Factors Affecting Response Rates Research Articles

Abstract 2243: A multi-ethnic population-based pilot study of multiple myeloma disparities

Abstract To understand multiple myeloma (MM) disparities we established the Precision MEDicine, EqUity and Disparities Research in MultipLe MyeLomA (MEDULLA) study, a population-based study in California. Our study contacted, via the Cancer Registry of Greater California (CRGC), 100 adult MM patients from four racial/ethnic groups: Non-Hispanic Black (NHB), Non-Hispanic White (NHW), Latinos, and Asians. Data collection included variables reported to the CRGC, a self-administered survey, and biospecimen saliva collection. The survey focused on demographics, risk factors, cancer treatment, family history, quality of life, and social determinants of health. Of the 400 MM patients, we had 95 patients who responded to the survey, giving a response rate of 24%. 44% of those who responded were NHW, 21% NHB, 19% Latinos, and 16% Asians. Those that provided a response tend to be living in a census tract location with lower proportions of poverty (p=0.0004), higher proportion of adults ages 25 years or over with a college degree (p=0.0011), higher median household income (p=0.0048), lower proportion of adults ages 25 years or over without a high school diploma (p<0.0001), and a lower proportion of individuals ages 16 or over who are unemployed (p<0.006). All respondents also have a lower comorbidity count and expressed being in good health. For minorities, we identified a trend where a higher response rate is seen if they live in an area where median household income is higher (p=0.0108). For every 1% increase in poverty rates, NHW living in such neighborhoods were 3% less likely to respond to the survey (p=0.04). For every 10% increase in the proportion of individuals having a college degree, response rate increased by 1.17 for minorities in that neighborhood (p=0.07). Minorities living in neighborhoods with high proportions of adults without a high school diploma and high unemployment rates are less likely to respond (p=0.02 and p=0.047, respectively). In conclusion, we found significantly lower participation rates among minority groups, with socio-economic factors affecting response rates. Our findings, therefore, suggest that future studies must develop improved community-focused and culturally tailored strategies to engage and meaningfully understand MM etiology and survivorship in such populations. Citation Format: Angelica M. Rolon, April P. Vang, J. Elizabeth Quino, Ana Estrada, Eric Stewart, Rosemary D. Cress, Luis Carvajal-Carmona, Alexa Morales Arana. A multi-ethnic population-based pilot study of multiple myeloma disparities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2243.

The gut microbiome predicts response to UDCA/CDCA treatment in gallstone patients: comparison of responders and non-responders

The treatment of gallbladder (GB) stones depends on condition severity. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) are commonly used to treat GB stones, but the factors affecting response rates have not been fully identified. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between response to UDCA/CDCA treatment and changes in the gut microbiomes of patients with GB stones with the intention of identifying gut microbiomes that predict susceptibility to UDCA/CDCA treatment and treatment response. In this preliminary, prospective study, 13 patients with GB stones were treated with UDCA/CDCA for 6 months. Patients were classified into responder and non-responder groups based on treatment outcomes. Gut microbiomes were analyzed by 16S rDNA sequencing. Taxonomic compositions and abundances of bacterial communities were analyzed before and after UDCA/CDCA treatment. Alpha and beta diversities were used to assess similarities between organismal compositions. In addition, PICRUSt2 analysis was conducted to identify gut microbial functional pathways. Thirteen patients completed the treatment; 8 (62%) were assigned to the responder group and the remainder to the non-responder group. Low abundances of the Erysipelotrichi lineage were significantly associated with favorable response to UDCA/CDCA treatment, whereas high abundances of Firmicutes phylum indicated no or poor response. Our results suggest that a low abundance of the Erysipelotrichi lineage is significantly associated with a favorable response to UDCA/CDCA and that a high abundance of Firmicutes phylum is indicative of no or poor response. These findings suggest that some gut microbiomes are susceptible to UDCA/CDCA treatment and could be used to predict treatment response in patients with GB stones.

