Categories
Environment Local News

D&R Greenway Land Trust reports completion of first phase carbon-sequestration process to slow climate change at St. Michaels Farm Preserve in Hopewell

D&R Greenway Land Trust and leaders from Soil Carbon Partners [SCP] announce successful completion of the first phase of their Carbon-Sequestration Process at the land trust’s St. Michaels Farm Preserve. Growth of lush forage grasses exceeds expectations, in fields fertilized with a special mix of organic materials and minerals. Despite significant spring rains, followed by a hot, dry spell mandating irrigation, just two weeks after planting, production was twice that of grasses grown in control areas, and has been increasing since the first test results. Three independent researchers, including from Princeton University and the University of Vermont, are evaluating results in the amended fields compared with control areas not treated with SCP’s natural, organic soil amendments.

Truck Spreads Soil Amendments at St Michaels Farm Preserve
– Courtesy photo 

 

In May, SCP’s special mix of soil fertilizer, an organic blend of minerals and microbes—was spread on fifty acres of fields on D&R Greenway’s St. Michaels Farm Preserve. The first phase of the project, that included deliveries and mixing of materials, and spreading organic elements on the fields, is now complete. The goal is to increase productivity exponentially to expand the ability of the plants to sequester and store carbon from the atmosphere. If successful, the science will demonstrate how agriculture can be managed to diminish catastrophic climate change.

 

SCP will bring a small herd of cattle to selected fields this summer. This experiment replicates grasses and processes of the healthy ecosystem that nourished long-ago bison on Western prairies. Cattle nourished on SCP’s fertilized forage grasses, fed by nutrient and mineral-rich soil, are expected to produce significantly less methane than is typical today. The impact of St. Michaels Farm cattle upon

Purple martin studies Soil Carbon Partners Soil Amendation Test Field at St Michaels Farm Preserve
— Courtesy photo

the climate will be tested. Daniel Rubinstein, Ph.D., of Princeton University’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology will focus his research on the impact of this system on the animals. His expertise is founded on an individual animal’s foraging, mating and social behavior. At St. Michaels Farm, Dr. Rubenstein will measure methane emissions, which are expected to be reduced as the cattle consume nutrient-dense forage growth from SCP-enriched pastures.

 

The trails at St. Michaels Farm Preserve remain open as always, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the lush, green views. D&R Greenway and SCP asks that, later this summer when the cattle arrive, walkers maintain a “Cattle-Distance” of at least 6 feet from any fenced fields where cattle are grazing.

 

The amenities at D&R Greenway’s signature preserve were recently enhanced with a new, rustic three-sided bench structure, Jackson’s Place, on top of the hill near the Charles Evans Overlook. Visitors can enjoy a wide view of pollinator fields and Hopewell Borough from this vantage point, accessed from Aunt Molly Road or by walking across the stream on the trails from the main parking area. The total preserve is 415 acres, with this scientific study taking place on a total of 60 acres.

 

Learn more at drgreenway.org where you will find answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Lush forage grasses via Soil Carbon Partners organic amendation St Michaels Farm Preserve
— Courtesy photo

 

BACKGROUND:

D&R Greenway Land Trust, an accredited nonprofit, has saved over 22,000 acres of New Jersey land since its 1989 founding. Preserving land for life and creating public trails grants everyone the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. The land trust’s preserved farms and community gardens provide local organic food for neighbors—including those in need. D&R Greenway’s strategic land conservation and stewardship combat climate change, protect wildlife, and ensure clean drinking water for future generations. D&R Greenway’s mission is connecting land with people from all walks of life. D&R Greenway’s Johnson Education Center, home to its art galleries in Princeton, is closed to the public to ensure health and safety due to COVID.

 

Our outdoor trails and labyrinth are open. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages and www.drgreenway.org to learn about the organization’s latest news and virtual programs. D&R Greenway Land Trust, One Preservation Place, Princeton NJ, 08540. The best way to reach D&R Greenway Staff during the COVID pandemic is by e-mail, or by calling D&R Greenway at 609-578-7470.

Categories
Education Local News

Why a leading NJ arts school professor has been selected as an author for historic global art textbook

EWING, N.J. – Professor of Art History in the School of the Arts and Communication at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) Dr. Deborah Hutton has been selected to co-lead author the first global art history survey textbook of the 21st century.

Deborah Hutton, 2017
Art History Professor

 

“The History of Art: A Global View,” published by London’s Thames & Hudson, comprises 75 cohesive chapters and addresses the need to improve inclusivity in art history education.

 

“Along with editing chapters, I helped to recommend vocabulary choices throughout the entire volume. The writing and editing processes have been very collaborative. The team held digital chats to brainstorm the challenges of contextualizing global art history,” says Dr. Hutton. The TCNJ professor wrote the book’s sections on South Asian and Islamic art. She specializes in art created for South Asian Muslim courts between the 16th and early 20th centuries. Discussing the role of scholars in the field, she remarks, “My goal is to help move art history forward.”

 

The international art history reference is organized chronologically to emphasize cultural connections over time. Thematic sections include: “The Earliest Art,” “Early Cities and Empires,” “The Spread of Religions,” “Looking Inward, Exploring Outward,” “Imperialism, Revolution, and Innovation,” and “Art in a Connected World”. The comprehensive textbook will be integrated with adaptive assessment tool InQuizitive, featuring zoomable images, architectural panoramas, tutorials, animations and videos showcasing historical eras and themes, media and processes, and visual analysis exercises.

 

Thames & Hudson’s historic publication features leading experts from higher education institutions including Emerson College, University of Massachusetts Boston, University of Chicago and Calvin University. Dr. Jean Robertson of Indiana University contributed as the other co-lead author for the book.

 

TCNJ’s School of the Arts and Communication Dean Maurice Hall explains, “Dr. Hutton’s work on this historic global art history book is exemplary of the talented faculty students encounter while attending our school. We are proud that her innovative approach has received the recognition it deserves.” The Department of Art and Art History at TCNJ is the number two best school to study fine and studio arts in New Jersey.

 

Founded in 1949, Thames & Hudson is one of the world’s leading publishers of illustrated books with over 2,000 titles in print. Thames & Hudson publishes high-quality books across ‎all areas of visual creativity: the arts (fine, applied, decorative, performing), architecture, design, photography, fashion, film and music, and also archaeology, history and popular culture.

 

The School of the Arts and Communication is TCNJ’s interdisciplinary arts, performance, music, multimedia and communication studies branch. Proud to provide students with a top-tier liberal arts education, the school is an inclusive community of dedicated teaching professionals focused on preparing young minds to flourish as productive citizens in a complex world. Watch student films and music performances on ArtsComm DIGITAL, a brand-new digital platform by the School of the Arts and Communication.

 

 

Contact Information

Crothers Consulting | info@crothersconsulting.co | (800) 831-3840

 

Categories
Business Local News

Martin Foster joins Cenlar as senior vice president of Servicing Operations

EWING, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Cenlar FSB, the nation’s leading mortgage loan subservicer and federally chartered wholesale bank, announced today that Martin “Marty” Foster, a 35-year veteran in the mortgage banking industry, has joined the company as Senior Vice President of Servicing Operations.

“We are pleased to have Marty on board at Cenlar. With his extensive knowledge and experience in every aspect of the mortgage banking industry, he is a great addition to our talented team,” said Rob Lux, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Cenlar. “Marty will be responsible for automating processes and further building our high-performance team to improve the experience for both our clients and homeowners.”

Prior to joining Cenlar, Marty was Senior Vice President of Servicing and Post Closing at PHH Mortgage where he directed the mortgage servicing and post-closing operation across multiple sites. He has a history of utilizing technology to augment legacy systems and manual processes.

“At Cenlar, I want to enhance the execution in operations to drive more client satisfaction while ensuring regulatory and compliance requirements are met. My goal is to build upon the current operation by leveraging both people and technology to create a seamless subservicing platform that provides value to our clients and their homeowners,” said Marty.

