bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Studies of Some Metal(II) Complexes of Tetradentate Schiff Base Ligand: (4E)-4-[(2-{(E)-[1-(2,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]amino}ethyl)imino]pentan-2-one
Authors: Ejidike Ikechukwu P. , Ajibade Peter A.
Published: May 2015

Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) complexes of (4E)-4-[(2-{(E)-[1-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]amino}ethyl)imino]pentan-2-one have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, molar conductance, electronic and IR spectral studies, and XRD. FTIR confirmed the ligand coordinates the metal ion to form mononuclear complex via the oxygen and nitrogen atoms of the phenolic group and azomethine group, respectively. Tetrahedral geometry is proposed for Co(II) complex and square-planar geometry for Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes. The antibacterial studies of the compounds were determined and they show that the metal complexes are more active than the free ligands. The antioxidant activity by DPPH and ABTS method was examined and it shows Cu(II); IC50= 2.31 ± 1.54 µM for DPPH and Co(II); IC50= 1.83 ± 1.08 µM for ABTS were the most active.
Formulation of Novel Layered Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose Film Wound Dressings with Ibuprofen for Alleviating Wound Pain
Authors: Vinklárková Lenka , Masteiková Ruta , Vetchý David , Doležel Petr , Bernatonienė Jurga
Published: May 2015

Effective assessment and management of wound pain can facilitate both improvements in healing rates and overall quality of life. From a pharmacological perspective, topical application of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of film wound dressings may be a good choice. Thus, the aim of this work was to develop novel layered film wound dressings containing ibuprofen based on partially substituted fibrous sodium carboxymethylcellulose (nonwoven textile Hcel NaT). To this end, an innovative solvent casting method using a sequential coating technique has been applied. The concentration of ibuprofen which was incorporated as an acetone solution or as a suspension in a sodium carboxymethylcellulose dispersion was 0.5 mg/cm2and 1.0 mg/cm2of film. Results showed that developed films had adequate mechanical and swelling properties and an advantageous acidic surface pH for wound application. Anin vitrodrug release study implied that layered films retained the drug for a longer period of time and thus could minimize the frequency of changing the dressing. Films with suspended ibuprofen demonstrated higher drug content uniformity and superiorin vitrodrug release characteristics in comparison with ibuprofen incorporation as an acetone solution. Prepared films could be potential wound dressings for the effective treatment of wound pain in low exuding wounds.
Ecdysteroids Sensitize MDR and Non-MDR Cancer Cell Lines to Doxorubicin, Paclitaxel, and Vincristine but Tend to Protect Them from Cisplatin
Authors: Martins Ana , Sipos Péter , Dér Katalin , Csábi József , Miklos Walter , Berger Walter , Zalatnai Attila , Amaral Leonard , Molnár Joseph , Szabó-Révész Piroska , Hunyadi Attila
Published: May 2015

Ecdysteroids, analogs of the insect molting hormone, are known for their various mild, nonhormonal bioactivities in mammals. Previously, we reported that less-polar ecdysteroids can modulate the doxorubicin resistance of a multidrug resistant (MDR) mouse lymphoma cell line expressing the human ABCB1 transporter. Here, we describe the ability of 20-hydroxyecdysone (1) and its mono- (2) and diacetonide (3) derivatives to sensitize various MDR and non-MDR cancer cell lines towards doxorubicin, paclitaxel, vincristine, or cisplatin. Drug IC50values with or without ecdysteroid were determined by MTT assay. Compound3significantly sensitized all cell lines to each chemotherapeutic except for cisplatin, whose activity was decreased. In order to overcome solubility and stability issues for the futurein vivoadministration of compound3, liposomal formulations were developed. By means of their combination index values obtained via checkerboard microplate method, a formulation showed superior activity to that of compound3alone. Because ecdysteroids act also on non-ABCB1 expressing (sensitive) cell lines, our results demonstrate that they do not or not exclusively exert their adjuvant anticancer activity as ABCB1 inhibitors, but other mechanisms must be involved, and they opened the way towards theirin vivobioactivity testing against various cancer xenografts.
On a New Faster Implicit Fixed Point Iterative Scheme in Convex Metric Spaces
Authors: Chugh Renu , Malik Preety , Kumar Vivek
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this paper is to consider a new implicit iteration and study its strong convergence, stability, and data dependence. It is proved through numerical examples that newly introduced iteration has better convergence rate than well known implicit Mann iteration as well as implicit Ishikawa iteration and implicit iterations converge faster as compared to corresponding explicit iterations. Applications of implicit iterations to RNN (Recurrent Neural Networks) analysis are also presented.
Apple Peel Supplemented Diet Reduces Parameters of Metabolic Syndrome and Atherogenic Progression in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Gonzalez Jaime , Donoso Wendy , Sandoval Nathalie , Reyes María , Gonzalez Priscila , Gajardo Monica , Morales Erik , Neira Amalia , Razmilic Iván , Yuri José A. , Moore-Carrasco Rodrigo
Published: May 2015