Abstract B113: A multi-ethnic population-based study of multiple myeloma disparities: Results from a recruitment pilot

Abstract To understand multiple myeloma (MM) incidence and survivorship disparities, we established the Precision MEDicine, EqUity and Disparities Research in MultipLe MyeLomA (MEDULLA) study. Our study contacted 400 MM patients reported to the Cancer Registry of Greater California (CRGC) between 2013-2018. We contacted 100 adult individuals from four racial/ethnic groups: Blacks, Whites, Latinos, and Asians with MM diagnosis. Data collection included variables reported to the CRGC, a self-administered survey, and biospecimen saliva collection. The survey focused on demographics, risk factors, cancer treatment, family history, quality of life, and social determinants of health. We also used census tract level features obtained by the American Community Survey 2007-2011. A total of 95 patients participated in the survey (overall response rate = 24%). We performed chi-square test, fisher’s exact test, or Wilcoxon test to obtain two-sided p-values for univariate testing for associations with responding to the survey. We further perform multivariable logistic regression using a stepwise approach under the Akaike information criterion with age and sex kept as covariates. These methods were stratified by Whites and Non-Whites separately which we were able to find important trends. The highest response received was from Whites at 44.2%, with significantly lower rates in all minority groups (<20% for all groups). Response rates were higher for patients living in areas with higher median annual incomes and education. For every 1% increase in poverty rates, Whites living in such neighborhoods were 3% less likely to respond to the survey (p=0.04). For every 10% increase in the proportion of individuals having a college degree, responding to the survey increased by 1.17 units for minorities in that neighborhood (p=0.07). Minorities living in neighborhoods with high proportions of adults without a high school diploma and high unemployment rates are less likely to respond (p=0.02 and p=0.047, respectively). In conclusion, we found significantly lower participation rates among minority groups, with socio-economic factors affecting response rates. We suggest that future studies develop community-focused and culturally tailored strategies to understand MM etiology and survivorship in such populations. Citation Format: April P. Vang, Angelica Perez, Juanita Elizabeth Quino, Ana Estrada, Eric Stewart, Rosemary Cress, Luis Carvajal-Carmona. A multi-ethnic population-based study of multiple myeloma disparities: Results from a recruitment pilot [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B113.

Outcomes of Philadelphia Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Adolescent and Young Adults.

Background Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL) accounts for 25% of acute lymphoblastic leukemia cases in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) age subgroup. It is associated with poor outcomes and is considered a standard indication for allogeneic stem cell transplant (Allo-SCT). Improved outcomes have been reported with addition of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) to chemotherapy in children and the role of Allo-SCT is now being debated in the first remission. Complete response (CR) at three months is associated with improved survival even without Allo-SCT in first CR. In this study, we have analyzed disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and factors affecting survival outcomes of Ph+ALL in the AYA subgroup, in resource-limited settings treated with chemotherapy and TKIs. Materials and methods This is a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of Ph+ ALL AYA patients, aged 18-40 years, and registered between January 2015 and December 2020. Primary objectives are to calculate disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary objectives are to identify prognostic factors affecting response rates and outcomes. List of cases was obtained from hospital information system (HIS) and data were collected from patient case notes and electronic medical records. Data analysis was done utilizing the SPSS statistical program (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.). Results Forty-nine patients were identified with Ph+ ALL with a median age of 23 years (range: 18-40 years) and a male-to-female ratio of 2.5:1. None of the patients had central nervous system (CNS) disease. White cell count was >30,000 per mm3 in 26% of patients, while 13% had additional cytogenetic abnormalities. Thirty-three percent patients received adult (hyper-cyclophosphamide, vincristine, Adriamycin, and dexamethasone {CVAD}) protocols while 67% received pediatric-inspired (Berlin-Frankfurt-Munster {BFM} 2000 or UK-ALL 2003/2011) protocols. TKI therapy was received by 66% of patients during treatment (early: 37%; late: 29%) and 34% did not receive TKIs due to financial constraints. CR after induction was achieved in 69% cases. Induction mortality was 16%. The median DFS for the entire cohort was 27 months (0.93-53.06) and the median OS was 29 months (8.89-49.10). The median OS in Allo-SCT group was not reached vs 8.0±8.8 months (p=0.05) with chemotherapy only. The OS was significantly better in patients with no additional cytogenetic abnormalities, pediatric-inspired chemotherapy protocols, early use of TKIs in induction phase, Allo-SCT, and post-Allo-SCT use of TKIs. Conclusion Addition of TKIs to pediatric-inspired chemotherapy protocols in Ph+ALL AYA patients and Allo-SCT results in better overall survival. TKI availability remains a significant issue in low-income countries due to significant financial burden on the patients. Allo-SCT continues to be an attractive option, particularly in low-income countries providing an option for cure in Ph+ ALL.