About Cenlar FSB

Cenlar FSB is a federally chartered, employee-owned wholesale bank, servicing loans in 50 states. As the nation’s leading subservicer, Cenlar boasts a loyal and growing client base including banks, credit unions and mortgage bankers. Our nearly 4,000 employees, strategically located throughout the United States, are dedicated to customer satisfaction and teamwork that drives client solutions that are unparalleled in quality, flexibility and innovation. Headquartered in Ewing, NJ, Cenlar is industry rated and audited regularly by independent third parties.

For more information, visit www.cenlar.com.

Find us on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cenlar-fsb/

Contacts

Adrienne R. Kowalski
Corporate Communications Director

arkowalski@cenlar.com

Categories
Local Events Local News

Lidl Food Market welcomes shoppers to its NJ location with grand opening festivities

LAWRENCE TWP., N.J. — The Lawrence Shopping Center, located at 2495 Brunswick Pike, along Route 1 South, is now home to Lidl Food Market that opened to the public last Wednesday.

 

The grand-opening event, which started at about 5:30 a.m., lasted several hours until afternoon during that day.

 

Shoppers went to get deals and win prizes such as those winning a $500 shopping spree, and the first 100 customers getting gift cards.

 

“We have a different experience,” said Tyrell Stinson, a Lidl brand manager.

 

The Lidl Food Markets originated in Germany, with a similar history to the Aldi Food Markets. These stores are international and are expanding in the United States.

 

Recently, Lidl Food Market opened new stores in about three U.S. states including Georgia, Maryland and New Jersey.

 

Categories
Business Local News

Bristol Myers Squibb announces positive topline results from Phase 3 TRANSFORM trial evaluating Breyanzi (lisocabtagene maraleucel) versus chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplant in second-line relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma

Study met primary and key secondary endpoints, demonstrating a highly statistically significant improvement in event-free survival, complete response rate and progression-free survival compared to standard of care

Breyanzi safety results consistent with data from pivotal TRANSCEND NHL 001 trial

Results represent the first time a therapy has demonstrated benefit compared to high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplant in relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma, and support the potential of Breyanzi in earlier lines of therapy in this patient population

 

PRINCETON, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $BMY #BCellBristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) today announced positive topline results from TRANSFORM, a global, randomized, multicenter Phase 3 study evaluating Breyanzi (lisocabtagene maraleucel) as a second-line treatment in adults with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) compared to salvage therapy followed by high-dose chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplant, which is currently considered a gold standard treatment for these patients. Results of a pre-specified interim analysis conducted by an independent review committee showed the study met its primary endpoint of demonstrating a clinically meaningful and highly statistically significant improvement in event-free survival, as well as key secondary endpoints of complete response rate and progression-free survival compared to standard of care. Overall survival data were immature at the time of this interim analysis. Safety results were consistent with the known safety profile of Breyanzi for the treatment of LBCL in the third-line setting, and no new safety concerns were identified in this second-line setting.

“We ambitiously designed the TRANSFORM trial to evaluate Breyanzi’s potential in the second-line setting for patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma against the standard of care regimen of high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant,” said Noah Berkowitz, M.D., Ph.D., senior vice president, Hematology and Cell Therapy Development, Bristol Myers Squibb. “These positive interim results build on our commitment to bring CAR T cell therapies into earlier lines and highlight the potential of Breyanzi to transform the treatment paradigm for this difficult-to-treat disease, possibly supplanting the need for patients to undergo current aggressive treatment regimens.”

The results represent the first time a therapy has shown a benefit over standard of care high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplant in relapsed or refractory LBCL, and the first time a CD19-directed CAR T cell therapy has demonstrated potential as a second-line therapy in this patient population. The company will complete an evaluation of the TRANSFORM data and looks forward to sharing the results at an upcoming medical conference, as well as with health authorities. Bristol Myers Squibb thanks the patients and investigators who are participating in the TRANSFORM clinical trial.

Breyanzi, a CD19-directed CAR T cell therapy, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in February 2021 for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL after two or more lines of systemic therapy, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified (including DLBCL arising from indolent lymphoma), high-grade B-cell lymphoma, primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma grade 3B. Breyanzi is not indicated for the treatment of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma. Please see the Important Safety Information section below, including Boxed WARNINGS for Breyanzi regarding cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity.

About TRANSFORM

TRANSFORM (NCT03575351) is a pivotal, global, randomized, multicenter Phase 3 trial evaluating Breyanzi compared to current standard of care regimens, including high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), in adults with large B-cell lymphoma that is primary refractory or relapsed within 12 months of initial therapy and who are eligible for stem cell transplant. Patients were randomized to receive Breyanzi or standard of care salvage therapy, including rituximab plus dexamethasone, high-dose cytarabine, and cisplatin (R-DHAP), rituximab plus ifosfamide, carboplatin and etoposide (R-ICE), or rituximab plus gemcitabine, dexamethasone and cisplatin (R-GDP) per the investigators’ choice before proceeding to HDCT and HSCT. The primary endpoint of the study is event-free survival, defined as time from randomization to death from any cause, progressive disease, failure to achieve complete response or partial response by nine weeks post-randomization, or start of new antineoplastic therapy due to efficacy concerns, whichever occurs first. Complete response rate is a key secondary endpoint. Other efficacy endpoints include progression-free survival, overall survival, overall response rate and duration of response. All enrolled patients have large B-cell lymphoma and were relapsed or refractory within 12 months from CD20 antibody and anthracycline containing first-line therapy.

About Breyanzi

Breyanzi is a CD-19 directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy with a defined composition and 4-1BB costimulatory domain. Breyanzi is administered as a defined composition to reduce variability of the CD8 and CD4 component dose. The 4-1BB signaling domain enhances the expansion and persistence of the CAR T cells. Breyanzi is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL after two or more lines of systemic therapy, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified (including DLBCL arising from indolent lymphoma), high-grade B-cell lymphoma, primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma grade 3B.

Breyanzi is also approved in Japan for relapsed and refractory LBCL, and Marketing Authorization Applications for Breyanzi are currently under review in the European Union, Switzerland and Canada. Bristol Myers Squibb’s clinical development program for Breyanzi includes clinical studies in earlier lines of treatment for patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL and other types of lymphoma. For more information, visit clinicaltrials.gov.

U.S. FDA-Approved Indication for Breyanzi

BREYANZI is a CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) large B-cell lymphoma after two or more lines of systemic therapy, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified (including DLBCL arising from indolent lymphoma), high-grade B-cell lymphoma, primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma grade 3B.

Limitations of Use: BREYANZI is not indicated for the treatment of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma.

Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving BREYANZI. Do not administer BREYANZI to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab with or without corticosteroids.
  • Neurologic toxicities, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving BREYANZI, including concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution or in the absence of CRS. Monitor for neurologic events after treatment with BREYANZI. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.
  • BREYANZI is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the BREYANZI REMS.

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS)

CRS, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with BREYANZI. CRS occurred in 46% (122/268) of patients receiving BREYANZI, including ≥ Grade 3 (Lee grading system) CRS in 4% (11/268) of patients. One patient had fatal CRS and 2 had ongoing CRS at time of death. The median time to onset was 5 days (range: 1 to 15 days). CRS resolved in 119 of 122 patients (98%) with a median duration of 5 days (range: 1 to 17 days). Median duration of CRS was 5 days (range 1 to 30 days) in all patients, including those who died or had CRS ongoing at time of death.

Among patients with CRS, the most common manifestations of CRS include fever (93%), hypotension (49%), tachycardia (39%), chills (28%), and hypoxia (21%). Serious events that may be associated with CRS include cardiac arrhythmias (including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia), cardiac arrest, cardiac failure, diffuse alveolar damage, renal insufficiency, capillary leak syndrome, hypotension, hypoxia, and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome (HLH/MAS).

