricians to improve access to health care for refugee claimant children in their communities and institutions.

Consensus statement on epidemiological studies of medical conditions in tennis, April 2009

BACKGROUND

The reported incidence, severity and nature of injuries sustained in tennis vary considerably between studies. While some of these variations can be explained by differences in sample populations and conditions, the main reasons are related to differences in definitions and methodologies employed in the studies.

OBJECTIVE

This statement aims to review existing consensus statements for injury surveillance in other sports in order to establish definitions, methods and reporting procedures that are applicable to the specific requirements of tennis.

DESIGN

The International Tennis Federation facilitated a meeting of 11 experts from seven countries representing a range of tennis stakeholders. Using a mixed methods consensus approach, key issues related to definitions, methodology and implementation were discussed and voted on by the group during a structured 1-day meeting. Following this meeting, two members of the group collaborated to produce a draft statement, based on the group discussions and voting outcomes. Three revisions were prepared and circulated for comment before the final consensus statement was produced.

RESULTS

A definition of medical conditions (injuries and illnesses) that should be recorded in tennis epidemiological studies and criteria for recording the severity and nature of these conditions are proposed. Suggestions are made for recording players' baseline information together with recommendations on how medical conditions sustained during match play and training should be reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The definitions and methodology proposed for recording injuries and illnesses sustained during tennis activities will lead to more consistent and comparable data being collected. The surveillance procedures presented here may also be applicable to other racket sports.

Phase I Stark II regulations provide some flexibility

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS--formerly HCFA) issued Phase I regulations of Stark II in January 2001. The Stark II final rule prohibits physicians from referring Medicare patients for designated health services (DHS) to entities with which the physicians or their immediate family members have a financial relationship. A financial relationship can be either an ownership interest or a compensation arrangement, and can be direct or indirect. The law provides a variety of sanctions, including denial or refund of payment and civil penalties. The final rule generally permits physicians to make referrals to entities with which they have a compensation relationship, as long as the compensation paid to the physician is no more than would be paid to someone who provided the same services but was not in a position to generate business for the entity. The final rule is substantially different from the January 1998 proposed rule. As a result, physicians who refer patients to entities for DHS need to ensure that the referrals do not trigger Stark II prohibitions. To avoid unknowingly violating the law, healthcare providers need to understand what constitutes an entity, how CMS views referrals, and what is and is not a DHS.

Older adults. The case for comprehensive assessment

Recognition of all health care problems is important to be able to provide comprehensive care with optimal outcomes and to maximize reimbursement. This article addresses the importance of conducting a thorough geriatric assessment, including an assessment of mental health. The authors present case examples to illustrate where shortcomings in the assessment could compromise both care and reimbursement.

Sharps injuries: defining prevention priorities

OBJECTIVE

An institutional review of sharps injuries was conducted to assist in establishing priorities for resource allocation in a sharps prevention program.

DESIGN

A retrospective review of 221 sharps injuries occurring during a 1-year period was conducted by a 4-member multidisciplinary team. Each injury was categorized as either moderate/high, low, or unknown risk for acquisition of bloodborne diseases by using modified provincial definitions of occupational risk for exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

RESULTS

A total of 119 injuries were considered to be moderate/high risk, and 93 were at low risk for acquisition of bloodborne disease. Nine injuries could not be categorized. In 59% of high-risk injuries, education or changes in technique were identified as the primary preventive intervention. Passive devices such as needleless intravenous administration sets could theoretically address prevention of the majority of low-risk injuries. Known available safety devices could have prevented 33 (28%) high-risk injuries.

CONCLUSION

Disposition of resources must take into consideration the risk of bloodborne disease acquisition and the efficiency and expense of the preventable methods employed. Institutional review of injuries combined with a cost analysis revealed that resources were best allocated to protective devices at source (eg, safety syringes) and on a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and sustained educational program. Needleless intravenous infusion sets would mainly prevent low-risk injuries at significant cost.

The associations of suicide attempts in adolescents

OBJECTIVE

Suicide completion has increased in the United States among 15- to 24-year-olds from 4.5 per 100 000 (1950) to 13.2 per 100 000 (1990). Suicide attempts have been found to be associated with depression, substance use, overall number of life stressors, gender, and impulsive behaviors. We hypothesized that suicide attempt is associated with many other health risk behaviors.

DESIGN

To evaluate this hypothesis, we analyzed the data from the 1993 Massachusetts Youth Risk Behavior Survey from a representative sample of students in grades 9 through 12 in public and private high schools. We examined the relationships between ever attempting suicide and engaging in other health risk or problem behaviors (eg, sexual activity, substance use, violence, and seat belt nonuse).

RESULTS

The 3054 students were distributed among the 9th to 12th grades; 50.7% were female, 77.7% white, 6.7% black, 5.9% Hispanic, 4. 6% Asian, .8% Native American, and 4.4% other; and the mean age was 16 +/- 1.2 years. Based on logistic regression analysis, ever attempting suicide was associated with physical fights in the past 12 months (odds ratio [OR] = 1.3[95% confidence interval (CI), 1. 22-1.44]), regular cigarette use in the past 30 days (2.0[1.41-2. 97]), female gender (3.2[2.21-4.71]), lack of seat belt use (1.3[1. 21-1.34]), gun carrying in the past 30 days (1.4[1.12-1.70]), substance use before last sexual activity (1.4[1.09-1.84]), Native American or other (2.4[1.21-4.71]), and lifetime use of other drugs (1.2[1.04-1.40]). The full model correctly assigned 92% of the youth. There were small differences in models for males, females, and sexually active youth. Same gender sexual experiences for sexually active youth did not significantly improve the model (partial r = .0, OR = .87 [95% CI, .33-2.30]) and fewer (88%) of the youth were correctly assigned by the model.