Factors Affecting Response Rates of the Web Survey with Teachers

Although web survey has been a popular method of data collection in the academic community, it presents meagre response rates, which primarily affect the validity of the results as well as the reliability of the outcomes. Surveys worldwide that study the response rate only of teachers have not been found in the relevant literature. In this survey, with a sample of 263 Greek teachers, we investigate possible factors that explain teachers’ intention to participate in web surveys that are conducted by online questionnaires indicating, therefore, the factors that probably influence the response rate of web surveys. Our findings support those factors such as (a) authority, (b) incentives, (c) survey structure/form, (d) ethical issues, (e) reminders and pre-notifications, and (f) survey time received, which seem to explain the teachers’ intention to participate in web surveys with questionnaires. Based on the findings, methodology implications and limitations for researchers are discussed.

Trade‑Association Endorsements, Postal&Online Responses, and Other Factors Affecting Response Rates: Reflections on a Survey of Micro‑Firms

Researchers using survey‑based methods must do everything they can to enhance their response rates in order toimprove the robustness and validity of the data they collect for analysis. Extant literature has explored several techniques todo this across many contexts, including experiments/meta‑analyses. This paper addresses two particular deficits byconsidering the difficult context of micro‑firms and also the impact of trade‑association endorsement (rather thansponsorship). This is done by conducting an in‑depth ex‑post review of a single, successful survey case conducted and utilisedin a study of English tourism firms and regulation. We explore several factors: the type of trade‑association support (includinglevels of endorsement, access to member firms, and messages sent on behalf of the research team); postal versus onlinequestionnaires; message type/frequency; and the importance of giving respondents an opportunity for open comments. Thepaper ends with a comprehensive set of suggestions for future researchers.

The factors affecting response rate in survey on well-being among people with foreign origin

Abstract Background Previous population surveys among people with foreign background (PFB) in Finland have had successful response rates (62%-66%) when using mainly face-to-face interviews. A cross-sectional population survey (FinMONIK) explored more cost-efficient ways to collect the data on PFB. Methods The data collection was conducted in Finland between May 2018 and January 2019. The random sample consisted of 12 877 (after removing over-coverage) 18-64-year-olds stratified by region. First, a letter containing a link to the online survey with 18 different language options was sent to the participants. After two reminders, the questionnaire was sent twice on paper to the non-respondents. Finally, supplementary phone interviews were carried out by multi-lingual interviewers. All the participants were able to enter in a draw to win gift cards. Results The response rate (RR) for the online survey was 34%. RR was highest for those who had lived in Finland 5 years or less (43%) and lowest among the divorced (23%) and Estonians (27%). The paper questionnaire was mostly preferred by older age groups, increasing the RR of 40-64 year-olds from 31% to 48%. Telephone interviews increased the RR by five percent points, thus making the final RR for the survey 53%. Persons born in the EU and North-America responded the most frequently (58%) whereas RR was lowest amongst the Sub-Saharan African origin migrants (47%). RR was particularly low (42%) for those who had moved to Finland at ages 0-6. Conclusions In surveys conducted amongst PFB, relatively good response rates can be obtained by using alternate methods for gathering data instead of costly and time-consuming face-to-face interview. Age and marital status seemed to affect the preference of survey format. The overall RR varied by country of origin. Key messages A good response rate can be obtained without face-to-face interviews in migrant population surveys. Migrant population surveys can be conducted more efficiently by combining a variety of methods.

