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The bromodomain and extra-terminal domain inhibitor JQ1 has marked antitumor activity against several hematologic malignancies as well as solid tumor models. Here, we investigated its activity in vitro and in vivo against models of childhood rhabdomyosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. In vitro, JQ1 (but not the inactive enantiomer JQ1R) inhibited cell proliferation and increased G1 fraction of cells, although there was no correlation between cell line sensitivity and suppression of c-MYC or MYCN. In vivo, xenografts showed significant inhibition of growth during the period of treatment, and rapid regrowth after treatment was stopped, activity typical of antiangiogenic agents. Furthermore, xenografts derived from cell lines intrinsically resistant or sensitive to JQ1 in vitro had similar sensitivity in vivo as xenografts. Further investigation showed that JQ1 reduced tumor vascularization. This was secondary to both drug-induced downregulation of tumor-derived growth factors and direct effects of JQ1 on vascular elements. JQ1 suppressed VEGF-stimulated vascularization of Matrigel plugs in mice, and in vitro suppressed differentiation, proliferation, and invasion of human umbilical cord vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC). In HUVECs, JQ1 partially suppressed c-MYC levels, but dramatically reduced AP-1 levels and activity through suppression of the AP-1–associated protein FOSL1. Our data suggest that the antitumor activity of JQ1 in these sarcoma models is largely a consequence of its antiangiogenic activity. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(5); 1018–28. ©2016 AACR.

PDF file - 126K, Supplemental Figure S4. Increase in MEF2c IHC staining in AS and HSA primary tumors.

PDF file - 142K, Supplemental Figure S2. Reduction of phospho-ERK1/2 IHC staining of cutaneous-derived xenograft and cardiac-derived tumorgraft treated with CI-1040.

Angiosarcoma is a rare neoplasm of endothelial origin that has limited treatment options and poor five-year survival. As a model for human angiosarcoma, we studied primary cells and tumorgrafts derived from canine hemangiosarcoma (HSA), which is also an endothelial malignancy with similar presentation and histology. Primary cells isolated from HSA showed constitutive extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) activation. The mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal–regulated kinase (MEK) inhibitor CI-1040 reduced ERK activation and the viability of primary cells derived from visceral, cutaneous, and cardiac HSA in vitro. HSA-derived primary cells were also sensitive to sorafenib, an inhibitor of B-Raf and multireceptor tyrosine kinases. In vivo, CI-1040 or PD0325901 decreased the growth of cutaneous cell-derived xenografts and cardiac-derived tumorgrafts. Sorafenib decreased tumor size in both in vivo models, although cardiac tumorgrafts were more sensitive. In human angiosarcoma, we noted that 50% of tumors stained positively for phosphorylated ERK1/2 and that the expression of several MEK-responsive transcription factors was upregulated. Our data showed that MEK signaling is essential for the growth of HSA in vitro and in vivo and provided evidence that the same pathways are activated in human angiosarcoma. This indicates that MEK inhibitors may form part of an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of canine HSA or human angiosarcoma, and it highlights the use of spontaneous canine cancers as a model of human disease. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(9); 1701–14. ©2013 AACR.

PDF file - 146K, Supplemental Figure S3. Reduction of phospho-ERK1/2 IHC staining of cutaneous-derived xenograft and cardiac-derived tumorgraft treated with sorafenib.

Supplemental Figure Legends; Supplemental Figure 1. JQ1 induces G1 accumulation without enhancing the sub-G1 population in sensitive sarcoma cell lines. Cells were exposed for 24 Hr to 500 nM JQ1; Supplemental Figure 2. Quantitation of immunoblots from Figure 1B, and 1C. MYC proteins are normalized against GAPDH; Supplemental Figure 3. JQ1 inhibits angiogenesis in rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts. CD34-positive staining (left panels; magnification 417X) and quantitation of IHC (right panels) for Rh10, and Rh28 rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts after 7 or 14 daily treatments with JQ1 or no treatment (controls); Supplemental Figure 4. JQ1 inhibits angiogenesis in Ewing sarcoma xenografts. CD34- positive staining (left panels; magnification 417X) and quantitation of IHC (right panels) for EW-5 and EW-8 Ewing sarcoma xenografts after 7 or 14 daily treatments with JQ1 or no treatment (controls); Supplemental Figure 5. Summary of JQ1 induced changes in angiogenic factors as determined by angiogenesis arrays in xenografts harvested from mice after 14 days treatment with JQ1, or HUVECs in vitro (0.5 μM 24 hr); Supplemental Figure 6. JQ1 does not inhibit the proliferative compartment in rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts. Ki67-positive staining (left panels; magnification 417X) was quantitated for Rh10, and Rh28 xenografts (right panels; magnification 417X) after 7 or 14 daily treatments with JQ1 or no treatment (controls); Supplemental Figure 7. JQ1 does not inhibit the proliferative compartment in Ewing sarcoma xenografts. Ki67-positive staining (left panels; magnification 417X) was quantitated for EW-5 and EW-8 xenografts (right panels; magnification 417X) after 7 or 14 daily treatments with JQ1 or no treatment (controls).

BACKGROUND: Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is the most common soft tissue and uterine sarcoma, but no standard therapy is available for recurrent or metastatic LMS. TP53, p16/RB1, and PI3K/mTOR pathway dysregulations are recurrent events, and some LMS express estrogen receptor (ER) and/or progesterone receptor (PR). To characterize relationships between these pathway perturbations, the authors evaluated protein expression in soft tissue and uterine nonprimary leiomyosarcoma (np-LMS), including local recurrences and distant metastases. METHODS: TP53, RB1, p16, and PTEN expression aberrations were determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in tissue microarrays (TMAs) from 227 np-LMS and a comparison group of 262 primary leiomyosarcomas (p-LMS). Thirty-five of the np-LMS had a matched p-LMS specimen in the TMAs. Correlative studies included differentiation scoring, ER and PR IHC, and CDKN2A/p16 fluorescence in situ hybridization. RESULTS: Dysregulation of TP53, p16/RB1, and PTEN was demonstrated in 90%, 95%, and 41% of np-LMS, respectively. PTEN inactivation was more common in soft tissue np-LMS than uterine np-LMS (55% vs 31%; P = .0005). Moderate-strong ER expression was more common in uterine np-LMS than soft tissue np-LMS (50% vs 7%; P < .0001). Co-inactivation of TP53 and RB1 was found in 81% of np-LMS and was common in both soft tissue and uterine np-LMS (90% and 74%, respectively). RB1, p16, and PTEN aberrations were nearly always conserved in p-LMS and np-LMS from the same patients. CONCLUSIONS: These studies show that nearly all np-LMS have TP53 and/or RB1 aberrations. Therefore, therapies targeting cell cycle and DNA damage checkpoint vulnerabilities should be prioritized for evaluations in LMS.

Aim: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of mortality among long-term cancer survivors treated with large total doses of doxorubicin. An increase in coronary artery disease (CAD) among childhood cancer survivors by age 45 has been observed and is driven by primarily anthracycline chemotherapy and to a lesser extent chest radiation that includes the heart in the radiation field. The risk factors and associated chronic diseases (hypertension, etc.) are well known for CAD and can be often prevented or treated, thus reducing the risk of CAD in these patients. We piloted a risk-based survivorship clinic in an academic medical center to characterize the distribution of risk factors for CAD and improve the quality of life in a population of sarcoma survivors treated with doxorubicin. Methods: We followed a prospective cohort of sixty-one survivors of bone and soft tissue sarcoma treated with doxorubicin chemotherapy (> 400 mg/m2) and at least 2 years post-therapy attending the sarcoma survivorship clinic. We collected clinical, demographic data, and patient reported outcomes via PROMIS questionnaires annually. Results: We demonstrated a high burden of chronic diseases in this population. Among six chronic conditions that are known risk factors for CAD (hypertension, diabetes, obesity, chronic inflammation, kidney disease and dyslipidemia), more than one-fourth (26%, 16/61) of patients had three or more of these risk factors at baseline visit, and 49% (30/61) had two or more. Conclusion: The results of this pilot study support the presence of modifiable CAD risk factors in this population of sarcoma survivors. Evidence-based guidelines for high-risk survivors of rare cancers are needed.

