bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Veliparib in Combination with Carboplatin and Etoposide in Patients with Treatment-Naïve Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Phase 2 Randomized Study
Authors: Byers Lauren Averett , Bentsion Dmitry , Gans Steven , Penkov Konstantin , Son ChoonHee , Sibille Anne , Owonikoko Taofeek K. , Groen Harry J.M. , Gay Carl M. , Fujimoto Junya , de Groot Patricia , Dunbar Martin , Kang Kingston , He Lei , Sehgal Vasudha , Glasgow Jaimee , Bach Bruce Allen , Ellis Peter M. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Purpose:
This study investigated the efficacy and safety of oral PARP inhibitor veliparib, plus carboplatin and etoposide in patients with treatment-naïve, extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ED-SCLC).

Patients and Methods:
Patients were randomized 1:1:1 to veliparib [240 mg twice daily (BID) for 14 days] plus chemotherapy followed by veliparib maintenance (400 mg BID; veliparib throughout), veliparib plus chemotherapy followed by placebo (veliparib combination only), or placebo plus chemotherapy followed by placebo (control). Patients received 4–6 cycles of combination therapy, then maintenance until unacceptable toxicity/progression. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) with veliparib throughout versus control.

Results:
Overall (N = 181), PFS was improved with veliparib throughout versus control [hazard ratio (HR), 0.67; 80% confidence interval (CI), 0.50–0.88; P = 0.059]; median PFS was 5.8 and 5.6 months, respectively. There was a trend toward improved PFS with veliparib throughout versus control in SLFN11-positive patients (HR, 0.6; 80% CI, 0.36–0.97). Median overall survival (OS) was 10.1 versus 12.4 months in the veliparib throughout and control arms, respectively (HR, 1.43; 80% CI, 1.09–1.88). Grade 3/4 adverse events were experienced by 82%, 88%, and 68% of patients in the veliparib throughout, veliparib combination-only and control arms, most commonly hematologic.

Conclusions:
Veliparib plus platinum chemotherapy followed by veliparib maintenance demonstrated improved PFS as first-line treatment for ED-SCLC with an acceptable safety profile, but there was no corresponding benefit in OS. Further investigation is warranted to define the role of biomarkers in this setting.
Diagnosis of Pseudoprogression Following Lomustine–Temozolomide Chemoradiation in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Patients Using FET-PET
Authors: Werner Jan-Michael , Weller Johannes , Ceccon Garry , Schaub Christina , Tscherpel Caroline , Lohmann Philipp , Bauer Elena K. , Schäfer Niklas , Stoffels Gabriele , Baues Christian , Celik Eren , Marnitz Simone , Kabbasch Christoph , Gielen Gerrit H. , Fink Gereon R. , Langen Karl-Josef , Herrlinger Ulrich , Galldiks Norbert 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Purpose:
The CeTeG/NOA-09 phase III trial demonstrated a significant survival benefit of lomustine–temozolomide chemoradiation in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma with methylated O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter. Following lomustine–temozolomide chemoradiation, late and prolonged pseudoprogression may occur. We here evaluated the value of amino acid PET using O-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)-l-tyrosine (FET) for differentiating pseudoprogression from tumor progression.

Experimental Design:
We retrospectively identified patients (i) who were treated off-study according to the CeTeG/NOA-09 protocol, (ii) had equivocal MRI findings after radiotherapy, and (iii) underwent additional FET-PET imaging for diagnostic evaluation (number of scans, 1–3). Maximum and mean tumor-to-brain ratios (TBRmax, TBRmean) and dynamic FET uptake parameters (e.g., time-to-peak) were calculated. In patients with more than one FET-PET scan, relative changes of TBR values were evaluated, that is, an increase or decrease of &gt;10% compared with the reference scan was considered as tumor progression or pseudoprogression. Diagnostic performances were evaluated using ROC curve analyses and Fisher exact test. Diagnoses were confirmed histologically or clinicoradiologically.

