bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract A092: All of Us research program: Health equity and precision medicine
Authors: Smith JoAnn
Published: January 2023

The All of Us Research Program aims to accelerate health research and medical breakthroughs, enabling individualized prevention, treatment, and care for all. All of Us is building a large and inclusive cohort, with a goal of enrolling one million or more participant partners that reflect the rich diversity of the United States. Health equity is a core value of the program with a focus on engaging diverse communities in safe, protected ways. All of Us aims to include and build trust with those previously underrepresented in biomedical research while helping to improve the lack of diversity in genomic research. Furthermore, unlike research studies that focus on one disease or group of people, All of Us is working to improve health care through research by creating a widely accessible, disease agnostic resource, known as the Researcher Workbench, for researchers to make discoveries. To date, we have equipped more than two thousand researchers nationwide with health data from diverse populations. The Researcher Workbench is also uniquely positioned to empower cancer research, with 150+ projects focused in oncology. More broadly, the diversity of the projects show how the program’s data can be utilized for multidisciplinary research across various topic areas including cancer, genomics, health equity, and more to advance precision medicine in ways that reduce health disparities. Available data types include genomics, electronic health records, surveys (social determinants of health, lifestyle, etc.), physical measurements, and wearables. We aim to make these data broadly accessible to drive research about various diseases, especially those where health disparities persist.With an emphasis on engagement and recruitment of populations historically underrepresented in biomedical research and equity-focused data access for research in a diverse dataset, the All of Us Research Program can help enable a deeper understanding of disease biology and ultimately more precise approaches to care for all.

Citation Format: JoAnn Smith. All of Us research program: Health equity and precision medicine [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr A092.
Abstract A126: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rate by gender identity among US young adults
Authors: Lee Minjee , Jenkins Wiley D. , Drake Bettina , Van Vickle-Chavez Sarah
Published: January 2023

Background: While national human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination estimates vary by sex, little is known about variation by gender identity. We sought to estimate HPV vaccination initiation and completion by gender identity among US young adults. Methods: We used 2018-2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from individuals reporting both gender identity and HPV vaccination status. Weighted, multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with vaccination initiation and completion. Results: The 6,484 individuals included 3,300 cismales, 3,130 cisfemales, 31 transmales, and 23 transfemales. Vaccination initiation/completion were low, at 40.1% and 17.6%, respectively, and varied by gender identity: cismale=29.1%/9.6%, cisfemale=51.3%/25.8%, transmale=50.1%/5.9%, and transfemale=34.7%/13.0% (P <.0001). In weighted multivariable models, cismales were significantly less likely than cisfemales to initiate (OR:0.39; 95% CI:0.32-0.48) and complete (OR:0.29; 95% CI:0.22-0.37) vaccination, but no significant differences were observed for transmales and transfemales compared to cisfemale. Factors associated with lower initiation included: non-Hispanic Black race (OR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.54-0.93), high school diploma (OR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.42-0.78), rural residence (OR: 0.64; 95% CI:0.45-0.90), no insurance (OR: 0.56; 95% CI:0.43-0.74), and no regular provider (OR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.53-0.84). Factors associated with lower completion included: non-Hispanic Black race (OR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.34-0.67), Hispanic race (OR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.49-0.99), married (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.57-0.95), high school diploma (OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.42-0.85), and no regular provider (OR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.46-0.87). Conclusion: HPV vaccination rates in the U.S. are low across all subsamples and future HPV vaccine uptake studies should account for gender identity.