SUMMARY Metastasis is the primary cause of cancer-related deaths. While The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) has sequenced primary tumor types obtained from surgical resections, much less comprehensive molecular analysis is available from clinically acquired metastatic cancers. Here, we perform whole exome and transcriptome sequencing of 500 adult patients with metastatic solid tumors of diverse lineage and biopsy site. The most prevalent genes somatically altered in metastatic cancer included TP53, CDKN2A, PTEN, PIK3CA, and RB1. Putative pathogenic germline variants were present in 12.2% of cases of which 75% were related to defects in DNA repair. RNA sequencing complemented DNA sequencing for the identification of gene fusions, pathway activation, and immune profiling. Integrative sequence analysis provides a clinically relevant, multi-dimensional view of the complex molecular landscape and microenvironment of metastatic cancers.

Objectives Gastric carcinoma is the most common cancer and cause of cancer mortality in Peru. Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that colonizes the human stomach, is a Group 1 carcinogen due to its causal relationship to gastric carcinoma. While eradication of H. pylori can help prevent gastric cancer, characterizing regional antibiotic resistance patterns is necessary to determine targeted treatment for each region. Thus, we examined primary antibiotic resistance in clinical isolates of H. pylori in Lima, Peru. Materials and methods H. pylori strains were isolated from gastric biopsies of patients with histologically proven H. pylori infection. Primary antibiotic resistance among isolates was examined using E-test strips. Isolates were examined for the presence of the cagA pathogenicity island and the vacA m1/m2 alleles via polymerase chain reaction. Results Seventy-six isolates were recovered from gastric biopsies. Clinical isolates showed evidence of antibiotic resistance to 1 (27.6%, n=21/76), 2 (28.9%, n=22/76), or ≥3 antibiotics (40.8%). Of 76 isolates, eight (10.5%) were resistant to amoxicillin and clarithromycin, which are part of the standard triple therapy for H. pylori infection. No trends were seen between the presence of cagA, vacA m1, or vacA m2 and antibiotic resistance. Conclusion The rate of antibiotic resistance among H. pylori isolates in Lima, Peru, is higher than expected and presents cause for concern. To develop more targeted eradication therapies for H. pylori in Peru, more research is needed to better characterize antibiotic resistance among a larger number of clinical isolates prospectively.

// Elizabeth J. Davis 1 , Yi-Mi Wu 2 , Dan Robinson 2 , Scott M. Schuetze 1 , Laurence H. Baker 1 , Jyoti Athanikar 2 , Xuhong Cao 2 , Lakshmi P. Kunju 2 , Arul M. Chinnaiyan 2 , Rashmi Chugh 1 1 Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA 2 Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA Correspondence to: Rashmi Chugh, email: rashmim@umich.edu Keywords: extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma, next generation sequencing, EWSR1-NR4A3 Received: July 29, 2016 Accepted: January 09, 2017 Published: February 21, 2017 ABSTRACT Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma (EMC) is an indolent translocation-associated soft tissue sarcoma with a high propensity for metastases. Using a clinical sequencing approach, we genomically profiled patients with metastatic EMC to elucidate the molecular biology and identify potentially actionable mutations. We also evaluated potential predictive factors of benefit to sunitinib, a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor with reported activity in a subset of EMC patients. Between January 31, 2012 and April 15, 2016, six patients with EMC participated in the clinical sequencing research study. High quality DNA and RNA was isolated and matched normal samples underwent comprehensive next generation sequencing (whole or OncoSeq capture exome of tumor and normal, tumor PolyA+ and capture transcriptome). The expression levels of sunitinib targeted-kinases were measured by transcriptome sequencing for KDR, PDGFRA/B, KIT, RET, FLT1, and FLT4 . The previously reported EWSR1-NR4A3 translocation was identified in all patient tumors; however, other recurring genomic abnormalities were not detected. RET expression was significantly greater in patients with EMC relative to other types of sarcomas except for liposarcoma (p

Background: Radiation-associated osteosarcoma (RAO) is a rare, life-threatening complication from radiation. Many physicians presume RAO has a worse prognosis than sporadic osteosarcoma (SO), although limited objective data exist. We conducted a retrospective study comparing these entities.Methods: We identified adults treated at our institution with osteosarcoma (1990–2016) and categorized tumors as SO or RAO based on location within a prior radiation field. We extracted data on demographics, treatment and primary malignancy and examined available tumor samples for MTA-1 and ezrin using immunohistochemistry (IHC).Results: Of 159 identified patients, 28 had RAO, diagnosed at a median interval from radiation of 11.5 years (1.5–28 years). Median follow-up was 2.8 years (0.1–19.6 years). Median progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were not significantly different in the small population of patients with metastases, SO (n = 20) vs. RAO (n = 6): PFS 10.3 months vs. 4.8 months (p = 0.45) and OS 15.6 months vs. 6.1 months (p = 0.96), respectively. For the larger group with localized disease, median relapse-free survival (RFS) and OS were significantly different, NR vs. 12.2 months (p < 0.001) and NR vs. 27.6 months (p = 0.001) in SO (n = 111) vs. RAO (n = 22), respectively. On IHC, there were significant differences in distribution of high, intermediate or low MTA-1 (p = 0.015) and ezrin (p = 0.002) between RAO and SO tumors.Conclusions: Patients with metastases at diagnosis fared poorly irrespective of prior radiation. RAO patients with localized disease had worse outcomes without detectable differences in therapy rendered or treatment effect in resected specimens. Higher expression of MTA-1 in RAO patients may suggest an underlying difference in tumor biology to explain differences in outcomes.

Introduction. Primary cardiac sarcoma (PCS) has a poor prognosis compared to other sarcomas due to late presentation, challenging resection, incidence of metastases, and limited efficacy of systemic therapies.Methods. A medical record search engine was queried to identify patients diagnosed with PCS from 1992 to 2017 at the University of Michigan.Results. Thirty-nine patients with PCS had a median age of 41 years (range 2–77). Common histologies were angiosarcoma (AS, 14), high-grade undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS, 10), and leiomyosarcoma (LMS, 5). Sites of origin were left atrium (18), right atrium (16), and pericardium (5). AS was the most common right-sided tumor; UPS was more common on the left. Eighteen patients presented with metastases involving lung (10), bone (7), liver (5), and brain (4). Twenty-five patients underwent resection, achieving 3 R0resections. Patients received a median of 2 (1–6) systemic therapies. Median overall survival (OS) was 12.1 months (range 0–79). Median OS was 14.0 months and 8.2 months in patients who did or did not undergo resection, respectively (p=0.018). Brain metastases occurred in 12 (31%) patients, 9 (75%) of whom had left heart tumors, at a median of 8.5 months (range 0–75) from diagnosis. Median OS was 5.6 months (range 0–30) after the diagnosis of brain metastases.Conclusions. PCS portends a poor prognosis, because of difficulty in obtaining complete resection of sarcoma, advanced stage at diagnosis, and high risk of brain metastases. Providers should be aware of the increased risk of brain metastases and consider brain imaging at diagnosis and follow-up.

