ici Suicide a Danger for Some Women During Pregnancy: Study By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Suicide a Danger for Some Women During Pregnancy: StudyCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/28/2017 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/29/2017 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Pediatricians Sound Alarm on Rapid Weight Changes in Young Athletes By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Pediatricians Sound Alarm on Rapid Weight Changes in Young AthletesCategory: Health NewsCreated: 9/1/2017 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 9/1/2017 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Two Ebola Patients Who Received Experimental Treatment Have Recovered: Congo Officials By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Two Ebola Patients Who Received Experimental Treatment Have Recovered: Congo OfficialsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/27/2018 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/27/2018 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici U.S. Deaths From Suicide, Drugs Surpass Diabetes By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: U.S. Deaths From Suicide, Drugs Surpass DiabetesCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/27/2018 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/28/2018 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Pediatricians Make Change to Child Car Seat Guidelines By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Pediatricians Make Change to Child Car Seat GuidelinesCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/30/2018 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/30/2018 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Soldiers' Suicide Attempts Often Come Without Prior Mental Health Diagnosis By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Soldiers' Suicide Attempts Often Come Without Prior Mental Health DiagnosisCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/29/2018 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/30/2018 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Restless Legs Syndrome Might Raise Risk of Suicide, Self-Harm By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Restless Legs Syndrome Might Raise Risk of Suicide, Self-HarmCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/23/2019 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/26/2019 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici What Treatments Work Best to Prevent Suicide? By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: What Treatments Work Best to Prevent Suicide?Category: Health NewsCreated: 8/27/2019 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/27/2019 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Exercise Is Good Medicine for Advanced Colon Cancer By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Exercise Is Good Medicine for Advanced Colon CancerCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/28/2019 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/28/2019 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Scientists Challenge Key Survival Stat Cited by U.S. Officials in Plasma Approval By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Scientists Challenge Key Survival Stat Cited by U.S. Officials in Plasma ApprovalCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/25/2020 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/25/2020 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici How Your Medicines Make Their Way Into Rivers, Lakes and Bays By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: How Your Medicines Make Their Way Into Rivers, Lakes and BaysCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/23/2021 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/23/2021 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Fatal ODs From Illicit Tranquilizers Jumped 6-Fold During Pandemic By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Fatal ODs From Illicit Tranquilizers Jumped 6-Fold During PandemicCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/26/2021 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/27/2021 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Michigan Officials Puzzled by Mysterious Deaths of 30 Dogs By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Michigan Officials Puzzled by Mysterious Deaths of 30 DogsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/24/2022 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/24/2022 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Alternative Medicine Popular Among Seniors, But Most Don't Tell Their Doctors About It By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Wed, 27 Jul 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: Alternative Medicine Popular Among Seniors, But Most Don't Tell Their Doctors About ItCategory: Health NewsCreated: 7/27/2022 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 7/27/2022 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici 'Virtual' Museum Visits Are Good Medicine for Seniors By www.medicinenet.com Published On :: Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PDT Title: 'Virtual' Museum Visits Are Good Medicine for SeniorsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 8/16/2022 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 8/16/2022 12:00:00 AM Full Article
ici Re: Friendship as Medicine By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Full Article
ici Wonca Europe 2023 Definition of General Practice/Family Medicine: New Needs New Content By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Full Article
ici Only One Quarter of Family Physicians Are Very Satisfied with Their Electronic Health Records Platform By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Two decades into the era of Electronic Health Records (EHRs), the promise of streamlining clinical care, reducing burden, and improving patient outcomes has yet to be realized. A cross-sectional family physician census conducted by the American Board of Family Medicine in 2022 and 2023 included self-reported physician EHR satisfaction. Of the nearly 10,000 responding family physicians, only one-in-four (26.2%) report being very satisfied and one-in-three (33.8%) were not satisfied. These low levels of satisfaction point to the need for greater transparency in the marketplace and pressure to increase user-centric EHR design. Full Article
ici A Comprehensive Guide to Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotics for Primary Care Clinicians By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 We propose a paper that provides education on commonly used long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs) to improve primary care based mental health interventions in patients with severe mental illnesses (SMIs) such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorders. With the expanding interface of primary care and psychiatry across all healthcare settings, it has become increasingly important for primary care clinicians to have a broader understanding of common psychiatric treatments, including LAIs. Long-acting injectable antipsychotics have been shown to be helpful in significantly improving treatment adherence, preventing disease progression, improving treatment response, decreasing readmission rates, and reducing social impairment. We discuss evidence-based indications and guidelines for use of long-acting injectable antipsychotics. We provide an overview of the treatment of SMI with LAIs, mainly focusing on the most commonly used long-acting injectable antipsychotics, advantages and disadvantages of each, along with outlining important clinical pearls for ease of practical application. Equipped with increased familiarity and understanding of these essential therapies, primary care clinicians can better facilitate early engagement with psychiatric care, promote more widespread use, and thus significantly improve the wellbeing and quality of life of patients with severe mental illness. Full Article