Citation Format: Minjee Lee, Wiley D. Jenkins, Bettina Drake, Sarah Van Vickle-Chavez. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rate by gender identity among US young adults [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr A126.
Abstract B009: Pain alleviating factors reported by cancer patients
Authors: Fullwood Dottington , Means Sydney , Wilkie Diana J. , Odedina Folakemi T.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Pain is one of the complications of cancer or cancer treatment and affects the quality of life of cancer patients. Unfortunately, factors that alleviate cancer pain have been understudied despite pain being one of the most common symptoms of cancer. The purpose of this secondary comparative analysis study was to identify factors that alleviate cancer pain and their relationship to specific cancer types. Methods: The study comprised 579 participants from inpatient and outpatient cancer care centers in Seattle, WA. The participants used paper or a tablet computer to complete the McGill Pain Questionnaire, which included an open-ended question: “What kinds of things relieve your pain?” Text responses were coded into six outcome categories: 1) Activity level, 2) Cognitive, 3) Environmental, 4) Medical, 5) Physical, and 6) Sedentary behavior. Race and ethnicity categories were collapsed into Black/Other and White based on frequency distribution. We conducted a multivariable regression analysis adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics using the number of activities/factors in each of the six outcome categories. Results: Patients were mostly White (86%), female (27%) and aged 58.7± 12.3 years on average. Nearly 13% of the sample were Black/Other patients. The current pain intensity was more intense for Black/Other patients than White patients (p <0.001). Activity (ρ=0.02), cognition (ρ<0.001), and medication (ρ<0.001) were more frequently used as pain-alleviating factors among lung cancer patients compared to head and neck cancer patients. Males (ρ=0.02) and lung cancer patients (ρ=0.02) engaged in significantly less physical activity alleviating factors than females and head and neck cancer patients. Differences between the race groups were not statistically significant for mean alleviating factors. Conclusion: Although pain intensity is more intense for minority patients than their White counterparts, their behaviors to alleviate their pain do not differ in this sample. Differences in pain alleviating factors by gender and type of cancer warrant additional research to understand the complexity of patients’ self-care behaviors with consideration of demographic and cancer variables as well as analgesics.

Citation Format: Dottington Fullwood, Sydney Means, Diana J. Wilkie, Folakemi T. Odedina. Pain alleviating factors reported by cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B009.
Abstract B061: Development of small media on cancer education for cervical, breast, and colorectal screening in the Pueblo of Zuni
Authors: Leekity Samantha R. , Kelly Keith E. , Jim Cheyenne , Sheche Judith N. , Mishra Shiraz I.
Published: January 2023

American Indians (AIs) experience continued disparities in incidence, mortality, and survival on cancers responsive to early screening in the US. In New Mexico, AIs compared with other racial/ethnic populations are substantially less likely to adhere to recommended screening guidelines. Our study focuses on increasing cancer awareness using culturally, linguistically, and health literacy appropriate small media (brochure and fact sheet). Formative research was conducted to adapt small media to convey screening options, cancer risks/benefits, and resources for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer. The Zuni Health Initiative (ZHI) is located on the Zuni Pueblo, with all staff and student employees identifying as Zuni tribal members. A nine-member Tribal Advisory Panel (TAP) was established that included representation from Tribal organizations, healthcare providers, and Zuni Pueblo leadership. The study obtained approvals from the Zuni Tribal Council, Southwest Tribal IRB, and UNM Health Sciences IRB. ZHI staff recruited TAP/Tribal members to a total of 6 focus groups, 2 each of the three cancer types. Each session lasted 1 hour and was student led. Questions presented related to traditional beliefs about health, graphic layout, artwork, and word usage. Feedback suggested making the small media Zuni-specific, including pictures, artwork, Tribal member testimonies, and resources. Designing educational materials with Zuni-specific cultural, linguistic, and Tribal representation should enhance participation of Zuni Tribal members in cancer control educational interventions. The new small media will form an integral component of multi-level, multicomponent behavioral-cognitive interventions designed to enhance cancer screening uptake through heightened awareness about cancer screenings risks/benefits, and screening resources.

Citation Format: Samantha R. Leekity, Keith E. Kelly, Cheyenne Jim, Judith N. Sheche, Shiraz I. Mishra. Development of small media on cancer education for cervical, breast, and colorectal screening in the Pueblo of Zuni [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B061.
Abstract B093: A mixed methods study of racial ethnic minority enrollment in biospecimen research
Authors: Zhang Tina Y. , Buck Anne K. , Li David , Ilinski Adrian , Modanlo Nina , Mahdaviani Kiana , Ko Naomi Y.
Published: January 2023