Importance Universal screening of patients with newly diagnosed cancer for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and HIV is not routine in oncology practice, and experts disagree about whether universal screening should be performed. Objective To estimate the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV infection among persons with newly diagnosed cancer. Design, Setting, and Participants Multicenter prospective cohort study of patients with newly diagnosed cancer (ie, identified within 120 days of cancer diagnosis) at 9 academic and 9 community oncology institutions affiliated with SWOG (formerly the Southwest Oncology Group) Cancer Research Network, a member of the National Clinical Trials Network, with enrollment from August 29, 2013, through February 15, 2017. The data analysis was conducted using data available through August 17, 2017. Main Outcomes and Measures The accrual goal was 3000 patients and the primary end point was the presence of HBV infection (previous or chronic), HCV infection, or HIV infection at enrollment. Patients with previous knowledge of infection as well as patients with unknown viral viral status were evaluated. Results Of 3092 registered patients, 3051 were eligible and evaluable. Median (range) age was 60.6 (18.2-93.7) years, 1842 (60.4%) were female, 553 (18.1%) were black, and 558 (18.3%) were Hispanic ethnicity. Screened patients had similar clinical and demographic characteristics compared with those registered. The observed infection rate for previous HBV infection was 6.5% (95% CI, 5.6%-7.4%; n = 197 of 3050 patients); chronic HBV, 0.6% (95% CI, 0.4%-1.0%; n = 19 of 3050 patients); HCV, 2.4% (95% CI, 1.9%-3.0%; n = 71 of 2990 patients); and HIV, 1.1% (95% CI, 0.8%-1.6%; n = 34 of 3045). Among those with viral infections, 8 patients with chronic HBV (42.1%; 95% CI, 20.3%-66.5%), 22 patients with HCV (31.0%; 95% CI, 20.5%-43.1%), and 2 patients with HIV (5.9%; 95% CI, 0.7%-19.7%) were newly diagnosed through the study. Among patients with infections, 4 patients with chronic HBV (21.1%; 95% CI, 6.1%-45.6%), 23 patients with HCV (32.4%; 95% CI, 21.8%-44.5%), and 7 patients with HIV (20.6%; 95% CI, 8.7%-37.9%) had no identifiable risk factors. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this study found that a substantial proportion of patients with newly diagnosed cancer and concurrent HBV or HCV are unaware of their viral infection at the time of cancer diagnosis, and many had no identifiable risk factors for infection. Screening patients with cancer to identify HBV and HCV infection before starting treatment may be warranted to prevent viral reactivation and adverse clinical outcomes. The low rate of undiagnosed HIV infection may not support universal screening of newly diagnosed cancer patients.

Purpose Despite the rapidly increasing use of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) –positron emission tomography (PET), the comparison of anatomic and functional imaging in the assessment of clinical outcomes has been lacking. In addition, there has not been a rigorous evaluation of how common radiologic criteria or the location of the radiology reader (local v central) compare in the ability to predict benefit. In this study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of various radiologic response assessments for the prediction of overall survival (OS) within the same data set of patients with sarcoma. Methods We analyzed assessments made during a clinical trial of a novel IGF1R antibody in Ewing sarcoma: PET Response Criteria in Solid Tumors (PERCIST) for functional imaging and WHO criteria (performed locally and centrally), RECIST, and volumetric analysis for anatomic imaging. We compared the effectiveness of the various criteria for the prediction of progression and survival. Results For volume analysis, progression—defined as cumulative lesion volume increase of 100% at 6 weeks—was the optimal cutoff for decreased OS (P < .001). Assessment of the day-9 FDG-PET scan was associated with reduced OS in progressors compared with nonprogressors (P = .001) and with improved OS in responders compared with nonresponders. Significant variations in response (18% to 44%) and progression (9% to 50%) were observed between the different criteria. The comparison of central and local interpretation of anatomic imaging produced similar outcomes. PET was superior to anatomic imaging in identification of a response. Volume analysis identified the most responders among the anatomic imaging criteria. Conclusion An early signal with FDG-PET on day 9 and volume analysis were the best predictors of benefit. Validation of the volumetric analysis is required.

BACKGROUND Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), chondrosarcoma (CS), chordoma, epithelioid sarcoma, and solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) are malignant tumors that are relatively resistant to chemotherapy and for which more effective drug therapy is needed. METHODS The 5 listed subtypes were enrolled into a single indolent sarcoma cohort in a phase 2 study of dasatinib using a Bayesian continuous monitoring rule for enrollment. The primary objective was to estimate the 6-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate according to the Choi criteria with a target of ≥50%. Cross-sectional imaging was performed before the start of treatment, every 2 months for 6 months, and then every 3 months during treatment. The 2- and 5-year survival rates were determined. RESULTS One hundred sixteen patients were enrolled within 45 months, and 109 began treatment with dasatinib. The 6-month PFS rate and the median PFS were 48% and 5.8 months, respectively. The PFS rate at 6 months was highest with ASPS (62%) and lowest with SFT (30%). More than 10% of the patients with ASPS, CS, or chordoma had stable disease for more than 1 year. Collectively, for all 5 subtypes, the 2- and 5-year overall survival rates were 44% and 13%, respectively. An objective response was observed in 18% of the patients with CS or chordoma. CONCLUSIONS Dasatinib failed to achieve control of sarcoma growth for at least 6 months in more than 50% of the patients in this trial according to the Choi tumor response criteria. An objective tumor response and prolonged stable disease was observed in >10% of patients with CS or chordoma. Cancer 2016. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

Objective. Value of information (VOI) analyses can align research with areas with the greatest potential impact on patient outcome, but questions remain concerning the feasibility and acceptability of these approaches to inform prioritization decisions. Our objective was to develop a process for calculating VOI in “real time” to inform trial funding decisions within SWOG, a large cancer clinical trials group. Methods. We developed an efficient and scalable VOI modeling approach using a selected sample of 9 randomized phase II/III trial proposals from the Breast, Gastrointestinal, and Genitourinary Disease Committees reviewed by SWOG’s leadership between 2008 and 2013. There was bidirectional communication between SWOG investigators and the research team throughout the modeling development. Partial expected value of sample information for the treatment effect evaluated by the proposed trial’s primary endpoint was calculated using Monte Carlo simulation. Results. We derived prior uncertainty in the treatment effect estimate from the sample size calculations. Our process was feasible for 8 of 9 trial proposals and efficient: the time required of 1 researcher was