Results:
We identified 23 patients with 32 FET-PET scans. Within 5–25 weeks after radiotherapy (median time, 9 weeks), pseudoprogression occurred in 11 patients (48%). The parameter TBRmean calculated from the FET-PET performed 10 ± 7 days after the equivocal MRI showed the highest accuracy (87%) to identify pseudoprogression (threshold, &lt;1.95; P = 0.029). The integration of relative changes of TBRmean further improved the accuracy (91%; P &lt; 0.001). Moreover, the combination of static and dynamic parameters increased the specificity to 100% (P = 0.005).

Conclusions:
The data suggest that FET-PET parameters are of significant clinical value to diagnose pseudoprogression related to lomustine–temozolomide chemoradiation.
What Is Moroccan Literature? History of an Object in Motion
Authors: Fernández Parrilla Gonzalo , Calderwood Eric 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
What is Moroccan literature, where and when does it happen, and in what languages? In this essay, we tackle these questions by tracing the evolution of the definition of “Moroccan literature” from the first half of the twentieth century until the present. The earliest works of Moroccan literary historiography, such as ʿAbd Allah Kannūn’s al-Nubūgh al-maghribī fī al-adab al-ʿarabī (1937), situated Moroccan literature within the Arabic literary tradition and treated Moroccan literature as an important element in the “Arab-Islamic” identity promoted by the Moroccan nationalist movement. Since Moroccan independence in 1956, this definition of Moroccan literature has come under increasing pressure, as the languages and imaginative geographies of Moroccan literature have expanded to include new voices. In what follows, we consider these debates through a survey of a diverse corpus of literary-historical works that throw into question the linguistic, temporal, and spatial borders of Moroccan literature (and of Morocco itself).
Arabic Poetry in the Twenty-First Century: Translation and Multilingualism
Authors: Fakhreddine Huda J. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This paper examines the work of a sample of contemporary Arab prose poets whose poetic investments exceed the linguistic parameters of previous generations. Unlike the pioneers of the prose poem in Arabic in the early 1960s, the poets of this generation are not interested in interrogating Arabic poetic language or reimagining Arabic literary history. Instead, these poets embrace the Arabic literary tradition as an open multi-generic practice exercised in the space between multiple literary and linguistic traditions. This essay shows how their deliberate detachment from the Arabic poetic tradition, as well as from the inheritance of the early modernists, reveals a relationship with the Arabic language that differs from that of their predecessors. Their poetry is thus born translated: it is multilingual and exophonic in its motivations.
Re-membering Syria’s Traumatic Past: Gender, Poetics, and Loss in Manhal al-Sarrāj’s As a River Should
Authors: Istanbulli Linda 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
In a system where the state maintains a monopoly over historical interpretation, aesthetic investigations of denied traumatic memory become a space where the past is confronted, articulated, and deemed usable both for understanding the present and imagining the future. This article focuses on Kamā yanbaghī li-nahr (As a river should) by Manhal al-Sarrāj, one of the first Syrian novels to openly break the silence on the “1982 Hama massacre.” Engaging the politics and poetics of trauma remembrance, al-Sarrāj places the traumatic history of the city of Hama within a longer tradition of loss and nostalgia, most notably the poetic genre of rithāʾ (elegy) and the subgenre of rithāʾ al-mudun (city elegy). In doing so, Kamā yanbaghī li-nahr functions as a literary counter-site to official histories of the events of 1982, where threatened memory can be preserved. By investigating the intricate relationship between armed conflict and gender, the novel mourns Hama’s loss while condemning the violence that engendered it. The novel also makes new historical interpretations possible by reproducing the intricate relationship between mourning, violence, and gender, dislocating the binary lines around which official narratives of armed conflicts are typically constructed.
Autocratization Verity: Insights from Democratic Setbacks in Africa
Authors: Obiagu Uchenna C. , Abada Ifeanyichukwu Michael , Mbah Peter Oluchukwu 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This study builds on extant literature on autocratization by critically analyzing democratic setbacks, arising from widespread incidents of electoral and political violence in democratic processes in Africa. The study leverages on frustration-aggression propositions to analyze the politico-electoral dynamics in autocratization trends in climes where the incentives to use violence as power acquisition strategy have become a dominant norm either by the ruling elites who seek to remain in power (sometimes by all means – both legal and, mostly, illegal) or by the opposition groups seeking to dislodge the former. As a qualitative research, the study squarely relies on available documented textual materials and rich datasets developed by reputable international research institutes. The analysis of data reveals that autocratization is real, gradual and subtle in Africa, and it is fostered by weak electoral institutions that are helpless in checkmating the use of violent strategies to win an election, which is the most visible element of modern democracy. Based on these findings, deliberate efforts should be made to build and/or strengthen electoral institutions that will rise above group interests and group control and ensure equal playing ground for all political groups in the contestation for state power. This will guarantee stable democratic growth within the context of the democratic principle of equal political opportunity premised on one man, one vote in Africa.
Aviation Turbulence Forecasting at DWD with ICON: Methodology, Case Studies, and Verification
Authors: Goecke Tobias , Machulskaya Ekaterina 
Published: May 2021