Background: Racial and ethnic minorities are underrepresented in cancer biospecimen research. Advancements in precision medicine without inclusion of minority groups is likely to exacerbate disparities in cancer care and treatment outcomes. There is a paucity of literature comparing enrollment into cancer biobanks by race, and little is known about specific reasons why patients decline participation. Methods: Between January and December 2021, eligible participants for biospecimen research studies were surveyed for reasons for consenting to or declining participation. Consent rates for participation were compared by gender, race, and age. Open responses were reviewed for themes. Results: Survey responses from 67 participants were analyzed. Twenty-four participants (35.8%) self-identified as White and 43 (64.2%) as non-White. Forty-five (67.2%) respondents reported agreeing to biospecimen research while 21 (31.3%) reported declining. White participants reported significantly higher participation rates compared to non-White participants (87.5% vs. 55.8%, p = 0.012). The majority of respondents (65.7%) reported learning about biospecimen research studies from a research assistant, and 12 participants (18%) reported that a provider recommended participation. Reasons for declining included “going through a lot”, “I do not want to make additional visits for the study” and “my doctor did not recommend it.” Discussion: Our findings suggest that most patients will consent to biospecimen research, however racial minorities are more likely to decline. Qualitative responses suggest that increased provider engagement and use of low-literacy and bilingual education materials may improve participation.

Citation Format: Tina Y. Zhang, Anne K. Buck, David Li, Adrian Ilinski, Nina Modanlo, Kiana Mahdaviani, Naomi Y. Ko. A mixed methods study of racial ethnic minority enrollment in biospecimen research [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B093.
Abstract B126: Examining Medicaid-serving primary care teams and delivery context on quality of care transitions to oncology: Implications for health equity
Authors: O'Malley Denalee M. , Doose Michelle , Howard Jenna , Cantor Joel C. , Crabtree Benjamin F. , Tsui Jennifer
Published: January 2023

Purpose: Care transitions, from primary care to oncology, for Medicaid enrollees are understudied and likely contribute to quality and outcome disparities. We explore multi-team systems (MTS) (care coordination tasks and teamwork) to understand variations in breast and colorectal cancer care transitions in Medicaid-serving clinics. Methods and Materials: We conducted a comparative case study of three purposively recruited primary care clinics in New Jersey, based on clinic-level care transition performance (Medicaid enrollees’ receipt of guideline-concordant treatment). Site evaluations, conducted in 2019-2020, included observation (2-3 days) and interviews. Insights into performance variation emerged from a two-phase analytic approach. Results: Performance variations may stem from adaptations of MTS inputs and processes based on contextual factors (i.e., business model, clinic culture). Clinic 1 (average performer), part of a multi-site safety-net clinic system, mainly teamed outside of their organization, relying on designated roles, protocol-based care, and quality improvement informed by within team metrics. Clinic 2 (high performer), part of a for-profit health system, remained mission driven to improve urban health, teamed exclusively with internal teams with electronically enabled between team information exchange, and health system wide quality improvement efforts. Clinic 3, (low performer), a physician-owned private practice with minimal teaming, accepted Medicaid enrollees to diversify their payer mix and relied on referral-based care with limited consideration of social barriers. Conclusion: MTS’s adapt their care coordination in response to context. Addressing disparities in cancer care coordination for Medicaid populations should prioritize the implementation of policy that leverage clinic attributes and the boundary status of interdependent teams.

Citation Format: Denalee M. O'Malley, Michelle Doose, Jenna Howard, Joel C. Cantor, Benjamin F. Crabtree, Jennifer Tsui. Examining Medicaid-serving primary care teams and delivery context on quality of care transitions to oncology: Implications for health equity [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B126.
Abstract C016: Genomic analysis of patients across continental ancestry groups
Authors: Carrot-Zhang Jian , New Justin , Xie Amy , Frampton Garrett
Published: January 2023