BACKGROUND Dasatinib exhibited activity in preclinical models of sarcoma. The Sarcoma Alliance for Research through Collaboration (SARC) conducted a multicenter, phase 2 trial of dasatinib in patients with advanced sarcoma. METHODS Patients received dasatinib twice daily. The primary objective was to estimate the clinical benefit rate (CBR) (complete response or partial response within 6 months or stable disease duration of ≥6 months) with a target of ≥25%. Patients were enrolled into 1 of 7 different cohorts and assessed by imaging every 8 weeks using Choi criteria tumor response and a Bayesian hierarchical design. For each subtype, enrollment was stopped after a minimum of 9 patients were treated if there was a

e23530 Background: Malignant myoepithelioma of soft tissue (MM) is a rare tumor affecting patients (pts) of any age without sex predilection. MM has varied histopathologic findings, with epithelioid and spindle components and differentiation along osseous, chondroid or other lineages. Morphologic features suggest MM, however histologic overlap with other lesions exists. Diagnosis requires ancillary immunohistochemical &/or molecular studies; EWSR1 rearrangement with various fusion partners has been reported. Clinical behavior is varied and poorly understood due to disease rarity. Here, we undertook comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) of MM to evaluate for potential targetable molecular alterations and report clinical outcomes. Methods: We identified pts with MM treated at University of Michigan (UM) from 2000-2017, obtained clinical data and reviewed pathology on 10 available samples and performed integrative sequencing through Michigan Oncology Sequencing Program (MI-ONCOSEQ) on 6. For 31 additional FFPE samples, hybrid capture-based DNA CGP (n = 16) or DNA+RNA CGP (n = 15) was performed (Foundation Medicine, FM). Results: 13 pts were treated at UM; median age at diagnosis was 52 (22-88) with male predominance (9/13). Primary tumor size was 3 cm (2-9.5) and most common location was trunk (4/13) and extremity (3/13). Four pts with metastatic disease (mets) underwent systemic chemotherapy with 0 responses. Median progression free and overall survival in mets was 20 (5-75) and 57 (12-91) months, respectively. CGP analyses of all samples (Table) revealed EWSR1 rearrangement in 8.1% (3/37) and presence of PHF1-TFE3 and CIC:DUX4 rearrangements in 16% (6/37). Independent blinded histopathology review of whole slides and tissue is underway. Conclusions: MM is a rare malignancy with variable clinical course. In our series, pts with mets derived little benefit from systemic therapy. CGP revealed CDKN2A/B alteration as the most prevalent with few harboring EWSR1 rearrangement. PHF1-TFE3 was recently described in ossifying fibromyxoid tumor (OFMT) that may represent a subset of OFMT not yet expressing bone markers. The presence of hypermutation and CIC:DUX4 fusions also suggests potential alternate diagnosis. These results indicate that CGP could complement histopathologic evaluation to aid in diagnoses and treatment of this entity. [Table: see text]

Importance Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are life-threatening when metastatic or not amenable to surgical removal. In a few patients with advanced GISTs refractory to imatinib mesylate, treatment with sunitinib malate followed by regorafenib provides tumor control; however, additional active treatments are needed for most patients. Objective To evaluate the 6-month progression-free survival (PFS), tumor objective response, and overall survival rates in patients with GISTs treated with dasatinib. Design, Setting, and Participants This single-arm clinical trial used a Bayesian design to enroll patients 13 years or older with measurable imatinib-refractory metastatic GISTs treated at 14 sarcoma referral centers from June 1, 2008, through December 31, 2009. A control group was not included. Patients were followed up for survival for a minimum of 5 years from date of enrollment. Tumor imaging using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging was performed every 8 weeks for the first 24 weeks and every 12 weeks thereafter. Tumor response was assessed by local site using the Choi criteria. Treatment was continued until tumor progression, unacceptable toxic effects after reduction in drug dose, or patient or physician decision. Archival tumor tissue was evaluated for expression of the proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src (SRC), phosphorylated SRC (pSRC), and succinate dehydrogenase complex iron sulfur subunit B (SDHB) proteins and for mutation in the V-Kit Hardy-Zuckerman 4 feline sarcoma viral oncogene homolog ( KIT ) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α ( PDGFRA ) genes. Data analysis was performed from May 19, 2017, through December 20, 2017. Interventions Dasatinib, 70 mg orally twice daily. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary end point was the 6-month PFS estimate using greater than 30% as evidence of an active drug and less than 10% as evidence of inactive treatment. Results In this study, 50 patients were enrolled (median age, 60 years; age range, 19-78 years; 31 [62%] male and 19 [38%] female; 41 [82%] white), and 48 were evaluable for response. The estimated 6-month PFS rate was 29% in the overall population and 50% in a subset of 14 patients with pSRC in GISTs. Objective tumor response was observed in 25%, including 1 patient with an imatinib-resistant mutation in PDGFRA exon 18. Conclusions and Relevance Dasatinib may have activity in a subset of patients with imatinib-resistant GISTs. Further study is needed to determine whether pSRC is a prognostic biomarker.

Background The Institute of Medicine has called for approaches to help maximize the return on investments (ROI) in cancer clinical trials. Value of Research (VOR) is a health economics technique that estimates ROI and can inform research prioritization. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of using VOR analyses on the clinical trial proposal review process within the SWOG cancer clinical trials consortium. Methods We used a previously developed minimal modeling approach to calculate VOR estimates for 9 phase II/III SWOG proposals between February 2015 and December 2016. Estimates were presented to executive committee (EC) members (N = 12) who determine which studies are sent to the National Cancer Institute for funding consideration. EC members scored proposals from 1 (best) to 5 based on scientific merit and potential impact before and after receiving VOR estimates. EC members were surveyed to assess research priorities, proposal evaluation process satisfaction, and the VOR process. Results Value of Research estimates ranged from −$2.1B to $16.46B per proposal. Following review of VOR results, the EC changed their score for eight of nine proposals. Proposal rankings were different in pre‐ vs postscores (P value: 0.03). Respondents had mixed views of the ultimate utility of VOR for their decisions with most supporting (42%) or neutral (41%) to the idea of adding VOR to the evaluation process. Conclusions The findings from this pilot study indicate use of VOR analyses may be a useful adjunct to inform proposal reviews within NCI Cooperative Clinical Trials groups.

Background Helicobacter pylori infection has been consistently associated with lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation, but no studies have demonstrated that the transmission of H. pylori can occur from drinking contaminated water. In this study, we used a laboratory mouse model to test whether waterborne H. pylori could cause gastric infection. Materials and Methods Groups of immunocompetent C57/BL6 Helicobacter-free mice were exposed to static concentrations (1.29 × 105, 106, 107, 108, and 109 CFU/L) of H. pylori in their drinking water for 4 weeks. One group of Helicobacter-free mice was exposed to uncontaminated water as a negative control. H. pylori morphology changes in water were examined using microscopy Live/Dead staining. Following exposure, H. pylori infection and inflammation status in the stomach were evaluated using quantitative culture, PCR, the rapid urease test, and histology. Results None of the mice in the negative control or 105 groups were infected. One of 20 cages (one of 40 mice) of the 106 group, three of 19 cages (four of 38 mice) of the 107 CFU/L group, 19 of 20 cages (33 of 40 mice) of the 108 group, and 20 of 20 cages (39 of 40 mice) of the 109 CFU/L group were infected. Infected mice had significantly higher gastric inflammation than uninfected mice (27.86% higher inflammation, p