CONCLUSIONS

Ever attempting suicide is associated with other problem behaviors. This research proposes an empirical model of the relationship between suicide attempts and other health risk behaviors. Identifying which adolescents are at risk for suicide attempts from the presence of accompanying risk behaviors will help clinicians to evaluate suicide risk when other problem behaviors are identified, thus enabling the design of possible prevention strategies.

A family-centered approach to the development of a pediatric family satisfaction questionnaire

Nurses sought parental collaboration in developing The Pediatric Family Satisfaction Questionnaire, an instrument used to obtain family feedback as part of an inpatient quality assessment and improvement program. A focus group of parents assisted in item generation. A larger group of parents ranked items on a draft questionnaire. The final questionnaire included input from parents and the nursing, medical, and child life departments of the hospital. Data obtained from use of the questionnaire gives direction to quality improvement projects in the pediatric areas.

Nurse manager competencies

First-line nurse managers play a critical management role because they greatly influence the success of healthcare organizations. Several studies have profiled the first-line nurse manager, but have focused on the characteristics and responsibilities of these individuals. This study delineated and identified specific behavioral competencies that are considered important for hospital-based nurse manager effectiveness. The results of the survey are relevant for the selection, preparation, and development of effective hospital-based nurse managers.

Perceptions of physical therapists toward patient education

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions of physical therapists regarding their involvement in patient education. We developed a questionnaire to assess procedures or activities taught, methods or tools used, important physical therapist behaviors, techniques used to assess the effectiveness of teaching, barriers to delivering effective education, relative value of patient care activities as compared with other activities, and factors contributing to the development of teaching skills.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The questionnaire was sent to 300 American Physical Therapy Association members nationwide chosen by a random sample. Two hundred questionnaires, or 69% of the eligible responses were used in the data analysis.

RESULTS

Most respondents indicated they teach 80% to 100% of their patients. Nearly all respondents teach range-of-motion techniques, home programs, and treatment rationale through the use of demonstration and verbal discussion. Most respondents recognize the importance of many therapist behaviors related to patient teaching and use observation and evaluation to assess the effectiveness of their teaching. Barriers to patient education most frequently cited were psychological factors of the patient. Interaction with patients was considered most important to the development of respondents' teaching skills.

CONCLUSION AND DISCUSSION

Implications and suggestions for further research are discussed.

From anxiety to action: facilitating faculty development during curriculum change

Nurse educators, both as individuals and as faculty collectively, have recognized the need for change. But as anyone with a basic knowledge of change theory knows, change is usually accompanied by varying degrees of resistance.

Pediatric emergency review: a "hands-on" approach

A "hands-on" approach to pediatric emergency review was developed to improve retention of psychomotor skills and instill critical thinking for pediatric nurses in anticipation of pediatric emergency situations.

Solving documentation problems with a pediatric flow sheet

In September/October 1988, Pediatric Nursing published a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) flow sheet for documenting assessments and nursing interventions. In this article, a hospital's pediatric flow sheet that allows for entries related to general pediatric practice is presented. It decreases the amount of time required to chart as well as the number of medical record forms used to comply with JCAHO standards for nursing documentation.

Left atrial myxoma. A case report of unusual complication

Atrial myxoma may present in unusual fashion and must be considered in the differential diagnosis of several conditions. A 17-year-old, white male presented with central nervous system symptoms, and the diagnosis was established postmortem. A brief discussion of tumor characteristics and diagnostic methods is made.

Production responses of dairy cows fed diets supplemented with ammonium salts of iso C-4 and C-5 acids

A three-university study examined effects of ammonium salts of volatile fatty acids on dairy cows for a full lactation cycle. Objectives were a) to determine the most efficacious amount and ratio of two components, ammonium salts of C-5 acids and ammonium isobutyrate, and b) to compare responses of this optimum blend with the control in a response surface design. This design tested six blends of the two components defined by the center point and the five points of an equilateral pentagon from which response surfaces would be computed and a control. Each treatment consisted of 23 cows for a total of 161 multiparous Holstein cows. All cows were fed corn silage for ad libitum consumption, 1.8 kg of urea-mineral-vitamin-premix plus supplement based on corn grain and corn gluten meal according to milk production. Response surfaces, based on milk yield, defined an optimum blend composed of 61 g ammonium salts of C-5 acids plus 28 g ammonium isobutyrate per cow per day equivalent to 120 g aqueous blend (74% solids). The optimum blend was similar to the center point blend. Cows receiving the center point blend peaked higher and produced more milk, 4% fat-corrected milk, milk protein, and total solids than control cows. For the first trimester of lactation, milk yields for control and center point blend were 28.6 and 31.8 kg. The 305-day milk, 4% fat-corrected milk yields, and dry matter intakes (kg) were: control 20.5, 19.7, 17.3; center point blend 23.2, 21.6, 17.5. Increased milk production was associated with improved feed utilization. No effect on health or reproduction was observed.