Factors Affecting Response Rates in Medical Imaging Survey Studies

To review response rates published in medical imaging journals, and to analyze potential factors which contributed to a low response rate. A literature search was performed in MEDLINE and Embase to identify and assess published medical imaging survey studies. Variables assessed were response rate, incentives such as reminders and remuneration, and rationales provided for a potential low response rate. Statistical significance was calculated using unpaired t tests, ANOVA, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Three hundred and fifty-six unique surveys were included for analysis. The mean survey response rate in the current age of predominately electronic surveys was 45%. Factors which statistically significantly demonstrated a difference in response rate were survey location (European countries: 52%, Canada: 47%, United States: 42%; p < 0.05), survey topic (musculoskeletal: 69%, nuclear medicine: 64%, and education: 47%; p < 0.05), survey delivery method (telephone: 76%, email: 41%; p < 0.0001), and survey question type (short answer: 62%, multiple choice: 43%; p < 0.01). Statistically significant linear correlations were observed between the response rate compared to the number of reminders sent (r = 0.27; p < 0.01) and the number of participants (r = -0.26; p < 0.0001). The survey response rate serves as a surrogate marker for nonresponse bias. Survey response controlled for intrinsic nonadjustable characteristics offer achievable research goals. Adjustable factors to low response, including survey delivery method, question type, and number of reminders demonstrated statistical difference in response rate, and can be utilized by researchers to prospectively minimize nonresponse bias.

Effectiveness of a hepatitis B vaccination program at two tertiary hemodialysis centers.

Hemodialysis (HD) patients are at increased risk of hepatitis B infection in comparison to the general population. Despite a more intensified hepatitis vaccination regimen, response rates in HD patients are typically low. The study was conducted to quantify response rate to a new hepatitis B vaccination protocol initiated in late 2015, determine risk factors affecting response rate, and assess adherence to protocol. This retrospective chart review evaluated all HD patients eligible for hepatitis B vaccination in two large dialysis clinics from initiation of the hepatitis B protocol to July 2017. Recombinant hepatitis vaccine (Recombivax® HB) 40 μg was administered in a 3-dose regimen at months 0, 1, and 6 to patients with hepatitis B surface antibodies (anti-HBs) <10 mIU/mL. A repeat series was given if anti-HBs levels remained below 10 mIU/mL after the first series. A booster dose was given if anti-HBs titers fell below 10 mIU/mL after initial response to a second series vaccination. Of 411 patients at the two HD centers, 142 patients received hepatitis B vaccination with a total of 168 vaccine courses given, series 1: n = 86, series 2: n = 60 and booster: n = 22. Response rates to vaccination were 61.4%, 58.3%, and 81.8%, respectively. In univariate analysis, adherence to protocol significantly affected response rate (P = 0.035). A multivariate analysis assessing response rates to series 1, 2 or booster confirmed that adherence was a significant risk factor (OR = 2.2; 95% CI 1.4-3.4; P = 0.0005). This was the first study to examine adherence to regimen and identified adherence as an important predictor of vaccine response. Adherence is one of the few modifiable risk factors that can be optimized in an effort to improve response to hepatitis B vaccination.

Factors affecting response rates after thymectomy for myasthenia gravis

Factors affecting response rates after thymectomy for myasthenia gravis

The role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the surgical management of women with breast cancer in a middle-income country

&lt;p&gt;Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in women with large breast tumours can downsize tumours to allow for breast conservation surgery (BCS). The aim of this study is to compare the BCS rate between those who had NAC versus those who underwent surgery first and to determine the factors affecting response rate. 1,183 patients, who had surgery for breast cancer in a single institution from December 2012 to December 2015, were included in this study. 80 (6.8%) patients had NAC. Patient and tumours characteristics, and type of surgery were compared between those who had surgery first or surgery after NAC. Variables affecting the response rate were analyzed. The BCS rate between the surgery first and the NAC group were similar (34.2% versus 35%). The pathological complete response (PCR) rate, partial response rate and stable disease rate was 22.5%, 65% and 12.5%, respectively. PCR rate was not significantly affected by subtype of breast cancer, although there was a tendency for PCR to be higher in ER-negative (32.4%), PR-negative (26.1%) HER2-positive (28.6%), HER2 overexpressing (37.5%) and TNBC (22.7%) tumours. NAC is able to downsize tumour to achieve BCS rate that is similar to those without NAC.&lt;/p&gt;