Summary Background Patients with advanced sarcomas have a poor prognosis and few treatment options that improve overall survival. Chemotherapy and targeted therapies offer short-lived disease control. We assessed pembrolizumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, for safety and activity in patients with advanced soft-tissue sarcoma or bone sarcoma. Methods In this two-cohort, single-arm, open-label, phase 2 study, we enrolled patients with soft-tissue sarcoma or bone sarcoma from 12 academic centres in the USA that were members of the Sarcoma Alliance for Research through Collaboration (SARC). Patients with soft-tissue sarcoma had to be aged 18 years or older to enrol; patients with bone sarcoma could enrol if they were aged 12 years or older. Patients had histological evidence of metastatic or surgically unresectable locally advanced sarcoma, had received up to three previous lines of systemic anticancer therapy, had at least one measurable lesion according to the Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors version 1.1, and had at least one lesion accessible for biopsy. All patients were treated with 200 mg intravenous pembrolizumab every 3 weeks. The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed objective response. Patients who received at least one dose of pembrolizumab were included in the safety analysis and patients who progressed or reached at least one scan assessment were included in the activity analysis. Accrual is ongoing in some disease cohorts. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02301039. Findings Between March 13, 2015, and Feb 18, 2016, we enrolled 86 patients, 84 of whom received pembrolizumab (42 in each disease cohort) and 80 of whom were evaluable for response (40 in each disease cohort). Median follow-up was 17·8 months (IQR 12·3–19·3). Seven (18%) of 40 patients with soft-tissue sarcoma had an objective response, including four (40%) of ten patients with undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, two (20%) of ten patients with liposarcoma, and one (10%) of ten patients with synovial sarcoma. No patients with leiomyosarcoma (n=10) had an objective response. Two (5%) of 40 patients with bone sarcoma had an objective response, including one (5%) of 22 patients with osteosarcoma and one (20%) of five patients with chondrosarcoma. None of the 13 patients with Ewing's sarcoma had an objective response. The most frequent grade 3 or worse adverse events were anaemia (six [14%]), decreased lymphocyte count (five [12%]), prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (four [10%]), and decreased platelet count (three [7%]) in the bone sarcoma group, and anaemia, decreased lymphocyte count, and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time in the soft-tissue sarcoma group (three [7%] each). Nine (11%) patients (five [12%] in the bone sarcoma group and four [10%] in the soft-tissue sarcoma group) had treatment-emergent serious adverse events (SAEs), five of whom had immune-related SAEs, including two with adrenal insufficiency, two with pneumonitis, and one with nephritis. Interpretation The primary endpoint of overall response was not met for either cohort. However, pembrolizumab showed encouraging activity in patients with undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma or dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Enrolment to expanded cohorts of those subtypes is ongoing to confirm and characterise the activity of pembrolizumab. Funding Merck, SARC, Sarcoma Foundation of America, QuadW Foundation, Pittsburgh Cure Sarcoma, and Ewan McGregor.

Objectives Gastric carcinoma is the most common cancer and cause of cancer mortality in Peru. Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that colonizes the human stomach, is a Group 1 carcinogen due to its causal relationship to gastric carcinoma. While eradication of H. pylori can help prevent gastric cancer, characterizing regional antibiotic resistance patterns is necessary to determine targeted treatment for each region. Thus, we examined primary antibiotic resistance in clinical isolates of H. pylori in Lima, Peru. Materials and methods H. pylori strains were isolated from gastric biopsies of patients with histologically proven H. pylori infection. Primary antibiotic resistance among isolates was examined using E-test strips. Isolates were examined for the presence of the cagA pathogenicity island and the vacA m1/m2 alleles via polymerase chain reaction. Results Seventy-six isolates were recovered from gastric biopsies. Clinical isolates showed evidence of antibiotic resistance to 1 (27.6%, n=21/76), 2 (28.9%, n=22/76), or ≥3 antibiotics (40.8%). Of 76 isolates, eight (10.5%) were resistant to amoxicillin and clarithromycin, which are part of the standard triple therapy for H. pylori infection. No trends were seen between the presence of cagA, vacA m1, or vacA m2 and antibiotic resistance. Conclusion The rate of antibiotic resistance among H. pylori isolates in Lima, Peru, is higher than expected and presents cause for concern. To develop more targeted eradication therapies for H. pylori in Peru, more research is needed to better characterize antibiotic resistance among a larger number of clinical isolates prospectively.

BACKGROUND Bone sarcoma survivors are at high risk for multiple chronic diseases at a young age, which can be characterized as premature aging. Bone sarcoma survivors have the highest cumulative incidence of multiple serious chronic conditions according to analysis of the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study 1. Cardiovascular biomarkers can be used to detect CAD, and enable early intervention in asymptomatic patients. METHODS Patients are seen annually at the Sarcoma Survivorship Clinic at the University of Michigan and includes high risk patients over the age of 18 who are at least two years free of disease after treatment completion. Clinical data includes: Blood Pressure, BMI, lipid profile, high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein, and imaging. RESULTS 30% of patients aged 18-39 exhibit elevations in the cardiovascular biomarker hsCRP, in addition to the traditional biologic markers of elevated lipids, hypertension, and BMI at their most recent clinic visit (Table 1). A subset of patients independently evaluated by 2 nuclear cardiologists also show evidence of coronary artery calcifications (CAC), which is considered pathognomonic of CAD. 40% have been diagnosed with 2 or more of the following chronic diseases: dyslipidemia, obesity, renal insufficiency, anxiety and/or depression, pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, thyroid dysfunction, hypertension, liver disease, and anemia. CONCLUSION The overall cardiac risk profile among high risk bone sarcoma survivors is characteristic of premature aging. Examining the underlying mechanism of premature aging is essential in this population. Proposed investigation includes alteration of immune pathway as effected by diet, the microbiome, metabolomics, and cellular senescence. REFERENCES: 1. Gibson TM et al: Temporal patterns in the risk of chronic health conditions in survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed 1970-99: a report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study cohort. The Lancet Oncology 2045:1-12, 2018 Characteristics of bone sarcoma survivors, aged 18-39 (n=20)Chronic Disease Diagnosis%1502253+15Cardiovascular biomarkershsCRP ≥ 2.030BMI ≥ 3015Cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL12Hypertension ≥130/8015Glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL20CAC>015 Citation Format: Laurence H. Baker, Denise Reinke, Philip Boonstra, Erin Peregrine Antalis. Detection of premature aging among adolescent and young adult osteosarcoma and Ewings sarcoma survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3145.

11015 Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated activity in multiple tumor types but their activity in soft tissue sarcomas remains limited. In the multicenter phase II study, SARC028, the anti-PD-1 antibody, P demonstrated objective responses that were largely restricted to UPS and LPS subtypes. We now report outcomes from 2 expansion cohorts of SARC 028 in advanced UPS and LPS. Methods: To further confirm the clinical activity of P in UPS and LPS, we enrolled an additional 30 pts in each of 2 expansion cohorts for a total of 40 UPS and 40 LPS pts. Primary endpoint was investigator-assessed response by RECIST v1.1. Secondary endpoints were safety, progression-free survival (PFS), 12-week PFS rate, and overall survival (OS). An ORR of 25% was considered clinically meaningful and < 10% was considered to show lack of efficacy. P was to be considered a success if 8 or more of 40 enrolled patients had a PR or better (1-sided α = 0.042, 82% power). Pts age ≥18 with advanced, refractory UPS or LPS received 200 mg of P IV every 3 weeks until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Results: Preliminary results from the first 10 pts in each of the UPS and LPS cohorts have been reported. We now present summary data after enrolling an additional 30 pts in each cohort. The ORR in the UPS cohort was 23% (9/40), with an additional 5/30 PRs observed in the expansion cohort (total 2 CRs, 7 PRs). In the LPS cohort, the ORR was 10% (4/39 evaluable pts), with an additional 2/30 PRs observed (total 4 PRs). Median PFS for the UPS group was 3 months [95% CI: 2, 5] and 2 months [95% CI: 2, 4] for the LPS group. 12-week PFS rate was 50% in UPS [95% CI: 35, 65] and 44% in LPS [95% CI: 28, 60]. The UPS group had a median OS of 12 months [95% CI: 7, 34] and 13 months [95% CI: 8, NR] for the LPS group. P was well tolerated with no unexpected toxicities. Conclusions: The UPS cohort achieved its primary endpoint, however the activity of P in UPS deserves further evaluation in a randomized study. The activity of P was not confirmed in the LPS cohort. Ongoing biomarker analyses may direct better patient selection and guide future combination strategies. Clinical trial information: NCT02301039.

