bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Breast Ultrasound Elastography to Differentiate Intracapsular Collection from Silicone-Induced Granuloma of Breast Implant Capsule Complementarily to Contrast-Enhanced Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: de Faria Castro Fleury Eduardo , Gianini Ana Claudia , Ayres Veronica , Ramalho Luciana C , Roveda Decio , de Oliveira Vilmar Marques
Published: November 2017

Background:

To determine whether there is correlation between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and breast elastography to differentiate seroma/hematoma from silicone-induced granuloma of breast implant capsule (SIGBIC).

Methods:

Prospective study of 99 patients with breast implants submitted to breast MRI during the period from February 1 to May 1, 2017. Patients who present MRI findings of seroma/hematoma or SIGBIC were submitted to a complementary ultrasound elastography study to evaluate the correlation of the results. The criteria adopted for the diagnosis of granuloma by MRI were heterogeneous hypersignal in the T2-weighted sequences, late contrast enhancement, and black drop sign. Lesions that did not enhance after the use of contrast were considered as seroma/hematoma. By elastography, the results were considered positive for granuloma when presented as hard lesions, whereas seroma/hematoma presented as soft lesions.

Results:

Of the 99 patients evaluated, 15 were included in the study. Of the 15 patients, 9 had solid intracapsular MRI masses, whereas 6 presented collections without contrast enhancement. The complementary elastography study showed correlation with MRI results in all cases of SIGBIC and seroma/hematoma, being elastography able to differentiate lesions from solid to cystic.

Conclusions:

Elastography of intracapsular masses in breast implants presented results compatible with those found by MRI to differentiate solid lesions from collections.
A Survey of 24,000 Students Aged 13–15 Years in India: Global Youth Tobacco Survey 2006 and 2009
Authors: Gajalakshmi V. , Kanimozhi C.V.
Published: November 2017

Background

Students aged 13–15 years in Grades 8–10 have been surveyed in the year 2006 and in 2009 to monitor the prevalences of smoking and smokeless tobacco use and to assess their attitudes, knowledge and behaviors towards tobacco use and its health impact.

Methods

The Global Youth Tobacco Survey is a cross sectional survey that uses a two-stage cluster sample design to get a representative sample of schools and students for the study. In India, a total of 12 086 students in the year 2006 and 11 768 in 2009 were surveyed.

Results

About 14% (13.7% in 2006 and 14.6% in 2009) of students use tobacco (smoking/smokeless tobacco). The prevalence of smoking among boys is about three times that of girls in both the surveys. The prevalence of smokeless tobacco among girls is twice that of smoking tobacco in both the surveys. In the 2009 survey comparing with the 2006, the percentage of students who initiated bidi smoking before 10 years of age is significantly higher in boys (2006: 26.0% and 2009:45.4%); the percentage of never smokers likely to initiate smoking in the following year is significantly lower in girls (2006: 16.0% and 2009: 10.8%); the percentage of students exposed to smoke from parents is significantly lower (2006: Boys-38.3%, Girls-30.7% and 2009: Boys-29.3%, Girls-22.4%); the percentage of students who reported that they were taught about the dangers of smoking during the school year is higher; and, ever smokers received help or advice to help stop smoking is significantly higher (2009: 19.5% and 2006: 4.4%). The percentage of students who saw any advertisements for tobacco, the percentage of students offered free cigarettes by a cigarette company representative or their access/availability to smoking tobacco and the changes observed in the prevalences of tobacco use among students in 2009 is not significantly different from 2006.

Conclusions

No significant difference is seen in the prevalence of tobacco use among students between the 2006 and 2009 surveys. The percentage of boys who initiated bidi smoking before age 10 is statistically higher in 2009 compared to 2006. There is a need to strengthen enforcement of policies already in place as well as focus on expansion into additional program efforts.
Symbiotic learning partnerships in youth action sports: Vibing, rhythm, and analytic cycles
Authors: Hollett Ty
Published: November 2017

Reporting on an ethnographic study of youth media production at an action sports camp, this article describes the symbiotic learning partnerships formed between teen skateboarders and teen videographers necessary to collaboratively demonstrate the mastery of both tricks and video capture/editing. Symbiotic learning partnerships emerge when partners are, as one participant says, vibing with one another: when they are deeply invested in the production of a collaborative media artifact that they will jointly distribute across social media. When vibing with one another, skaters and videographers fall into collaborative, rhythmic cycles. This collaborative mastery is illustrated specifically through a focus on the cycles of reflection and nurture that skaters and videographers enter into when honing their respective crafts. This article advances understanding of youth digital media production in the rich, yet understudied, action sports community, drawing out potential implications for the design of digital media learning settings, broadly, that do not urge youth down individual pathways, but instead implement opportunities for symbiotic participation and learning.
Stress management for headaches in children and adolescents: A review and practical recommendations for health promotion programs and well-being
Authors: Bougea Anastasia , Spantideas Nikolaos , Chrousos George P
Published: November 2017