Factors affecting response rates to mailed preoperative surveys among arthroplasty patients

To identify factors that affect patient response rates to preoperative functional surveys in hip and knee arthroplasty patients. From May 2008 to March 2009, 247 patients were scheduled more than 4 wk in advance for hip or knee arthroplasty by one of two participating surgeons at our center. A personalized questionnaire comprised of the Short Form 12 (SF-12) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Index was mailed to patients at random time points ranging from 7 to 101 d prior to surgery. Nine independent factors were documented prospectively, including age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, type of surgery, surgeon, days prior to surgery (DPS) of survey mailing, WOMAC score and SF-12 score. The date of the completed survey receipt was also documented. For non-responders, the surveys were completed with the research team at the hospital upon admission. Multivariate regression and χ(2) analysis were performed with Statistical Analysis Software software. DPS was the only factor that affected patient response. Mailing surveys 26 d to 31 d prior to surgery dates led to a peak response rate of 80% that was significantly higher (P < 0.023) than response rates for patients who were mailed their surveys ≤ 16 d (62.5%), 17 d to 25 d (70%) or ≥ 32 d prior to surgery (55%). No other factors, including preoperative WOMAC and SF-12 scores, significantly influenced response behavior. The DPS was independently the most significant predictor of response rates for pre-operative functional data among patients scheduled for hip and knee arthroplasty.

Predicting response to incretin-based therapy

There are two important incretin hormones, glucose-dependent insulin tropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The biological activities of GLP-1 include stimulation of glucose-dependent insulin secretion and insulin biosynthesis, inhibition of glucagon secretion and gastric emptying, and inhibition of food intake. GLP-1 appears to have a number of additional effects in the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system. Incretin based therapy includes GLP-1 receptor agonists like human GLP-1 analogs (liraglutide) and exendin-4 based molecules (exenatide), as well as DPP-4 inhibitors like sitagliptin, vilda- gliptin and saxagliptin. Most of the published studies showed a significant reduction in HbA 1c using these drugs. A critical analysis of reported data shows that the response rate in terms of target achievers of these drugs is average. One of the first actions identified for GLP-1 was the glucose-dependent stimulation of insulin secretion from islet cell lines. Following the detection of GLP-1 receptors on islet beta cells, a large body of evidence has accumulated illustrating that GLP-1 exerts multiple actions on various signaling pathways and gene products in the β cell. GLP-1 controls glucose homeostasis through well-defined actions on the islet β cell via stimulation of insulin secretion and preservation and expansion of β cell mass. In summary, there are several factors determining the response rate to incretin therapy. Currently minimal clinical data is available to make a conclusion. Key factors appear to be duration of diabetes, obesity, presence of autonomic neuropathy, resting energy expenditure, plasma glucagon levels and plasma free fatty acid levels. More clinical evidence is required to identify the factors affecting response rate to incretin therapy.

Salvage Regimens With Autologous Transplantation for Relapsed Large B-Cell Lymphoma in the Rituximab Era