Ensure that 2 doses of tocilizumab are available prior to infusion of BREYANZI. Sixty-one of 268 (23%) patients received tocilizumab and/or a corticosteroid for CRS after infusion of BREYANZI. Twenty-seven (10%) patients received tocilizumab only, 25 (9%) received tocilizumab and a corticosteroid, and 9 (3%) received corticosteroids only.

Neurologic Toxicities

Neurologic toxicities that were fatal or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with BREYANZI. CAR T cell-associated neurologic toxicities occurred in 35% (95/268) of patients receiving BREYANZI, including ≥ Grade 3 in 12% (31/268) of patients. Three patients had fatal neurologic toxicity and 7 had ongoing neurologic toxicity at time of death. The median time to onset of the first event was 8 days (range: 1 to 46 days). The onset of all neurologic events occurred within the first 8 weeks following BREYANZI infusion. Neurologic toxicities resolved in 81 of 95 patients (85%) with a median duration of 12 days (range: 1 to 87 days). Three of four patients with ongoing neurologic toxicity at data cutoff had tremor and one subject had encephalopathy. Median duration of neurologic toxicity was 15 days (range: 1 to 785 days) in all patients, including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or at data cutoff.

Seventy-eight (78) of 95 (82%) patients with neurologic toxicity experienced CRS. Neurologic toxicity overlapped with CRS in 57 patients. The onset of neurologic toxicity was after onset of CRS in 30 patients, before CRS onset in 13 patients, same day as CRS onset in 7 patients, and same day as CRS resolution in 7 patients.

Neurologic toxicity resolved in three patients before the onset of CRS. Eighteen patients experienced neurologic toxicity after resolution of CRS.

The most common neurologic toxicities included encephalopathy (24%), tremor (14%), aphasia (9%), delirium (7%), headache (7%), dizziness (6%), and ataxia (6%). Serious events including cerebral edema and seizures occurred with BREYANZI. Fatal and serious cases of leukoencephalopathy, some attributable to fludarabine, have occurred in patients treated with BREYANZI.

CRS and Neurologic Toxicities Monitoring

Monitor patients daily at a certified healthcare facility during the first week following infusion, for signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic toxicities. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic toxicities for at least 4 weeks after infusion; evaluate and treat promptly. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS or neurologic toxicity occur at any time. At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids as indicated.

BREYANZI REMS

Because of the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, BREYANZI is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the BREYANZI REMS. The required components of the BREYANZI REMS are:

  • Healthcare facilities that dispense and administer BREYANZI must be enrolled and comply with the REMS requirements.
  • Certified healthcare facilities must have on-site, immediate access to tocilizumab.
  • Ensure that a minimum of 2 doses of tocilizumab are available for each patient for infusion within 2 hours after BREYANZI infusion, if needed for treatment of CRS.
  • Certified healthcare facilities must ensure that healthcare providers who prescribe, dispense, or administer BREYANZI are trained on the management of CRS and neurologic toxicities.

Further information is available at www.BreyanziREMS.com, or contact Bristol Myers Squibb at 1-888-423-5436.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Allergic reactions may occur with the infusion of BREYANZI. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be due to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).

Serious Infections

Severe infections, including life-threatening or fatal infections, have occurred in patients after BREYANZI infusion. Infections (all grades) occurred in 45% (121/268) of patients. Grade 3 or higher infections occurred in 19% of patients. Grade 3 or higher infections with an unspecified pathogen occurred in 16% of patients, bacterial infections occurred in 5%, and viral and fungal infections occurred in 1.5% and 0.4% of patients, respectively. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after BREYANZI administration and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic antimicrobials according to standard institutional guidelines.

Febrile neutropenia has been observed in 9% (24/268) of patients after BREYANZI infusion and may be concurrent with CRS. In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated.

Avoid administration of BREYANZI in patients with clinically significant active systemic infections.

Viral reactivation: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs directed against B cells. Ten of the 11 patients in the TRANSCEND study with a prior history of HBV were treated with concurrent antiviral suppressive therapy to prevent HBV reactivation during and after treatment with BREYANZI. Perform screening for HBV, HCV, and HIV in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing.

Prolonged Cytopenias

Patients may exhibit cytopenias not resolved for several weeks following lymphodepleting chemotherapy and BREYANZI infusion. Grade 3 or higher cytopenias persisted at Day 29 following BREYANZI infusion in 31% (84/268) of patients, and included thrombocytopenia (26%), neutropenia (14%), and anemia (3%). Monitor complete blood counts prior to and after BREYANZI administration.

Hypogammaglobulinemia

B-cell aplasia and hypogammaglobulinemia can occur in patients receiving treatment with BREYANZI. The adverse event of hypogammaglobulinemia was reported as an adverse reaction in 14% (37/268) of patients; laboratory IgG levels fell below 500 mg/dL after infusion in 21% (56/268) of patients. Hypogammaglobulinemia, either as an adverse reaction or laboratory IgG level below 500 mg/dL after infusion, was reported in 32% (85/268) of patients. Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment with BREYANZI and manage using infection precautions, antibiotic prophylaxis, and immunoglobulin replacement as clinically indicated.

Live vaccines: The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or following BREYANZI treatment has not been studied. Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 6 weeks prior to the start of lymphodepleting chemotherapy, during BREYANZI treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment with BREYANZI.

Secondary Malignancies

Patients treated with BREYANZI may develop secondary malignancies. Monitor lifelong for secondary malignancies. In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs, contact Bristol Myers Squibb at 1-888-805-4555 for reporting and to obtain instructions on collection of patient samples for testing.

Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status or seizures, patients receiving BREYANZI are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or impaired coordination in the 8 weeks following BREYANZI administration. Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, during this initial period.

Adverse Reactions

Serious adverse reactions occurred in 46% of patients. The most common nonlaboratory, serious adverse reactions (> 2%) were CRS, encephalopathy, sepsis, febrile neutropenia, aphasia, pneumonia, fever, hypotension, dizziness, and delirium. Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 4% of patients.

The most common nonlaboratory adverse reactions of any grade (≥ 20%) were fatigue, CRS, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, headache, encephalopathy, infections (pathogen unspecified), decreased appetite, diarrhea, hypotension, tachycardia, dizziness, cough, constipation, abdominal pain, vomiting, and edema.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS and Medication Guide.

Bristol Myers Squibb: Creating a Better Future for People with Cancer

Bristol Myers Squibb is inspired by a single vision—transforming patients’ lives through science. The goal of the company’s cancer research is to deliver medicines that offer each patient a better, healthier life and to make cure a possibility. Building on a legacy across a broad range of cancers that have changed survival expectations for many, Bristol Myers Squibb researchers are exploring new frontiers in personalized medicine, and through innovative digital platforms, are turning data into insights that sharpen their focus. Deep scientific expertise, cutting-edge capabilities and discovery platforms enable the company to look at cancer from every angle. Cancer can have a relentless grasp on many parts of a patient’s life, and Bristol Myers Squibb is committed to taking actions to address all aspects of care, from diagnosis to survivorship. Because as a leader in cancer care, Bristol Myers Squibb is working to empower all people with cancer to have a better future.

Learn more about the science behind cell therapy and ongoing research at Bristol Myers Squibb here.

About Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

Juno Therapeutics, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. The approval of Breyanzi is based on a Biologics License Application that was submitted by Juno Therapeutics. In certain countries outside the U.S., due to local laws, Celgene and Juno Therapeutics are referred to as, Celgene, a Bristol Myers Squibb company and Juno Therapeutics, a Bristol Myers Squibb company.