Stress is considered to be the most common factor reported to trigger headaches in children and adolescents. Although tension-type headache and migraine are the two most common types of headache in children and adolescents, they are often untreated, ignoring their stressful background. We provide a narrative review of the available evidence for health-care professionals involved in stress-related headache management and health promotion programs. An integrative plan is delivered through lifestyle improvement and biopsychosocial modifying stress response techniques. Healthy dietary choices, sleep hygiene, and regular exercise, although limited, are effective for young sufferers. Biopsychosocial therapies such as relaxation, biofeedback, hypnosis, yoga, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acupuncture focus at stress physiological and behavioral relief. Our purpose is to suggest a stress-related headache management to empower children to make healthy choices in order to improve their lifelong well-being and quality of life. We aim to authorize relationship between nurses and other health-care providers with background knowledge around stress management for pediatric headache populations.
Modelling and modal analysis of a hoist equipped with two-stage planetary gear transmission system
Authors: Yang Wei , Tang Xiaolin
Published: November 2017

The connection between a gear pair is commonly treated as constant stiffness in the literature of planetary gear transmission dynamics, leading to inaccurate results. Based on the theory of viscoelastic contact, according to low speed or stationary gear pairs have the characteristics of small relative sliding velocity, viscoelastic contact method is proposed to solve this problem. A hoist equipped with two-stage planetary gear reducer is used as research object to investigate the dynamic properties. The natural frequencies and corresponding vibration modes of this planetary gear transmission system are presented. Accordingly, the natural frequencies are recognized using operational modal analysis under ambient excitation, and the experimental studies are in close agreement with theoretical expectation. In addition, the dynamic behaviours of this planetary gear train are investigated.
Interviewer–respondent Interactions in Conversational and Standardized Interviewing
Authors: Mittereder Felicitas , Durow Jen , West Brady T. , Kreuter Frauke , Conrad Frederick G.
Published: November 2017

Standardized interviewing (SI) and conversational interviewing are two approaches to collect survey data that differ in how interviewers address respondent confusion. This article examines interviewer–respondent interactions that occur during these two techniques, focusing on requests for and provisions of clarification. The data derive from an experimental study in Germany, where the face-to-face interviews were audio-recorded. A sample of 111 interviews was coded in detail. We find that conversational interviewers do make use of the ability to clarify respondent confusion. Although the technique improved response accuracy in the main study compared to SI, conversational interviewers seem to provide clarifications even when there is no evidence of respondent confusion. This may lengthen administration time and potentially increase data collection costs. Conversational interviewers also employ neutral probes, which are generally associated with standardized interviews, at an unexpectedly high rate. We conclude with suggestions for practice and directions for future research.
MiR-155 Promotes Uveal Melanoma Cell Proliferation and Invasion by Regulating NDFIP1 Expression
Authors: Peng Jing , Liu Honglei , Liu Cuihong
Published: November 2017

MicroRNAs refer to small RNA molecules that destroy the messenger RNA by binding on them inhibiting the production of protein. However, the role of miR-155 in uveal melanoma metastasis remains largely unknown. In this study, we found that miR-155 was upregulated in both uveal melanoma cells and tissues. Transfection of miR-155 mimic into uveal melanoma cells led to an increase in cell growth and invasion; in contrast, inhibition of miR-155 resulted in opposite effects. Also, we identified Nedd4-family interacting protein 1 as a direct target of miR-155, and the expression of Nedd4-family interacting protein 1 was inhibited by miR-155. Furthermore, ectopic expression of Nedd4-family interacting protein 1 restored the effects of miR-155 on cell proliferation and invasion of uveal melanoma cells. In conclusion, miR-155 acts as a tumor promotor in uveal melanoma through increasing cell proliferation and invasion. Thus, miR-155 might serve as a potential therapeutic target in patients with uveal melanoma.
Direct Training to Increase Agreement Between Teachers’ and Observers’ Treatment Integrity Ratings
Authors: Fallon Lindsay M. , Sanetti Lisa M. H. , Chafouleas Sandra M. , Faggella-Luby Michael N. , Briesch Amy M.
Published: November 2017

To evaluate students’ responsiveness to an intervention, both student outcome and implementer treatment integrity data are needed. Teachers are often asked to self-report treatment integrity data. However, when self-report responses are compared with those from a direct observer, it is apparent that teachers commonly overestimate the extent to which an intervention was implemented as planned. As such, more research related to teacher self-report to assess treatment integrity is needed. The objective of this preliminary single-case multiple-baseline design study was to improve interrater agreement between observers’ and teachers’ self-report ratings of treatment integrity by providing teachers with comprehensive, direct training (including an intervention description, modeling, practice, and feedback). Results indicate that after this training, agreement between observers’ and teachers’ ratings of treatment integrity improved.
Promoting inquiry-based working: Exploring the interplay between school boards, school leaders and teachers
Authors: Uiterwijk-Luijk Lisette , Krüger Meta , Volman Monique
Published: November 2017