Salvage chemotherapy followed by high-dose therapy and autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard treatment for relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Salvage regimens have never been compared; their efficacy in the rituximab era is unknown. Patients with CD20(+) DLBCL in first relapse or who were refractory after first-line therapy were randomly assigned to either rituximab, ifosfamide, etoposide, and carboplatin (R-ICE) or rituximab, dexamethasone, high-dose cytarabine, and cisplatin (R-DHAP). Responding patients received high-dose chemotherapy and ASCT. The median age of the 396 patients enrolled (R-ICE, n = 202; R-DHAP, n = 194) was 55 years. Similar response rates were observed after three cycles of R-ICE (63.5%; 95% CI, 56% to 70%) and R-DHAP (62.8%; 95 CI, 55% to 69%). Factors affecting response rates (P < .001) were refractory disease/relapse less than versus more than 12 months after diagnosis (46% v 88%, respectively), International Prognostic Index (IPI) of more than 1 versus 0 to 1 (52% v 71%, respectively), and prior rituximab treatment versus no prior rituximab (51% v 83%, respectively). There was no significant difference between R-ICE and R-DHAP for 3-year event-free survival (EFS) or overall survival. Three-year EFS was affected by prior rituximab treatment versus no rituximab (21% v 47%, respectively), relapse less than versus more than 12 months after diagnosis (20% v 45%, respectively), and IPI of 2 to 3 versus 0 to 1 (18% v 40%, respectively). In the Cox model, these parameters were significant (P < .001). In patients who experience relapse more than 12 months after diagnosis, prior rituximab treatment does not affect EFS. Patients with early relapses after rituximab-containing first-line therapy have a poor prognosis, with no difference between the effects of R-ICE and R-DHAP.

Factors affecting response rates of the web survey: A systematic review

The lower response rate in web surveys has been a major concern for survey researchers. The literature has sought to identify a wide variety of factors that affect response rates in web surveys. In this article, we developed a conceptual model of the web survey process and use the model to systematically review a wide variety of factors influencing the response rate in the stage of survey development, survey delivery, survey completion, and survey return. Practical suggestion and future research directions on how to increase the response rate are discussed.

Independent Predictive Value of PET-CT Pre Transplant in Relapsed and Refractory Patients with CD20 Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) Included in the CORAL Study.

Abstract 881Salvage chemotherapy followed by high dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard of treatment for chemosensitive relapses in diffuse large B cell lymphoma. The CORAL trial compared the association rituximab, ifosfamide, etoposide, carboplatinum, R-ICE to rituximab dexamethasone Cytarabine and cisplatinum R-DHAP and factors affecting outcome. Methods:DLBCL CD 20+ in first relapse or pts refractory after first line therapy were randomized between R-DHAP and R-ICE. Response was evaluated according to Cheson Criteria (1999); chemosensitive patients after 3 cycles received BEAM and ASCT, and were randomized between observation and maintenance with rituximab for 1 yr. PET scan was not required at the time of design of the study but recommended, whenever possible. Consequently, the assessment of response with PET scan was also performed in a subset of patients and could be compared to revised Cheson criteria (2007). Results:Intent to treat analysis was made on 394 pts ( 201 R ICE arm, 193 R DHAP arm) and was reported earlier this year (J Clin Oncol 27:15s, 2009 (suppl; abstr 8509). There was no difference between the two treatments arms. Prospectively, 123 pts with PET scans were recorded at the end of induction treatment and were reported by investigators positive or negative. Functional imaging was not used to modify treatment protocol. PET was negative ( FDG non-avid) in 61 pts and positive ( FDG-avid) in 62 pts; 60 and 58 pts completed 3 cycles of R-ICE or R-DHAP; 50 PET-ve and 26 PET +ve pts received BEAM respectively. Median age 54 yrs.; 52 relapses >12 months, 71 refractory/early relapses <12 months; 77 pts had prior exposure to rituximab; secondary IPI 0-1 77 pts, sIPI 2-3 40 pts. The overall response rate was 74%, with 47% complete remission. The number of CR, CRu, PR were 42,11,7 in PET negative pts and 1,4,26 in PET positive pts respectively. There was a highly significant difference (p<0.0001) in response rate per CT for PET negative 98% (CI 91-100%) vs. PET positive 50% (CI 37-63%) patients. Thus using updated criteria with PET, all the patients negative, except one stable, should be now characterized as complete responders. Whereas, only 5 pts PET positive were recorded to be in CR or CRu. No histology was available. For the whole population, three years EFS was 30%. EFS were different in pet negative pts 40% vs. 16% for positive pts ( p<0.0001). The same significant difference was found for PFS 43% vs. 28% respectively. Three years overall survival was 47%, for pts PET-ve 66% vs. pts PET+ve 49% ( p=0.007). For the 26 patients submitted to transplantation with PET positivity there was a significant difference for EFS (p=0.03) when compared to PET negative patients, but no statistical difference in PFS and OS. Factors affecting response rate in multivariate analysis were early relapse/refractory < 12 months and PET+ve following induction. The same factors were found in cox's model for EFS and PFS. Conclusion:This prospective study in relapsing DLBCL shows that PET scan is accurate to predict outcome. PET is an independent predictive factor with early relapse/refractory <12 months. A PET positivity pretransplantation is associated with a poor outcome and argues for new therapeutic approaches in this population. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Keeping Our Depressed Patients in the Right Treatment Long Enough for Them to Get Better: Some Hopeful Findings