Bristol Myers Squibb Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. All statements that are not statements of historical facts are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on historical performance and current expectations and projections about our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives and involve inherent risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including internal or external factors that could delay, divert or change any of them in the next several years, that are difficult to predict, may be beyond our control and could cause our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. These risks, assumptions, uncertainties and other factors include, among others, that future study results will be consistent with the results to date, that Breyanzi may not receive regulatory approval for the indication described in this release in the currently anticipated timeline or at all, and, if approved, whether such product candidate for such indication described in this release will be commercially successful. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many risks and uncertainties that affect Bristol Myers Squibb’s business and market, particularly those identified in the cautionary statement and risk factors discussion in Bristol Myers Squibb’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, as updated by our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as of the date of this document and except as otherwise required by applicable law, Bristol Myers Squibb undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

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Contacts

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

Media Inquiries:

media@bms.com

Kimberly Whitefield

kimberly.whitefield@bms.com

Investors:

Tim Power

609-252-7509

timothy.power@bms.com

Categories
Local News Science

UroGen Pharma announces inducement grant under Nasdaq listing Rule 5635(c)(4)

PRINCETON, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — UroGen Pharma Ltd. (Nasdaq: URGN) a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to building and commercializing novel solutions that treat specialty cancers and urologic diseases, today announced the grants of inducement restricted stock units (“RSUs”) to eleven new employees in connection with their employment with UroGen. These new team members will support the ongoing commercial launch of Jelmyto® (mitomycin) for pyelocalyceal solution, UroGen’s first approved product, and the continued development of the Company’s pipeline.

Up to 46,100 shares of UroGen’s common stock are issuable upon the vesting and settlement of the RSUs. The RSUs will vest equally over three years, with one third of the underlying shares vesting each year on the anniversary of the vesting date, subject in each case to the employee’s continued service relationship with UroGen.

The RSUs are subject to the terms and conditions of UroGen’s 2019 Inducement Plan and RSU grant notice and agreement thereunder. The RSU grants were granted as an inducement material to each employee entering into employment with UroGen in accordance with Nasdaq listing Rule 5635(c)(4).

About UroGen Pharma Ltd.

UroGen is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to building novel solutions that treat specialty cancers and urologic diseases because patients deserve better options. UroGen has developed RTGelTM reverse-thermal hydrogel, a proprietary sustained release, hydrogel-based platform technology that has the potential to improve therapeutic profiles of existing drugs. UroGen’s sustained release technology is designed to enable longer exposure of the urinary tract tissue to medications, making local therapy a potentially more effective treatment option. UroGen’s first commercial product, and investigational treatment UGN-102 (mitomycin) for intravesical solution for patients with low-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, are designed to ablate tumors by non-surgical means. UroGen is headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey with operations in Israel. Visit www.urogen.com to learn more or follow us on Twitter, @UroGenPharma.

Contacts

INVESTOR CONTACTS:
Sara Blum Sherman

Head of Investor Relations

investors@urogen.com

Lee Roth

lroth@burnsmc.com
212-213-0006

MEDIA CONTACT:

Eric Van Zanten

Head of Communications

Eric.VanZanten@urogen.com
610-529-6219

Categories
Business Local News

Bristol Myers Squibb data at EULAR 2021 highlight commitment to driving advancements across multiple immune-mediated rheumatic diseases

PRINCETON, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $BMY #DeucravacitinibBristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY) today announced that data from 28 company-sponsored and investigator-sponsored studies will be presented at the EULAR 2021 Virtual Congress taking place June 2-5, 2021. The research highlights the depth and strength of the company’s growing immunology pipeline and portfolio, commitment to the rheumatology research community and focus on delivering meaningful solutions that address unmet patient needs across immune-mediated diseases.

Research will be shared on multiple Bristol Myers Squibb assets spanning several disease areas, including:

  • Deucravacitinib: An analysis of musculoskeletal disease improvements from the Phase 2 trial evaluating deucravacitinib, a first-in-class, oral, selective tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor, in active psoriatic arthritis reveals that patients treated with deucravacitinib showed consistent improvement across all American College of Rheumatology (ACR) components versus placebo-treated patients, ACR 20 responses were consistent regardless of prior TNF experience, and soft tissue manifestations such as enthesitis were completely resolved in half of patients.
    • These data (abstract OP0227) will be featured as an oral presentation on Friday, June 4 from 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST. Additionally, a poster (POS0198) on the Phase 2 results previously announced at ACR Convergence in November 2020 will be presented on Friday, June 4 from 11:50 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. CEST.
    • Author: Mease
  • Orencia (abatacept): A real-world analysis showing that patients with rheumatoid factor (RF) positive and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) positive rheumatoid arthritis, known as “double positive,” treated with Orencia as a first-line treatment had higher retention than patients receiving Orencia as a second-line or later therapy. Patients with RF and ACPA are considered to have more highly active, progressive RA and a poor disease prognosis. Remission rates on Orencia were higher in patients with double positive RA versus double negative RA.
    • These data (abstract OP0180) will be featured as an oral presentation on Thursday, June 3 from 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST.
    • Author: Alten
  • Iberdomide: Findings from the Phase 2b trial in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) assessing effects of iberdomide on cutaneous (skin) manifestations in SLE. Iberdomide is a novel, oral, high-affinity, cereblon ligand that induces degradation of transcription factors Aiolos and Ikaros, which play critical roles in immune cell development and regulating the balance of the immune system and are linked to the genetic risk for SLE. The study showed beneficial effects on skin manifestations in patients with SLE treated with iberdomide. Efficacy appeared to be more pronounced in patients with subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) and chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE) subtypes.
    • These data (abstract OP0132) will be featured as an oral presentation on Thursday, June 3 from 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST.
    • Author: Werth

“Rheumatic diseases can be debilitating for the tens of millions of people worldwide who live with these conditions. With the understanding that these diseases can behave very differently from person to person, Bristol Myers Squibb is pursuing pathbreaking science to tailor therapies to individual needs, improve outcomes and expand treatment options,” said Mary Beth Harler, M.D., head of Immunology and Fibrosis Development, Bristol Myers Squibb. “Our presentations at EULAR, which span early discovery, late-stage studies and real-world data, represent our robust and growing Immunology pipeline and portfolio, and our focus on driving forward the next wave of immune-modulators and precision medicines.”

Bristol Myers Squibb-sponsored abstracts that will be presented at EULAR 2021 can be found below. Complete abstracts may be accessed online here.

Deucravacitinib Presentations

  • Efficacy of Deucravacitinib, an Oral, Selective Tyrosine Kinase 2 Inhibitor, in Musculoskeletal Manifestations of Active Psoriatic Arthritis in a Phase 2, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled TrialAuthor: Mease

    Abstract Number: OP0227

    Session Title: Psoriatic Arthritis – Treatment

    Friday, June 4, 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST

    Oral Presentation

  • Efficacy and Safety of Deucravacitinib, an Oral, Selective Tyrosine Kinase 2 Inhibitor, in Patients with Active Psoriatic Arthritis: Results from a Phase 2, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled TrialAuthor: Mease

    Abstract Number: POS0198

    Session Title: PsA Treatment: What is New?