Inquiry-based working contributes to teacher professionalization and educational improvements. This article presents the key findings of a qualitative case study carried out in three primary schools in the Netherlands. That study focused on the inquiry-based working of school boards, school leaders and teachers, with the goal of better understanding how schools establish an inquiry-based culture. As a follow-up to a nationwide survey, this case study used semi-structured interviews, observations and document analysis to gain insight into the interplay between school boards, school leaders and teachers regarding inquiry-based working. It identified multiple ways in which educators can encourage others to work in an inquiry-based manner. These approaches are not only top-down (i.e., from school board to school leader, and from school leader to teacher) but also bottom-up (i.e., from teacher to school leader, and from school leader to school board).
Effects of Hurricanes on the Understory Forest Birds of Cozumel Island
Authors: Perdomo-Velázquez Héctor , Andresen Ellen , Vega Ernesto , Schondube Jorge E. , Cuarón Alfredo D.
Published: November 2017

The frequency and intensity of hurricanes are likely to increase in the Caribbean due to climate change, potentially threatening the long-term conservation of biodiversity in vulnerable island ecosystems. The effects of hurricanes were assessed for the understory forest birds of Cozumel Island during the first and second year after two consecutive hurricanes (Emily and Wilma) struck the island in July and October of 2005. Post-hurricanes values were compared to pre-hurricanes values for summer and winter bird assemblages. A total of 2,504 individuals of 45 species (29 resident and 16 migrants) were captured using mist nets. Strong negative effects of the hurricanes were detected during the first winter season, that is, 3 months following the second hurricane, with significantly lower mean values per site for the number of individuals, the number of species, and the percentages of migratory individuals and species. During the second winter (16 months after the hurricanes), parameter values of the bird assemblages were similar to pre-hurricane values. Response variables showed no effects of hurricanes in the case of summer bird assemblages (either 8 or 21 months after the hurricanes). Yet, when we carried out ordinations of the samples, taking into consideration the bird species and their relative abundances, we found that in both winter and summer seasons, bird assemblages for the three sampling periods (pre-hurricanes, first year and second year after the hurricanes) could be clearly distinguished. Management strategies for hurricane-prone areas are recommended, in particular for diverse insular ecosystems highly threatened by the synergistic effects of natural and anthropogenic disturbances.
String Vibrato: Research Related to Performance and Perception
Authors: Geringer John M. , Allen Michael L. , Macleod Rebecca B.
Published: November 2017

This article presents a summary of our presentation that was invited by the Research Committee of ASTA and given at the 2009 ASTA National Conference in Atlanta. In this article we describe and discuss previous and current research studies concerning string vibrato performance and listeners’ perception of vibrato. Topics addressing performance aspects of vibrato include rates and widths, pitch center, initial direction, and continuity during slurs. Investigations that have used various approaches to determine the perceived pitch center of string vibrato are also summarized. We present suggestions for further investigation of vibrato in both the study of listener perception and performance practice and discuss pedagogical applications of research findings.
An Investigation of New String Programs Established in American Schools between 1999 and 2009
Authors: Gillespie Robert , Hamann Donald L.
Published: November 2017

The purposes of this study were to identify string programs created between 1999 and 2009, compile a profile of those programs, and identify resources and strategies that were used to create them that may serve as a model for establishing future new programs. One hundred-fifty string programs were identified from 33 different states. A survey form to gather data about the programs was created and administered to 132 of the programs. Eighty-two completed the survey for a response rate of 62%. The survey asked questions about the history of the program, its current status, and projected future status. Data revealed that most programs began after one or less than one year of discussion, most often first suggested by local music teachers or superintendent. Those factors considered critical to successful establishment of the program included parent support, administrative support, competent string teaching, and funding. Respondents were willing to found additional programs. They suggested that a how-to manual and outside grant funding would help establish future new programs.
Effects of Stimulus Type, Distance, and Instrument on High School Students’ Open String Tuning
Authors: Alexander Michael L.
Published: November 2017