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) represent about 30% of all causes of death worldwide. The development of CVD is related in many cases with the previous existence of metabolic syndrome (MS). It is known that apple consumption has a cardiovascular protecting effect, containing phenolic compounds with antioxidant effect, which are concentrated in the fruit peel. The objective of this study was to test the effect of apple peel consumption in a murine model of MS and apoE−/− mice. Apple supplemented diets reduced the biochemical parameters (glycaemia, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, ureic nitrogen, triglycerides, insulin, and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)) of MS model in CF1 mice significantly. The model apoE−/− mouse was used to evaluate the capacity of the apple peel to revert the progression of the atherogenesis. FD with HAP reverts cholesterol significantly and slows down the progression of the plate diminishing the cholesterol accumulation area. With these results, it can be concluded that the consumption of apple peel reduces several MS parameters and the atherogenic progression in mice.
Autoantibodies Affect Brain Density Reduction in Nonneuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Xu Jian , Cheng Yuqi , Lai Aiyun , Lv Zhaoping , Campbell Robert A. A. , Yu Hongjun , Luo Chunrong , Shan Baoci , Xu Lin , Xu Xiufeng
Published: May 2015

This study explores the relationship between autoantibodies and brain density reduction in SLE patients without major neuropsychiatric manifestation (NPSLE). Ninety-five NPSLE patients without obvious cerebral deficits, as determined by conventional MRI, as well as 89 control subjects, underwent high-resolution structural MRI. Whole-brain density of grey matter (GMD) and white matter (WMD) were calculated for each individual, and correlations between the brain density, symptom severity, immunosuppressive agent (ISA), and autoantibody levels were assessed. The GMD and WMD of the SLE group decreased compared to controls. GMD was negatively associated with SLE activity. The WMD of patients who received ISA treatment were higher than that in the patients who did not. The WMD of patients with anticardiolipin (ACL) or anti-SSB/La antibodies was lower than in patients without these antibodies, while the GMD was lower in patients with anti-SM or anti-U1RNP antibodies. Thus, obvious brain atrophy can occur very early even before the development of significant symptoms and specific autoantibodies might contribute to the reduction of GMD or WMD in NPSLE patients. However, ISAs showed protective effects in minimizing GMD and WMD reduction. The presence of these specific autoantibodies might help identify early brain damage in NPSLE patients.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Axilla and Adrenal Gland: A Case Report with Imaging and Pathologic Findings
Authors: Baek Soo Heui , Jung Hyun Kyung , Kim WooGyeong , Kim Suk Jung , Baek Hye Jin , Kim Seung Ho , Lee Yedaun , Park Young Mi
Published: May 2015

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. MCC is characterized by a high incidence of locoregional recurrence, and distant metastasis, and often requires short-term follow-up after treatment. In this present paper, we describe a rare case of MCC, which presented as a palpable axillary mass and an incidental adrenal mass, and report on the ultrasonography, computed tomography, and18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography findings. The patient underwent surgery and adjuvant radiation therapy. Seven months after the initial diagnosis, distant metastasis was detected during a follow-up examination.
How Inflammation Impinges on NAFLD: A Role for Kupffer Cells
Authors: Duarte Nádia , Coelho Inês C. , Patarrão Rita S. , Almeida Joana I. , Penha-Gonçalves Carlos , Macedo M. Paula
Published: May 2015

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly becoming the most prevalent cause of liver disease worldwide and afflicts adults and children as currently associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Even though lately some advances have been made to elucidate the mechanism and causes of the disease much remains unknown about NAFLD. The aim of this paper is to discuss the present knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of the disease aiming at the initial steps of NAFLD development, when inflammation impinges on fat liver deposition. At this stage, the Kupffer cells attain a prominent role. This knowledge becomes subsequently relevant for the development of future diagnostic, prevention, and therapeutic options for the management of NAFLD.
Abstract A28: CBPR and Social Marketing Intersection Model to increase screening mammogram in uninsured and underinsured women: A preliminary evaluation
Authors: Rahman Saleh M.M. , Harris Cynthia M. , Mitchell Miaisha , Soliman Karam F.A.
Published: May 2015

Background: Community Outreach and Preventive Services Core of the FAMU Center of Excellence for Cancer Research, Training and Community service has conceptualized and implemented CBPR and Social Marketing principles to increase screening mammograms among uninsured and underinsured women. This study aims at evaluating the preliminary stage of the five-year project TREE.