    Poster Tour: Friday, June 4, 11:50 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. CEST

  • Efficacy and Safety of Deucravacitinib, an Oral, Selective Tyrosine Kinase 2 (TYK2) Inhibitor, Compared with Placebo and Apremilast in Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Results from the Phase 3 POETYK PSO-1 StudyAuthor: Armstrong

    Abstract Number: POS1042

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

Orencia Presentations

  • Impact of RF and ACPA Serostatus on 2-Year Retention of Abatacept in Patients with RAAuthor: Alten

    Abstract Number: OP0180

    Session Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis – Prognosis, Predictors and Outcomes

    Thursday, June 3, 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST

    Oral Presentation

  • Implementation of the OMERACT PsAMRIS in a Phase IIb, Randomised Placebo-Controlled Study of Abatacept in Psoriatic ArthritisAuthor: Østergaard

    Abstract Number: POS1040

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

  • Disease Activity in Patients with RA by Serostatus and Treatment Line, Following Treatment with Abatacept: Results From an International Observational StudyAuthor: Alten

    Abstract Number: POS0599

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

  • Physical Function in Patients with RA, Stratified by Serostatus And Treatment Line, Following SC Abatacept: Post Hoc Analysis of an Observational, 2-Year Study Conducted in Routine Clinical Practice (ASCORE)Author: Alten

    Abstract Number: POS0447

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

  • S100A8/A9 and S100A12 as Potential Predictive Biomarkers of Abatacept Response in Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic ArthritisAuthor: Ruperto

    Abstract Number: POS0076

    Session Title: Pediatric Rheumatology – Clinical

    Poster Tour: Thursday, June 3, 11:50 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. CEST

  • Analysis of Factors Associated with the Effectiveness of Abatacept in the ORIGAMI StudyAuthor: Misaki

    Abstract Number: POS0603

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

Iberdomide Presentation

  • Effect of Iberdomide on Cutaneous Manifestations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Results of a 24-Week, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 2 StudyAuthor: Werth

    Abstract Number: OP0132

    Session Title: SLE, Sjögren’s and APS – Treatment and SLE, Sjögren’s and APS – Clinical Aspects (Other Than Treatment)

    Thursday, June 3, 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST

    Oral Presentation

Early Asset Presentation

  • Investigating the Anti-Inflammatory Potential of a Novel MK2 Inhibitor in a Vitro Model of EnthesitisAuthor: Bridgewood

    Abstract Number: POS0408

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) Presentations

  • Epidemiology and Mortality of RA-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: Data from a French Administrative Healthcare DatabaseAuthor: Juge

    Abstract Number: OP0099

    Session Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis – Comorbidity and Clinical Aspects – I

    Thursday, June 3, 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. CEST

    Oral Presentation

  • Estimated Prevalence, Incidence and Healthcare Costs of Sjögren’s Syndrome in France: A National Claims-Based StudyAuthor: Seror

    Abstract Number: POS0024

    Session Title: Epidemiology: Big Questions – Big Studies

    Poster Tour: Thursday, June 3, 11:50 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. CEST

  • Extrapolation of Long-Term Outcomes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Replicating a Hopkins Lupus Cohort Analysis with the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) Inception CohortAuthor: Clarke

    Abstract Number: POS0734

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

  • Substantial Impact of Autoantibody Enrichment on Outcomes in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated with Abatacept: Data from a Large Pooled Analysis of 4 RCTsAuthor: Michaud

    Abstract Number: POS0474

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

  • Risk of ACPA Positivity by Motif-Based Classification of HLA-DRB1 Shared Epitope Alleles in RAAuthor: Wipfler

    Abstract Number: POS0344

    Poster View: Wednesday, June 2, 8:00 a.m. – Monday, July 5, 11:59 p.m. CEST

Abstract Book Publications

  • Effect of Deucravacitinib on the Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease (PsAID) Questionnaires 12 and 9: Analysis of a Phase 2 Study of Active Psoriatic ArthritisAuthor: Gossec

    Abstract Number: AB0560

  • A Novel Method for Predicting 1-Year Retention of Abatacept Using Machine Learning Techniques: Directionality and Importance of PredictorsAuthor: Alten

    Abstract Number: AB0205

  • Analysis of Abatacept Treatment Retention and Efficacy According to Disease Duration and Treatment Line in a Real-World SettingAuthor: Alten

    Abstract Number: AB0207

  • Changes in Extracellular Matrix Biomarker C3M Correlate with Abatacept Response in Seropositive Early RAAuthor: Bridges

    Abstract Number: AB0107

  • Improvement in Clinical Disease Activity and Patient-Reported Outcomes After 6 Months of Treatment with Abatacept, Stratified by Line of Therapy, in Patients with RA: Results from a Large, US, National Observational StudyAuthor: Harrold

    Abstract Number: AB0202

  • Construction of the Veterans Affairs National Rheumatoid Arthritis Database (VANRAD)Author: Joseph

    Abstract Number: AB0128

About Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic, immune-mediated, heterogenous disease with multiple musculoskeletal and skin manifestations, including inflammatory arthritis, enthesitis (which occurs when the connective tissue between tendons or ligaments and bone called enthesis becomes inflamed), dactylitis (inflammation and swelling of the fingers and toes), spinal inflammation and psoriatic skin and nail lesions. Up to 42 percent of patients with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis. In addition to the loss of physical function, pain and fatigue caused by psoriatic arthritis, the disease can significantly impact the mental and emotional well-being of patients. Additionally, patients with psoriatic arthritis are at increased risk of developing serious comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and depression, as well as extraarticular manifestations of disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

About Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a destructive immune-mediated disease of the joints characterized by inflammation in the joint lining (or synovium), leading to joint damage with chronic pain, stiffness and swelling. RA causes limitations in range of motion and decreased joint function with long-term disability. Women are three times more likely than men to develop RA.

About Lupus

Lupus is a chronic, complex immune-mediated disease that results in the immune system attacking multiple organs in the body. Lupus most often affects the joints, skin, kidneys, blood vessels, blood cells, brain, and lungs, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organ(s). There are more than five million people around the world with a form of lupus, and it is most often diagnosed in young women between the ages of 15 and 44. The most common type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which accounts for approximately 70 percent of all lupus cases. Within five years of disease onset, 40-60 percent of patients with SLE develop lupus nephritis (renal involvement), the most important predictor of SLE morbidity and mortality.

About Deucravacitinib

Deucravacitinib (pronounced doo-krav-a-sih-ti-nib) is a first-in-class, oral, selective tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor with a unique mechanism of action. Deucravacitinib is the first and only TYK2 inhibitor in clinical studies across multiple immune-mediated diseases. Bristol Myers Squibb scientists designed deucravacitinib to selectively target TYK2, thereby inhibiting signaling of interleukin (IL)-12, IL-23 and Type 1 interferon (IFN), key cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of multiple immune-mediated diseases. Deucravacitinib achieves a high degree of selectivity by binding to the regulatory domain of TYK2, resulting in allosteric inhibition of TYK2 and its downstream functions. Deucravacitinib selectively inhibits TYK2, unlike approved Janus kinase (JAK) 1, 2 and 3 inhibitors, at physiologically relevant concentrations. At therapeutic doses, deucravacitinib does not inhibit JAK1, JAK2 or JAK3. Due to the innovative design of deucravacitinib, Bristol Myers Squibb earned recognition with the 2019 Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award for the science underpinning the clinical development of deucravacitinib.

Deucravacitinib is being studied in multiple immune-mediated diseases, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus and inflammatory bowel disease. Deucravacitinib is not approved for use in any country.

About Iberdomide

Iberdomide is a novel, oral, high-affinity, cereblon ligand that induces degradation of transcription factors Aiolos and Ikaros, which play critical roles in immune cell development and regulating the balance of the immune system and are genetically linked to the risk of developing lupus and other diseases. Iberdomide is currently under investigation for the treatment of multiple myeloma, lymphoma and lupus and is not approved for use in any country.

About Orencia

Orencia is an immunomodulator that disrupts the continuous cycle of T-cell activation that characterizes RA, psoriatic arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). In RA, Orencia targets unique and fundamental drivers of the disease, resulting in improved efficacy and durability in seropositive RA patients (patients with key biomarkers of the disease). Approved for RA by the FDA in 2005 and by the European Commission in 2007, Orencia is an established treatment with a proven safety profile across the disease continuum.

U.S. Indications/Usage and Important Safety Information for ORENCIA® (abatacept)

Indications and Usage

Adult Rheumatoid Arthritis: ORENCIA® (abatacept) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: ORENCIA is indicated for the treatment of patients 2 years of age and older with moderately to severely active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA).

Adult Psoriatic Arthritis: ORENCIA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Limitations of Use: The concomitant use of ORENCIA with other potent immunosuppressants [e.g., biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDS), Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors] is not recommended.