High school string orchestra students (N = 139) were measured on their ability to tune their instruments’ open A-string in response to either a pure tone stimulus or a complex tone stimulus within a classroom setting. Proximity to the stimuli and possible differences between string instrument types were also tested. No significant difference was found between the two types of stimuli. Significant differences were found on the variable of distance, however, a significant interaction between distance and instrument type was also found. Graphic analysis showed that the poor tuning of cellists who were farthest away from the tuning source accounted for the differences found for the effect of distance. Implications for tuning string instruments and suggestions for classroom application, particularly for cello and double bass are discussed.
An Analysis of High School and University Cellists’ Vibrato Rates, Widths, and Pitches
Authors: Pop David A.
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of playing position, fingers used, and level of training on vibrato rate and width, and possible pitch differences between non-vibrated and vibrated tones of cellists. Participants (N = 30) were volunteers from a high school orchestra program (n = 15) and a large public university (n = 15). Cellists performed three ascending pitch sets in first, fourth, and thumb position. Each pitch set included whole notes performed initially without vibrato, then vibrato was added to the second half of each note. Analysis showed that playing position significantly influenced cellists’ vibrato rates, widths, and pitch of non-vibrated versus vibrated tones. Comparisons revealed a slower mean vibrato rate in first position than the fourth and thumb positions. Cellists’ vibrato became wider in higher playing positions (closer to the bridge). Participants’ vibrated tones occurred slightly above the non-vibrated tones in first position, but slightly below the non-vibrated tones in thumb position. The fingers used or level of training did not affect vibrato rate, width, or pitch.
Middle and High School String Students’ Preferences for Alternative String Styles
Authors: Mick James P.
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate middle school and high school string students’ (N = 241) preferences for various alternative string styles. String styles selected for the study were those represented in published, age-appropriate method books available for heterogeneous string study and included American Folk, Bluegrass, Celtic, Jazz, and Mariachi genres. Participants listened to 10 musical examples, two from each style, and gave a preference rating for each example using a seven-point response continuum. Results indicated that the Celtic genre was the most preferred, followed by Jazz, American Folk, Mariachi, and Bluegrass genres. Celtic and Jazz examples received significantly higher ratings than American Folk, Mariachi, and Bluegrass examples. Results also indicated significant differences between the preference ratings of participants who indicated they were familiar with at least one of the examples from each style and preference ratings of participants who were unfamiliar with either of the examples. No significant differences were found in preference ratings based on participants’ grade level, primary instrument, or gender.
Influences on String Teachers’ Career Decisions
Authors: Pellegrino Kristen , Millican John Si
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this descriptive survey study was to examine influences on string teachers’ career decisions. We surveyed K-12 school string teachers (N = 338) who were members of the American String Teachers Association (33.8% response rate). We found that string teachers were most influenced to continue playing their primary instruments as pre-college students by seventeen individual items representing six categories: music, identity, “flow” experiences, feelings of success and recognition, emotional responses, and social connections. The item that least influenced this decision was, “It was important to my parents.” Results indicate a strong connection between choosing to become a string teacher and the opportunity to influence students and to continue music making. In general, job-related reasons and influence of others did not influence the career choice of string educators. The majority of respondents indicated their career decision was not influenced by the fear of not being able to make a living as a performer.
Eclectic Styles and Improvisation in String Orchestra Performances
Authors: Norgaard Martin , Taylor Skip
Published: November 2017

Despite instructional materials and workshops concerning eclectic styles and improvisation, it is unclear whether string teachers feature these styles and student improvisations on concerts in school and adjudicated settings. This and other issues related to eclectic styles were investigated through a newly developed pilot survey instrument sent to the membership of American String Teachers Association. In total, 40.3% of 673 responses from school and studio teachers indicated that students improvised in school concerts at some point during the last academic year, but this number decreased to 9.6% of respondents who reported inclusion of improvisation in adjudicated festivals. Further analyses of responses from teachers indicating elementary, middle, and high school teaching level showed a significant three-way interaction between style, teaching level, and concert setting. Teaching level influenced which eclectic styles were used in concert, with rock and fiddle more commonly used in earlier grades, but only in non-adjudicated settings. Finally, a significant two-way interaction revealed the use of improvisation in concert was more common in the upper grades, but only in school concert settings.
The Design and Implementation of the ASTA Mentor Program: Perceptions of Program Developers and Mentor Preparation Workshop Participants
Authors: Berg Margaret H. , Conway Colleen
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this research was to examine the development and implementation of the ASTA Mentor Program. Research questions included: (a) How did ASTA staff, leadership, and Mentor Preparation Workshop providers describe the opportunities and challenges associated with the development of a national level mentor program?, (b) What were the perceived successes and benefits of the Mentor Preparation Workshop?, and (c) What suggestions did mentor teachers have for future ASTA Mentor Preparation Workshops? Data were collected via interviews, a workshop evaluation, and researcher logs. Potential program opportunities included targeted mentoring leading to student growth, lifespan professional development for ASTA members, increased ASTA member recruitment and retention, and association-level leadership. Implementation challenges included mentor effectiveness, design and implementation of processes and supports, and long-term sustainability. The workshop was perceived to be successful and beneficial through mentors’ increased understanding of novice teacher needs, development of effective observation and conferencing skills, and increased ability to help beginning teachers prioritize string-specific instruction. Suggested workshop improvements included more hands-on activities, access to all workshop materials, and more opportunity for interaction among the mentors.
Music Educator Views on String and/or Orchestral Participation in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi
Authors: Kuehne Jane M. , Harrison Guy
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study was to discover music educators’ views on string music education by surveying active NAfME members in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and to compare results based on teaching area: string/orchestra (SO) and non-string/orchestra (NSO). While statistically we cannot generalize results because of the response rate and numbers of SO and NSO teachers in our study, those who responded to our online survey support our hypothesis that fewer string/orchestra programs exist in our four focus states than other U.S. regions. Respondents agreed that string/orchestra programs would benefit overall music programs, allowing for more student participation. However, results suggest some NSO teachers choose program preservation over music program diversification, and ultimately student opportunities for music participation. The largest barriers to implementation of new programs were financial costs and administrative support, then scheduling, availability of qualified teachers, and lack of facilities. It is unclear if NSO teachers’ views represent an “unspoken” barrier. Additional research to determine reasons for fewer programs is needed to increase the numbers of string/orchestra programs and enrollment in existing programs.
Automaticity in Stimulus-Parity Synaesthesia
Authors: Dumbalska Tsvetomira , White Rebekah C. , Duta Mihaela D. , Nation Kate
Published: November 2017

