Identification of neoepitope reactive T-cell receptors guided by HLA-A*03:01 and HLA-A*11:01 immunopeptidomics.

Background: Tumor-specific mutated proteins can create immunogenic non-self, mutation-containing 'neoepitopes' that are attractive targets for adoptive T-cell therapies. To avoid the complexity of defining patient-specific, private neoepitopes, there has been major interest in targeting common shared mutations in driver genes using off-the-shelf T-cell receptors (TCRs) engineered into autologous lymphocytes. However, identifying the precise naturally processed neoepitopes to pursue is a complex and challenging process.

Preoperative BRAF(V600E) mutation screening is unlikely to alter initial surgical treatment of patients with indeterminate thyroid nodules: a prospective case series of 960 patients.

Background: Preoperative B-type Raf kinase Val600Glu mutation, or BRAF(V600E), analysis has been proposed as a tool to guide initial surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules. This study sought to determine if cytologic markers of malignancy are associated with the BRAF(V600E) mutation and if preoperative BRAF(V600E) testing would alter the initial management of patients with indeterminate nodules.

Methods: Patients who underwent surgery for a thyroid nodule between 2003 and 2012 at a tertiary care center were prospectively enrolled.

Early referral for 24-h esophageal pH monitoring may prevent unnecessary treatment with acid-reducing medications.

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects nearly 25 % of adults; however, an objective diagnosis is rarely established. We hypothesized that patients' symptoms and response to acid-reducing therapy are poor predictors of the outcome of 24-h esophageal pH monitoring.

Methods: A review of 24-h esophageal pH monitoring studies performed at an ambulatory tertiary care center between 2004 and 2011 was performed.