bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal sarcomas: Epidemiology, treatment and outcomes.
Authors: Uhlig Johannes , Uhlig Annemarie , Deshpande Hari Anant , Hurwitz Michael E. , Humphrey Peter , Kim Kevin
Published: March 2021

362

Background: Renal sarcomas are a rare malignancy in adults and have been inadequately evaluated on a US national level regarding epidemiology, treatment, and outcomes. Methods: The 2004-2016 NCDB and SEER databases were queried for adult patients diagnosed with sarcomas of renal origin. Age-adjusted incidence rates were derived from the SEER database. Overall survival (OS) was assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for demographics, tumor and treatment variables. Results: 1,279 renal sarcomas comprising 39 subtypes were reported from 2004-2016, contributing 0.3% of all NCDB renal malignancies. As shown in the table below, the most common subtypes were leiomyosarcoma (LMS), angiosarcoma (AS), malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT), dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DL) and primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET). Over the study period, renal sarcoma incidence rates remained constant at 0.5 cases / 1 million citizens. Sex-specific incidence differences were evident with female predominance for LMS, and male predominance for AS. Age at diagnosis and tumor diameter varied according to sarcoma subtypes: for example, median age in LMS was 62y compared to 30y in Ewing sarcoma patients; median tumor diameter was 18cm for solitary fibrous tumors and 7.5cm for synovial sarcoma. Renal sarcoma was staged as T3 in 33.3% and T4 in 14.2%, while distant metastases were evident in 29.1% of cases at diagnosis. Most T1-T3 stage renal sarcomas underwent surgical resection (992/1098, 84%), compared to 71% for T4 renal sarcomas (128/181). Systemic therapy was administered in 32.1% of renal sarcoma cases (23.5% combined with surgical resection). Renal sarcoma 1-,2-, and 5-year OS rates were 48%, 24%, and 13%. OS was worse for T4 vs T1-3 sarcomas (HR=1.6, p<0.001), and cases with distant metastases vs none (HR=3.2, p<0.001). As summarized in the table, OS varied according to sarcoma subtypes with worse OS for AS compared to PNET (HR=1.5, p=0.04). Conclusions: Accounting for 0.3% of renal malignancies in adults, renal sarcomas include 39 different histological subtypes with distinct demographics, tumor parameters and outcomes. Renal sarcomas commonly present with advanced T stage at diagnosis and are treated with surgical resection with or without systemic therapy. [Table: see text]
Time trends of drug specific adverse events among patients on androgen receptor antagonists: Implications for remote monitoring.
Authors: Fleshner Lauren , O'Halloran Sophie , Lajkosz Katherine , Wise Jacob , Kenk Miran , Nguyen Susan , Fleshner Neil Eric
Published: March 2021

40

Background: In light of the global pandemic, reducing patient exposure via remote monitoring is desirable. Currently, advanced prostate cancer patients prescribed Abiraterone or Enzalutamide are scheduled for an in-person appointment monthly, to screen for adverse events (AEs). We set out to determine time trends of drug specific AEs in order to determine whether reducing in-person visits for patients taking either Abiraterone or Enzalutamide is feasible. Methods: This chart review was conducted on 667 unique advanced prostate cancer patients, being either metastatic hormone sensitive or castration resistant and utilizing Abiraterone or Enzalutamide. Patients who switched courses of treatment and received both drugs were included twice in the data, resulting in 828 “subjects” overall. Data were collected via accessing electronic patient records, to determine the first sign of an AE related to either Abiraterone or Enzalutamide. These AEs include; hypertension, elevated liver enzymes (bilirubin, AST, ALT) or hypokalemia. Survival analysis was used to determine the time to adverse event. All grade AEs are included in this analysis. Results: In this study, 425 and 403 patients received Enzalutamide and Abiraterone, respectively. In total, 36.3% of those who took Enzalutamide experienced an AE, compared to 43.4% of patients on Abiraterone. For patients utilizing Abiraterone, cumulative incidence of AEs at 3,6,9 and 12 months were: 65.0%, 81.2%, 90.9% and 93.9%, respectively. Among Enzalutamide users, cumulative incidence of AEs at 3,6,9 and 12 months were: 46.8%, 67.5%, 81.2% and 88.3%, respectively. The primary first AEs associated with Enzalutamide consumption were hypertension and liver dysfunction (77.48% and 22.52%). In the Abiraterone group, the first associated AEs were liver dysfunction (48.78%), hypertension (46.34%), and hypokalemia (4.88%). Conclusions: These data suggest that the likelihood of attaining AEs associated with Abiraterone or Enzalutamide utilization decreases over time and tend to occur within the first 6 months of therapy. Furthermore, the vast majority of these AEs can be remotely monitored via outside laboratories and remote blood pressure monitoring. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, remote monitoring after 6 months of taking Abiraterone or Enzalutamide would appear appropriate. Efforts to further safely reduce in person visits should be explored.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) versus cisplatin-based chemotherapy (CBC) in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).
Authors: Khaki Ali Raza , Shan Yong , Nelson Richard , Kaul Sapna , Gore John L. , Grivas Petros , Williams Stephen B.
Published: March 2021