ici Sexual Misconduct by Board Certified Family Physicians By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Purpose: Sexual misconduct by physicians is a consequential violation of patient trust. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency and patterns of sexual misconduct by physicians certified by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM). Methods: We described a cohort of current or formerly ABFM certified physicians ("Diplomates") disciplined for sexual misconduct in 2016 to 2022. Results: Ninety-four physicians, representing only 0.1% of ABFM Diplomates, were identified as having received disciplinary action(s) for reported sexual misconduct. These constituted 8.9% of the 1122 cases that resulted in a physician losing board certification or eligibility for any cause in 2016 to 2022. Ninety-three of the 94 physicians identified as male, with an average age of 56 (range 22 to 88 years). Eighty-nine percent of victims were female, and 90% were patients of the physician. Unwanted sexual behavior/assault occurred in more than half of the cases, whereas one third described an ongoing sexual relationship between patient and physician. Nearly 1 in 5 cases also included controlled substance prescribing. Seven cases involved minors. Noncontact ("grooming") behaviors were described in 34 cases, 28 of which included subsequent physical sexual behavior. A clinical setting was the site of misconduct in 84% of cases. Conclusions: Reports of sexual misconduct among board-certified family physicians are infrequent. However, any sexual misconduct by physicians is harmful to patients and the profession. The specialty should work to enhance education and change professional culture to mitigate this important problem. Full Article
ici How Early Career Family Medicine Women Physicians Negotiate Their First Job After Residency By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Background: Nested within a growing body of evidence of a gender pay gap in medicine are more alarming recent findings from family medicine: a gender pay gap of 16% can be detected at a very early career stage. This article explores qualitative evidence of women’s experiences negotiating for their first job out of residency to ascertain women’s engagement with and approach to the negotiation process. Methods: We recruited family physicians who graduated residency in 2019 and responded to the American Board of Family Medicine 2022 graduate survey. We developed a semistructured interview guide following a modified life history approach to uncover women’s experiences through the transitory stages from residency to workforce. A qualitative researcher used Zoom to interview 19 geographically and racially diverse early career women physicians. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using NVivo software following an Inductive Content Analysis approach. Results: Three main themes emerged from the data. First, salary was found to be nonnegotiable, exemplified by participants’ inability to change initial salary offers. Second, the role of peer support throughout residency and early career was crucial to uncovering and rectifying salary inequity. Third, a pay expectation gap was identified among women from minority and low-income households. Conclusion: To rectify the gender pay gap in medicine, a systems-level approach is required. This can be achieved through various levels of interventions: societally expanding the use of and removing the stigma around parental leave, recognizing the importance of contributions not currently valued by productivity-based payment models, examining assumptions about leadership; and institutionally moving away from fee-for-service systems, encouraging flexible schedules, increasing salary transparency, and improving advancement transparency. Full Article
ici Primary Care Clinicians' Interest In, and Barriers To, Medication Abortion By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Purpose: Providing medication abortion in the primary care setting is a promising way to increase access to abortion, a threatened service in many States. This study aimed to characterize primary care clinicians’ interest in prescribing medication abortion, what barriers they face in adding this service, and what support they need. Methods: Data were collected from 162 practicing primary care clinicians in Minnesota using an online survey with closed- and open-ended response options. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, group comparison analyses, and content analysis for the open-ended questions. Results: Participants represented a diverse range of ages, years in practice, credentials, genders, and urban/rural practice settings, and held mixed knowledge and attitudes around medication abortion. All demographic groups surveyed expressed interest in prescribing medication abortion, with the strongest interest represented among younger respondents, women, and those practicing in urban settings. Clinicians who provide prenatal care or who already work with these medications in other contexts were more likely to want to add medication abortion to their practices. The most common barrier to providing medication abortion was a lack of knowledge about organizational policies and about the medications themselves. To empower clinicians to provide medication abortion, respondents voiced needing their health systems to build clear processes and wanting supportive networks of other clinicians for collaboration. Conclusions: Given the interest of primary care clinicians in providing medication abortion, health systems have a valuable opportunity to increase access. Full Article
ici Clinician-Reported Barriers and Needs for Implementation of Continuous Glucose Monitoring By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Background: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes is associated with improved clinical, behavioral, and psychosocial patient health outcomes and is part of the American Diabetes Association’s Standards of Medical Care. CGM prescription often takes place in endocrinology practices, yet 50% of adults with type 1 diabetes and 90% of all people with type 2 diabetes receive their diabetes care in primary care settings. This study examined primary care clinicians’ perceptions of barriers and resources needed to support CGM use in primary care. Methods: This qualitative study used semistructured interviews with primary care clinicians to understand barriers to CGM and resources needed to prescribe. Participants were recruited through practice-based research networks. Rapid qualitative analysis was used to summarize themes from interview findings. Results: We conducted interviews with 55 primary care clinicians across 21 states. Participants described CGM benefits for patients with varying levels of diabetes self-management and engagement. Major barriers to prescribing included lack of insurance coverage for CGM costs to patients, and time constraints. Participants identified resources needed to foster CGM prescribing, for example, clinician education, support staff, and EHR compatibility. Conclusion: Primary care clinicians face several challenges to prescribing CGM, but they are interested in learning more to help them offer it to their patients. This study reinforces the ongoing need for improved clinician education on CGM technology and continued expansion of insurance coverage for people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Full Article