Automaticity is a defining characteristic of synaesthesia. Here, we assess for automaticity in stimulus-parity synaesthesia; a subtype that has been documented only 3 times in the literature. Synaesthete R experiences many (nonnumerical) stimuli as being odd or even. She described a toy shape-sorter, which paired odd shapes with even colour slots (and vice versa) and relayed difficulties with the incongruency created by this simple toy. Inspired by this anecdote, we devised a computerised task in which Synaesthete R (and 10 control participants) indicated the location of a target shape, which was presented on a coloured bar. Synaesthete R (but not control participants) was faster to report the location of target shapes presented on colours of congruent synaesthetic parity, relative to target shapes presented on colours of incongruent synaesthetic parity. These results constitute the first objective demonstration as to the automatic nature of associations in stimulus-parity synaesthesia.
When the drugs don’t work: treatment-resistant schizophrenia, serotonin and serendipity
Authors: Lowe Penelope , Krivoy Amir , Porffy Lilla , Henriksdottir Erna , Eromona Whiskey , Shergill Sukhwinder S.
Published: November 2017

Treatment-resistant schizophrenia is a serious clinical problem. We adopt a systems-level approach positing a greater role for cognitive control mechanisms in the development of psychotic symptoms and illustrate the clinical application of this via a case report of treatment-resistant patients treated successfully with adjunct pro-cognitive serotonergic medication.
Champaran Satyagraha: Retrieving Some Forgotten Heroes
Authors: Sajjad Mohammad , Sahil Afroz Alam
Published: November 2017

This essay primarily concerns itself with attempting to retrieve contributions of some of the local and regional leaders of the Champaran Satyagraha Movement who have largely been left out by the existing literature. Further, it draws upon some of the unexplored archival sources as well as some vernacular literatures, mainly Hindi besides memoirs as well as newspaper reports have been used for the study. Yet, one faces huge constraints of evidences to find answers to many pertinent questions, which emerge after delving into the subject. This essay has been able to cull out significant information about the contributions of Pir Munis, mostly through the memoirs of the Hindi literatures and Hindi newspaper, Pratap. There is still a need to trace out many other sources to find out details about many other local leaders, who have been mentioned in this essay. Besides retrieving the roles played out by the local leaders and vernacular intelligentsia at great personal risks of state repression, this essay brings out that the agrarian problems of Champaran still suffers from something which has been inherited as a legacy during the colonial era, and even after seven decades post-independence many issues remains unresolved.
Gene expression and risk of leukemic transformation in myelodysplasia
Authors: Shiozawa Yusuke , Malcovati Luca , Gallì Anna , Pellagatti Andrea , Karimi Mohsen , Sato-Otsubo Aiko , Sato Yusuke , Suzuki Hiromichi , Yoshizato Tetsuichi , Yoshida Kenichi , Shiraishi Yuichi , Chiba Kenichi , Makishima Hideki , Boultwood Jacqueline , Hellström-Lindberg Eva , Miyano Satoru , Cazzola Mario , Ogawa Seishi
Published: November 2017

Key Points

Through a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis, we discovered 2 major subgroups of myelodysplasia defined by gene expression profiles. The gene expression–based subgroups had independent prognostic value, which was validated in an external cohort.
HIV treatment simplification to elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir disproxil fumarate (E/C/F/TDF) plus darunavir: a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Harris Marianne , Ganase Bruce , Watson Birgit , Harrigan P. Richard , Montaner Julio S. G. , Hull Mark W.
Published: November 2017

Background

As a simplification strategy for treatment-experienced HIV-infected patients who have achieved virologic suppression on a multi-drug, multi-class antiretroviral regimen, the aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of once-daily elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir disproxil fumarate (E/C/F/TDF) with darunavir.

Methods

A single arm, open-label 48-week study was conducted of regimen simplification to E/C/F/TDF plus darunavir 800 mg daily from stable therapy including two nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors, a ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor, and an integrase inhibitor. Participants had plasma HIV viral load consistently < 200 copies/mL for ≥ 6 months, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min, and no genotypic resistance to major components of the study regimen. Plasma viral load was measured at weeks 2 and 4, then every 4 weeks throughout the study. Safety laboratory assessments were conducted at baseline and at weeks 12, 24, 36, and 48. Antiretroviral drug concentrations were measured at baseline and once ≥ 2 weeks after the regimen change.