419

Background: Multiple single-arm clinical trials have shown promising pathologic complete response (pCR) rates with neoadjuvant ICIs in MIBC. However, ICIs remain costly. We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing neoadjuvant ICIs with CBC. Methods: We applied a decision analytic simulation model with a health care payer perspective and two-year time horizon to compare neoadjuvant ICIs vs CBC. For the primary analysis we compared pembrolizumab with dose dense methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (ddMVAC). We performed a secondary analysis with gemcitabine/cisplatin (GC) as CBC and exploratory analyses with atezolizumab or nivolumab/ipilimumab as ICIs (vs both ddMVAC and GC). We input pCR rates from trials (ICIs) or a weighted average of prior studies (CBC) and costs from average sales price. Outcomes of interest included costs, 2-year recurrence-free survival (RFS), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of cost per 2-year RFS. A threshold analysis estimated a pCR rate or price reduction for ICI to be cost-effective and one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: Results of the cost effectiveness analysis are shown in the table. The incremental cost of pembrolizumab compared with ddMVAC was $8,042 resulting in an incremental improvement of 0.66% in 2-year RFS for an ICER of $1,218,485 per 2-year RFS. A pCR of 71% or a 26% reduction in cost of pembrolizumab would render it more cost-effective with an ICER of $100,000 per 2-year RFS. GC required a 96% pembrolizumab cost reduction to achieve an ICER of $100,000 per 2-year RFS. Atezolizumab appeared to be more cost-effective than ddMVAC, even though the 2yr RFS was 0.66% worse. Conclusions: ICIs were not cost-effective as neoadjuvant therapies, except when atezolizumab was compared with ddMVAC. Pembrolizumab would approach cost-effective thresholds with 26% or 96% reduction in cost when compared to ddMVAC and GC, respectively. Randomized clinical trials, larger sample sizes and longer follow-up are required to better understand the value of ICIs as neoadjuvant treatments. [Table: see text]
INTACT (S/N1806) phase III randomized trial of concurrent chemoradiotherapy with or without atezolizumab in localized muscle-invasive bladder cancer: Safety update on first 73 patients.
Authors: Singh Parminder , Efstathiou Jason A. , Tangen Catherine , Jhavar Sameer G. , Hahn Noah M. , Costello Brian Addis , Delacroix Scott Edward , Tripathi Abhishek , Sachdev Sean , Gills Jessie , Jani Ashesh B. , Bangs Rick , Plets Melissa , Vogelzang Nicholas J. , Thompson Ian Murchie , Feng Felix Y , Lerner Seth P.
Published: March 2021

428

Background: Trimodality therapy (TMT) with maximal TURBT followed by chemoradiation(CRT) is a standard of care for select patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). This trial evaluates the activity of atezolizumab (atezo) in MIBC in combination with TMT. This trial was designed with pre-specified safety analyses of the first 80 patients (40 in each arm). At the time of SWOG fall 2020 DSMC report deadline we had enrolled 84 patients but data on only 73 patients were available. The same data are being submitted to ASCO GU meeting. Methods: This trial is testing atezo every 3 weeks for 6 months given concurrently and adjuvantly with CRT vs. CRT alone in 475 patients with MIBC T2-T4aN0M0 disease. Patients are stratified based on PS; T2 vs T3 or T4; choice of chemotherapy; and radiation field (bladder only vs small pelvis). Patients undergo biopsy 3 months after finishing CRT to assess treatment response. Patients are followed for 5 years for recurrence or survival. This trial was not preceded by a phase I study but was designed with a safety run in of 80 patients. Study team agreed on the study design based on available data from other tumor types and initial experience from investigators running smaller similar trials. It was pre-specified that if we observe more than 25% patients having grade 3-5 colitis or cystitis in the atezo arm or any other toxicity which is deemed clinically significant and related to atezo, the trial investigators and DSMC would consider stopping further enrollment. Results: 36 patients were enrolled on the TMT alone arm and 37 patients on the TMT + atezo arm. No grade 3 or higher colitis was reported in the atezo arm. Only one patient had treatment related grade 3 radiation cystitis which was diagnosed after finishing atezo treatment. No steroids were given. Overall 23 grade 3 or higher toxicity events were reported in the atezo arm vs 11 in non- atezo arm. Most common toxicity was hematological which was considered non-immune related. None of the grade 3 or higher toxicities were considered to be immune related by the treating investigator. Conclusions: There is no evidence of increased immune related grade 3-5 AEs.DSMC has recommended to continue enrollment. Adverse Events with No Entries for Grades 3 to 5 Have Been Suppressed Clinical trial information: NCT03775265 . [Table: see text]
Tailored immunotherapy approach with nivolumab in advanced transitional cell carcinoma (TITAN-TCC).
Authors: Grimm Marc-Oliver , Schmitz-Dräger Bernd , Zimmermann Uwe , Grün Barbara , Baretton Gustavo Bruno , Schmitz Marc , Foller Susan , Schostak Martin , Zengerling Friedemann , Schumacher Ulrike , Loidl Wolfgang C. , Meran Johannes
Published: March 2021