Angiosarcoma is a rare neoplasm of endothelial origin that has limited treatment options and poor five-year survival. As a model for human angiosarcoma, we studied primary cells and tumorgrafts derived from canine hemangiosarcoma (HSA), which is also an endothelial malignancy with similar presentation and histology. Primary cells isolated from HSA showed constitutive extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) activation. The mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal–regulated kinase (MEK) inhibitor CI-1040 reduced ERK activation and the viability of primary cells derived from visceral, cutaneous, and cardiac HSA in vitro. HSA-derived primary cells were also sensitive to sorafenib, an inhibitor of B-Raf and multireceptor tyrosine kinases. In vivo, CI-1040 or PD0325901 decreased the growth of cutaneous cell-derived xenografts and cardiac-derived tumorgrafts. Sorafenib decreased tumor size in both in vivo models, although cardiac tumorgrafts were more sensitive. In human angiosarcoma, we noted that 50% of tumors stained positively for phosphorylated ERK1/2 and that the expression of several MEK-responsive transcription factors was upregulated. Our data showed that MEK signaling is essential for the growth of HSA in vitro and in vivo and provided evidence that the same pathways are activated in human angiosarcoma. This indicates that MEK inhibitors may form part of an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of canine HSA or human angiosarcoma, and it highlights the use of spontaneous canine cancers as a model of human disease. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(9); 1701–14. ©2013 AACR.

The standard phase II trial design has changed dramatically over the past decade. Randomized phase II studies have essentially become the standard phase II design in oncology for a variety of reasons. The use of these designs is motivated by concerns about the use of historical data to determine if a new agent or regimen shows promise of activity. However, randomized phase II designs come with the cost of increased study duration and patient resources. Progression-free survival (PFS) is an important endpoint used in many phase II designs. In many clinical settings, changes in PFS with the introduction of a new treatment may represent true benefit in terms of the gold standard outcome, overall survival (OS). The phase II/III design has been proposed as an approach to shorten the time of discovery of an active regimen. In this article, design considerations for a phase II/III trial are discussed and presented in terms of a model defining the relationship between OS and PFS. The design is also evaluated using 15 phase III trials completed in the Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) between 1990 and 2005. The model provides a framework to evaluate the validity and properties of using a phase II/III design. In the evaluation of SWOG trials, three of four positive studies would have also proceeded to the final analysis and 10 of 11 negative studies would have stopped at the phase II analysis if a phase II/III design had been used. Through careful consideration and thorough evaluation of design properties, substantial gains could occur using this approach. Clin Cancer Res; 19(10); 2646–56. ©2013 AACR.

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase is overexpressed in many sarcoma subtypes. In vitro studies suggest a role of the EGFR pathway in growth and differentiation in some sarcomas. We conducted a phase II trial of cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody to EGFR, in patients with advanced sarcomas.Cetuximab was administered intravenously as a loading dose on 400 mg/m on day 1, cycle 1 and subsequently 250 mg/m on days 1, 8, 15, and 21 of a 28 day cycle. Using a Simon 2-stage design, 21 EGFR patients were to be accrued in the first stage, with an additional 11 patients if3 patients met the primary endpoint of 4-month progression-free survival (PFS). An exploratory subgroup of EGFR patients was also included.Twenty-one and 15 evaluable patients enrolled in the EGFR and EGFR subgroup, respectively. One of 21 EGFR patients (4.8%) achieved 4-month PFS. Median PFS and overall survival were 1.7 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.6-1.8] and 7.7 months (95% CI, 4.2-10.7), respectively. Three of 15 EGFR patients (20%) achieved 4-month PFS. Median PFS and overall survival were 1.8 months (95% CI, 0.8-2.5) and 15.7 months (95% CI, 7.7-25.3), respectively. No responses were seen in either group. There was no correlation between clinical outcomes and expression of MAP-K, PTEN, and phospho-EGFR.Cetuximab is not an active as a single agent in advanced sarcoma. Further study of anti-EGFR therapy in sarcoma should only be considered after identification of molecular abnormalities predictive of benefit.

The Children's Cancer Survivorship Study reports more chronic illnesses in sarcoma survivors than other pediatric cancers. Chemotherapy and radiation put survivors at risk for developing chronic illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and kidney failure. Sarcoma survivors may have a reduced life expectancy and signs of heart disease in their 30s and 40s. Since these medical problems occur much later in the general population, they often go undetected or misdiagnosed in sarcoma survivors, creating delays in intervention and treatment. The good news is that these chronic illnesses can often be prevented or minimized. The most common adverse effect of chemotherapy and radiation is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD has a number of risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia. These risk factors are modifiable with lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, and/or pharmacological intervention. By identifying and managing risk factors like hypertension early, we in turn reduce the risk for CAD and prolong survival. This is well established in the general population; there is no reason a priori not to apply it to sarcoma survivors. Sarcoma survivors should be followed by physicians who understand the late effects and outcomes of sarcoma treatment. The University of Michigan Sarcoma Survivorship Clinic provides long-term care for sarcoma survivors by preventing, diagnosing, and treating the adverse long-term physical and psychological effects associated with sarcoma survivorship.

One of my favorite colleagues told me about the day he invited his pediatrician father to attend his tumor board. Forty patient histories were presented by a medical oncology fellow; their imaging results were carefully reviewed by musculoskeletal radiologists, and biopsy results were reviewed by the sarcoma pathologist. At the end of the session, the colleague’s father raised his hand and said, “You presented two patients with osteosarcoma. In my 70 years as a pediatrician, I have never seen a patient with osteosarcoma.” This story reminds us how infrequent bone cancers are. It also describes a modern sarcoma tumor board, which includes representatives of numerous specialties who discuss effective management plans for patients with bone sarcomas. The favorite colleague is Robert Benjamin, senior author of Chemotherapy for Bone Sarcoma in Adults; the sarcoma tumor board is at MD Anderson Cancer Center. The outcomes of the studies reported and the prescriptions described by that sarcoma group were likely more dependent upon the care system developed at MD Anderson than on the details of a systemic remedy. The outcomes for patients treated in multiple clinics are perhaps better exemplified by the report by Zalupski et al for the Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG), which described 63 adult and teenage patients with localized extremity osteosarcoma who were treated at 24 institutions. In this single-arm cohort study, the 5-year survival rate was only 58%, and the number of patients with 90% necrosis was 48%. Grade 4 hematologic toxicity was seen in 89% of patients, and one fatality occurred as a result of chemotherapy. Numerous unspecified variables are associated with single-cohort studies. Caution must always be observedwith interpretation of such studies. The review on bone sarcoma byWagner et al highlights three such single-arm cohort studies in metastatic osteosarcoma: a study by Fox et al about the results of the chemotherapy doublet of gemcitabine and docetaxel, a study by Grignani et al of sorafenib, and a study by Grignani et al of sorafenib and everolimus. All three studies reported not meeting their definitions of success, yet Wagner et al reinterpreted the data. Interpretation of clinical success, defined as improvement in progressionfree survival in a nonrandomized clinical trial setting, is fraught with opportunity to misinterpret. The error is compounded with the authors’ statement that the Grignani et al study of sorafenib and everolimus “failed tomeet its arbitrary prespecified end point,” but that it was close enough to call a positive result. They also failed to mention that two thirds of the patients in the study had serious toxicities from this combination. In 2006, the Children’s Oncology Group reported that survivors of a bone cancer have a 40-fold increased risk of developing a grade 3, 4, or 5 serious chronic illness compared with their siblings. One in four bone cancer survivors have two or more chronic illnesses, including coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy

The bromodomain and extra-terminal domain inhibitor JQ1 has marked antitumor activity against several hematologic malignancies as well as solid tumor models. Here, we investigated its activity in vitro and in vivo against models of childhood rhabdomyosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. In vitro, JQ1 (but not the inactive enantiomer JQ1R) inhibited cell proliferation and increased G1 fraction of cells, although there was no correlation between cell line sensitivity and suppression of c-MYC or MYCN. In vivo, xenografts showed significant inhibition of growth during the period of treatment, and rapid regrowth after treatment was stopped, activity typical of antiangiogenic agents. Furthermore, xenografts derived from cell lines intrinsically resistant or sensitive to JQ1 in vitro had similar sensitivity in vivo as xenografts. Further investigation showed that JQ1 reduced tumor vascularization. This was secondary to both drug-induced downregulation of tumor-derived growth factors and direct effects of JQ1 on vascular elements. JQ1 suppressed VEGF-stimulated vascularization of Matrigel plugs in mice, and in vitro suppressed differentiation, proliferation, and invasion of human umbilical cord vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC). In HUVECs, JQ1 partially suppressed c-MYC levels, but dramatically reduced AP-1 levels and activity through suppression of the AP-1–associated protein FOSL1. Our data suggest that the antitumor activity of JQ1 in these sarcoma models is largely a consequence of its antiangiogenic activity. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(5); 1018–28. ©2016 AACR.

Background Treatment for localized soft tissue sarcoma includes surgery and radiation, while the role of chemotherapy is controversial. Biomarkers that could predict therapeutic response or prognosticate overall survival (OS) are needed to define patients most likely to benefit from systemic treatment. Serum protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein that has been evaluated as a potential biomarker in numerous malignancies given its involvement in cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, and tissue remodeling. Methods Using primary biopsy and resection specimens from patients with high-risk localized, soft tissue sarcoma treated on a neo/adjuvant chemotherapy study, SPARC expression was assessed and compared to patient and tumor characteristics, treatment, and outcomes. Survival functions were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. The Cox model was used for multivariate analysis. Results Fifty patients had primary tumor specimens available. High, low, and no SPARC expression was found in 22, 13, and 15 patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in time to recurrence or OS between patients in these three groups. Comparing lack of SPARC expression with any SPARC expression, there was no significant difference in time to recurrence in patients without SPARC expression (n = 15) compared to patients with SPARC expression (n = 35). Likewise, there was no statistically significant difference in OS in patients without SPARC expression versus patients whose tumors expressed SPARC. Conclusions Although we did not find a statistically significant difference in time to recurrence and OS in patients with high-risk soft tissue sarcoma, we did identify a trend toward improved time to recurrence and OS in patients whose tumors lacked SPARC expression. However, SPARC did not demonstrate the ability to discern which high-risk patients may have a worse prognosis or greater benefit from chemotherapy. Trial registration The trial was registered on September 13, 2005 with ClinicalTrials.gov, number https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00189137?term=sarcoma&id=NCT00189137&state1=NA%3AUS%3AMI&phase=1&rank=1. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12885-016-2694-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

This randomized multicenter phase II study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of single-agent gemcitabine versus gemcitabine plus docetaxel as second-line therapy for patients with metastatic or relapsed leiomyosarcoma. Patients were stratified by the leiomyosarcoma's site of origin (uterine versus nonuterine).

Aims: The Center for Comparative Effectiveness Research in Cancer Genomics completed a 2-year stakeholder-guided process for the prioritization of genomic tests for comparative effectiveness research studies. We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of engagement procedures in achieving project goals and to identify opportunities for future improvements. Materials & methods: The evaluation included an online questionnaire, one-on-one telephone interviews and facilitated discussion. Responses to the online questionnaire were tabulated for descriptive purposes, while transcripts from key informant interviews were analyzed using a directed content analysis approach. Results: A total of 11 out of 13 stakeholders completed both the online questionnaire and interview process, while nine participated in the facilitated discussion. Eighty-nine percent of questionnaire items received overall ratings of agree or strongly agree; 11% of responses were rated as neutral with the exception of a single rating of disagreement with an item regarding the clarity of how stakeholder input was incorporated into project decisions. Recommendations for future improvement included developing standard recruitment practices, role descriptions and processes for improved communication with clinical and comparative effectiveness research investigators. Conclusions: Evaluation of the stakeholder engagement process provided constructive feedback for future improvements and should be routinely conducted to ensure maximal effectiveness of stakeholder involvement.

Background Activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway has been demonstrated in sarcoma. Trials using mTOR inhibitor in sarcoma have shown low objective response rates but progression-free survival (PFS) rates suggest cytostatic effects. The combination of sirolimus and cyclophosphamide demonstrated synergistic anti-sarcoma activity in preclinical models; therefore, we conducted a phase II trial of sirolimus and cyclophosphamide in patients with advanced sarcoma. Methods Patients received 4 mg sirolimus daily and 200 mg cyclophosphamide d1-7 and 15-21 every 28 days. The primary objective was to estimate the 24-week PFS rate with a target of ⩾25%. Patients were followed for World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria tumour response by imaging every 8 weeks. Serum levels of sirolimus, lipids and vascular endothelial growth factor were measured. Tumour tissue was analysed for mTOR, S6 ribosomal protein and cytochrome P450 3A4/5 by quantitative immunofluorescence. Results Forty-nine eligible patients were enrolled from September 2008 to December 2009. Patients received a median of four cycles of therapy. Starting doses of drugs were tolerated in 79%. One patient achieved partial tumour response, 10 were progression-free for ⩾24 weeks and two completed 12 cycles of treatment. Median PFS and overall survival (OS) were 3.4 and 9.9 months, respectively. Serious adverse events attributed to therapy occurred in 11% and included infection, pneumonitis and thrombosis. Hypertriglyceridaemia from treatment and lower tumour phosphorylated-mTOR are associated with longer survival. Conclusions Sirolimus and cyclophosphamide were tolerated by the majority of patients. About 20% of patients had stable sarcoma for at least 6 months but objective tumour response was infrequent.

Background— Systematic approaches to stakeholder-informed research prioritization are acentral focus of comparative effectiveness research. Genomic testing in cancer is an ideal area torefine such approaches given rapid innovation and potentially significant impacts on patientoutcomes. Objective— To develop and pilot-test a stakeholder-informed approach to prioritizing genomictests for future study in collaboration with the cancer clinical trials consortium SWOG. Methods— We conducted a landscape-analysis to identify genomic tests in oncology using asystematic search of published and unpublished studies, and expert consultation. Clinically validtests suitable for evaluation in a comparative study were presented to an external stakeholder Corresponding Author: David L. Veenstra, PharmD, PhD, Professor, Pharmaceutical Outcomes Research and Policy Program, andInstitute for Public Health Genetics, Department of Pharmacy, Box 357630, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, Phone:206 221-6936; Fax: 206 543-3835, veenstra@uw.edu.Author Information:Rahber Thariani MS PhD, Box 357630, University of Washington, Department of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA 98195, thariani@uw.edu,206-427-6005 (Work), 206-616-0856 (Fax)William Wong, Box 357630, University of Washington, Department of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA 98195, wbwong@u.washington.edu,206-616-1383 (Work), 206-543-3835 (Fax)Josh J Carlson PhD, Box 357630, University of Washington, Department of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA 98195,carlsojj@u.washington.edu, 206-543-9649 (Work), 206-543-3835 (Fax)Louis Garrison PhD, Box 357630, University of Washington, Department of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA 98195,lgarrisn@u.washington.edu, 206-221-5684 (Work), 206-543-3835 (Fax)Scott Ramsey PhD, Cancer Prevention Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave. N., MP-900,Campus Box 358080, Seattle, WA 98109-1024, sramsey@fhcrc.org, 206 667-2883 (work), 206 667-5977 (Fax)Patricia Deverka MD MS MBE, World Trade Center Baltimore, 401 East Pratt Street, Suite 631, Baltimore, MD 21202,Pat.Deverka@cmtpnet.org, 410-547-2687 (Work), 410-547-5088 (Fax)Laura Esmail PhD, World Trade Center Baltimore, 401 East Pratt Street, Suite 631, Baltimore, MD 21202,Laura.Esmail@cmtpnet.org, 410-547-2687 (Work), 410-547-5088 (Fax)Sneha Rangrao, World Trade Center Baltimore, 401 East Pratt Street, Suite 631, Baltimore, MD 21202,Sneha.Rangarao@cmtpnet.org, 410-547-2687 (Work), 410-547-5088 (Fax)Carolyn Hoban DSc, University of Michigan, 503 Thompson Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1318, carhoban@med.umich.edu,743-647-8903 (Work)Laurence H Baker DO, Group Chair’s Office, SWOG, 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, PO Box 483, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-0483,bakerl@med.umich.edu, 734-998-7130, 734-998-7118