Results

Ten HIV-infected adults (8 male and 2 female; median age 50.5 years) were enrolled. All maintained virologic suppression on the new regimen for 48 weeks. One subject experienced a decrease in eGFR from 62 mL/min at baseline to 52 mL/min at week 12; study medications were continued and his eGFR remained stable (50–59 mL/min) thereafter. No subjects discontinued study medications for renal function changes or other adverse events. Darunavir trough concentration were lower on the new regimen than on darunavir/ritonavir 800/100 mg (n = 5; p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Despite low darunavir trough concentrations, treatment simplification to a two-pill, once-daily regimen of E/C/F/TDF plus darunavir was safe and effective for 48 weeks among 10 selected treatment-experienced HIV-infected patients.

Trial registration The study protocol was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02199613) on July 22, 2014
Randomized Trial of ConquerFear: A Novel, Theoretically Based Psychosocial Intervention for Fear of Cancer Recurrence
Authors: Butow Phyllis N. , Turner Jane , Gilchrist Jemma , Sharpe Louise , Smith Allan Ben , Fardell Joanna E. , Tesson Stephanie , O’Connell Rachel , Girgis Afaf , Gebski Val J. , Asher Rebecca , Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Bell Melanie L. , Zola Karina Grunewald , Beith Jane , Thewes Belinda
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is prevalent, distressing, and long lasting. This study evaluated the impact of a theoretically/empirically based intervention (ConquerFear) on FCR.

Methods

Eligible survivors had curable breast or colorectal cancer or melanoma, had completed treatment (not including endocrine therapy) 2 months to 5 years previously, were age > 18 years, and had scores above the clinical cutoff on the FCR Inventory (FCRI) severity subscale at screening. Participants were randomly assigned at a one-to-one ratio to either five face-to-face sessions of ConquerFear (attention training, metacognitions, acceptance/mindfulness, screening behavior, and values-based goal setting) or an attention control (Taking-it-Easy relaxation therapy). Participants completed questionnaires at baseline (T0), immediately post-therapy (T1), and 3 (T2) and 6 months (T3) later. The primary outcome was FCRI total score.

Results

Of 704 potentially eligible survivors from 17 sites and two online databases, 533 were contactable, of whom 222 (42%) consented; 121 were randomly assigned to intervention and 101 to control. Study arms were equivalent at baseline on all measured characteristics. ConquerFear participants had clinically and statistically greater improvements than control participants from T0 to T1 on FCRI total ( P < .001) and severity subscale scores ( P = .001), which were maintained at T2 ( P = .017 and P = .023, respectively) and, for FCRI total only, at T3 ( P = .018), and from T0 to T1 on three FCRI subscales (coping, psychological distress, and triggers) as well as in general anxiety, cancer-specific distress (total), and mental quality of life and metacognitions (total). Differences in FCRI psychological distress and cancer-specific distress (total) remained significantly different at T3.

Conclusion

This randomized trial demonstrated efficacy of ConquerFear compared with attention control (Taking-it-Easy) in reduction of FCRI total scores immediately post-therapy and 3 and 6 months later and in many secondary outcomes immediately post-therapy. Cancer-specific distress (total) remained more improved at 3- and 6-month follow-up.
Long-Term Results of the FOLL05 Trial Comparing R-CVP Versus R-CHOP Versus R-FM for the Initial Treatment of Patients With Advanced-Stage Symptomatic Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Luminari Stefano , Ferrari Angela , Manni Martina , Dondi Alessandra , Chiarenza Annalisa , Merli Francesco , Rusconi Chiara , Tarantino Vittoria , Tucci Alessandra , Vitolo Umberto , Kovalchuk Sofia , Angelucci Emanuele , Pulsoni Alessandro , Arcaini Luca , Angrilli Francesco , Gaidano Gianluca , Stelitano Caterina , Bertoldero Giovanni , Cascavilla Nicola , Salvi Flavia , Ferreri Andrés J.M. , Vallisa Daniele , Marcheselli Luigi , Federico Massimo
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The FOLL05 trial compared R-CVP (rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone) with R-CHOP (rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) and R-FM (rituximab plus fludarabine and mitoxantrone) regimens without rituximab maintenance as initial therapy for patients with advanced-stage follicular lymphoma (FL). A previous analysis with a median follow-up of 34 months showed a superior 3-year time to treatment failure, the primary study end point, with R-CHOP and R-FM versus R-CVP and showed R-CHOP to have a better risk-benefit ratio in terms of toxicity than R-FM. We report a post hoc analysis of this trial after a median follow-up of 7 years.

Patients and Methods

Of the 534 enrolled patients, 504 were evaluable. At the time of analysis, the median follow-up was 84 months (range, 1 to 119 months).

Results

The 8-year time to treatment failure and progression-free survival rates were 44% (95% CI, 39% to 49%) and 48% (95% CI, 43% to 53%), respectively. The hazard ratio for progression-free survival adjusted by FL International Prognostic Index 2 versus R-CVP was 0.73 for R-CHOP (95% CI, 0.54 to 0.98; P = .037) and 0.67 for R-FM (95% CI, 0.50 to 0.91; P = .009). The 8-year overall survival (OS) rate was 83% (95% CI, 79% to 87%), with no significant differences among study arms. Overall, we observed a higher risk of dying as a result of causes unrelated to lymphoma progression with R-FM versus R-CVP.