446

Background: Several PD-1 immune-checkpoint inhibitors including Nivolumab (Nivo) are approved in urothelial cancer. Recently, in the front line setting, improved activity of combined PD-L1 and CTLA4 immune-checkpoint inhibition has been reported and a phase III trial with Nivolumab + Ipilimumab (Nivo+Ipi) is ongoing. Here we report a response-based tailored approach starting treatment with Nivo monotherapy using Nivo+Ipi as immunotherapeutic “boost”. Methods: Between July 2017 and April 2019 86 patients were enrolled and treated according to protocol version 3 (cohort 1). Patients started with Nivo 240 mg Q2W induction. After 4 dosings and tumor assessment at week 8 (i) responders (PR/CR) to Nivo monotherapy continued with maintenance while (ii) patients with stable (SD) or progressive disease (PD) received 2 cycles Nivo3+Ipi1 followed by another 2 cycles Nivo1+Ipi3 if not responding. Median follow-up is 8.7 months. The primary endpoint is confirmed investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR) per RECIST1.1. Secondary endpoints include activity of Nivo monotherapy at week 8, remission rate with Nivo+Ipi “boosts”, safety, overall survival and quality of life. Results: Of the patients 42, 39 and 5 were first, second and third line, respectively. Median age was 67 years (range 45-84), 61 patients (71 %) were male and 25 female. ORR with Nivo monotherapy at first assessment (week 8) was 29 % and 23 % in first and second/third line, respectively. Of the patients 41 received Nivo+Ipi “boosts” after week 8 while 12 received later “boosts”. Best overall response (BOR) rate with Nivo induction ± Nivo+Ipi “boosts” was 48 % and 27 % in first and second/third line, respectively. In first line 7/17 (41 %) patients receiving Nivo+Ipi after week 8 had an improved response compared to 2/24 (8.3 %) in second/third line. Of the patients who continued with Nivo maintenance after week 8 and received later “boosts” 2/12 (17 %) had a PR and 2/12 (17 %) improved to SD. Treatment-related AEs will be presented. Conclusions: TITAN–TCC explores a response-driven use of Nivo+Ipi as an immunotherapeutic “boost”. In first line, this significantly improved ORR compared to the expected response rate of Nivo monotherapy, providing further evidence to the added value of Ipi in combination with Nivo. Further follow-up is ongoing to characterize duration and depth of response. Clinical trial information: NCT03219775 . Research Sponsor: Bristol-Myers Squibb[Table: see text]
Analysis of PFS2 by subsequent therapy in KEYNOTE-361: Pembrolizumab (pembro) plus chemotherapy (chemo) or pembro alone versus chemo as 1L therapy for advanced urothelial carcinoma (UC).
Authors: Ozguroglu Mustafa , Alva Ajjai Shivaram , Csőszi Tibor , Matsubara Nobuaki , Geczi Lajos , Cheng Susanna Y. , Fradet Yves , Oudard Stephane , Vulsteke Christof , Morales-Barrera Rafael , Flechon Aude , Gunduz Seyda , Loriot Yohann , Rodriguez-Vida Alejo , Mamtani Ronac , Yu Evan Y. , Nam Kijoeng , Imai Kentaro , Homet Moreno Blanca , Powles Thomas
Published: March 2021

448

Background: 1L pembro + chemo did not show statistically superior PFS and OS vs chemo for pts with advanced UC in the phase III KEYNOTE-361 study; OS for pembro vs chemo was not formally tested. We analyzed PFS2 (time from randomization to progressive disease [PD] on first subsequent therapy, or death from any cause, whichever occurs first) by study treatment and subsequent therapy in KEYNOTE-361 (NCT02853305) to determine the effects, if any, of therapy sequence on PFS2. Methods: PFS2 was estimated for pts in each treatment arm, who received any subsequent therapy including any anti–PD-(L)1, any therapy other than anti–PD-(L)1, or no therapy. These were exploratory analyses; no formal comparisons were done. Results: 1010 pts were randomized: 351 pts to receive pembro + chemo, 307 to pembro, and 352 to chemo. As of Apr 29, 2020, the median (range) time from randomization to data cutoff was 31.7 (22.0-42.3) mo. Subsequent therapy was received by 124/351 (35%), 126/307 (41%), and 215/352 (61%) pts in the pembro + chemo, pembro, and chemo arms, respectively. Subsequent anti–PD-(L)1 therapy was received by 169/352 (48%) pts in the chemo arm vs 23/351 (7%) in the pembro + chemo arm and 14/307 (5%) in the pembro arm. Of pts in the pembro arm who received subsequent therapy, >90% received 2L cisplatin-based or carboplatin-based treatment. Median (m) PFS2 (95% CI) for all pts by treatment arm was 14.1 mo (12.6-16.2) with pembro + chemo, 10.9 mo (9.5-12.9) with pembro, and 10.4 mo (9.8-11.2) with chemo. Across treatment arms, pts in the pembro + chemo arm had the longest mPFS2 with any subsequent therapy (14.5 mo [95% CI 13.1-16.6]) (Table). Pts in the pembro arm who received no subsequent therapy had a longer mPFS2 (12.9 mo [95% CI 8.1-17.9]) vs pts in the chemo arm who received no subsequent therapy (9.4 mo [95% CI 7.6-10.6]). Finally, pts treated with 1L pembro in the trial followed by 2L therapy other than anti−PD-(L)1 had comparable mPFS2 (10.2 mo [95% CI 8.6-12.1]) to pts treated with 1L chemo in the trial followed by 2L anti−PD-(L)1 (11.1 mo [95% CI 10.2-12.9]). Conclusions: In this exploratory analysis, treatment sequence of chemo followed by anti−PD-(L)1 upon PD vs anti–PD-(L)1 followed by chemo upon PD did not appear to impact mPFS2. Among pts who did not receive 2L therapy, 1L pembro appeared to be associated with longer mPFS2 than chemo, potentially driven by long-term responders to pembro. Clinical trial information: NCT02853305 . [Table: see text]
Real-world utilization of docetaxel among men with de novo metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer: A population-based study in men aged 66 or older.
Authors: Shayegan Bobby , Wallis Christopher J.D. , Hamilton Robert James , Morgan Scott Carlyle , Cagiannos Ilias , Basappa Naveen S. , Ferrario Cristiano , Gotto Geoffrey , Fernandes Ricardo , Noonan Krista , Niazi Tamim , Hotte Sebastien J. , Saad Fred , Hew Huong , Chan Katherine , Park-Wyllie Laura , Malone Shawn
Published: March 2021