Background: The number of cancer survivors in the U.S. has increased from 3 million in 1971, when the National Cancer Act was enacted, to over 12 million today. Over 70% of children affected by cancer survive more than 10 years, and most are cured. Most cancer survivors are adults, with two-thirds of them 65 years of age or older and two-thirds alive at five years. The most common cancer diagnoses among survivors include breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. This review was conducted to better appreciate the challenges associated with cancer survivors and the opportunities healthcare providers have in making a difference for these patients. Methods: Comprehensive review of literature based on PubMed searches on topics related to cancer survivorship, and associated physical, cognitive, socio-economic, sexual/behavioral and legal issues. Results: At least 50% of cancer survivors suffer from late treatment-related side effects, often including physical, psychosocial, cognitive and sexual abnormalities, as well as concerns regarding recurrence and/or the development of new malignancies. Many are chronic in nature and some are severe and even life-threatening. Survivors also face issues involving lack of appropriate health maintenance counseling, increased unemployment rate and workplace discrimination. Conclusions: Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer will lead to more survivors and better quality of life. However, tools to recognize potentially serious long-lasting side effects of cancer therapy earlier in order to treat and/or prevent them must be developed. It is incumbent upon our health care delivery systems to make meeting these patients' needs a priority.

Summary Background Evidence from Europe, Asia, and North America suggests that standard three-drug regimens of a proton-pump inhibitor plus amoxicillin and clarithromycin are significantly less effective for eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection than are 5-day concomitant and 10-day sequential four-drug regimens that include a nitroimidazole. These four-drug regimens also entail fewer antibiotic doses than do three-drug regimens and thus could be suitable for eradication programmes in low-resource settings. Few studies in Latin America have been done, where the burden of H pylori -associated diseases is high. We therefore did a randomised trial in Latin America comparing the effectiveness of four-drug regimens given concomitantly or sequentially with that of a standard 14-day regimen of triple therapy. Methods Between September, 2009, and June, 2010, we did a randomised trial of empiric 14-day triple, 5-day concomitant, and 10-day sequential therapies for H pylori in seven Latin American sites: Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Mexico (two sites). Participants aged 21–65 years who tested positive for H pylori by a urea breath test were randomly assigned by a central computer using a dynamic balancing procedure to: 14 days of lansoprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin (standard therapy); 5 days of lansoprazole, amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and metronidazole (concomitant therapy); or 5 days of lansoprazole and amoxicillin followed by 5 days of lansoprazole, clarithromycin, and metronidazole (sequential therapy). Eradication was assessed by urea breath test 6–8 weeks after randomisation. The trial was not masked. Our primary outcome was probablity of H pylori eradication. Our analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, registration number NCT01061437. Findings 1463 participants aged 21–65 years were randomly allocated a treatment: 488 were treated with 14-day standard therapy, 489 with 5-day concomitant therapy, and 486 with 10-day sequential therapy. The probability of eradication with standard therapy was 82·2% (401 of 488), which was 8·6% higher (95% adjusted CI 2·6–14·5) than with concomitant therapy (73·6% [360 of 489]) and 5·6% higher (–0·04% to 11·6) than with sequential therapy (76·5% [372 of 486]). Neither four-drug regimen was significantly better than standard triple therapy in any of the seven sites. Interpretation Standard 14-day triple-drug therapy is preferable to 5-day concomitant or 10-day sequential four-drug regimens as empiric therapy for H pylori infection in diverse Latin American populations. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, US National Institutes of Health.

Purpose: Aggressive fibromatoses (AF; desmoid tumors) are rare clonal neoplastic proliferations of connective tissues that can be locally aggressive despite wide surgical resection and/or radiation therapy. The Sarcoma Alliance for Research through Collaboration (SARC) initiated a prospective phase II trial to investigate the outcome of patients treated with imatinib, a multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in patients with AF, or 1 of 10 sarcoma subtypes. Here, we report specifically on the outcome of patients with AF as well as evaluations undertaken to examine the mechanism of imatinib. Experimental Design: Patients ≥10 years old with desmoid tumors that were not curable by surgical management or in whom curative surgery would lead to undesirable functional impairment were eligible. Imatinib was prescribed at 300 mg twice daily [body surface area (BSA) ≥ 1.5 m2], 200 mg twice daily (BSA = 1.0-1.49 m2), or 100 mg twice daily (BSA < 1.0 m2). Response outcomes at 2 and 4 months were assessed. Tissue specimens were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for expression of cKIT, platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα), PDGFRβ, AKT, PTEN, FKHR, and β-catenin. Tumor DNA was analyzed for PDGFRα exon 18 and APC mutations by allelic discrimination PCR. Results: Fifty-one patients were enrolled. The median number of prior regimens was 1. Kaplan-Meier estimates of 2- and 4-month progression-free survival rates were 94% and 88%, respectively, and 1-year progression-free survival was 66%. Objective response rate was 6% (3 of 51). Expression and polymorphisms of target proteins were identified in tissue samples, but no significant correlation with outcome was observed using the samples available. Conclusion: Imatinib may have a role in the management of unresectable or difficult to resect desmoid tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 16(19); 4884–91. ©2010 AACR.

Purpose This multicenter phase 2 study assessed the tolerability and efficacy of motesanib, an oral inhibitor of Kit, platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR), in patients with imatinib-resistant gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Methods Patients with advanced GIST who failed imatinib mesylate after ≥8 weeks of treatment with ≥600 mg daily received motesanib 125 mg orally once daily continuously for 48 weeks or until unacceptable toxicity or disease progression occurred. The primary endpoint was confirmed objective tumor response per RECIST and independent review. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS), time to progression (TTP); objective response by 18FDG-PET and by changes in tumor size and/or density (Choi criteria); pharmacokinetics and safety. Results In the patients evaluable for response (N = 102), the objective response rate was 3%; 59% of patients achieved stable disease, with 14% achieving durable stable disease ≥24 weeks; 38% had disease progression. Higher objective response rates were observed per 18FDG-PET (N = 91) (30%) and Choi criteria (41%). The median PFS was 16 weeks (95% CI = 14–24 weeks); the median TTP was 17 weeks (95% CI = 15–24 weeks). The most common motesanib treatment-related grade 3 adverse events included hypertension (23%), fatigue (9%), and diarrhea (5%). Motesanib did not accumulate with daily dosing. Conclusions In this study of patients with imatinib-resistant GIST, motesanib treatment resulted in acceptable tolerability and modest tumor control as evident in the proportion of patients who achieved stable disease and durable stable disease.