Conclusion

With an 83% 8-year OS rate, long-term follow-up of the FOLL05 trial confirms the favorable outcome of patients with advanced-stage FL treated with immunochemotherapy. The three study arms had similar OS but different activity and toxicity profiles. Patients initially treated with R-CVP had a higher risk of lymphoma progression compared with those receiving R-CHOP, as well as a higher risk of requiring additional therapy.
Safety and Efficacy of Pembrolizumab in Advanced, Programmed Death Ligand 1–Positive Cervical Cancer: Results From the Phase Ib KEYNOTE-028 Trial
Authors: Frenel Jean-Sebastien , Le Tourneau Christophe , O’Neil Bert , Ott Patrick A. , Piha-Paul Sarina A. , Gomez-Roca Carlos , van Brummelen Emilie M.J. , Rugo Hope S. , Thomas Shari , Saraf Sanatan , Rangwala Reshma , Varga Andrea
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The KEYNOTE-028 trial ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02054806) was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of pembrolizumab in 20 programmed death ligand 1–positive, advanced solid tumor cohorts. Here, we present the results from the cohort of patients with advanced cervical cancer.

Methods

Patients were treated with pembrolizumab 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks for up to 24 months. Response was assessed every 8 weeks for the first 6 months and every 12 weeks thereafter. The primary end point was overall response rate per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1, by investigator review. Safety was a secondary end point.

Results

Twenty-four patients were enrolled in the cervical cancer cohort. The median age was 42 years (range, 26 to 62 years), 22 patients (92%) had received prior radiation therapy, and 15 patients (63%) had received two or more lines of therapy, including bevacizumab (10 of 24 patients), for advanced disease. At the data cutoff, median follow-up duration was 11.0 months (range, 1.3 to 32.2 months). Overall response rate was 17% (95% CI, 5% to 37%); four patients (17%) achieved a confirmed partial response, and three patients (13%) had stable disease. Median duration of response for the four patients who achieved a partial response was 5.4 months (4.1 to 7.5 months). Treatment related adverse events (AEs) were experienced by 18 patients (75%); only rash (n = 5; 21%) and pyrexia (n = 4; 17%) and occurred in ≥ 10% of patients. Five patients experienced grade 3 treatment-related AEs. No grade 4 treatment-related AEs or deaths were observed.

Conclusion

In patients with programmed death ligand 1–positive advanced cervical cancer, pembrolizumab demonstrated antitumor activity and exhibited a safety profile consistent with that seen in other tumor types.
Prediction of Ischemic Heart Disease and Stroke in Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: Chow Eric J. , Chen Yan , Hudson Melissa M. , Feijen Elizabeth A.M. , Kremer Leontien C. , Border William L. , Green Daniel M. , Meacham Lillian R. , Mulrooney Daniel A. , Ness Kirsten K. , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Ronckers Cécile M. , Sklar Charles A. , Stovall Marilyn , van der Pal Helena J. , van Dijk Irma W.E.M. , van Leeuwen Flora E. , Weathers Rita E. , Robison Leslie L. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Yasui Yutaka
Published: November 2017

Purpose

We aimed to predict individual risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke in 5-year survivors of childhood cancer.

Patients and Methods

Participants in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS; n = 13,060) were observed through age 50 years for the development of ischemic heart disease and stroke. Siblings (n = 4,023) established the baseline population risk. Piecewise exponential models with backward selection estimated the relationships between potential predictors and each outcome. The St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study (n = 1,842) and the Emma Children’s Hospital cohort (n = 1,362) were used to validate the CCSS models.

Results

Ischemic heart disease and stroke occurred in 265 and 295 CCSS participants, respectively. Risk scores based on a standard prediction model that included sex, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy (cranial, neck, and chest) exposures achieved an area under the curve and concordance statistic of 0.70 and 0.70 for ischemic heart disease and 0.63 and 0.66 for stroke, respectively. Validation cohort area under the curve and concordance statistics ranged from 0.66 to 0.67 for ischemic heart disease and 0.68 to 0.72 for stroke. Risk scores were collapsed to form statistically distinct low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups. The cumulative incidences at age 50 years among CCSS low-risk groups were < 5%, compared with approximately 20% for high-risk groups ( P < .001); cumulative incidence was only 1% for siblings ( P < .001 v low-risk survivors).