AbstractWe present a detailed evaluation of the turbulence forecast product eddy dissipation parameter (EDP) used at the Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD). It is based on the turbulence parameterization scheme TURBDIFF, which is operational within the Icosahedral Nonhydrostatic (ICON) numerical weather prediction model used operationally by DWD. For aviation purposes, the procedure provides the cubic root of the eddy dissipation rate ε1/3 as an overall turbulence index. This quantity is a widely used measure for turbulence intensity as experienced by aircraft. The scheme includes additional sources of turbulent kinetic energy with particular relevance to aviation, which are briefly introduced. These sources describe turbulence generation by the subgrid-scale action of wake eddies, mountain waves, and convection, as well as horizontal shear as found close to fronts or the jet stream. Furthermore, we introduce a postprocessing calibration to an empirical EDR distribution, and we demonstrate the potential as well as limitations of the final EDP-based turbulence forecast by considering several case studies of typical turbulence events. Finally, we reveal the forecasting capability of this product by verifying the model results against one year of aircraft in situ EDR measurements from commercial aircraft. We find that the forecasted EDP performs favorably when compared to the Ellrod index. In particular, the turbulence signal from deep convection, which is accounted for in the EDP product, is advantageous when spatial nonlocality is allowed in the verification procedure.
Potential for New Constraints on Tropical Cyclone Surface-Exchange Coefficients through Simultaneous Ensemble-Based State and Parameter Estimation
Authors: Nystrom Robert G. , Greybush Steven J. , Chen Xingchao , Zhang Fuqing 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe tropical cyclone (TC) surface-exchange coefficients of enthalpy (Ck) and momentum (Cd) at high wind speeds have been notoriously challenging to estimate. This difficulty arises from many factors, including the difficulties in collecting observations within the turbulent TC boundary layer, and the complex coupled physical interactions between the TC boundary layer and ocean surface, which are challenging to accurately model. Motivated by recent studies highlighting the limited practical predictability of TC intensity as a result of uncertainty in the physical representation of the air–sea fluxes of momentum and enthalpy at high wind speeds, we investigate the potential to estimate the surface enthalpy and momentum exchange coefficients through ensemble data assimilation. Significant ensemble correlations between tangential wind, radial wind, and simulated infrared brightness temperatures with parameters controlling the enthalpy and momentum exchange coefficients suggest potential to use all-sky satellite and/or airborne radial velocity observations to estimate these unknown parameters. Using a series of observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs), simulated infrared brightness temperature observations, and a known truth, we demonstrate some potential for simultaneous state and parameter estimation with an ensemble-based data assimilation system to converge toward the correct known parameter values. In all OSSEs with either one or multiple unknown parameters, the initial parameter errors are reduced through simultaneous model state and parameter estimation. However, challenges still exist in converging to the precise true parameter values, as state errors during rapid intensification can project onto the parameter estimates.
Evaluation of the quick-clotting serum separator tube, VQ-Tube™, for clinical chemistry and thyroid hormone assays
Authors: Jo Sung Jin , Chae Hyojin , Lee Yong-Wha , Seo Jong Do , Song Sang Hoon , Lee Jehoon 
Published: May 2021