47

Background: Docetaxel was the first agent, when added to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), to demonstrate a survival benefit in men with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). It remains an important guideline recommendation approach in these men. However, real-world experience among patients with de novo metastatic disease is poorly understood. Using population-based data from Ontario Canada, we examined the real-world experience of using docetaxel in mCSPC. Methods: Men aged 66 years and older diagnosed with de novo metastatic prostate cancer between 2014-2019 were captured. The Cancer Activity Level Reporting system tracks information regarding the use of cancer treatments, including details of systemic therapy. We identified patients who received docetaxel intensification to ADT following diagnosis of de novo mCSPC and analyzed the proportion of patients who completed 6 cycles of treatment, required a dose decrease, and who visited the emergency department (ED) or were hospitalized for febrile neutropenia. Results: Over the 5-year study period, 399 men received docetaxel treatment among 3,556 identified with de novo mCSPC. The median age was 72 (IQR 68-76) and mean Charlson comorbidity index was 0.15 (SD +/- 0.72). Of the 399 men, 230 (58%), 202 (51%) and 175 (44%) patients completed at least 4, 5 and 6 cycles of docetaxel, respectively. Dose reduction during docetaxel treatment was required in 173 (43%) patients. Filgrastim was prescribed among 29 (7.3%) patients. Hospitalization or ED visit for febrile neutropenia was observed in 63 (16 %) of patients who received docetaxel. Conclusions: Among men age 66 years and over who received docetaxel and ADT for mCSPC, less than half were able to complete all six prescribed cycles. In addition, over two fifth required dose reductions and 16% experienced febrile neutropenia requiring hospitalization or ED visit. These data highlight the differences in expected outcomes between clinical trial populations (as reported in CHAARTED) and routine use.
HPV-16 positive clinically advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder (mBSCC): A comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) study.
Authors: Jacob Joseph M , Spiess Philippe E. , Bratslavsky Gennady , Necchi Andrea , Grivas Petros , Danziger Natalie , Lin Douglas I. , Huang Richard , Mata Douglas A , Decker Brennan James , Sokol Ethan , Ross Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2021

481

Background: mBSCC is an uncommon form of urinary bladder malignancy when compared with the much higher urothelial carcinoma incidence. We studied the genomic alteration (GA) landscape in a series of mBSCC based on the association with HPV-16 to determine if differences would be observed between the positive and negative groups. Methods: Using a hybrid capture-based FDA-approved CGP assay, a series of 171 mBSCC were sequenced to evaluate all classes of GA. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) was determined on up to 1.1 Mbp of sequenced DNA and microsatellite instability (MSI) was determined on 114 loci. PD-L1 expression was determined by IHC (Dako 22C3) with low tumor cell positive staining set at 1-49% and high staining at ≥50% expression. Results: Overall, 11 (6.4%) of the mBSCC were found to harbor HPV-16 sequences (Table). HPV-16+ status was identified slightly more often in women (NS) and in younger patients (P = .04); 2 female patients with mBSCC had prior history of SCC including 1 anal SCC and 1 vaginal SCC. HPV-16+ mBSCC had fewer GA/tumor (P < .0001), and fewer inactivating GA in CDKN2A (P < .0001), CDKN2B (P = .05), TERT promoter (P = .0004) and TP53 (P < .0001). GA in genes associated with urothelial carcinoma including FGFR2 and FGFR3 were similar in both HPV-16+ and HPV-16- mBSCC groups. MTOR and PIK3CA pathway GA were not significantly different in the 2 groups. MSI and TMB were also similar in the 2 groups. The 3 HPV-16+ mBSCC cases showed high positive PD-L1 IHC staining. Conclusions: HPV-16+ mBSCC tends to occur more often in women and younger patients. As reported in other HPV-associated squamous cell carcinomas, HPV-16+ mBSCC demonstrates significantly reduced frequencies of inactivating mutations in cell cycle regulatory genes with similar GA in MTOR and PIK3CA pathways. The implication of HPV in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer remains unknown but warrants further exploration and clinical validation. [Table: see text]
Real-world survival of men with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) treated with abiraterone acetate (Abi) or docetaxel (Doc) and comparison with clinical trial outcomes.
Authors: Geynisman Daniel M. , Correa Andres F , Ramamurthy Chethan , Beck J Robert , Handorf Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2021

53

Background: Multiple phase III trials have proven that Abi and Doc both improve overall survival (OS) in men with mHSPC. No randomized trials have compared the two approaches. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational study to compare OS in de novo M1 men, treated with Abi vs. Doc using patient-level data from the Flatiron health EHR-derived de-identified database. We also compared this real-world OS to trial level data using extracted data points along the OS curves from CHAARTED and LATITUDE trials. OS was compared via Kaplan-Meier curves. Analyses were adjusted via propensity score weighting for age, Gleason score, PSA at diagnosis, race, ethnicity, ECOG PS, insurance type and treatment setting. Results: The cohort included 418 Abi pts and 807 Doc pts (Table). Median follow-up was 13.5 mo for Abi and 31.6 mo for Doc. Unadjusted median OS for Abi and Doc were 31.6 mo (95% CI 28.1-NA) and 41.8 mo (95% CI 37.4-46.3) respectively (P=0.09). Twelve mo and 24 mo OS for Abi was 86.3% and 69%; for Doc it was 89.8% and 72.1 %. Median adjusted OS for Abi and Doc were 31.6 mo (95% CI 28.0-undefined) and 38.8 mo (95% CI 33.1-46.3) respectively (P=0.4). Twelve mo and 24 mo adjusted OS for Abi was 86.6% and 69.4%; for Doc it was 87.9% and 69.2%. Based on extracted trial data, in LATITUDE, Abi treated pts had 12 mo and 24 mo OS of 93.5% and 77.0%; in CHAARTED, Doc treated pts had 12 mo and 24 mo OS of 94.3% and 83.6%. Conclusions: Utilizing real-world data, we demonstrate that 12 and 24-months OS are clinically and statistically similar between Abi and Doc in men with mHSPC. Median OS is also similar, although due to limited follow-up, the estimate of median OS for Abi has large variability. In addition, we show that clinical trial pts had superior outcomes to those in a real-world clinic population. Recent meta-analyses of trial data have not found significant differences in OS for Abi vs. Doc; this analysis of real-world data confirms these findings and indicates that they may be generalizable to a broader patient population. Although this observational study is subject to residual confounding and missing data, it provides further evidence to support the use of both Abi and Doc in men with mHSPC. Differentiating costs, side-effects and QOL can thus become more prominent when making decisions about therapy. [Table: see text]
Outcomes in men with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer treated with early platinum-based chemotherapy following an unsatisfactory response to androgen receptor (AR) inhibition as part of the phase II dynamic allocation modular sequential (DynAMo) trial.
Authors: Viscuse Paul Vincent , Zhang Miao , Liu Jingjing , Tidwell Rebecca , Subudhi Sumit Kumar , Zurita Amado J. , Corn Paul G. , Tu Shi-Ming , Araujo John C. , Wang Jennifer , Efstathiou Eleni , Wang Jianbo , Pilie Patrick Glen , Troncoso Patricia , Zhang Jianhua , Logothetis Christopher , Aparicio Ana
Published: March 2021