ici Associations Between Patient/Caregiver Trust in Clinicians and Experiences of Healthcare-Based Discrimination By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Background: Higher trust in healthcare providers has been linked to better health outcomes and satisfaction. Lower trust has been associated with healthcare-based discrimination. Objective: Examine associations between experiences of healthcare discrimination and patients’ and caregivers of pediatric patients’ trust in providers, and identify factors associated with high trust, including prior experience of healthcare-based social screening. Methods: Secondary analysis of cross-sectional study using logistic regression modeling. Sample consisted of adult patients and caregivers of pediatric patients from 11 US primary care/emergency department sites. Results: Of 1,012 participants, low/medium trust was reported by 26% identifying as non-Hispanic Black, 23% Hispanic, 18% non-Hispanic multiple/other race, and 13% non-Hispanic White (P = .001). Experience of any healthcare-based discrimination was reported by 32% identifying as non-Hispanic Black, 23% Hispanic, 39% non-Hispanic multiple/other race, and 26% non-Hispanic White (P = .012). Participants reporting low/medium trust had a mean discrimination score of 1.65/7 versus 0.57/7 for participants reporting high trust (P < .001). In our adjusted model, higher discrimination scores were associated with lower trust in providers (aOR 0.74, 95%CI = 0.64, 0.85). A significant interaction indicated that prior healthcare-based social screening was associated with reduced impact of discrimination on trust: as discrimination score increased, odds of high trust were greater among participants who had been screened (aOR = 1.28, 95%CI = 1.03, 1.58). Conclusions: Patients and caregivers reporting more healthcare-based discrimination were less likely to report high provider trust. Interventions to strengthen trust need structural antiracist components. Increased rapport with patients may be a potential by-product of social screening. Further research is needed on screening and trust. Full Article
ici Performance Evaluation of the Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT-4) on the Family Medicine In-Training Examination By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Objective: In this study, we sought to comprehensively evaluate GPT-4 (Generative Pre-trained Transformer)’s performance on the 2022 American Board of Family Medicine’s (ABFM) In-Training Examination (ITE), compared with its predecessor, GPT-3.5, and the national family residents’ performance on the same examination. Methods: We utilized both quantitative and qualitative analyses. First, a quantitative analysis was employed to evaluate the model's performance metrics using zero-shot prompt (where only examination questions were provided without any additional information). After this, qualitative analysis was executed to understand the nature of the model's responses, the depth of its medical knowledge, and its ability to comprehend contextual or new information through chain-of-thoughts prompts (interactive conversation) with the model. Results: This study demonstrated that GPT-4 made significant improvement in accuracy compared with GPT-3.5 over a 4-month interval between their respective release dates. The correct percentage with zero-shot prompt increased from 56% to 84%, which translates to a scaled score growth from 280 to 690, a 410-point increase. Most notably, further chain-of-thought investigation revealed GPT-4’s ability to integrate new information and make self-correction when needed. Conclusions: In this study, GPT-4 has demonstrated notably high accuracy, as well as rapid reading and learning capabilities. These results are consistent with previous research indicating GPT-4's significant potential to assist in clinical decision making. Furthermore, the study highlights the essential role of physicians' critical thinking and lifelong learning skills, particularly evident through the analysis of GPT-4's incorrect responses. This emphasizes the indispensable human element in effectively implementing and using AI technologies in medical settings. Full Article
ici Physician Satisfaction Should Be the Measure of Electronic Health Record Quality for the Nation By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Full Article
ici Family Medicine Must Prepare for Artificial Intelligence By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize family medicine, offering a transformative approach to achieving the Quintuple Aim. This article examines the imperative for family medicine to adapt to the rapidly evolving field of AI, with an emphasis on its integration in clinical practice. AI's recent advancements have the potential to significantly transform health care. We argue for the proactive engagement of family medicine in directing AI technologies toward enhancing the "Quintuple Aim." The article highlights potential benefits of AI, such as improved patient outcomes through enhanced diagnostic tools, clinician well-being through reduced administrative burdens, and the promotion of health equity by analyzing diverse data sets. However, we also acknowledge the risks associated with AI, including the potential for automation to diverge from patient-centered care and exacerbate health care disparities. Our recommendations stress the need for family medicine education to incorporate AI literacy, the development of a collaborative for AI integration, and the establishment of guidelines and standards through interdisciplinary cooperation. We conclude that although AI poses challenges, its responsible and ethical implementation can revolutionize family medicine, optimizing patient care and enhancing the role of clinicians in a technology-driven future. Full Article
ici Artificial Intelligence and Family Medicine By www.jabfm.org Published On :: 2024-10-25T09:26:14-07:00 Artificial intelligence (AI) is certainly going to have a large, potentially huge, impact on the practice of family medicine. The specialty is fortunate to have leading experts in the field to guide us along the way. One such team of forward thinkers provides insights into where AI can take the specialty. Another article reports on how well AI performed on the American Board of Family Medicine In-Training Examination. In addition to AI, we have 3 articles that investigate the intersection of social needs and the practice of medicine. Four clinical review articles cover nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, headache treatments, single maintenance and reliever therapy for asthma, and the use of cannabis in the setting of chronic pain. The clinical research articles cover point-of-care hemoglobin A1c testing, continuous glucose monitoring, and screening for HIV. Another group of articles examines the profession of family medicine, covering topics ranging from how women family physicians negotiate their first jobs to the words we use to define primary care. Full Article