Important Safety Information for ORENCIA® (abatacept)

Concomitant Use with TNF Antagonists, Other Biologic RA/PsA Therapy, or JAK Inhibitors: Concurrent therapy with ORENCIA and a TNF antagonist is not recommended. In controlled clinical trials, adult RA patients receiving concomitant intravenous ORENCIA and TNF antagonist therapy experienced more infections (63% vs 43%) and serious infections (4.4% vs 0.8%) compared to patients treated with only TNF antagonists, without an important enhancement of efficacy. Additionally, concomitant use of ORENCIA with other biologic RA/PsA therapy or JAK inhibitors is not recommended.

Hypersensitivity: There were 2 cases (<0.1%; n=2688) of anaphylaxis reactions in clinical trials with adult RA patients treated with intravenous ORENCIA. Other reactions potentially associated with drug hypersensitivity, such as hypotension, urticaria, and dyspnea, each occurred in <0.9% of patients. There was one case of a hypersensitivity reaction with ORENCIA in pJIA clinical trials (0.5%; n=190). In postmarketing experience, fatal anaphylaxis following the first infusion of ORENCIA and life-threatening cases of angioedema have been reported. Angioedema has occurred as early as after the first dose of ORENCIA, but also has occurred with subsequent doses. Angioedema reactions have occurred within hours of administration and in some instances had a delayed onset (i.e., days). Appropriate medical support measures for treating hypersensitivity reactions should be available for immediate use. If an anaphylactic or other serious allergic reaction occurs, administration of intravenous or subcutaneous ORENCIA should be stopped immediately and permanently discontinued, with appropriate therapy instituted.

Infections: Serious infections, including sepsis and pneumonia, were reported in 3% and 1.9% of RA patients treated with intravenous ORENCIA and placebo, respectively. Some of these infections have been fatal. Many of the serious infections have occurred in patients on concomitant immunosuppressive therapy which, in addition to their underlying disease, could further predispose them to infection. Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of infection or underlying conditions which may predispose them to infections. Treatment with ORENCIA should be discontinued if a patient develops a serious infection. Patients should be screened for tuberculosis and viral hepatitis in accordance with published guidelines, and if positive, treated according to standard medical practice prior to therapy with ORENCIA.

Immunizations: Prior to initiating ORENCIA in pediatric and adult patients, update vaccinations in accordance with current vaccination guidelines. Live vaccines should not be given concurrently with ORENCIA or within 3 months after discontinuation. ORENCIA may blunt the effectiveness of some immunizations.

Use in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): In Study V, adult COPD patients treated with ORENCIA for RA developed adverse events more frequently than those treated with placebo, including COPD exacerbations, cough, rhonchi, and dyspnea. In the study, 97% of COPD patients treated with ORENCIA developed adverse events versus 88% treated with placebo. Respiratory disorders occurred more frequently in patients treated with ORENCIA compared to those on placebo (43% vs 24%, respectively), including COPD exacerbation, cough, rhonchi, and dyspnea. A greater percentage of patients treated with ORENCIA developed a serious adverse event compared to those on placebo (27% vs 6%), including COPD exacerbation [3 of 37 patients (8%)] and pneumonia [1 of 37 patients (3%)]. Use of ORENCIA in patients with COPD should be undertaken with caution, and such patients monitored for worsening of their respiratory status.

Immunosuppression: In clinical trials in adult RA patients, a higher rate of infections was seen in ORENCIA-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients. The impact of treatment with ORENCIA on the development and course of malignancies is not fully understood. There have been reports of malignancies, including skin cancer in patients receiving ORENCIA. Periodic skin examinations are recommended for all ORENCIA-treated patients, particularly those with risk factors for skin cancer.

Blood Glucose Testing: ORENCIA for intravenous administration contains maltose, which may result in falsely elevated blood glucose readings on the day of infusion when using blood glucose monitors with test strips utilizing glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinoline quinone (GDH-PQQ). Consider using monitors and advising patients to use monitors that do not react with maltose, such as those based on glucose dehydrogenase nicotine adenine dinucleotide (GDH-NAD), glucose oxidase or glucose hexokinase test methods. ORENCIA for subcutaneous (SC) administration does not contain maltose; therefore, patients do not need to alter their glucose monitoring.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of ORENCIA use in pregnant women and the data with ORENCIA use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform on drug-associated risk. A pregnancy registry has been established to monitor pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ORENCIA during pregnancy. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to register patients by calling 1-877-311-8972.

Lactation: There is no information regarding the presence of abatacept in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. However, abatacept was present in the milk of lactating rats dosed with abatacept.

Most Serious Adverse Reactions: Serious infections (3% ORENCIA vs 1.9% placebo) and malignancies (1.3% ORENCIA vs 1.1% placebo).

Malignancies: The overall frequency of malignancies was similar between adult RA patients treated with ORENCIA or placebo. However, more cases of lung cancer were observed in patients treated with ORENCIA (0.2%) than those on placebo (0%). A higher rate of lymphoma was seen compared to the general population; however, patients with RA, particularly those with highly active disease, are at a higher risk for the development of lymphoma. The potential role of ORENCIA in the development of malignancies in humans is unknown.

Most Frequent Adverse Events (≥10%): Headache, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, and nausea were the most commonly reported adverse events in the adult RA clinical studies. Other events reported in ≥5% of pJIA patients were diarrhea, cough, pyrexia, and abdominal pain. In general, the adverse events in pediatric pJIA and adult PsA patients were similar in frequency and type to those seen in adult RA patients.

Note concerning ORENCIA administration options: ORENCIA may be administered as an intravenous infusion only for patients 6 years of age and older. PJIA patients may self-inject with ORENCIA or the patient’s caregiver may administer ORENCIA if both the healthcare practitioner and the parent/legal guardian determines it is appropriate. The ability of pediatric patients to self-inject with the autoinjector has not been tested.

Please click here for Full Prescribing Information.

About Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

Celgene and Juno Therapeutics are wholly owned subsidiaries of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. In certain countries outside the U.S., due to local laws, Celgene and Juno Therapeutics are referred to as, Celgene, a Bristol Myers Squibb company and Juno Therapeutics, a Bristol Myers Squibb company.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. All statements that are not statements of historical facts are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements.

Contacts

Bristol Myers Squibb

Media Inquiries:
media@bms.com

Arlene Melendez

Arlene.Melendez@bms.com

Investors:
Tim Power

609-252-7509

Timothy.Power@bms.com

Nina Goworek

908-673-9711

Nina.Goworek@bms.com

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Local News

Most Mercer County offices closed for Memorial Day

TRENTON, N.J. — Most Mercer County government offices, including all branches of the Mercer County Library System, will be closed Monday, May 31, 2021, in observance of Memorial Day.

— Courtsey photo

 

County government offices will reopen – with visits by appointment only – on Tuesday, June 1. Information on visiting county offices and facilities, including hours of operation and contact information, can be found here.

 

The following County offices and facilities will remain open: Trenton-Mercer Airport (except for administrative offices), Correction Center, Sheriff’s Office and the Emergency Services Communication Center.

 

Also, Mercer County Park Commission facilities will be open on Memorial Day: Marina at Mercer County Park, noon to 6 p.m.; Tennis Center, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and all four County golf courses, 6 a.m. (first tee time) to 7:30 p.m.

 

The Wildlife Center has been accepting patients by appointment only from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. since Saturday, May 29, through Monday, May 31. The outdoor education area will be open free of charge for self-guided tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Howell Living History Farm, Mercer County Stables, Tulpehaking Nature Center and Park Commission administrative offices will be closed on Memorial Day. For more information on Park Commission facilities, visit www.mercercountyparks.org.

Categories
Local News Weather & Environment

Mercer Park Commission plans prescribed burn at Baldplate Mountain

HOPEWELL TWP., N.J. – The Mercer County Park Commission has recently approved a prescribed burn plan at Baldplate Mountain, which has been implemented by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS).