83

Background: Most prostate cancers are driven by the androgen receptor (AR) and have significant responses to AR inhibition. However, approximately 20-30% respond poorly to AR signaling inhibitors and have an atypical and virulent clinical course. Previous studies have shown that early declines in PSA and CTC on treatment are linked with “AR-responsiveness” in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Few non-androgen directed therapies are approved for AR-unresponsive patients though combination cabazitaxel and carboplatin showed efficacy in this patient population in a phase I/II trial (Corn et al. Lancet Oncol, 2019). We hypothesized that early addition of chemotherapy in AR-unresponsive patients would improve outcomes. Methods: In a modular phase II trial (NCT02703623), men with mCRPC treated with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone and apalutamide were classified at week 8 as having a ‘satisfactory’ decline in PSA (≥ 50% from baseline) and CTC (≤5/7.5mL) or ‘unsatisfactory’. Patients with ‘unsatisfactory’ declines had carboplatin and cabazitaxel added to the AR inhibitors. Primary objectives included the estimation of the overall survival (OS) of patients in this cohort. Results: 198 men were registered. 59 (31.5%) of 187 evaluable had ‘unsatisfactory’ marker declines. Patients were primarily white/non-Hispanic men (81%) over the age of 60 (78%) with ECOG score of 0 (75%). Median baseline PSA and CTC were 11.3 ng/mL and 9.0 cells/mL respectively. Median follow-up was 31.7 months with median OS 19.2 months (95% CI 14.8-27.8). Median TTF was 9.0 months (6.9-11.0). Related adverse events included decreased WBC (39%; 15% G3+), anemia (56%; 7% G3+), and lymphopenia (59%; 8% G3+). There was one grade 5 sepsis of unknown attribution. Conclusions: Although early platinum-based chemotherapy offers a durable response in a subset of AR unresponsive patients, there were patients that continued to have rapid progression. We will present additional clinical and molecular data (IHC, RNA-seq, WES) in an attempt to further differentiate AR responders from AR non-responders. Clinical trial information: NCT02703623.
Relationship between changes in serum androgen level measured by LC-MS/MS and therapeutic effect after enzalutamide treatment.
Authors: Miyazawa Yoshiyuki , Nakamura Toshiyuki , Takezawa Yutaka , Shimizu Nobuaki , Matsuo Yasushige , Ogura Haruyuki , Takei Tomoyuki , Arai Seiji , Nomura Masashi , Sekine Yoshitaka , Koike Hidekazu , Matsui Hiroshi , Shibata Yasuhiro , Suzuki Kazuhiro
Published: March 2021

88

Background: Enzalutamide (ENZ) has proven efficacy against castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and is widely used in treatment. However, no useful biomarkers have yet been reported to predict the effects of ENZ. We examined the relationship between the efficacy of ENZ and changes in serum androgen levels after ENZ administration. Methods: This exploratory research was based on the data from our prospective clinical trial. Of a total of 104 cases, 67 with confirmed changes in androgen levels after 3 months of ENZ administration, compared to pretreatment levels, were included in this study to identify prognostic factors. Serum androgen levels were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). This study was approved by the institutional review board of Gunma University Hospital (No.1177). Results: The study population of 67 patients had a median age of 73 years. The median serum levels of testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), androstenedione (A-dione), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) before treatment were 56.8 pg/ml, 7.8 pg/ml, 253.5 pg/ml, and 502.2 pg/ml, respectively. The median increase rate(%) of T, DHT, A-dione andDHEA-S after 3 months of ENZ administration were +55.5%, +49.5%, +25.8%, and +24.9%, respectively. T, DHT, and A-dione levels were significantly increased after 3 months (p < 0.05). We performed Cox regression analysis to predict PSA-PFS and OS. Hemoglobin (Hb, ≥ 12.5 g/dl vs. < 12.5 g/dl) and T increase rate ( < 55.5% vs. ≥ 55.5%) were significant predictors of PSA-PFS (p < 0.05). ECOG performance status (0 vs. 1 - 2, respectively) and Hb (≥ 12.5 vs. < 12.5 g/dl, respectively) and T ( < 55.5% vs. ≥55.5%) were significant predictors of OS (p < 0.05). Conclusions: PSA-PFS and OS were significantly poor in the cases in which T increased significantly 3 months after ENZ administration. It was suggested that the change of hormonal environment after ENZ administration may be a prognostic factor.
Preliminary analysis of a U.S. phase II study of the safety and tolerability of proxalutamide (GT0918) in subjects with mCRPC who had progressed on either abiraterone (Abi) or enzalutamide (Enza).
Authors: Vogelzang Nicholas J. , Levin Richard , Rezazadeh Arash , Park Chandler H. , Bolemon Britt Haley , Gabrail Nashat Y. , Malik Zulfiqar A. , Nordquist Luke T. , Ross Ashley , Zhang Phoebe , Zhou Karl
Published: March 2021