ici Reply to Letter to Editor Concerning “Nocturnal Pressure Controlled Ventilation Improves Sleep Efficiency in Patients Receiving Mechanical Ventilation” By rc.rcjournal.com Published On :: 2024-10-25T05:44:13-07:00 Full Article
ici Prevalence of Dental Caries and Utilization of Dental Services among WIC-participating Children: A scoping review By jdh.adha.org Published On :: 2024-10-15T09:18:41-07:00 Purpose Low-income children experience disproportionately high rates of dental caries and challenges in accessing dental care compared to their higher-income peers. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the prevalence of dental caries and dental service utilization among Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) enrolled children.Methods The literature search and review were conducted between September 2023 and February 2024. The review followed the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines and included three databases: PubMed, CINAHL, and Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source. The study focused on children aged one to five participating in WIC within the United States (US) and aimed to determine the prevalence of dental service utilization and dental caries in the targeted population.Results This review includes twelve articles that are quantitative observational studies conducted from February 2001 to February 2023. Most of the studies were conducted in WIC programs in the Southern and Midwest regions of the US. Dental caries rates decreased by 61.8% from 2004 to 2016, with the highest prevalence in 2004, and the lowest prevalence in 2016. Dental service utilization among WIC children increased by 56.9% from 1992 to 2020.Conclusion There has been an increase in dental service utilization among WIC-enrolled children, with an overall decrease in dental caries over the last two decades. However, the prevalence of dental caries remains disproportionately high for children enrolled in WIC when compared to non-participants. To develop effective dental interventions for children enrolled in WIC, it is fundamental to identify the unique determinants of dental caries in this population. Full Article
ici A Review of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Product Life Cycle Management By journal.pda.org Published On :: 2024-10-22T08:20:35-07:00 The pursuit of harnessing data for knowledge creation has been an enduring quest, with the advent of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) marking significant milestones in this journey. ML, a subset of AI, emerged as the practice of employing mathematical models to enable computers to learn and improve autonomously based on their experiences. In the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors, a significant portion of manufacturing data remains untapped or insufficient for practical use. Recognizing the potential advantages of leveraging the available data for process design and optimization, manufacturers face the daunting challenge of data utilization. Diverse proprietary data formats and parallel data generation systems compound the complexity. The transition to Pharma 4.0 necessitates a paradigm shift in data capture, storage, and accessibility for manufacturing and process operations. This paper highlights the pivotal role of AI in converting process data into actionable knowledge to support critical functions throughout the whole product life cycle. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of maintaining compliance with data integrity guidelines, as mandated by regulatory bodies globally. Embracing AI-driven transformations is a crucial step toward shaping the future of the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring its competitiveness and resilience in an evolving landscape. Full Article
ici YY1 knockout in pro-B cells impairs lineage commitment, enabling unusual hematopoietic lineage plasticity [Research Papers] By genesdev.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T07:18:56-07:00 During B-cell development, cells progress through multiple developmental stages, with the pro-B-cell stage defining commitment to the B-cell lineage. YY1 is a ubiquitous transcription factor that is capable of both activation and repression functions. We found here that knockout of YY1 at the pro-B-cell stage eliminates B lineage commitment. YY1 knockout pro-B cells can generate T lineage cells in vitro using the OP9-DL4 feeder system and in vivo after injection into sublethally irradiated Rag1–/– mice. These T lineage-like cells lose their B lineage transcript profile and gain a T-cell lineage profile. Single-cell RNA-seq experiments showed that as YY1 knockout pro-B cells transition into T lineage cells in vitro, various cell clusters adopt transcript profiles representing a multiplicity of hematopoietic lineages, indicating unusual lineage plasticity. In addition, YY1 KO pro-B cells in vivo can give rise to other hematopoietic lineages in vivo. Evaluation of RNA-seq, scRNA-seq, ChIP-seq, and scATAC-seq data indicates that YY1 controls numerous chromatin-modifying proteins leading to increased accessibility of alternative lineage genes in YY1 knockout pro-B cells. Given the ubiquitous nature of YY1 and its dual activation and repression functions, YY1 may regulate commitment in multiple cell lineages. Full Article
ici A cellular identity crisis? Plasticity changes during aging and rejuvenation [Reviews] By genesdev.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T07:18:56-07:00 Cellular plasticity in adult multicellular organisms is a protective mechanism that allows certain tissues to regenerate in response to injury. Considering that aging involves exposure to repeated injuries over a lifetime, it is conceivable that cell identity itself is more malleable—and potentially erroneous—with age. In this review, we summarize and critically discuss the available evidence that cells undergo age-related shifts in identity, with an emphasis on those that contribute to age-associated pathologies, including neurodegeneration and cancer. Specifically, we focus on reported instances of programs associated with dedifferentiation, biased differentiation, acquisition of features from alternative lineages, and entry into a preneoplastic state. As some of the most promising approaches to rejuvenate cells reportedly also elicit transient changes to cell identity, we further discuss whether cell state change and rejuvenation can be uncoupled to yield more tractable therapeutic strategies. Full Article
ici Consolidating roles of neuroimmune reflexes: specificity of afferent, central, and efferent signals in homeostatic immune networks [Special Section: Symposium Outlook] By genesdev.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T07:18:56-07:00 Neural reflexes occupy a central role in physiological homeostasis. The vagus nerve is a major conduit for transmitting afferent and efferent signals in homeostatic reflex arcs between the body and the brain. Recent advances in neuroscience, immunology, and physiology have revealed important vagus nerve mechanisms in suppressing inflammation and treating rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. Numerous clinical trials indicate that there is significant benefit to vagus nerve stimulation therapy. Although many questions are still unanswered, it will be important, even necessary, to pursue answers that will be useful in guiding interventions to modulate immunological and physiological homeostasis. Full Article