People with different ancestries inherit different risks and encounter different environmental exposures resulting in different somatic profiles. A lack of knowledge about ancestry-specific alterations is a major barrier to implementing precision medicine, leading to inequities in genetic testing, targeted treatment and clinical trial design for cancer patients from the underserved populations. However, a limited number of cancer cases from non-European populations have been sequenced in research setting, and paired normal samples are often not collected in routine clinical care. Here, we inferred African (AFR), South Asian (SAS), East Asian (EAS), American (AMR) and European (EUR) ancestry from comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) of over 200,000 tumors at Foundation Medicine and identified 18717, 8588, 6594 patients with significant proportions of AFR, AMR, EAS ancestry, respectively. Using logistic regressions with age of diagnosis, gender and tumor mutation burden (TMB) as covariates, we identified 165 ancestry-associated genes across 14 common cancer types. We found that in colorectal cancer, KRAS (OR=1.5, FDR corrected p=4x10-44) and APC (OR=1.4, FDR corrected p=1x10-16) mutations were enriched in patients with AFR ancestry, whereas BRAF mutations were depleted in both AFR (OR=0.5, FDR corrected p=5x10-24) and EAS (OR=0.6, FDR corrected p=6x10-5) patients. CDK12 mutations were enriched in both AFR (OR=1.6, FDR corrected p=2x10-4) and EAS (OR=3.1, FDR corrected p=2x10-7) prostate cancer patients. For patients with AMR ancestry, increased mutation frequency was observed in SETD2 in pancreatic cancer (OR=3.4, FDR corrected p=1x10-4), and VHL in renal clear cell carcinoma (OR=1.9, FDR corrected p=2x10-4). For renal cell carcinoma patients with AFR ancestry, mutations in NF2 were enriched (OR=2.5, FDR =8x10-6). In GBM, TERT alterations were associated with EUR ancestry (OR=1.3, FDR corrected p=0.003). Interestingly, TMB-high status was associated with EUR ancestry in melanoma (OR=5.9, p=6x10-36) and anti-correlated with AFR ancestry in endometrial carcinoma (OR=0.7, p=1x10-6). Our large-scale ancestry analysis characterized the somatic landscape of non-European cancer patients. Future directions include quantifying the germline heritability of identified ancestry-associated mutations using a local ancestry risk score (LRS).

Citation Format: Jian Carrot-Zhang, Justin New, Amy Xie, Garrett Frampton. Genomic analysis of patients across continental ancestry groups [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C016.
Abstract C019: Evaluation of genes for glutathione-S-transferase genetic polymorphism in drivers exposed to air pollution
Authors: Sagbo Firmin Houénoukpo , Atindehou Mènonvè , Cachon Boris
Published: January 2023

Air pollution and its possible impact on human health is attracting growing interest around the world. It remains a serious threat of premature death. Multiple source of pollution are present in the outdoor and indoor air such as exhaust gases, industry, pesticides, gasoline, fuels, incense, air fresheners, insecticides, smoke, cosmetics and maintenance products…. These sources emited pollutants such as PM, CO, NO, VOC, PAH, O3 which are responsible for headaches, dizziness, eye irritation, hepatitis, respiratory and cardiac diseases and cancers (breast, blood, cervix, prostate…). These pathologies are due to the homozygous deletion of the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) genes. GST protects the body against toxicants by neutralizing electrophiles and makes toxic metabolites more soluble. Objective: To evaluate the genes of the glutathione-S-transferase genetic polymorphism GSTM1 and GSTT1 in pollutant-exposed motorcycle drivers. Materials & methods The study group is made up of 60 motorcycle drivers, including 30 professionals and 30 non-professionals. Blood samples are taken into the EDTA tube and DNA was extracted by the phenol/chloroform method. PCR was chosen to determine the presence or absence of GSTM1 and GSTT1. Results Our results showed that the percentage of GSTM1 null genotype was a significant difference (P=0.02), while the percentage of GSTT1 null genotype was not significant (P=0.76) between the two groups. The deletion of both genes is greater in professional than non-professional drivers. Conclusion In sum, air pollution in Cotonou appears to influence GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene suppression at a higher percentage in professional motorcycle drivers. This population could be predisposed to develop cancers. We recommend the consumption of fruits, organic vegetables and plants rich in antioxidants to strengthen the immune system.