Background The type of blood collection tube affects specimen quality and laboratory results. Because plasma specimens have a shorter processing time compared with serum specimens, emergency biochemistry tests use plasma. However, serum specimens remain stable after centrifugation and show more accurate results than plasma. Therefore, a quick-clotting serum separator tube is expected to be useful for shorter turnaround times and accurate results. We evaluated a new quick-clotting serum separator tube VQ-Tube™ (AB Medical, Korea) for clinical chemistry and thyroid hormone assays. Methods One hundred volunteers from four university hospitals were recruited, and peripheral blood samples were collected in quick-clotting serum separator tube VQ-Tubes™ and the commonly used serum separator tube V-Tubes™. The obtained specimens were used for 16 clinical chemistry assays and three thyroid hormone assays. Results The differences (%) in the test results obtained from the samples in each tube satisfied the allowable difference ranges (19 assays). The differences in the test results between the tubes satisfied the desired specifications for accuracy except for the glucose results (2.75%). The paired t-test revealed significant differences between the results of six assays, but each set of results showed a good correlation. Samples were visually inspected for serum clarity and gel barrier integrity, and incomplete clotting reactions and haemolysed serum were not observed. Conclusions The new quick-clotting VQ-Tube™ demonstrated reliable test results compared with the commonly used serum separator tube V-Tube™. This quick-clotting tube will provide fast test results with adequately separated serum specimens, especially for patients who need fast tests.
Bringing Books Back: Enhancing the Understanding of Psychotherapy in Psychology Students Through Book Club Participation
Authors: Khokhlova Olga , Bhatia Aditi 
Published: May 2021

Background: The experiential and reflective nature of psychotherapeutic training is not always captured in undergraduate psychology teaching, therefore, there is a need for educational strategies that provide opportunities for deeper understanding of the therapeutic process. Objective: This article evaluates one such strategy—A Book Club, to support the understanding of psychotherapeutic practice and mental health in Psychology undergraduate students at a private university in Dubai, UAE. Method: Psychotherapy-related books were assigned as prior reading each month, which were then discussed in the group meetings facilitated by clinically experienced Psychology lecturers. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were carried out with students and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Four primary themes were generated—(1) Diversity in perspectives, (2) Autonomous learning environment, (3) Reality orientation, and (4) Sparking self-insight. The results highlight that Book Clubs are useful in fostering deeper conceptualizations of the therapeutic relationship, visualizing future careers in psychotherapy, and promoting self-awareness among students. Conclusion: Discussions centred around books can provide students with discourse opportunities that enhance students’ interpersonal skills and improve student engagement. Teaching Implication: Book clubs can be a useful platform for teachers to help students connect the knowledge that they have previously acquired in the classroom with real-life experiences of psychotherapists described in books.
CANVAS: A New Genetic Entity in the Otorhinolaryngologist’s Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Costales María , Casanueva Rodrigo , Suárez Vanessa , Asensi José María , Cifuentes Guadalupe A. , Diñeiro Marta , Cadiñanos Juan , López Fernando , Álvarez‐Marcos César , Otero Andrea , Gómez Justo , Llorente José Luis , Cabanillas Rubén 
Published: May 2021