Keeping Our Depressed Patients in the Right Treatment Long Enough for Them to Get Better: Some Hopeful Findings

E-mail and mixed mode database surveys revisited: Exploratory analyses of factors affecting response rates

Two studies were conducted to test for factors affecting the overall response rates of e-mail and mixed-mode surveys. The surveys were directed at association executives who were asked to respond about the characteristics of their associations and their members.The first study was international, involving association executives from six continents and 29 countries. It showed that the response rates were poor overall, with ‘undeliverable’ addresses as a potential problem. This global sampling frame was found to be unfeasible, given the very low response rates from association executives in most countries.The subsequent study used a mixed mode approach and focused on executives within just the USA. The data collection process was specifically designed, in part, to enable certain comparisons among different e-mail survey options (eg degree of personalisation), as well as the core comparison of e-mail versus regular mail, with respect to response rates and other items of interest. Specifically, the authors found the response rate to be much higher for surveys mailed (versus e- mailed) to informants. Lottery incentives did not increase response rates for e-mail surveys. Only a small percentage (2.2 per cent) of informants who were mailed the ‘paper’ version of the questionnaire chose to fill it in online. On the other hand, none of the informants receiving the e-mail version of the questionnaire asked for the paper version.There was no significant difference between the response rate for embedded versus attached e-mails; there was a marginally significant increase in response rate for personalised e-mails over that for non-personalised e-mail solicitations. Finally, the implications of these findings for using e-mail and mixed mode methodologies are addressed.

Incentives, subject matter and length of questionnaire affect response rates

Objectives To investigate responses rates and factors affecting response rate of dentists to mailed questionnaires and to suggest methods of improving the response.Data sources Hand search of the British Dental Journal, Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, Journal of American Dental Association and Dental Update 1989–1992.Study selection All papers including mailed questionnaires were included. (Some copies of JADA in 1992 were not searched).Data extraction Various aspects of questionnaire design were noted and a simple subjective assessment of the length of the questionnaire into three categories was made (simple, moderate and complicated). Overall response rate was measured as was the status of the respondents and their country of origin.Results Of the 3140 papers examined 2.5% (77) involved questionnaires. Response rates varied from 17–100%. Simple questionnaires produce a higher response rate than complex ones (60% compared with 72%). Higher response rates were obtained from those carried out in Australia or Canada (3 studies only) and which were short in length (less than 10 questions or requiring no written answers). The use of various incentives such as reply paid envelopes, reminders, appears to increase response rate the highest responses being in those questionnaires with more incentives.Conclusion The subject of the questionnaire, incentives offered and the length of the questionnaire may be factors involved in the response rates to mailed questionnaires. The authors suggest many methods for increasing response rates derived from a further review of the literature. Other possible factors include advanced notification, appearance and personalisation of the questionnaire, presence and wording of a covering letter asking for help and stressing the importance of the survey, confidentiality and well timed reminders.

9 Factors affecting response rate (RR) and survival (OS) in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Retrospective analysis on 1128 patients (pts)

9 Factors affecting response rate (RR) and survival (OS) in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Retrospective analysis on 1128 patients (pts)