ici High-resolution reconstruction of a C. elegans ribosome sheds light on evolutionary dynamics and tissue specificity [ARTICLE] By rnajournal.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T07:18:13-07:00 Caenorhabditis elegans is an important model organism for human health and disease, with foundational contributions to the understanding of gene expression and tissue patterning in animals. An invaluable tool in modern gene expression research is the presence of a high-resolution ribosome structure, though no such structure exists for C. elegans. Here, we present a high-resolution single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) reconstruction and molecular model of a C. elegans ribosome, revealing a significantly streamlined animal ribosome. Many facets of ribosome structure are conserved in C. elegans, including overall ribosomal architecture and the mechanism of cycloheximide, whereas other facets, such as expansion segments and eL28, are rapidly evolving. We identify uL5 and uL23 as two instances of tissue-specific ribosomal protein paralog expression conserved in Caenorhabditis, suggesting that C. elegans ribosomes vary across tissues. The C. elegans ribosome structure will provide a basis for future structural, biochemical, and genetic studies of translation in this important animal system. Full Article
ici The antivirulent Staphylococcal sRNA SprC regulates CzrB efflux pump to adapt its response to zinc toxicity [ARTICLE] By rnajournal.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T07:18:13-07:00 Bacterial regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) are important players to control gene expression. In Staphylococcus aureus, SprC is an antivirulent trans-acting sRNA known to base-pair with the major autolysin atl mRNA, preventing its translation. Using MS2-affinity purification coupled with RNA sequencing, we looked for its sRNA-RNA interactome and identified 14 novel mRNA targets. In vitro biochemical investigations revealed that SprC binds two of them, czrB and deoD, and uses a single accessible region to regulate its targets, including Atl translation. Unlike Atl regulation, the characterization of the SprC-czrB interaction pinpointed a destabilization of the czrAB cotranscript, leading to a decrease of the mRNA level that impaired CzrB zinc efflux pump expression. On a physiological standpoint, we showed that SprC expression is detrimental to combat against zinc toxicity. In addition, phagocyctosis assays revealed a significant, but moderate, increase of czrB mRNA levels in a sprC-deleted mutant, indicating a functional link between SprC and czrB upon internalization in macrophages, and suggesting a role in resistance to both oxidative and zinc bursts. Altogether, our data uncover a novel pathway in which SprC is implicated, highlighting the multiple strategies used by S. aureus to balance virulence using an RNA regulator. Full Article
ici Ensuring availability of respiratory medicines in times of European drug shortages By erj.ersjournals.com Published On :: 2024-11-07T00:35:56-08:00 Extract It is of utmost importance that medicines are available at all times for our patients. Historically, medication unavailability has typically, if not exclusively, affected low- and middle-income countries [1]. More recently however, drug shortages have also been reported in high-income European countries [2]. Drug shortages have negative health consequences for patients [3], and a profound economic impact, with the need to resort to more expensive alternatives and demands on healthcare professionals’ time to find, prescribe and dispense alternatives [4]. Full Article
ici Quantitative Proteomics for Translational Pharmacology and Precision Medicine: State of The Art and Future Outlook [Minireview] By dmd.aspetjournals.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T09:02:03-07:00 Over the past 20 years, quantitative proteomics has contributed a wealth of protein expression data, which are currently used for a variety of systems pharmacology applications, as a complement or a surrogate for activity of the corresponding proteins. A symposium at the 25th North American International Society for the Study of Xenobiotics meeting, in Boston, in September 2023, was held to explore current and emerging applications of quantitative proteomics in translational pharmacology and strategies for improved integration into model-informed drug development based on practical experience of each of the presenters. A summary of the talks and discussions is presented in this perspective alongside future outlook that was outlined for future meetings. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT This perspective explores current and emerging applications of quantitative proteomics in translational pharmacology and precision medicine and outlines the outlook for improved integration into model-informed drug development. Full Article
ici Roles of the ABCG2 Transporter in Protoporphyrin IX Distribution and Toxicity [Special Section on New and Emerging Areas and Technologies in Drug Metabolism and Disposition, Part II-Minireview] By dmd.aspetjournals.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T09:02:03-07:00 ATP-binding cassette transporter subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) is a membrane-bound transporter responsible for the efflux of various xenobiotics and endobiotics, including protoporphyrin IX (PPIX), an intermediate in the heme biosynthesis pathway. Certain genetic mutations and chemicals impair the conversion of PPIX to heme and/or increase PPIX production, leading to PPIX accumulation and toxicity. In mice, deficiency of ABCG2 protects against PPIX-mediated phototoxicity and hepatotoxicity by modulating PPIX distribution. In addition, in vitro studies revealed that ABCG2 inhibition increases the efficacy of PPIX-based photodynamic therapy by retaining PPIX inside target cells. In this review, we discuss the roles of ABCG2 in modulating the tissue distribution of PPIX, PPIX-mediated toxicity, and PPIX-based photodynamic therapy. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT This review summarized the roles of ABCG2 in modulating PPIX distribution and highlighted the therapeutic potential of ABCG2 inhibitors for the management of PPIX-mediated toxicity. Full Article