Conclusion

Information available to clinicians soon after completion of childhood cancer therapy can predict individual risk for subsequent ischemic heart disease and stroke with reasonable accuracy and discrimination through age 50 years. These models provide a framework on which to base future screening strategies and interventions.
High-Fat, High-Sugar Diet Disrupts the Preovulatory Hormone Surge and Induces Cystic Ovaries in Cycling Female Rats
Authors: Volk Katrina M , Pogrebna Veronika V , Roberts Jackson A , Zachry Jennifer E , Blythe Sarah N , Toporikova Natalia
Published: November 2017

Diet-induced obesity has been associated with various metabolic and reproductive disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome. However, the mechanisms by which obesity influences the reproductive system are still not fully known. Studies have suggested that impairments in hormone signaling are associated with the development of symptoms such as acyclicity and ovarian cysts. However, these studies have often failed to address how these hormonal changes arise and how they might contribute to the progression of reproductive diseases. In the present study, we used a high-fat, high-sugar (HFHS) diet to induce obesity in a female rodent model to determine the changes in critical reproductive hormones that might contribute to the development of irregular estrous cycling and reproductive cycle termination. The HFHS animals exhibited impaired estradiol, progesterone (P4), and luteinizing hormone (LH) surges before ovulation. The HFHS diet also resulted in altered basal levels of testosterone (T) and LH. Furthermore, alterations in the basal P4/T ratio correlated strongly with ovarian cyst formation in HFHS rats. Thus, this model provides a method to assess the underlying etiology of obesity-related reproductive dysfunction and to examine an acyclic reproductive phenotype as it develops.
Ultrasound-Guided Transversalis Fascia Plane Block: An Alternative Approach for Anesthesia in Inguinal Herniorrhaphy: A Case Report
Authors: Scimia Paolo , Basso Ricci Erika , Petrucci Emiliano , Behr Astrid Ursula , Marinangeli Franco , Fusco Pierfrancesco
Published: November 2017

Ultrasound (US)-guided transversalis fascia plane block (TFPB) was first described by Hebbard as a technique for blockade of T12–L1 nerves. Although this technique appears similar to the quadratus lumborum 1 block, the point of injection is more caudal and anterior, specifically targeting ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves. There are only few published data on US-guided TFPB demonstrating effective postoperative analgesia in iliac crest bone graft harvesting. We report the use of US-guided TFPB in a patient undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy. Our experience suggests that this technique could represent a viable alternative to general anesthesia and standard regional techniques for inguinal hernia repair.
Cell membrane disruption stimulates cAMP and Ca2+ signaling to potentiate cell membrane resealing in neighboring cells
Authors: Togo Tatsuru
Published: November 2017

Disruption of cellular plasma membranes, a common event in many animal tissues, is usually rapidly resealed. Moreover, repeated membrane disruptions within a single cell reseal faster than the initial wound in a protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent manner. In addition to wounded cells, recent studies have demonstrated that wounding of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells potentiates membrane resealing in neighboring cells in the short-term by purinergic signaling and in the long-term by nitric oxide/protein kinase G signaling. In the present study, real-time imaging showed that cell membrane disruption stimulated cAMP synthesis and Ca2+ mobilization from intracellular stores by purinergic signaling in neighboring MDCK cells. Furthermore, inhibition of PKA and PKC suppressed the ATP-mediated short-term potentiation of membrane resealing in neighboring cells. These results suggest that cell membrane disruption stimulates PKA and PKC via purinergic signaling to potentiate cell membrane resealing in neighboring MDCK cells.
CREB3L1-mediated functional and structural adaptation of the secretory pathway in hormone-stimulated thyroid cells
Authors: García Iris A. , Torres Demichelis Vanina , Viale Diego L. , Di Giusto Pablo , Ezhova Yulia , Polishchuk Roman S. , Sampieri Luciana , Martinez Hernán , Sztul Elizabeth , Alvarez Cecilia
Published: November 2017

Many secretory cells increase the synthesis and secretion of cargo proteins in response to specific stimuli. How cells couple increased cargo load with a coordinate rise in secretory capacity to ensure efficient transport is not well understood. We used thyroid cells stimulated with thyrotropin (TSH) to demonstrate a coordinate increase in the production of thyroid-specific cargo proteins and ER–Golgi transport factors, and a parallel expansion of the Golgi complex. TSH also increased expression of the CREB3L1 transcription factor, which alone caused amplified transport factor levels and Golgi enlargement. Furthermore, CREB3L1 potentiated the TSH-induced increase in Golgi volume. A dominant-negative CREB3L1 construct hampered the ability of TSH to induce Golgi expansion, implying that this transcription factor contributes to Golgi expansion. Our findings support a model in which CREB3L1 acts as a downstream effector of TSH to regulate the expression of cargo proteins, and simultaneously increases the synthesis of transport factors and the expansion of the Golgi to synchronize the rise in cargo load with the amplified capacity of the secretory pathway.
Self-Assembly of Bodipy-Derived Extended π-Systems
Authors: Cherumukkil Sandeep , Vedhanarayanan Balaraman , Das Gourab , Praveen Vakayil K , Ajayaghosh Ayyappanpillai
Published: October 2017

Self-assembly is a viable approach to create soft functional materials with architectural diversity and property variations. Among the large number of different chromophores used, borondipyrromethene (Bodipy) dyes find a unique space because of their promising photophysical properties such as high molar absorptivity, fluorescent quantum yield and excellent photostability along with the associated synthetic ease. Recently, research on Bodipy dyes has experienced a surge of activities in view of favorable self-assembling properties. In this review, recent developments in self-assembled Bodipy dyes and their significance in various applications are discussed.