A recent prescribe burn at the Park Commission’s Mercer Meadows. The Park Commission also will conduct prescribed burning at Baldplate Mountain to restore forested areas.
— Courtesy photo

 

The areas for burning at Baldplate had  been closed to the public during those times. The Park Commission, township, and emergency officials have been planning for this to take place prior to May 1, or otherwise will be after Oct. 1, 2021.

 

According to a press release from the County, “The Forest Fire Service has worked in collaboration with the Park Commission’s Stewardship Dept. in recent months to develop the plan, which is tailored to improve the ecological condition of the Park Commission-managed natural area.”

 

The primary goal of this prescribe burn is to perform large-scale invasive species management in forest blocks that have high ash tree composition.

 

The Park Commission is planning to restore the forest areas affected by the Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive insect.

 

In some parts of the forest on Baldplate Mountain, ash is one-quarter of the forest’s canopy, and in small areas, up to 75 percent of the canopy.

 

Prescribed fire will assist in the preparation of these sites for future reforestation efforts by controlling non-native invasive understory plants and promoting regeneration of native species.

 

The prescribed burn is planned for approximately 126 acres of the park.

 

Forest Fire Service officials who have undergone rigorous training and are experienced in conducting safe and effective prescribed burns, will light, monitor and manage the fires.

 

Those performing the burn, will adhere to all the appropriate safety measures and precautions, meeting the specific conditions that include temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed direction.

 

The NJFFS estimates one to three days of this burning during the prescribed timeframes.

 

There will be closure notices on the Park Commission website and social media pages; also on park entrances, crossings and trailheads about 48 hours ahead of the burning times. The park will remain closed until the NJFFS determines the location is sage to reopen.

 

Upon reopening of the park to the public, visitors are required to remain on marked trails while using the park because of heaving smoldering and falling trees. It is normal for standing dead trees and downed logs to smolder and produce smoke after the prescribed burn.

 

The burning activity encourages native seed germination, reduces invasive plant pressure, and cycles nutrients into the soil. These effects all help to increase habitat quality and diversity, while promoting forest regeneration and understory establishment.

 

In recent years, land managers throughout the state have increasingly been using this management tool for its ecological benefits and to reduce forest fires.

 

For more information on the Baldplate Mountain prescribed burns, including frequently asked questions, maps and resources, please visit www.mercercountyparks.org.

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Local News Science Technology

Bristol Myers Squibb receives positive CHMP opinion recommending Opdivo (nivolumab) plus Yervoy (ipilimumab) for treatment of mismatch repair deficient or microsatellite instability–high metastatic colorectal cancer after prior chemotherapy

Application based on positive results from the Phase 2 CheckMate -142 trial demonstrating a durable clinical benefit in the Opdivo plus Yervoy cohort

Recommendation from the CHMP represents the first positive opinion in the EU for a dual immunotherapy in colorectal cancer

 

PRINCETON, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $BMY #CHECKMATEBristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) today announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommended approval of Opdivo (nivolumab) in combination with Yervoy (ipilimumab) for the treatment of adult patients with mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) after prior fluoropyrimidine-based combination chemotherapy. The opinion was based on data from the Phase 2 CheckMate -142 trial. The European Commission (EC), which is authorized to approve medicines for the European Union (EU), will now review the CHMP recommendation.

“Metastatic colorectal cancers with mismatch repair deficient or microsatellite instability-high biomarkers can be difficult to treat, and patients who progress on or after first-line chemotherapy still face a great unmet need despite overall progress in the field,” said Ian M. Waxman, M.D., development lead, gastrointestinal cancers, Bristol Myers Squibb. “The CHMP’s positive opinion further supports our goal to advance rational combinations that target distinct but complementary immune pathways. We look forward to the EC’s decision later this year and are excited by the potential positive impact this novel combination could have for patients in need throughout the EU.”

Opdivo plus Yervoy received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2018 for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with MSI-H or dMMR mCRC that has progressed following treatment with fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin and irinotecan. Opdivo plus Yervoy was also approved in Japan by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) in September 2020 for the treatment of MSI-H unresectable, advanced or recurrent colorectal cancer progressing after cancer chemotherapy.

About CheckMate -142

CheckMate -142 included a multicenter, non-randomized, open-label cohort investigating Opdivo plus Yervoy in patients with mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) or microsatellite instability–high (MSI-H) metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) whose disease had progressed during or after prior treatment with fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin and irinotecan.

In this combination cohort, patients received Opdivo 3 mg/kg with Yervoy 1 mg/kg every three weeks for four doses, followed by Opdivo 3 mg/kg as a single agent every two weeks until disease progression, death, or unacceptable toxicity. Efficacy outcome measures included objective response rate (ORR) as assessed by blinded independent central review using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST v1.1) and duration of response (DoR).

About dMMR or MSI-H Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a cancer that develops in the colon or the rectum, which are part of the body’s digestive or gastrointestinal system. Globally, CRC is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world. In 2020, it is estimated that there were approximately 1,931,000 new cases of the disease and that it will be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined.

Mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) occurs when the proteins that repair mismatch errors in DNA replication are missing or non-functional, leading to microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) tumors. Approximately 5% of metastatic CRC patients have dMMR or MSI-H tumors. Metastatic CRC patients with these biomarkers are less likely to benefit from conventional chemotherapy and typically have a poor prognosis.

Bristol Myers Squibb: Creating a Better Future for People with Cancer

Bristol Myers Squibb is inspired by a single vision — transforming patients’ lives through science. The goal of the company’s cancer research is to deliver medicines that offer each patient a better, healthier life and to make cure a possibility. Building on a legacy across a broad range of cancers that have changed survival expectations for many, Bristol Myers Squibb researchers are exploring new frontiers in personalized medicine, and through innovative digital platforms, are turning data into insights that sharpen their focus. Deep scientific expertise, cutting-edge capabilities and discovery platforms enable the company to look at cancer from every angle. Cancer can have a relentless grasp on many parts of a patient’s life, and Bristol Myers Squibb is committed to taking actions to address all aspects of care, from diagnosis to survivorship. Because as a leader in cancer care, Bristol Myers Squibb is working to empower all people with cancer to have a better future.

About Opdivo

Opdivo is a programmed death-1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitor that is designed to uniquely harness the body’s own immune system to help restore anti-tumor immune response. By harnessing the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, Opdivo has become an important treatment option across multiple cancers.

Opdivo’s leading global development program is based on Bristol Myers Squibb’s scientific expertise in the field of Immuno-Oncology, and includes a broad range of clinical trials across all phases, including Phase 3, in a variety of tumor types. To date, the Opdivo clinical development program has treated more than 35,000 patients. The Opdivo trials have contributed to gaining a deeper understanding of the potential role of biomarkers in patient care, particularly regarding how patients may benefit from Opdivo across the continuum of PD-L1 expression.

In July 2014, Opdivo was the first PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor to receive regulatory approval anywhere in the world. Opdivo is currently approved in more than 65 countries, including the United States, the European Union, Japan, and China. In October 2015, the Company’s Opdivo and Yervoy combination regimen was the first Immuno-Oncology combination to receive regulatory approval for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and is currently approved in more than 50 countries, including the United States and the European Union.

About Yervoy

Yervoy is a recombinant, human monoclonal antibody that binds to the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4). CTLA-4 is a negative regulator of T-cell activity. Yervoy binds to CTLA-4 and blocks the interaction of CTLA-4 with its ligands, CD80/CD86. Blockade of CTLA-4 has been shown to augment T-cell activation and proliferation, including the activation and proliferation of tumor infiltrating T-effector cells. Inhibition of CTLA-4 signaling can also reduce T-regulatory cell function, which may contribute to a general increase in T-cell responsiveness, including the anti-tumor immune response. On March 25, 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Yervoy 3 mg/kg monotherapy for patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Yervoy is approved for unresectable or metastatic melanoma in more than 50 countries. There is a broad, ongoing development program in place for Yervoy spanning multiple tumor types.