99

Background: GT0918, an androgen receptor (AR) antagonist, is a new chemical entity with reduced drug accumulation in the CNS. In a phase I dose escalation trial (NCT02826772), GT0918 was well tolerated with some durable responses in mCRPC patients (pts) who had progressed on ≥2 lines of standard and experimental therapies. This Phase 2 was designed to study the safety and efficacy of GT0918 400 mg vs. 500 mg oral daily in mCRPC pts who had progressed on either Abi or Enza with or without prior docetaxel. Methods: Pts with histologically confirmed mCRPC who had progressed on either Abi or Enza with or without prior docetaxel were eligible and randomized to 400 mg or 500 mg of GT0918 administered once daily orally. Pts continued treatment with GT0918 at their assigned dose until disease progression, intolerable toxicities or withdrawal of consent. PSA and labs were checked monthly. Imaging scans (CT/MRI and bone scan), circulating tumor cells and cf-DNA/RNA were performed every 3 months. Results: 61 pts were enrolled at 9 US sites and randomized 1:1 to 400 mg (n = 31) or 500 mg (n = 30) daily dose. All pts had progressed on either Abi (n = 34) or Enza (n = 27). Most of the reported AEs related to GT0918 were grade 1 or 2 as per CTCAE v4.03, but 22 AEs (5.3%) were reported as grade ≥ 3, such as fatigue, increase ALT/AST, rhabdomyolysis, or muscle weakness. Some AEs were due to drug-drug interaction with lipid-lowering medications leading to early discontinuation (26.2%). As of 5 October 2020, twelve pts finished 6 cycles. Among them, three finished 12 cycles and remained on the treatment. Treatment duration showed more pts in the 400 mg cohort with stable disease (SD) on imaging (9/31 finished 6 cycles) compared to the 500 mg cohort (3/30 finished 6 cycles). Further, all three pts who finished 12 cycles had progressed on Abi indicating that GT0918 might be a good treatment option for pts who had progressed on Abi. Conclusions: Proxalutamide (GT0918) administrated orally once a day is well tolerated and resulted in SD in pts who had progressed on either Abi or Enza. The 400 mg/day will be considered as the recommended phase II dose for further clinical trials. GT0918 is warranted for pts failed either Abi or Enza. Clinical trial information: NCT03899467.
Phase III randomized trial of PSMA PET prior to definitive radiation therapy for unfavorable intermediate-risk or high-risk prostate cancer [PSMA dRT]: Study protocol NCT04457245.
Authors: Calais Jeremie , Zhu Shaojun , Hirmas Nader , Eiber Matthias , Hadaschik Boris A. , Stuschke Martin , Herrmann Ken , Czernin Johannes , Kishan Amar Upadhyaya , Nickols Nicholas George , Elashoff David , Fendler Wolfgang Peter
Published: March 2021

TPS172

Background: Definitive radiation therapy (dRT) is an effective initial treatment of intermediate-risk (IR) and high-risk (HR) prostate cancer (PCa). Positron emission tomography (PET) using small molecule probes targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA PET) is superior to standard of care imaging (CT, MRI, bone scan) for detecting regional and distant metastatic PCa. PSMA PET thus has the potential to guide primary radiotherapy planning in patients and improve outcomes. The purpose of the present randomized trial is to evaluate the success rate of dRT for IR or HR PCa with and without planning based on PSMA PET. Methods: We will randomize 312 patients to proceed with standard dRT (control Arm 1, n=150), or undergo a PSMA PET scan prior to dRT planning (intervention arm 2, n = 162). In the control arm, dRT will be performed as routinely planned in accordance with initial stratification. In the intervention arm, the treating radiation oncologist can incorporate PSMA PET findings into the RT planning. We assume that approximately 8% of subjects randomized to arm 2 will be found to have M1 disease and thus will be more appropriate candidates for long-term systemic or multimodal therapy, rather than curative intent dRT. PET M1 patients will thus not be included in the analysis of the primary endpoint. The primary endpoint is the success rate of dRT measured as PFS after initiation of dRT. Progression is defined as (whichever occurs first): biochemical recurrence defined as a rise by 2 ng/mL or more above the nadir PSA (defined as the lowest PSA achieved) after radiotherapy with or without short-term hormonal therapy; appearance of metastasis or loco-regional recurrence (diagnosed by any imaging or biopsy); initiation of any new salvage therapy, or death from any cause. Discussion: This is the first randomized phase 3 prospective trial designed to determine whether PSMA PET molecular imaging can improve outcomes in patients with PCa who receive dRT. In this trial the incorporation of PSMA PET may improve the success rate of curative intent radiotherapy in two ways: to optimize patient selection and to personalizes the radiotherapy plan. Clinical trial registration: IND#147591, UCLA IRB #20-000378, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04457245. Clinical trial information: NCT04457245.
INNOVATE (NRG-GU008): A randomized phase III trial of salvage radiotherapy and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with/without abiraterone and apalutamide for patients with node-positive prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy.
Authors: Chen Ronald C. , Karrison Theodore , Lawton Colleen Anne , Hall William Adrian , Borno Hala , Rosu Mihaela , Jani Ashesh B. , Schuster David M. , Seider Michael J. , Efstathiou Jason A. , Posadas Edwin Melencio , Nguyen Paul L. , Feng Felix Y
Published: March 2021