Methods: Academic and community partnerships among two local universities, seven community-based organizations, local health departments, regional hospital, local chapters of national organizations and media channels were developed. A preplanned social marketing campaign was implemented to disseminate CBPR methods, and increase awareness about breast cancer prevention. Print materials, information exchange sessions, stakeholder's meeting, community events and media advocacy were used to increase trust and coalition building. The Social marketing campaign has established a slogan ‘A friend is She who Reminds Me’ to exponentially increase participants in screening. Evaluation included process and immediate outcomes in coalition building and cancer prevention. A feedback mechanism was established to identify area of conflict, mechanism of conflict resolution, strengths and weaknesses and to adopt specific strategies to improve.

Results: Fifteen meetings, five community events, 400 information brochures, 300 booklets were distributed in the past seven months and a total of 165 women were recruited for screening mammogram. Pilot testing of five more print materials and two videos were completed.

Conclusion: Preliminary evaluation indicates trustworthy partnership among stakeholders, successful initial recruitment and social marketing campaign. However, strategic improvements needed to meet the demands of community to sustain these partnerships and improve breast cancer prevention efforts.

Citation Format: Saleh M.M. Rahman, Cynthia M. Harris, Miaisha Mitchell, Karam F.A. Soliman. CBPR and Social Marketing Intersection Model to increase screening mammogram in uninsured and underinsured women: A preliminary evaluation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A28. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-A28
Abstract B02: The Cultural Framework for Health: Transforming the use of culture to reduce cancer health disparities
Authors: Singer Marjorie Kagawa
Published: May 2015

Culture is currently poorly defined and even more poorly operationalized in cancer research. Such practice renders culture irrelevant to the risk factors known or suspected to impact disease prevalence, morbidity, and mortality in diverse population groups. Consequently, it is not surprising that analyses of study data finds culture to contribute negligible explanatory weight to the variance of health outcomes for diverse populations who bear an undue burden of cancer, and the opportunity to identify the pathways of this panhuman process remain invisible. Research studies miss scientifically-grounded concepts and methods that likely account for both population and individual variations in health outcomes. NIH's OBSSR funded a report to change science when researchers consider culture, a fundamental human process, as a factor in health outcomes. This report provides multiple scientifically proven approaches by which to integrate the dynamic and adaptive nature of culture into research. These multiple factors that inform the cultural process require that we reassess how we frame health issues, how we design interventions, how we measure the impact of interventions, and for whom, by whom, and why. Each step will require further theorizing and research, but this report provides a first step by providing a theoretical and practical framework to use to build the foundation needed to pursue this line of inquiry to identify the fundamental role of culture in framing behavior and ways of life that influence mental and physical responses to cancer. Application of this framework could move the science of cancer health disparities research and practice forward in more promising and effective directions.

Citation Format: Marjorie Kagawa Singer. The Cultural Framework for Health: Transforming the use of culture to reduce cancer health disparities. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr B02. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-B02
Abstract B12: Recruitment of African American breast cancer pedigrees for The Jewels in Our Genes Study: Recruitment outcomes and sample characteristics
Authors: Wang Youjin , Erwin Deborah O. , Jandorf Lina , Johnson Detric , Meadows-Ray Veronica , Willis Mattye , Ochs-Balcom Heather
Published: May 2015

Background. Few studies have investigated the contribution of inherited genetic variation to breast cancer disparities and fewer have examined whether risk alleles shared in families may contribute to higher risk of aggressive tumors. One barrier is the challenge of effectively recruiting African American families for research.

Methods. Using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) orientation, we utilized multi-level methods in an iterative fashion to recruit for a breast cancer genetic linkage study. We recruited affected relative pairs as well as discordant sibling pairs where possible. We analyzed our recruitment yield by method and calculated descriptive statistics for several demographic and clinical characteristics of families selected for genotyping, which includes 281 individuals from 106 pedigrees (197 affecteds, 84 unaffecteds).

Results. We recruited 341 African American women (247 with breast cancer and 94 unaffecteds) from 127 families. The top three yields were obtained via collaboration with the Love Army of Women (34% of sample), The National Witness Project (NWP, 29% of sample), and previous epidemiologic studies (24% of sample). Within the set of 106 pedigrees selected for genotyping, 27 pedigrees have one affected relative, 68 pedigrees have 2 affecteds, 10 pedigrees have 3 affecteds, and one pedigree has 6 affecteds. Where adjudicated (n=141, 72%), the mean and median age at diagnosis was 51.6 years (SD 12.0) and 51.6 years, respectively. Affected women were younger at menarche (p=0.002) and more likely to be hysterectomized (p=0.018) compared to unaffected women. According to tumor receptor status, approximately 26% of cases are ER negative, 40% are PR negative, 49% are HER2 negative, and overall 16% are ER/PR/HER2 negative.

