Journal of clinical oncology : official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology
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The main objectives of this study were (a) to ascertain the feasibility and toxicity of preoperative twice-daily radiation therapy and concurrent chemotherapy, surgery, and postoperative therapy in stage IIIA (N2) non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and (b) to evaluate tumor response, resection rate, pathologic tumor downstaging, and survival. ⋯ Concurrent chemoradiotherapy using twice-daily radiation is an effective induction regimen that resulted in 67% tumor downstaging, and an encouraging 37% 5-year survival rate. The degree of tumor downstaging may be a useful intermediate end point for survival benefit in stage IIIA (N2) NSCLC.
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A prospective study was performed to assess plasma measurement of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), lymphotoxin alpha (LTalpha), and their soluble receptors (p55 and p75) for prognostic risk assignment in patients with malignant lymphomas. ⋯ TNF and its soluble receptors' plasma measurements represent valuable prognostic markers in lymphoma patients.
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Euthanasia is a pressing public issue. We sought to assess how frequently physicians could perceive of a desire for euthanasia themselves and whether they would be willing to provide patients the same interventions. ⋯ Almost half of surveyed oncologists could imagine a situation in which they would desire euthanasia or assisted suicide. However, in many cases, this was for nonterminal illness which would be prohibited by proposed laws. When physicians desire euthanasia or assisted suicide for themselves, they are willing to provide these interventions for their patients; therefore, most physicians would practice what they preach. Indeed, when they deviate, oncologists overwhelmingly respect patient autonomy rather than impose their own views on patients.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Ketamine-midazolam versus meperidine-midazolam for painful procedures in pediatric oncology patients.
To compare the efficacy, characteristics of onset/recovery, and safety of ketamine/atropine/midazolam with meperidine/midazolam used as premedication for painful procedures in children with cancer. ⋯ A premedication regimen of KM produced superior sedation with a faster onset and recovery and fewer side effects than a MM combination.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Ondansetron versus metoclopramide, both combined with dexamethasone, in the prevention of cisplatin-induced delayed emesis. The Italian Group for Antiemetic Research.
The role of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced delayed emesis is controversial. We compared ondansetron and metoclopramide, both combined with dexamethasone, in cisplatin-treated patients. ⋯ The two treatments offer similar protection from delayed emesis, although ondansetron plus dexamethasone may be preferred in patients who suffer from acute vomiting. Optimal control of acute emesis is essential to achieve good protection from delayed nausea and vomiting, irrespective of the antiemetic treatment received.