TPS179

Background: Node-positive prostate cancer comprises for approximately 13% of newly-diagnosed patients and represents an aggressive form of the disease, but has been historically understudied in therapeutic clinical trials. Cure rates remain suboptimal for these patients with early stage IV disease, so clinical trials to intensify systemic treatment are warranted. Abiraterone and apalutamide have each demonstrated efficacy in improving metastasis-free survival and/or overall survival in the advanced stage setting, including both castrate-resistant and metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer. The mechanisms of action of abiraterone and apalutamide are complementary, and combination therapy has been shown in a prior Phase Ib trial to be safe and well-tolerated. Methods: Patients with pathologic node-positive disease by radical prostatectomy and who subsequently have a detectable PSA are eligible for this randomized controlled trial. All patients are required to receive molecular imaging (FACBC, PSMA, or choline PET scan) at trial entry and must have no radiographic evidence of distant metastasis in order to remain eligible. Eligible patients are randomized 1:1 to (control arm) salvage radiation therapy with 2 years of ADT vs (experimental arm) addition of 2 years of abiraterone/prednisone and apalutamide. The primary endpoint is metastasis-free survival. With a sample size of 586 and with a potential for 10% loss to follow-up, the trial has 90% power with one-sided alpha=0.025 to detect a HR of 0.53 for the experimental arm vs control arm for the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints include quality of life (EPIC-26, EQ5D-5L, Brief Pain Inventory, PROMIS-Fatigue), overall survival, time to castrate resistance, and other disease-related outcomes. In addition, data will be collected to validate the Decipher score and PAM50-based classification as predictive biomarkers in this node-positive patient population. Trial was activated on March 5, 2020, and is currently enrolling patients. This project was supported by grants U10CA180868 (NRG Oncology Operations), U10CA180822 (NRG Oncology SDMC), U24CA196067 (NRG Oncology Specimen Bank) from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and Janssen and GenomeDX. Clinical trial information: NCT04134260.
A phase I/II dose-escalation study of fractionated and multiple dose 225Ac-J591 for progressive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).
Authors: Sun Michael , Nauseef Jones T. , Lebenthal Justin M , Niaz Muhammad Junaid , Singh Sharon , Chamberlain Tessa A , Bissassar Mahelia , Patel Amie , Tan Angela , Vallabhajosula Shankar , Babich John , Christos Paul J. , Osborne Joseph , Molina Ana M. , Sternberg Cora N. , Nanus David M. , Bander Neil Harrison , Tagawa Scott T.
Published: March 2021

TPS188

Background: Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-based targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) is a promising treatment. PSMA-targeting via large antibodies vs small molecules has different kinetics, biodistribution, and resulting clinical toxicities. Using beta-TRT, 177Lu-J591 has more heme toxicity and 177Lu-PSMA-617 more non-heme toxicity (xerostomia and nausea) [Niaz AUA 2020]. Alpha-emitters are more potent than beta radionuclides, and alpha-PSMA-TRT has efficacy even after beta-PSMA-TRT. In a first-in-human phase I dose-escalation study of 225Ac-J591, patients with mCRPC were treated with a single dose of 225Ac-J591 on seven dose levels, up to 93.3 KBq/kg [Tagawa ASCO 2020]. No maximal tolerated dose (MTD) was achieved. One patient treated at 80 KBq/kg developed dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of grade 4 anemia and thrombocytopenia, but 0 of 6 at 93.3 KBq/Kg had grade > 3 heme toxicity or grade > 2 non-heme toxicity. Preliminary results indicate 64% had any PSA decline and 41% had > 50% PSA decline (PSA50) across all doses, despite lack of selection for PSMA expression and the majority having been previously treated with 177Lu-PSMA. Methods: Entry criteria include progressive mCRPC by PCWG3 criteria, ECOG PS 0-2, intact organ function (including normal neutrophil and platelet counts), and prior receipt of AR pathway inhibitor and chemotherapy (or refuse/ineligible for chemotherapy). There is no limit to prior lines of therapy except alpha-PSMA-TRT. Phase I includes 2 separate parallel dose-escalation cohorts. In the fractionated-dose cohort, men will receive a single cycle of 225Ac-J591 administered on D1 and D15. In the multiple-dose cohort, 225Ac-J591 will be given every 6 weeks for up to 4 cycles. The phase I component is a 3+3 dose-escalation study design, with the goal of identifying MTD. Each phase II component will treat up to 27 men with PSMA+ PET scans in a Simon 2-stage design with 90% power to exclude the null hypothesis (35% or fewer patients with PSA50). Eligible men with negative PSMA PET scans will be offered treatment with informed consent in an exploratory subgroup, but will not be counted towards phase II efficacy. Secondary outcomes include radiographic response by PCWG modified RECIST 1.1 criteria and PSMA PET, biochemical and radiographic progression-free survival, circulating tumor cell counts, and overall survival. Patient reported outcomes, genomic, and immune analyses are exploratory. Enrollment began in August 2020 (NCT04506567). Clinical trial information: NCT04506567.
The SPARC-1 trial: A phase I study of neoadjuvant combination interleukin-1 beta and PD-1 blockade in localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma.
Authors: Dallos Matthew , Aggen David Henry , Ager Casey , Obradovic Aleksandar , Easterlin Clara A , Hawley Jessica , Lim Emerson A. , Stein Mark N. , Drake Charles G.
Published: March 2021