ici Pharmacometabolomics in Drug Disposition, Toxicity, and Precision Medicine [Special Section on New and Emerging Areas and Technologies in Drug Metabolism and Disposition, Part II-Minireview] By dmd.aspetjournals.org Published On :: 2024-10-16T09:02:03-07:00 The precision medicine initiative has driven a substantial change in the way scientists and health care practitioners think about diagnosing and treating disease. While it has long been recognized that drug response is determined by the intersection of genetic, environmental, and disease factors, improvements in technology have afforded precision medicine guided dosing of drugs to improve efficacy and reduce toxicity. Pharmacometabolomics aims to evaluate small molecule metabolites in plasma and/or urine to help evaluate mechanisms that predict and/or reflect drug efficacy and toxicity. In this mini review, we provide an overview of pharmacometabolomic approaches and methodologies. Relevant examples where metabolomic techniques have been used to better understand drug efficacy and toxicity in major depressive disorder and cancer chemotherapy are discussed. In addition, the utility of metabolomics in drug development and understanding drug metabolism, transport, and pharmacokinetics is reviewed. Pharmacometabolomic approaches can help describe factors mediating drug disposition, efficacy, and toxicity. While important advancements in this area have been made, there remain several challenges that must be overcome before this approach can be fully implemented into clinical drug therapy. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Pharmacometabolomics has emerged as an approach to identify metabolites that allow for implementation of precision medicine approaches to pharmacotherapy. This review article provides an overview of pharmacometabolomics including highlights of important examples. Full Article
ici Innovations in Providing HIV Index Testing Services: A Retrospective Evaluation of Partner Elicitation Models in Southern Nigeria By ghspjournal.org Published On :: 2024-10-29T12:28:39-07:00 ABSTRACTBackground: This analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of eliciting sexual partners from HIV-positive clients using the elicitation box model (where an HIV-positive index can report sexual contacts on paper and insert in a box for a health care provider to contact at a later time) compared to the conventional model (in which a health care provider elicits sexual contacts directly from clients) in Akwa Ibom, Southern Nigeria.Methods: Between March 2021 and April 2022, data were collected from index testing registers at 4 health facilities with a high volume of HIV clients currently on treatment in 4 local government areas in Akwa Ibom State. Primary outcome analyzed was the elicitation ratio (number of partners elicited per HIV-index offered index testing services). Secondary outcomes were the index testing acceptance (index HIV-positive clients accepted index testing service), testing coverage (partners tested for HIV from a list of partners elicited from HIV-index accepted index testing services), testing yield (index partners identified HIV positive from index partners HIV-tested), and linkage rate (index partners identified HIV positive and linked to antiretroviral therapy).Results: Of the total 2,705 index clients offered index testing services, 91.9% accepted, with 2,043 and 439 indexes opting for conventional elicitation and elicitation box models, respectively. A total of 3,796 sexual contacts were elicited: 2,546 using the conventional model (elicitation ratio=1:1) and 1,250 using the elicitation box model (elicitation ratio=1:3). Testing coverage was significantly higher in the conventional compared to the elicitation box model (P<.001). However, there was no significant difference in the testing yield (P=.81) and linkage rate using the conventional compared to elicitation box models (P=.13).Conclusion: The implementation of the elicitation box model resulted in an increase in partner elicitation compared to the conventional model. Increasing the testing coverage by implementing the elicitation box model should be considered. Full Article
ici Nonclinical Profile of PF-06952229 (MDV6058), a Novel TGF{beta}RI/Activin Like Kinase 5 Inhibitor Supports Clinical Evaluation in Cancer [Drug Discovery and Translational Medicine] By jpet.aspetjournals.org Published On :: 2024-10-18T07:04:15-07:00 The development of transforming growth factor βreceptor inhibitors (TGFβRi) as new medicines has been affected by cardiac valvulopathy and arteriopathy toxicity findings in nonclinical toxicology studies. PF-06952229 (MDV6058) selected using rational drug design is a potent and selective TGFβRI inhibitor with a relatively clean off-target selectivity profile and good pharmacokinetic properties across species. PF-06952229 inhibited clinically translatable phospho-SMAD2 biomarker (≥60%) in human and cynomolgus monkey peripheral blood mononuclear cells, as well as in mouse and rat splenocytes. Using an optimized, intermittent dosing schedule (7-day on/7-day off/cycle; 5 cycles), PF-06952229 demonstrated efficacy in a 63-day syngeneic MC38 colon carcinoma mouse model. In the pivotal repeat-dose toxicity studies (rat and cynomolgus monkey), PF-06952229 on an intermittent dosing schedule (5-day on/5-day off cycle; 5 cycles, 28 doses) showed no cardiac-related adverse findings. However, new toxicity findings related to PF-06952229 included reversible hepatocellular (hepatocyte necrosis with corresponding clinically monitorable transaminase increases) and lung (hemorrhage with mixed cell inflammation) findings at ≥ targeted projected clinical efficacious exposures. Furthermore, partially reversible cartilage hypertrophy (trachea and femur in rat; femur in monkey) and partially to fully reversible, clinically monitorable decreases in serum phosphorus and urinary phosphate at ≥ projected clinically efficacious exposures were observed. Given the integral role of TGFβ in endochondral bone formation, cartilage findings in toxicity studies have been observed with other TGFβRi classes of compounds. The favorable cumulative profile of PF-06952229 in biochemical, pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and nonclinical studies allowed for its evaluation in cancer patients using the intermittent dosing schedule (7-day on/7-day off) and careful protocol-defined monitoring. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Only a few TGFβRi have progressed for clinical evaluation due to adverse cardiac findings in pivotal nonclinical toxicity studies. The potential translations of such findings in patients are of major concern. Using a carefully optimized intermittent dosing schedule, PF-06952229 has demonstrated impressive pharmacological efficacy in the syngeneic MC38 colon carcinoma mouse model. Additionally, a nonclinical toxicology package without cardiovascular liabilities and generally monitorable toxicity profile has been completed. The compound presents an acceptable International Conference on Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use S9-compliant profile for the intended-to-treat cancer patients. Full Article
ici Validation of an Artificial Intelligence-Based Prediction Model Using 5 External PET/CT Datasets of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma By jnm.snmjournals.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T04:25:31-07:00 The aim of this study was to validate a previously developed deep learning model in 5 independent clinical trials. The predictive performance of this model was compared with the international prognostic index (IPI) and 2 models incorporating radiomic PET/CT features (clinical PET and PET models). Methods: In total, 1,132 diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients were included: 296 for training and 836 for external validation. The primary outcome was 2-y time to progression. The deep learning model was trained on maximum-intensity projections from PET/CT scans. The clinical PET model included metabolic tumor volume, maximum distance from the bulkiest lesion to another lesion, SUVpeak, age, and performance status. The PET model included metabolic tumor volume, maximum distance from the bulkiest lesion to another lesion, and SUVpeak. Model performance was assessed using the area under the curve (AUC) and Kaplan–Meier curves. Results: The IPI yielded an AUC of 0.60 on all external data. The deep learning model yielded a significantly higher AUC of 0.66 (P < 0.01). For each individual clinical trial, the model was consistently better than IPI. Radiomic model AUCs remained higher for all clinical trials. The deep learning and clinical PET models showed equivalent performance (AUC, 0.69; P > 0.05). The PET model yielded the highest AUC of all models (AUC, 0.71; P < 0.05). Conclusion: The deep learning model predicted outcome in all trials with a higher performance than IPI and better survival curve separation. This model can predict treatment outcome in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma without tumor delineation but at the cost of a lower prognostic performance than with radiomics. Full Article