ObjectiveThe biallelic inheritance of an expanded intronic pentamer (AAGGG)exp in the gene encoding replication factor C subunit 1 (RFC1) has been found to be a cause of cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, and vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS). This study describes clinical and genetic features of our patients with clinical suspicion of the syndrome.Study DesignA retrospective descriptive study from an ataxia database comprising 500 patients.SettingThe study was performed at the Otorhinolaryngology Department of a hospital in the north of Spain.MethodsSpecific genetic testing for CANVAS was performed in 13 patients with clinical suspicion of complete or incomplete syndrome. The clinical diagnosis was supported by quantitative vestibular hypofunction, cerebellar atrophy, and abnormal sensory nerve conduction testing.ResultsNine of 13 (69%) patients met clinical diagnostic criteria for definite CANVAS disease. The first manifestation of the syndrome was lower limb dysesthesia in 8 of 13 patients and gait imbalance in 5 of 13. Eleven of 13 (85%) patients were carriers of the biallelic (AAGGG)exp in RFC1.ConclusionA genetic cause of CANVAS has recently been discovered. We propose genetic screening for biallelic expansions of the AAGGG pentamer of RFC1 in all patients with clinical suspicion of CANVAS, since accurate early diagnosis could improve the quality of life of these patients.
Determining the Impact of Thickened Liquids on Swallowing in Patients Undergoing Irradiation for Oropharynx Cancer
Authors: Barbon Carly E. A. , Chepeha Douglas B. , Hope Andrew J. , Peladeau‐Pigeon Melanie , Waito Ashley A. , Steele Catriona M. 
Published: May 2021

The current standard for the treatment of oropharynx cancers is radiation therapy. However, patients are frequently left with dysphagia characterized by penetration‐aspiration (impaired safety) and residue (impaired efficiency). Although thickened liquids are commonly used to manage dysphagia, we lack evidence to guide the modification of liquids for clinical benefit in the head and neck cancer population. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of slightly and mildly thick liquids on penetration‐aspiration and residue in 12 patients with oropharyngeal cancer who displayed penetration‐aspiration on thin liquid within 3 to 6 months after completion of radiotherapy. Significantly fewer instances of penetration‐aspiration were seen with slightly and mildly thick liquids as compared with thin (P <. 05). No differences were found across stimuli in the frequency of residue. Patients with oropharyngeal cancers who present with post–radiation therapy dysphagia involving penetration‐aspiration on thin liquids may benefit from slightly and mildly thick liquids without risk of worse residue.
Procedural Sedation in Minor Procedure Rooms for Pediatric Myringotomy and Tympanostomy: A Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Roy Catherine F. , Turkdogan Sena , Nguyen Lily H. P. , Yeung Jeffrey 
Published: May 2021

ObjectiveLengthy wait times for elective surgery is a widespread health care system conundrum that may increase patient distress and jeopardize health outcomes. The primary aim of this quality improvement project was to reduce the surgical wait time in patients undergoing tympanostomy tube insertion.MethodsAs of January 2018, our tertiary care institution implemented a novel protocol whereby healthy children may undergo tympanostomy tube insertion in a minor procedure room under ketamine sedation administered by pediatric emergency physicians to address lack of both physical and anesthesia staffing resources. A retrospective study of all children undergoing elective tympanostomy tube insertion was conducted between September 1, 2017, and May 8, 2019, to assess wait time to surgery, as well as anesthesia‐related and surgical complications.ResultsProcedural sedation in minor procedure rooms effectively decreased surgical wait times by 53 days (from 134 to 81 days, P <. 001) at 16 months postimplementation. This new protocol was found to be safe and effective for healthy children, with no major surgical or anesthesia‐related complications noted in 113 patients having undergone the procedure in the novel setting.DiscussionAlthough conscious sedation by emergency physicians has been well studied across a variety of surgical procedures, its novel use in pediatric tympanostomy tube insertion requires careful patient selection to enhance accessibility while maintaining anesthetic safety.Implications for PracticeThis quality improvement project describes a novel combination of processes, using a minor procedure room space and ketamine‐based procedural sedation to address surgical wait times in pediatric patients undergoing tympanostomy tube insertion.