Conclusions. Approaching recruitment of African American pedigrees with use of a multi-pronged approach that includes collaboration from the community can greatly facilitate success. While our sample has a slightly younger age of onset compared to African American cases in the general population (SEER median age for African Americans is 58 yrs), the sample approximates the US proportion of all invasive breast cancers in the US with regard to triple negative status (∼15%).

Citation Format: Youjin Wang, Deborah O. Erwin, Lina Jandorf, Detric Johnson, Veronica Meadows-Ray, Mattye Willis, Heather Ochs-Balcom. Recruitment of African American breast cancer pedigrees for The Jewels in Our Genes Study: Recruitment outcomes and sample characteristics. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr B12. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-B12
Abstract C28: An exploratory study of co-occurrence of breast cancer and diabetes in medically underserved Latinas
Authors: Ashing Kimlin T. , Rosales Monica , Samoa Raynald , Lai Lily , Vargas Roberto , Vito Courtney , Hurria Arti , Serrano Mayra
Published: May 2015

Purpose: Cancer and diabetes are two severe chronic illnesses that often co-occur. The presence of diabetes in cancer patients is associated with increased risk for poor health outcomes and decreased overall survival. Lack of access to care and under-diagnosis of diabetes makes this co-occurrence particularly troubling among the Latino population. This preliminary study explored the association of diabetes with functioning and physical health outcomes among underserved Latina breast cancer survivors (BCS).

Methods: In total, 137 low income Latina BCS were recruited from the California Cancer Registry, hospital cancer registries, and community agencies. Latina BCS completed a self-report questionnaire that assessed demographic and cancer-related medial characteristics, the co-occurrence of diabetes, and functional and physical outcomes.

Results: Among Latina BCS, 98 (72%) were non-diabetic and 39 (28 %) were diabetic. Latina BCS with diabetes were more likely to report less than a high school education, being uninsured, and unemployed (p<0.01), and more likely to report later stage at diagnosis than BCS without diabetes. BCS with diabetes reported more lymphedema symptoms than BCS without diabetes (p<0.05). Although not statistically significant, BCS with diabetes had lower general health, experienced more pain, and reported greater social functioning and physical role limitations than BCS without diabetes.

Conclusions: This preliminary investigation sheds new light on emerging evidence documenting the negative associations of comorbid chronic conditions such as diabetes on patients' outcomes. More attention to the co-occurrence of cancer and chronic disease is warranted for addressing cancer health disparities. Our descriptive analysis offers support for additional inquiry and attention to the co-occurrence of cancer and chronic disease as a target for action in improvements in quality, patient-centered care and in the reduction of persistent health disparities.

Citation Format: Kimlin T. Ashing, Monica Rosales, Raynald Samoa, Lily Lai, Roberto Vargas, Courtney Vito, Arti Hurria, Mayra Serrano. An exploratory study of co-occurrence of breast cancer and diabetes in medically underserved Latinas. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C28. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C28
Abstract C36: Psychosocial outcomes in cancer survivors treated at a comprehensive cancer center or a minority-serving institution
Authors: Friedman Debra L. , Sanderson Maureen , Hull Pamela , Wujcik Debra , Ashworth Dira R. , Okafor Amaka , Kennedy Jane , Hill Paula , Shen-Miller David
Published: May 2015

Background: Cancer health disparities are well described for incidence, diagnosis and treatment. Little is known about disparities among long-term survivors.

Methods: At Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC), an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center and Meharry Medical College (MMC), minority serving institutional partner, we evaluated quality of life (QOL) using the FACT-G, FACT-B, FACT-L, and FACT-P; posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using the PTSD Checklist (PCL); and posttraumatic growth (PTG) using the PTG Inventory (PTGI) among breast, lung or prostate cancer survivors. We used linear regression to compare the scale mean values by institution while adjusting for confounding variables.

Results: Among 111 breast, 53 lung and 68 prostate cancer survivors, mean age was 62 years, 61% were female, 33% were black, 65% were married, 22% and 67% respectively had a high school degree or some college/higher education, 36% were employed and 94% were insured. MMC survivors were younger (p = 0.0005), more likely to be black (p <0.0001), less likely to be married (p < 0.0001), less educated (p<0.0001) and more likely to be uninsured (p < 0.0001). After adjusting for race, insurance status and educational level, there were no significant differences in cancer-related QOL between VICC and MMC survivors. MMC survivors did score significantly higher than VICC survivors on the PCL (33.9 vs. 28.3; p = 0.01) and the PTGI (75.9 vs. 62.5; p = 0.002). A total of 19 (8.3%) survivors met criteria for PTSD with a score of 50 or more (18.1% MMC, 3.8% VICC, p =0.003). Scores were significantly increased for MMC survivors relative to VICC survivors on all PTG subscales, especially the appreciation for life subscale (p = 0.0005).

