Saint Francis University

About: Saint Francis University is a education organization based out in Loretto, Pennsylvania, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Osteoblast. The organization has 1694 authors who have published 2038 publications receiving 87149 citations.

A Rare p.T599dup BRAF Mutant NSCLC in a Non-Smoker.

Abstract: V-RAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF) mutated non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an exceptionally rare form of lung cancer, found only in one to two percent of patients with an NSCLC diagnosis. BRAF NSCLC traditionally affects former or active smokers. BRAF mutations have always been of special interest to the oncological community, as they offer potential for targeted therapies. BRAF mutation spectrum includes mutations that are of both V600 and non-V600 types. BRAF V600 is an activating mutation, which results in high kinase activity and overproduction of active oncoproteins such as rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (RAF). This makes them susceptible to targeted therapies with RAF inhibitors. There has been little evidence, however, regarding efficacy of RAF inhibitors towards non-activating mutations that have intermediate to low kinase activity, such as non-V600 BRAF mutations. While several approaches have been investigated to overcome the limitations of RAF inhibitors, such as use of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitors or combination of MEK and RAF inhibitors, none of them have been proven to have a superior efficacy for low kinase activity non-V600 BRAF tumors. We present a case of an extremely rare variant of NSCLC BRAF p.T599dup mutation in a non-smoker that responded to a targeted combination therapy with RAF and MEK inhibitors. The patient responded well to therapy that usually targets high kinase activity V600 mutations. Our hope is to bring more attention to non-V600 mutations and document their responses to existing and new therapies.

Neurosarcoidosis presenting with isolated spinal involvement: report of a case and review of the literature.

Abstract: Spinal sarcoidosis is a rare manifestation of sarcoidosis that can present a major diagnostic challenge Herein we present a case of a previously healthy 55-year-old man who presented with leg weakness and was found to have diffuse involvement of his spinal cord by neurosarcoidosis He was treated with steroids and recovered completely The clinical characteristics, radiographic and laboratory findings of spinal sarcoidosis are discussed Management strategies, including the use of newer targeted therapies, are also reviewed

Problems associated with homelessness and young pregnant teenagers

Abstract: Study Objective: Homelessness is a major complication to adolescent pregnancy. We hypothesized that homelessness was associated with an increased incidence of other psychosocial and health risk factors for young pregnant teens. Design, Setting, Participants: We conducted a nationwide study of homeless young pregnant teens living in group residential facilities and of a control population of young pregnant teens living at home with their families. Clinical social workers involved in services for these patients were located by consulting a national directory of maternity homes and through contact with hospital-based social service departments randomly selected through long-distance telephone information. After a telephone conversation detailing the nature of the project, questionnaires were mailed to each social worker. They were to complete a questionnaire for each of the two youngest pregnant teens cared for at their facility in the previous 12 months. The data from the returned questionnaires were evaluated by chi-square analysis and Fisher's exact test. Main Outcome Measures: We distributed 736 questionnaires and collected data on 509 subjects (278 homeless, 231 controls) from 191 cities throughout the United States. The return rates were 69.1% from each group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in median age (14 years), race (50 and 42% white, 32 and 39% black, 10 and 14% Hispanic), school grade level (8th), or dropout rates (19 and 18%). Results: Findings included a greater likelihood for those in the homeless group to be under the guardianship of a social service agency (29 vs. 3%, p p p p p p p p p Conclusions: Homelessness should alert prenatal care providers to the expected coexistence of numerous additional psychosocial and health risk factors in young pregnant teens.

Epidemiology of human immuno-deficiency virus and quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS in China.

Abstract: HIV/AIDS is increasing in prevalence in China and spread of infection from highly risk populations to the general populations was recognized. Despite the fact, there are still only few scientific reviews on quality of life (QOL) for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs). However, many PLWHAs are struggling with social and psychological influences such as substances abuse, cultural beliefs, depression, stigma, poverty, which can affect their QOL. Public unawareness about infection and disease, willingness to seek medical care and motivation to follow therapy are indirectly influencing health outcome. In 2003 Chinese government has established the so-called the “Four Frees and One Care” policy. The policy was officially implemented from 2004 in some areas, yet to date it is not implemented nationwide. This paper discussed the epidemiology of HIV, underlying psychosocial factors affecting PLWHAs and their impact on QOL. We put forward some recommendations for stakeholders, advocacy groups, non-government organizations and Chinese government.