Citation Format: Firmin Houénoukpo Sagbo, Mènonvè Atindehou, Boris Cachon. Evaluation of genes for glutathione-S-transferase genetic polymorphism in drivers exposed to air pollution [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C019.
Abstract C020: Identification of metabolic and molecular mechanisms contributing to ER+ cancer disparities using a machine-learning pipeline
Authors: Casiano Ashlie Santaliz , Madak-Erdogan Zeynep , Meta Dhruv , Frasor Jonna , Rauscher Garth , Hoskins Kent
Published: January 2023

Background: African American (AA) women are less likely to develop breast cancer but when they do, their mortality rates are 40% higher compared to Non-Hispanic White (NHW) women. This disparity is particularly striking among ER+ breast cancer cases. The purpose of this study is to examine whether there are racial differences in metabolic and molecular pathways typically activated in patients with ER+ positive breast cancer. Methods: We collected plasma from AA and NHW cases and controls to conduct an untargeted metabolomics analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify metabolites that are possibly altered in the different race groups. Statistical methods combined with multiple feature selection and prediction models were employed to identify race-specific altered metabolic signatures. This was followed by the identification of altered metabolic pathways with a focus on AA patients with breast cancer. The clinical significance of the findings was further examined in the PanCancer Atlas breast cancer data set. Results: We identified differential metabolic signatures between NHW and AA patients. In AA patients, we observed disturbed amino acid metabolism, while fatty acid metabolism was significant in NHW patients. By mapping these metabolites to genes, this study identified significant relations with regulators of metabolism such as methionine adenosyltransferase 1A (MAT1A), DNA Methyltransferases, Histone methyltransferases for AA individuals, and Fatty acid Synthase (FASN) and Monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) for NHW individuals. Specific histone methyltransferase NELFE was overexpressed and associated with poor survival exclusively in AA individuals. Conclusion: We employ a comprehensive and novel approach that integrates multiple machine learning methods, and statistical methods, coupled with human functional pathway analyses. This metabolic profile of serum samples might be used to assess risk progression in AA individuals with ER+ breast cancer. To our knowledge, this is a novel finding that describes metabolic alterations in AA breast cancer and emphasizes a potential biological basis for breast cancer health disparities.

Citation Format: Ashlie Santaliz Casiano, Zeynep Madak-Erdogan, Dhruv Meta, Jonna Frasor, Garth Rauscher, Kent Hoskins. Identification of metabolic and molecular mechanisms contributing to ER+ cancer disparities using a machine-learning pipeline [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C020.
Abstract C023: Aryl hydrocarbon receptor and leptin promote prostate cancer progression and may be associated with chemoresistance
Authors: Khamit-Kush Kofi K. , Powell Joann B. , Handy Jeffrey A. , Bowen Nathan J. , Odero-Marah Valerie , Wu Daqing
Published: January 2023

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a nuclear transcription factor and xenobiotic sensor reported to mediate diet-induced obesity and is upregulated in high-grade prostate cancer (PCa). Previously published data from our lab shows AhR protein is overexpressed and constitutively active in castration-resistant PCa cells. AhR signaling is promoted by high fat diet-induced obesity, when circulating leptin levels are also high. Physiologically relevant leptin concentration is proportional to BMI and is secreted by adipose cells to inhibit hunger under normal circumstances. Our preliminary results suggest that both AhR and leptin independently desensitize PCa cells to clinically-relevant chemotherapeutics however, the underlying mechanisms must be elucidated and may require sustained AhR signaling. We also conducted an integrative bioinformatics analysis to explore the role of AHR and LEPR in PCa, which revealed AHR and LEPR mRNA expression positively correlates in prostate cancer (P<0.05). The mRNA expression levels of AHR and LEPR in PCa tissue samples (i.e. solid tissue normal samples from individuals with cancer in TCGA, N=498) were analyzed using the cBioPortal and Xena online tools. We will further investigate if the decrease in drug response is exacerbated in the presence of both leptin and AhR. Further understanding of the potential interactions between diet-induced obesity and chemoresistance can promote improved treatments for patients.