Conclusion: Cancer health disparities extend into the survivorship period. Although overall QOL did not differ, survivors treated at an underserved institution had significantly higher PTSD than those treated at a comprehensive cancer center. Underserved survivors also exhibited higher degrees of PTG. Further evaluation will identify the most significant sources of stress and resilience in order to design interventions to improve psychosocial wellbeing and decrease disparities.

Citation Format: Debra L. Friedman, Maureen Sanderson, Pamela Hull, Debra Wujcik, Dira R. Ashworth, Amaka Okafor, Jane Kennedy, Paula Hill, David Shen-Miller. Psychosocial outcomes in cancer survivors treated at a comprehensive cancer center or a minority-serving institution. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C36. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C36
Abstract C37: “Oh happy day”: A pilot study of a culturally tailored depression intervention for African American female cancer survivors
Authors: Williams Elizabeth A. , Ward Earlise , Wujcik Debra , Oatis-Ballew Robin , Green Cheryl , Gunter Navita , Bond Brea
Published: May 2015

Almost 1 million African Americans are now identified as cancer survivors. Despite this growth, African Americans' long-term survivorship lags behind national survival rates. Given that cancer survivorship starts with diagnosis and continues throughout life, improving cancer survival outcomes for African Americans is important. Cancer survivors are at increased risk of experiencing psychosocial distress and depression as a result of cancer. Because of discrimination and multiple systemic barriers, African American cancer survivors may not have access to high quality healthcare treatment and services nor seek services in mainstream facilities. Thus their survivorship, including access to high quality, culturally competent behavioral health supports, may be compromised.

While current research suggests racial and cultural differences in cancer experiences, coping strategies and survivorship among different racial/ethnic groups, little is known about effective behavioral health resources African American female cancer survivors use to cope with depression. Even less is known about culturally tailored interventions that could potentially aid African American female cancer survivors by reducing depressive symptoms and supporting improved mental health.

A Culturally Tailored Depression Intervention for African American Female Cancer Survivors Study, a community-engaged research project attempts to determine the feasibility of a culturally tailored depression intervention called “Oh Happy Day Class.” Using group therapy and psycho-educational supports, including yoga, this study determines whether a 4-week modified version of this class, offered in a community setting, is acceptable to African American female cancer survivors. The class, coupled with other mixed methods (surveys, key informant interviews) provides important information about the benefits of offering culturally tailored depression interventions for African American female cancer survivors. As a community-engaged research project including African American female cancer survivors, Public Health researchers, & health professionals, this study further underscores why engaging community in the work of supporting cancer survivorship for African Americans is needed.

Citation Format: Elizabeth A. Williams, Earlise Ward, Debra Wujcik, Robin Oatis-Ballew, Cheryl Green, Navita Gunter, Brea Bond. “Oh happy day”: A pilot study of a culturally tailored depression intervention for African American female cancer survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C37. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C37
Abstract C54: Reducing time-to-treatment in underserved Latinas with breast cancer: The Six Cities Study
Authors: Ramirez Amelie G. , Perez-Stable Eliseo J. , Penedo Frank , Talavera Gregory A. , Carillo J. Emilio , Fernandez Maria F. , Holden Alan E.C. , Munoz Edgar , Gallion Kipling
Published: May 2015

Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of Latina cancer deaths. Time from diagnosis to treatment is critical in optimizing care. Patient navigation (PN) holds promise for timely breast cancer treatment promotion, yet efficacy among underserved women is insufficiently documented.

Methods: Redes En Acción: The National Latino Cancer Research Network evaluated a theory-driven, culturally-sensitive PN program for Latinas with breast cancer in six U.S. cities. We analyzed 109 Latinas diagnosed with breast cancer from July 2008-January 2011 (42 navigated, 67 controls). We evaluated proportions of women treated within 30 and 60 days of diagnosis and overall time to treatment. Women were navigated by locally trained navigators, or non-navigated. Kaplan-Meier, Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models were used to determine group differences.

Results: A higher percentage of navigated subjects initiated treatment within 30 days (66.7% versus 56.7%, p=0.045) and 60 days (97.8% versus 78.4%, p=0.021). Overall navigated women experienced shorter time to treatment initiation (HR=1.60, p=0.000). These results were independent of stage at diagnosis, cancer clinic and participant characteristics. Five navigator activities were associated with faster treatment times: accompaniment (p=0.006), transportation arrangements (p=0.013), patient telephone support (generally emotional support, p=0.034), patient-family telephone support (p=0.030), and Spanish-English language translation services (p=0.002).

Conclusions: Patient-centered navigation to assist Latina women with breast cancer diagnoses increases the proportion of women beginning treatment within 30 and 60 days of diagnosis and significantly reduces overall time from diagnosis to treatment. Improvement appears to be associated with specific navigator activities.