TPS373

Background: Immune checkpoint blockade has significantly improved outcomes for patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in the metastatic setting. However, there is currently no neoadjuvant systemic therapy that improves outcomes for patients with localized RCC. Emerging data suggests that immunosuppressive myeloid cell populations within the tumor microenvironment (TME) represent a key mechanism of adaptive immune resistance. In pre-clinical models, targeting interleukin 1 beta (IL-1beta) can successfully re-establish anti-tumor immunity by shifting the myeloid cells towards M1-like tumor associated macrophages (TAM) and decreasing infiltration of immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). The SPARC-1 study is testing the hypothesis that neoadjuvant therapy with combined IL-1beta blockade (canakinumab) plus PD-1 blockade (spartalizumab) is safe and can successfully remodel the myeloid compartment towards a pro-inflammatory state in patients with localized RCC. Methods: This is a single-center, single-arm, phase I trial of patients with localized clear cell RCC (ccRCC) planned for nephrectomy (stage T1b-T4NanyM0). 14 patients will receive immunotherapy with combination canakinumab (300mg IV) plus spartalizumab (400mg IV) every 4 weeks x 2 doses given 6 weeks prior to nephrectomy. The primary endpoints are safety and feasibility. Secondary endpoints include tumor CD8 T cell infiltration, tumor MDSC infiltration and objective response rate. SPARC-1 offers a unique opportunity to utilize fresh tumor tissue to identify changes in the immune TME with single-cell discrimination following therapy. Therefore, correlative studies will include single-cell RNA-sequencing, multi-color flow cytometry and multiplexed immunofluorescence to quantify changes in the density and spatial proximity of distinct immune cell populations within the TME. The study is open with 4 patient currently enrolled at the time of submission. Clinical trial information: NCT04028245 .
Attention and distraction in the modular visual system of a jumping spider
Authors: Bruce Margaret , Daye Daniel , Long Skye M. , Winsor Alex M. , Menda Gil , Hoy Ronald R. , Jakob Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2021

Animals must selectively attend to relevant stimuli and avoid being distracted by unimportant stimuli. Jumping spiders (Salticidae) do this by coordinating eyes with different capabilities. Objects are examined by a pair of high-acuity principal eyes, whose narrow field of view is compensated for by retinal movements. The principal eyes overlap in field of view with motion-sensitive anterior-lateral eyes (ALEs), which direct their gaze to new stimuli. Using a salticid-specific eyetracker, we monitored the gaze direction of the principal eyes as they examined a primary stimulus. We then presented a distractor stimulus visible only to the ALEs and observed whether the principal eyes reflexively shifted their gaze to it or whether this response was flexible. Whether spiders redirected their gaze to the distractor depended on properties of both the primary and distractor stimuli. This flexibility suggests that higher-order processing occurs in the management of the attention of the principal eyes.
Responses ofManduca sextalarvae to heat waves
Authors: Kingsolver Joel G. , Moore M. Elizabeth , Augustine Kate E. , Hill Christina A.
Published: March 2021

Climate change is increasing the frequency of heat waves and other extreme weather events experienced by organisms. How does the number and developmental timing of heat waves affect survival, growth and development of insects? Do heat waves early in development alter performance later in development? We addressed these questions using experimental heat waves with larvae of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta. The experiments used diurnally fluctuating temperature treatments differing in the number (0–3) and developmental timing (early, middle and/or late in larval development) of heat waves, in which a single heat wave involved three consecutive days with a daily maximum temperature of 42°C. Survival to pupation declined with increasing number of heat waves. Multiple (but not single) heat waves significantly reduced development time and pupal mass; the best models for the data indicated that both the number and developmental timing of heat waves affected performance. In addition, heat waves earlier in development significantly reduced growth and development rates later in larval development. Our results illustrate how the frequency and developmental timing of sublethal heat waves can have important consequences for life history traits in insects.
Effectiveness of turmeric-enriched pellets to improve the immunity of Clarias batrachus toward motile Aeromonas septicemia disease
Authors: Riauwaty Morina , Siregar Yusni I. , Mulyani Isma
Published: March 2021

Background: Turmeric is known as a natural remedy to improve the immunity of organisms. This study aims to understand the effectiveness of turmeric-enriched pellets to improve the immunity of Clarias batrachus to Aeromonas hydrophila.

Methods: The study was conducted from May to August 2020. C. batrachus fingerlings, 7-8 cm total length (TL) and 4-5 g (BW) at baseline, were kept in 30 L aquaria (10 fishes/aquarium; three replicated/treatment). Commercial pellets were mixed with turmeric powder. There were five treatment groups: P0 (control, no turmeric); P1 (0.5 g turmeric per Kg of pellets); P2 (0.7 g/Kg); P3 (0.9 g/Kg); Pp (positive control). Thirty days after being feed with turmeric-enriched pellets, all groups of fish were infected with 0.1 ml (108) of A. hydrophila suspension, intramuscularly. The P0 group did not receive injection, while Pp group were not fed with turmeric-enriched pellets but were infected with the bacteria. Fourteen days after infection, clinical signs and hematology of the fish were studied.

Results: Pp fish showed heavy clinical signs of A. hydrophila, such as loss of balance, pigmentation, hemorrhages and ulcers. P0 fish did not show any symptoms, while the treated fish reveled some clinical signs of A. hydrophila to a lesser extent than Pp, indicating that the fish is able to face the A. hydrophila attack. Hematology for Pp fish revealed high white blood cells, indicating that the fish were infected. The blood condition of the P0 fish, as well as those of the turmeric-treated fish were normal. In general, the P3 fish showed the least clinical signs of A. hydrophila and normal blood condition, indicating that P3 treatment is best.

Conclusion: The best turmeric dosage to improve the immunity of C. batrachus toward A. hydrophila infection is 0.9 g/Kg pellets.
Etiology, pathogenesis and treatment of recurrent postoperative ventral hernias
Authors: Belokonev Vladimir , Pushkin Sergey , Kovaleva Zinaida , Ponomareva Yuliya , Gulyaev Maksim
Published: March 2021

The textbook is devoted to the etiology and pathogenesis of recurrent postoperative ventral hernias after autoplastic and prosthetic hernioplasty. The paper describes the surgical anatomy of the abdomen, clinical manifestations, diagnosis of recurrent hernias, classification of ventral hernias, tactics and possible treatment options for patients depending on the previous method of hernioplasty, and describes the technique of reconstructive operations. Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. It is intended for surgeons, postgraduates, undergraduates and teachers of medical universities.