ici Summary: Appropriate Use Criteria for the Use of Nuclear Medicine in Fever of Unknown Origin By jnm.snmjournals.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T04:25:31-07:00 The diagnostic work-up of patients with fever of unknown origin (FUO) begins with a thorough history and physical examination, complete blood count with differential, chest x-ray, urinalysis and culture, electrolyte panel, liver enzymes, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein level. Additional imaging procedures, including nuclear medicine tests, are generally used as second-line procedures, with 18F-FDG PET and PET/CT assuming increasingly important roles in the diagnostic work-up. The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the American College of Nuclear Medicine convened an autonomous expert work group to comprehensively review the published literature for nuclear imaging in adults and children with FUO and establish appropriate use criteria (AUC). This process was performed in accordance with the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014, which requires that all referring physicians consult AUC by using a clinical decision support mechanism before ordering advanced diagnostic imaging services. The complete findings and discussions of the work group were published on January 8, 2023, and are available at https://www.snmmi.org/ClinicalPractice/content.aspx?ItemNumber=15666. The AUC in the final document are intended to assist referring health care providers in appropriate use of nuclear medicine imaging procedures in patients with FUO. The work group noted limitations in the current literature on nuclear medicine imaging for FUO, with the need for well-designed prospective multicenter investigations. Consensus findings from published data and expert opinions were used to create recommendations in common clinical scenarios for adults and children. Included in the complete document is a discussion of inflammation of unknown origin (IUO), a recently described entity. In view of the fact that the criteria for FUO and IUO are similar (except for fever > 38.3°C [100.9°F]) and that the most common etiologies of these 2 entities are similar, it is the expert opinion of the work group that the recommendations for nuclear medicine imaging of FUO are also applicable to IUO. These recommendations are included in the full guidance document. This summary reviews rationale, methodology, and main findings and refers the reader to the complete AUC document. Full Article
ici Efficacy and Toxicity of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Results from the U.S. Expanded-Access Program and Comparisons with Phase 3 VISION Data By jnm.snmjournals.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T04:25:31-07:00 The phase 3 VISION trial demonstrated that [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 prolonged progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) in prostate-specific membrane antigen [PSMA]–positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients who progressed on taxane-based chemotherapy and androgen receptor–signaling inhibitors (ARSIs). The U.S. expanded-access program (EAP; NCT04825652) was opened to provide access to [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 for eligible patients until regulatory approval was obtained. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 within the EAP and compare the results with those from the VISION trial. Methods: Patients enrolled in the EAP at 4 institutions in the United States with available toxicity and outcome data were included. Outcome measures included OS, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response rate (RR) of at least 50%, and incidences of toxicity according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Differences in baseline characteristics, outcome data, and toxicity between the EAP and VISION were evaluated using t testing of proportions and survival analyses. Results: In total, 117 patients with mCRPC who received [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 within the EAP between May 2021 and March 2022 were eligible and included in this analysis. Patients enrolled in the EAP were more heavily pretreated with ARSI (≥2 ARSI regimens: 70% vs. 46%; P < 0.001) and had worse performance status at baseline (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score ≥ 2: 19% vs. 7%; P < 0.001) than VISION patients. EAP and VISION patients had similar levels of grade 3 or higher anemia (18% vs. 13%; P = 0.15), thrombocytopenia (13% vs. 8%; P = 0.13), and neutropenia (3% vs. 3%; P = 0.85) and similar PSA RRs (42% vs. 46%; P = 0.50) and OS (median: 15.1 vs. 15.3 mo; P > 0.05). Conclusion: Patients with PSMA-positive mCRPC who received [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 within the EAP were later in their disease trajectory than VISION patients. Patients enrolled in the EAP achieved similar PSA RRs and OS and had a safety profile similar to that of the VISION trial patients. Full Article
ici Deep Learning-Based Reconstruction of 3D T1 SPACE Vessel Wall Imaging Provides Improved Image Quality with Reduced Scan Times: A Preliminary Study [ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE] By www.ajnr.org Published On :: 2024-11-07T15:14:12-08:00 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Intracranial vessel wall imaging is technically challenging to implement, given the simultaneous requirements of high spatial resolution, excellent blood and CSF signal suppression, and clinically acceptable gradient times. Herein, we present our preliminary findings on the evaluation of a deep learning–optimized sequence using T1-weighted imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical and optimized deep learning–based image reconstruction T1 3D Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrast using different flip angle Evolution (SPACE) were evaluated, comparing noncontrast sequences in 10 healthy controls and postcontrast sequences in 5 consecutive patients. Images were reviewed on a Likert-like scale by 4 fellowship-trained neuroradiologists. Scores (range, 1–4) were separately assigned for 11 vessel segments in terms of vessel wall and lumen delineation. Additionally, images were evaluated in terms of overall background noise, image sharpness, and homogeneous CSF signal. Segment-wise scores were compared using paired samples t tests. RESULTS: The scan time for the clinical and deep learning–based image reconstruction sequences were 7:26 minutes and 5:23 minutes respectively. Deep learning–based image reconstruction images showed consistently higher wall signal and lumen visualization scores, with the differences being statistically significant in most vessel segments on both pre- and postcontrast images. Deep learning–based image reconstruction had lower background noise, higher image sharpness, and uniform CSF signal. Depiction of intracranial pathologies was better or similar on the deep learning–based image reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Our preliminary findings suggest that deep learning–based image reconstruction–optimized intracranial vessel wall imaging sequences may be helpful in achieving shorter gradient times with improved vessel wall visualization and overall image quality. These improvements may help with wider adoption of intracranial vessel wall imaging in clinical practice and should be further validated on a larger cohort. Full Article