Citation Format: Amelie G. Ramirez, Eliseo J. Perez-Stable, Frank Penedo, Gregory A. Talavera, J. Emilio Carillo, Maria F. Fernandez, Alan E.C. Holden, Edgar Munoz, Kipling Gallion. Reducing time-to-treatment in underserved Latinas with breast cancer: The Six Cities Study. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C54. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C54
Abstract C55: Racial disparities in receipt of initial prostate cancer treatment, SEER Medicare, 2004-2009
Authors: Richards Thomas B. , Negoita Serban , McNeel Timothy S. , Li Jun , Li Chunyu
Published: May 2015

Purpose: Prostate cancer death rates are higher in blacks than whites. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare linked database, we evaluated whether racial disparities exist in the receipt of initial prostate cancer treatment.

Methods: We analyzed data on prostate cancer cases diagnosed in 2004-2009 and linked with Medicare claims data from 2003-2010. We focused on cases with SEER race coded as white or black; and enrolled in both Medicare Parts A and B continuously during 12 months before diagnosis to 24 months after diagnosis, death, or December 2010, whichever was earliest. We defined prostate cancer recurrence risk categories using tumor stage, prostate specific antigen (PSA), and Gleason scores. We identified initial prostate cancer treatment using: radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy, or androgen deprivation therapy within 1 month before to 6 months after diagnosis; or evidence of active surveillance based on prostate biopsies or PSA tests from 1 to 18 months after diagnosis. We used multivariate logistic regression to determine adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The outcome variable was receipt of initial treatment. Explanatory variables were: race; prostate cancer disease recurrence risk category; asymptomatic or symptomatic at time of first diagnosis; life expectancy from the man's age at diagnosis; comorbidity; census tract poverty; and census region.

Results: Our final study cohort included 70,254 white men and 8,653 black men with prostate cancer. After adjustment for multiple variables, men were less likely to receive initial treatment if: expected survival < 5 years (OR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.33–0.40; ref.= > 10 years); black race (OR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.50–0.57; ref. = white); or symptomatic at time of diagnosis (OR, 0.77, 95% CI, 0.74–0.81; ref.=asymptomatic). Men were more likely to receive initial treatment if: high recurrence risk (OR, 2.75; 95% CI, 2.55–2.96; ref.= low); resided in Northeast (OR, 1.30; 95% CI 1.24–1.38; ref.= West); comorbidity score > 2 (OR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.17–1.31; ref. = 0); or lived in a census tract with <5% poverty (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.07–1.22; ref.= > 19%).

Conclusion: Low expected survival and black race were relatively important reasons that older men did not receive initial treatment for prostate cancer.

Citation Format: Thomas B. Richards, Serban Negoita, Timothy S. McNeel, Jun Li, Chunyu Li. Racial disparities in receipt of initial prostate cancer treatment, SEER Medicare, 2004-2009. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C55. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C55
Abstract C75: Unique SPOP somatic mutations in African American prostate cancer
Authors: Buckles Eric L. , Qian Chiping , Majumdar Sumana , Zabaleta Jovanny , Liu Wanguo
Published: May 2015

SPOP (Speckle-type POZ protein) is a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer (PCa). Somatic heterozygous missense mutations in SPOP have been reported in up to 15% of PCa in Caucasian American (CA). However, the mutation frequency and the genetic role of SPOP in African American (AA) PCa are currently unknown. We sequenced exons 6 and 7 of the SPOP gene for somatic mutations in 49 AA prostate tumor tissues collected in the Southern Louisiana area and identified five (10%) tumors carrying heterozygous missense mutations and one tumor carrying a novel synonymous variant. Intriguingly, all mutations are clustered in exon 6 and change conserved amino acids. Moreover, three mutations represent novel mutations and unique to AA PCa. To further identify unique SPOP somatic mutations in AA PCa, we expanded mutation screening to all of the other exons of the SPOP gene but no additional coding variant or deletion/insertion was identified. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis indicates that the SPOP mutations in AA prostate tumors reduced SPOP RNA levels in tumors compared with SPOP levels in their adjacent normal prostate tissues; therefore, supporting the notion of SPOP as a tumor suppressor gene. These results indicate that AA prostate tumors carry similar frequency but a unique profile of SPOP somatic mutations as in Caucasian PCa. The clinical relevance and the pathological significance of SPOP mutations in AA PCa will be discussed.

Citation Format: Eric L. Buckles, Chiping Qian, Sumana Majumdar, Jovanny Zabaleta, Wanguo Liu. Unique SPOP somatic mutations in African American prostate cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C75. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C75
Abstract C83: Health status and chronic conditions of biracial Asians in California 2001-2009
Authors: Nguyen Anh B. , Breen Nancy , Clark Trenette T. , Moser Richard
Published: May 2015

Intro: In 2000, 6.8 million individuals identified with two or more races. This number increased to over 9 million by 2010, representing a 30% increase within a span of 10 years. The rapid growth of racial and ethnic minority populations in the US will transform the cultural milieu and engender shifts in health, economic, social, and political landscapes. These shifts necessitate the examination of health profiles of these emerging populations to determine whether they experience disparate health behaviors or outcomes in comparison to their monoracial counterparts. The focus of the present study was to examine health outcomes and chronic conditions for the biracial Asian population in California. We hypothesized that the biracial population will display intermediate (or an “average” of) outcomes in comparison to their monoracial counterparts.