INDICATIONS

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab), is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab), is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors express PD-L1 (≥1%) as determined by an FDA-approved test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab) and 2 cycles of platinum-doublet chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving OPDIVO.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab), is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab), is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with intermediate or poor risk advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with cabozantinib, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who have received prior anti-angiogenic therapy.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) that has relapsed or progressed after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and brentuximab vedotin or after 3 or more lines of systemic therapy that includes autologous HSCT. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) with disease progression on or after platinum-based therapy.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or have disease progression within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric (12 years and older) patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) that has progressed following treatment with a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab), is indicated for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) that has progressed following treatment with a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY® (ipilimumab), is indicated for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with melanoma with involvement of lymph nodes or metastatic disease who have undergone complete resection.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable advanced, recurrent or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after prior fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-based chemotherapy.

OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of completely resected esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer with residual pathologic disease in patients who have received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

OPDIVO® (nivolumab), in combination with fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy, is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer, gastroesophageal junction cancer, and esophageal adenocarcinoma.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

Immune-mediated adverse reactions listed herein may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions.

Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment, they can also occur after discontinuation of OPDIVO or YERVOY. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of OPDIVO and YERVOY. Monitor for signs and symptoms that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate clinical chemistries including liver enzymes, creatinine, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment with OPDIVO and before each dose of YERVOY. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.

Withhold or permanently discontinue OPDIVO and YERVOY depending on severity (please see section 2 Dosage and Administration in the accompanying Full Prescribing Information). In general, if OPDIVO or YERVOY interruption or discontinuation is required, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Toxicity management guidelines for adverse reactions that do not necessarily require systemic steroids (e.g., endocrinopathies and dermatologic reactions) are discussed below.

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis

OPDIVO and YERVOY can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. The incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.1% (61/1994) of patients, including Grade 4 (<0.1%), Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (2.1%). In HCC patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 10% (5/49) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.9% (26/666) of patients, including Grade 3 (1.4%) and Grade 2 (2.6%). In NSCLC patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks, immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 9% (50/576) of patients, including Grade 4 (0.5%), Grade 3 (3.5%), and Grade 2 (4.0%). Four patients (0.7%) died due to pneumonitis.

In Checkmate 205 and 039, pneumonitis, including interstitial lung disease, occurred in 6.0% (16/266) of patients receiving OPDIVO. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 4.9% (13/266) of patients receiving OPDIVO, including Grade 3 (n=1) and Grade 2 (n=12).

Immune-Mediated Colitis

OPDIVO and YERVOY can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may be fatal. A common symptom included in the definition of colitis was diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated colitis occurred in 2.9% (58/1994) of patients, including Grade 3 (1.7%) and Grade 2 (1%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, immune-mediated colitis occurred in 25% (115/456) of patients, including Grade 4 (0.4%), Grade 3 (14%) and Grade 2 (8%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, immune-mediated colitis occurred in 9% (60/666) of patients, including Grade 3 (4.4%) and Grade 2 (3.7%).

In a separate Phase 3 trial of YERVOY 3 mg/kg monotherapy, immune-mediated colitis occurred in 12% (62/511) of patients, including Grade 3-5 (7%) and Grade 2 (5%).

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis and Hepatotoxicity

OPDIVO and YERVOY can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 1.8% (35/1994) of patients, including Grade 4 (0.2%), Grade 3 (1.3%), and Grade 2 (0.4%). In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy in Checkmate 040, immune-mediated hepatitis requiring systemic corticosteroids occurred in 5% (8/154) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/ kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 15% (70/456) of patients, including Grade 4 (2.4%), Grade 3 (11%), and Grade 2 (1.8%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 7% (48/666) of patients, including Grade 4 (1.2%), Grade 3 (4.9%), and Grade 2 (0.4%).

In a separate Phase 3 trial of YERVOY 3 mg/kg monotherapy, immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 4.1% (21/511) of patients, including Grade 3-5 (1.6%) and Grade 2 (2.5%).

OPDIVO in combination with cabozantinib can cause hepatic toxicity with higher frequencies of Grade 3 and 4 ALT and AST elevations compared to OPDIVO alone. Consider more frequent monitoring of liver enzymes as compared to when the drugs are administered as single agents. In patients receiving OPDIVO and cabozantinib, Grades 3 and 4 increased ALT or AST were seen in 11% of patients.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

OPDIVO and YERVOY can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency, immune-mediated hypophysitis, immune-mediated thyroid disorders, and Type 1 diabetes mellitus, which can present with diabetic ketoacidosis. Withhold OPDIVO and YERVOY depending on severity (please see section 2 Dosage and Administration in the accompanying Full Prescribing Information). For Grade 2 or higher adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field defects. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism; initiate hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism; initiate hormone replacement or medical management as clinically indicated. Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes; initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated.

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, adrenal insufficiency occurred in 1% (20/1994), including Grade 3 (0.4%) and Grade 2 (0.6%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, adrenal insufficiency occurred in 8% (35/456), including Grade 4 (0.2%), Grade 3 (2.4%), and Grade 2 (4.2%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, adrenal insufficiency occurred in 7% (48/666) of patients, including Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (2.5%), and Grade 2 (4.1%). In patients receiving OPDIVO and cabozantinib, adrenal insufficiency occurred in 4.7% (15/320) of patients, including Grade 3 (2.2%) and Grade 2 (1.9%).

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, hypophysitis occurred in 0.6% (12/1994) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.2%) and Grade 2 (0.3%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, hypophysitis occurred in 9% (42/456), including Grade 3 (2.4%) and Grade 2 (6%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, hypophysitis occurred in 4.4% (29/666) of patients, including Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (2.4%), and Grade 2 (0.9%).

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, thyroiditis occurred in 0.6% (12/1994) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.2%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, thyroiditis occurred in 2.7% (22/666) of patients, including Grade 3 (4.5%) and Grade 2 (2.2%).

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, hyperthyroidism occurred in 2.7% (54/1994) of patients, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) and Grade 2 (1.2%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, hyperthyroidism occurred in 9% (42/456) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.9%) and Grade 2 (4.2%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, hyperthyroidism occurred in 12% (80/666) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.6%) and Grade 2 (4.5%).

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, hypothyroidism occurred in 8% (163/1994) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.2%) and Grade 2 (4.8%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 1 mg/kg with YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks, hypothyroidism occurred in 20% (91/456) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.4%) and Grade 2 (11%). In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, hypothyroidism occurred in 18% (122/666) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.6%) and Grade 2 (11%).

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, diabetes occurred in 0.9% (17/1994) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.4%) and Grade 2 (0.3%), and 2 cases of diabetic ketoacidosis. In patients receiving OPDIVO 3 mg/kg with YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, diabetes occurred in 2.7% (15/666) of patients, including Grade 4 (0.6%), Grade 3 (0.3%), and Grade 2 (0.9%).

In a separate Phase 3 trial of YERVOY 3 mg/kg monotherapy, Grade 2-5 immune-mediated endocrinopathies occurred in 4% (21/511) of patients. Severe to life-threatening (Grade 3-4) endocrinopathies occurred in 9 (1.8%) patients. All 9 patients had hypopituitarism, and some had additional concomitant endocrinopathies such as adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, and hypothyroidism. Six of the 9 patients were hospitalized for severe endocrinopathies. Moderate (Grade 2) endocrinopathy occurred in 12 patients (2.

Contacts

Bristol Myers Squibb

Media Inquiries:
Media@BMS.com

Investors:
Tim Power

609-252-7509

timothy.power@bms.com

Nina Goworek

908-673-9711

nina.goworek@bms.com

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