ici Artificial Intelligence Efficacy as a Function of Trainee Interpreter Proficiency: Lessons from a Randomized Controlled Trial [RESEARCH] By www.ajnr.org Published On :: 2024-11-07T15:14:12-08:00 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Recently, artificial intelligence tools have been deployed with increasing speed in educational and clinical settings. However, the use of artificial intelligence by trainees across different levels of experience has not been well-studied. This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence assistance on the diagnostic accuracy for intracranial hemorrhage and large-vessel occlusion by medical students and resident trainees. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study was conducted between March 2023 and October 2023. Medical students and resident trainees were asked to identify intracranial hemorrhage and large-vessel occlusion in 100 noncontrast head CTs and 100 head CTAs, respectively. One group received diagnostic aid simulating artificial intelligence for intracranial hemorrhage only (n = 26); the other, for large-vessel occlusion only (n = 28). Primary outcomes included accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for intracranial hemorrhage/large-vessel occlusion detection without and with aid. Study interpretation time was a secondary outcome. Individual responses were pooled and analyzed with the t test; differences in continuous variables were assessed with ANOVA. RESULTS: Forty-eight participants completed the study, generating 10,779 intracranial hemorrhage or large-vessel occlusion interpretations. With diagnostic aid, medical student accuracy improved 11.0 points (P < .001) and resident trainee accuracy showed no significant change. Intracranial hemorrhage interpretation time increased with diagnostic aid for both groups (P < .001), while large-vessel occlusion interpretation time decreased for medical students (P < .001). Despite worse performance in the detection of the smallest-versus-largest hemorrhages at baseline, medical students were not more likely to accept a true-positive artificial intelligence result for these more difficult tasks. Both groups were considerably less accurate when disagreeing with the artificial intelligence or when supplied with an incorrect artificial intelligence result. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated greater improvement in diagnostic accuracy with artificial intelligence for medical students compared with resident trainees. However, medical students were less likely than resident trainees to overrule incorrect artificial intelligence interpretations and were less accurate, even with diagnostic aid, than the artificial intelligence was by itself. Full Article
ici The diagnostic odyssey of a patient with dihydropyrimidinase deficiency: a case report and review of the literature [RESEARCH REPORT] By molecularcasestudies.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-01-10T08:13:38-08:00 Dihydropyrimidinase (DHP) deficiency is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder caused by biallelic pathogenic variants of DPYS. Patients with DHP deficiency exhibit a broad spectrum of phenotypes, ranging from severe neurological and gastrointestinal involvement to cases with no apparent symptoms. The biochemical diagnosis of DHP deficiency is based on the detection of a significant amount of dihydropyrimidines in urine, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid samples. Molecular genetic testing, specifically the identification of biallelic pathogenic variants in DPYS, has proven instrumental in confirming the diagnosis and facilitating family studies. This case study documents the diagnostic journey of an 18-yr-old patient with DHP deficiency, highlighting features at the severe end of the clinical spectrum. Notably, our patient exhibited previously unreported skeletal features that positively responded to bisphosphonate treatment, contributing valuable insights to the clinical characterization of DHP deficiency. Additionally, a novel DPYS variant was identified and confirmed pathogenicity through metabolic testing, further expanding the variant spectrum of the gene. Our case emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach using genetic sequencing and metabolic testing for accurate diagnosis. Full Article
ici Health supervision for children and adolescents with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome [PRECISION MEDICINE IN PRACTICE] By molecularcasestudies.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-01-10T08:13:38-08:00 Rare genetic conditions are challenging for the primary care provider to manage without proper guidelines. This clinical review is designed to assist the pediatrician, family physician, or internist in the primary care setting to manage the complexities of 16p11.2 deletion syndrome. A multidisciplinary medical home with the primary care provider leading the care and armed with up-to-date guidelines will prove most helpful to the rare genetic patient population. A special focus on technology to fill gaps in deficits, review of case studies on novel medical treatments, and involvement with the educational system for advocacy with an emphasis on celebrating diversity will serve the rare genetic syndrome population well. Full Article
ici Pazopanib elicits remarkable response in metastatic porocarcinoma: a functional precision medicine approach [RESEARCH REPORT] By molecularcasestudies.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-01-10T08:13:38-08:00 Metastatic porocarcinomas (PCs) are vanishingly rare, highly aggressive skin adnexal tumors with mortality rates exceeding 70%. Their rarity has precluded the understanding of their disease pathogenesis, let alone the conduct of clinical trials to evaluate treatment strategies. There are no effective agents for unresectable PCs. Here, we successfully demonstrate how functional precision medicine was implemented in the clinic for a metastatic PC with no known systemic treatment options. Comprehensive genomic profiling of the tumor specimen did not yield any actionable genomic aberrations. However, ex vivo drug testing predicted pazopanib efficacy, and indeed, administration of pazopanib elicited remarkable clinicoradiological response. Pazopanib and its class of drugs should be evaluated for efficacy in other cases of PC, and the rationale for efficacy should be determined when PC tumor models become available. A functional precision medicine approach could be useful to derive effective treatment options for rare cancers. Full Article