Publications by authors named "J M Frakes"

Rectal cancer recurrence after prior radiotherapy presents a difficult treatment challenge. Salvage treatment can be curative, however, it often requires multimodal therapy which can come with significant treatment related morbidity. Reirradiation is a common part of treatment considerations in this setting and presents challenges in balancing appropriately aggressive therapy to improve disease control and cure rates with the addition of excess toxicity.

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Background/objectives: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers. Surgical resection is the most reliable chance for cure, but high rates of positive margins and local failure persist. Neoadjuvant therapies (NAT), including chemotherapy and radiation therapy (RT), are being explored to improve surgical outcomes, particularly in borderline resectable (BRPC) and locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC).

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Unlabelled: This study presents the first in vivo and in vitro evidence of an externally controlled, predictive, MRI-based nanotheranostic agent capable of cancer cell specific targeting and killing via irreversible electroporation (IRE) in solid tumors. The rectangular-prism-shaped magnetoelectric nanoparticle is a smart nanoparticle that produces a local electric field in response to an externally applied magnetic field. When externally activated, MENPs are preferentially attracted to the highly conductive cancer cell membranes, which occurs in cancer cells because of dysregulated ion flux across their membranes.

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Determining treatment options for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after the PROSPECT trial data readout adds an important level to the decision-making process.

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Leading successful change efforts first requires assessment of the "before change" environment and culture. At our institution, the radiation oncology (RO) residents follow a longitudinal didactic learning program consisting of weekly 1-h lectures, case conferences, and journal clubs. The resident didactic education series format has not changed since its inception over 10 years ago.

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