Methods: This study utilized merged data from respondents (N = 238,897) to iterations of the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) administered in 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2009. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, we ran multivariable regression models to predict health outcomes (i.e., diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, disability status, BMI, and general health) and to compare health outcomes among various racial and ethnic groups.

Results: After adjusting for relevant covariates, multivariate results revealed that Whites reported better health overall than biracial Asians and other monoracial groups. For example, Whites were less likely to report having been diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure, and physical disability, and had higher perceived general health than biracial Asians and other monoracial individuals. We also found that biracial Asians displayed BMI ranges that were intermediate between their monoracial constituents.

Conclusions: BMI is a more proximal health outcome and is more sensitive to lifestyles and behaviors. As a result, BMI may be a better indicator that biracial Asians have indeed adopted health behaviors and practices that fall between their monoracial counterparts. Future epidemiological research should examine the prevalence of more proximal health outcomes among biracial Asians and assess how it differs by developmental age. Additional studies should also examine how health behaviors among biracial Asians change over time and are associated with chronic medical conditions.

Citation Format: Anh B. Nguyen, Nancy Breen, Trenette T. Clark, Richard Moser. Health status and chronic conditions of biracial Asians in California 2001-2009. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C83. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C83
Abstract ED03-03: Leveraging new media to enhance cultural targeting in cancer communications
Authors: Thompson Hayley S.
Published: May 2015

There is growing consensus and evidence that the effectiveness of health communication to reduce cancer disparities is improved by cultural targeting. Cultural targeting is a communications strategy intended to increase the appeal of health-related messaging among a distinct segment of the population and is often applied in interventions with medically underserved racial and ethnic groups. Much of the previous work in this area has addressed cancer communications via traditional media (e.g., brochures, television, etc.). However, the widespread adoption of internet and mobile technologies across communities has led to greater use of new media (e.g., social networking sites, blogs, photo/video sharing sites, etc.), typically characterized by high levels of personal engagement through user-generated and user-driven content and interactivity. Discussions of new media and cancer communications have tended to focus on the accessibility and convenience of related technologies rather than inherent ways in which new media may validate and reinforce cultural values, experiences, and networks. Therefore, this presentation will address 1) common approaches to cultural targeting in cancer communications as well as best practices; 2) applications of new media that support diverse cultural targeting approaches; and 3) results of a systematic literature review assessing the use of new media to address specific racial/ethnic disparities in cancer control.

Citation Format: Hayley S. Thompson. Leveraging new media to enhance cultural targeting in cancer communications. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr ED03-03. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-ED03-03
Rapid Aneuploidy Detection of Chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y Using Quantitative Fluorescent Polymerase Chain Reaction with Few Microdissected Fetal Cells
Authors: Emad Ahmed , Lamoureux Josée , Ouellet Annie , Drouin Régen
Published: May 2015

Objectives: Analysis of DNA from small numbers of cells, such as fetal cells in maternal blood, is a major limiting factor for their use in clinical applications. Traditional methods of single-cells whole genome amplification (SCs-WGA) and accurate analysis have been challenging to date. Our purpose was to assess the feasibility of using a few fetal cells to determine fetal sex and major chromosomal abnormalities by quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR). Methods: Cultured cells from 26 amniotic fluid samples were used for standard DNA extraction and recovery of 5 fetal cells by laser-capture microdissection. SCs-WGA was performed using the DNA from the microdissected cells. PCR amplification of short tandem repeats specific for chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y was performed on extracted and amplified DNA. Allele dosage and sexing were quantitatively analyzed following separation by capillary electrophoresis. Results: Microsatellite QF-PCR analysis showed high concordance in chromosomal copy number between extracted and amplified DNA when 5 or more cells were used. Results were in concordance with that of conventional cytogenetic analysis. Conclusion: Satisfactory genomic coverage can be obtained from SCs-WGA. Clinically, SCs-WGA coupled with QF-PCR can provide a reliable, accurate, rapid and cost-effective method for detection of major fetal chromosome abnormalities.
Risk Reduction in Dominant Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Surgery Combining fMRI/DTI Maps, Neuronavigation and Intraoperative 1.5-Tesla MRI
Authors: Rössler Karl , Sommer Bjoern , Grummich Peter , Hamer Hajo M. , Pauli Elisabeth , Coras Roland , Blümcke Ingmar , Buchfelder Michael
Published: May 2015

Background: In dominant temporal lobe epilepsy surgery, speech, memory and visual systems are at risk. Objective: Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging combined with intraoperative neuronavigation and MRI were investigated retrospectively regarding risk reductions for favorable neurological and seizure outcome. Methods: Functional imaging risk maps were generated for 14 patients suffering from dominant temporal lobe epilepsy [7 with hippocampal sclerosis (HS), 7 with various lesions] and used for neuronavigation-guided tailored resection. Postoperative neurological and seizure outcome and complications were evaluated. Results: None of the patients had postoperative speech dysfunction despite 2.3/3.6-cm mean hippocampal/neocortical resection. Verbal memory decline was found in 2 of the 14 (14.3%) patients, correlating with surgical lesions in fMRI memory-activated functional areas in the dominant posterior parahippocampal gyrus. Verbal memory scores did not statistically differ between the HS and the lesional group, neither pre- nor postoperatively. A contralateral visual field defect occurred in 1 patient (7.1%). An Engel class I seizure outcome was found in 12 patients (85.7%), and 11 were completely seizure free (78.6%) at a mean follow-up of 19.5 months. Conclusion: This retrospectively investigated protocol led to an excellent neurological and seizure outcome and a low complication rate in dominant temporal lobe epilepsy surgery.
Risk Assessment of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronically Implanted Paddle Electrodes for Cortical Stimulation
Authors: Tronnier Helena T. , Melchert Uwe , Petersen Dirk , Tronnier Volker M.
Published: May 2015

Background: Cortical epidural stimulation is used for the treatment of different neuropsychiatric disorders such as chronic neuropathic pain, tinnitus, movement disorders, and psychiatric diseases. While preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the imaging tool of choice for planning the approach and electrode placement, postoperative MRI is still a contraindication with implanted paddle leads due to the risk of thermal damage or current induction creating seizures or neurological deficits. Objectives: In this feasibility in vitro study the temperature changes and induction were determined as well as the artifacts caused by 2 parallel paddle leads (Resume II, Model 3587 A; Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minn., USA), commonly used in clinical practice with and without a pulse generator (Prime Advanced, Model 7489; Medtronic). Methods: An ultrasound gel-filled head phantom with 2 paddle leads mimicking the surgical scenario was used to evaluate temperature changes as well as induced currents in a 1.5- and 3-tesla MR scanner. In addition, 1 patient underwent a 3-tesla MRI with an implanted subdural paddle lead. Results: Negligible temperature changes were detected with turbo spin echo sequences in the 1.5- and 3-tesla scanner using a head and body coil. Induced voltages up to 6 V were measured. The imaging artifacts in the phantom were well tolerable. The patient's imaging was uneventful under the settings which are accepted for deep brain stimulation imaging. Conclusion: MRI under the conditions described here seems to be safe with the implants used in this study. In particular, the induced temperature is much lower with paddle compared to conventional leads due to the different electrode design. The induced voltage does not carry any risks. However, these findings cannot automatically be transferred to other implants or other scanning conditions, and further studies are needed. The biomedical companies should be encouraged to develop MR-conditional paddle leads. Also, further research is necessary to study the mechanism of action of cortical stimulation in the future.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Motor Cortex Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain in 23 Patients
Authors: Slotty Philipp J. , Eisner Wilhelm , Honey Christopher R. , Wille Christian , Vesper Jan
Published: May 2015

Background: Motor cortex stimulation (MCS) is being offered to patients suffering from neuropathic pain. Outcome prediction, programming and especially sustaining a long-term treatment effect represent major challenges. We report a retrospective long-term analysis of our patients treated with MCS over a median follow-up of 39.1 months. Objectives: To investigate the time course of the treatment effect in MCS for neuropathic pain. Methods: Twenty-three closely followed patients treated with MCS were retrospectively analyzed. Reduction in pain measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS) was defined as the primary outcome parameter. VAS pain level and adverse events were documented at the 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 18- and 24-month follow-ups. Results: The mean VAS under best medical treatment was 7.8 (SD 1.2, range 5-9) with escalation to 9.3 (SD 0.9, range 6-10) when the patients' medications were missed or delayed. About half of the patients (47.8%) experienced a satisfactory (>50%) reduction in pain during the first month of treatment. The best treatment results were seen at the 3-month follow-up (mean VAS 4.8, SD 1.9, -37.2% compared to baseline). A decline in the treatment effect was generally observed at the subsequent follow-up assessments. Six patients had their devices explanted during the follow-up period due to loss of treatment effect. Conclusions: In this study, MCS failed to provide long-term pain control for neuropathic pain. Many aspects of MCS still remain unclear, especially the neural circuits involved and their response to long-term stimulation. Means must be developed to overcome the problems in this promising technique.