Citation Format: Kofi K. Khamit-Kush, Joann B. Powell, Jeffrey A. Handy, Nathan J. Bowen, Valerie Odero-Marah, Daqing Wu. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor and leptin promote prostate cancer progression and may be associated with chemoresistance [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C023.
Abstract C055: CARM1-mediated BAF155 methylation promotes metastasis and is targetable to reduce disparate mortality in triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Kim Eui-Jun , Liu Peng , Wang Yidan , Ong Irene M. , Xu Wei
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer (BC) has disparate mortality rates between African American (AA) and non-Hispanic White (White) individuals. Despite an overall lower incidence of BC, AA women are 41% more likely to die from BC than White women. BC can be biochemically classified based on the expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), or classified by gene expression profiling as luminal, HER2+ and basal-like types. A recent large cohort analysis of nearly 200,000 patients found that AA women had a nearly three-fold increased risk of triple-negative BC, a subtype of basal-like BC that is associated with poor prognosis and metastasis. Although an increasing number of studies compare breast cancer molecular features and gene expression differences between breast tumors from AA and White patients, the underlying biological mechanisms contributing to this disparity are still unknown. We studied the oncogenic roles of coactivator associated arginine methyltransferase 1 (CARM1) and that is highly expressed in TNBC and CARM1 was overexpressed in AA patients through TCGA analysis. We have identified BRG1-Associated Factor 155 (BAF155), a component of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is specifically methylated by CARM1. Herein, we discovered the dual roles of methylated-BAF155 (me-BAF155) in promoting tumor metastasis: activation of super-enhancer-addicted oncogenes by recruiting BRD4, and repression of interferon α/γ pathway genes to suppress host immune response. Pharmacological inhibition of CARM1 and BAF155 methylation not only abrogated the expression of an array of oncogenes, but also boosted host immune responses by enhancing the activity and tumor infiltration of cytotoxic T cells. Moreover, strong me-BAF155 staining was detected in circulating tumor cells from metastatic cancer patients. Despite low cytotoxicity, CARM1 inhibitors strongly inhibited TNBC cell migration in vitro, and growth and metastasis in vivo. These data suggest that me-BAF155 is a marker for detecting metastasis patients in AA women and CARM1 is an important epigenetic target for treatment of TNBC to reduce mortality in AA women.

Citation Format: Eui-Jun Kim, Peng Liu, Yidan Wang, Irene M. Ong, Wei Xu. CARM1-mediated BAF155 methylation promotes metastasis and is targetable to reduce disparate mortality in triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C055.
Abstract C114: Racial and ethnic differences in breast cancer incidence, clinicopathological features and survival by age and breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Colak Dilek , Al-Harazi Olfat , Khalil Hala , Aleid Maha M. , Almadouj Amal N. , Qanbar Sukina , Ajarim Dahish S. , Kaya Ibrahim H. , Al-Zahrani Ali S.
Published: January 2023

Background: Age and ethnicity are important factors in breast cancer (BC) disparities and outcome. However, studies examining both racial and age-related disparities are scarce. We sought to determine differences in epidemiological and clinicopathological characteristics of breast cancer between races in age-specific cohorts. Methods: Gulf Centre for Cancer Registration database and King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center BC registry database for Saudi/Arab women (n=4,206) and Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Volume XI reports, and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results for African-American and non-Hispanic White women with BC were used. Results: Early onset BC (age < 50 years) was more prevalent among Arab women (63%) compared with African-American women (29%) and White-American women (21%). Young Arab and African-American women had more estrogen/progesterone receptor negativity than young White-American women. The triple negative and (HER2)+/(HR)– BC subtypes were more prevalent among young Arab women compared to African-American and White women. The Arab women had the worst prognosis, especially among young women cohort. The differences persisted even after stratification to aggressive BC subtypes. The age-standardized incidence rate was significantly higher in developed countries than in Arab countries within the elderly-women cohort, but was comparable in the young women cohort. Conclusions: While young Arab and Black women had significantly higher frequency of hormonal negativity than White women, Arab women showed significantly higher prevalence of HER2+/HR- and TNBC subtypes than Black and White women. The racial/ethnic differences were more pronounced in the young women cohort.

Citation Format: Dilek Colak, Olfat Al-Harazi, Hala Khalil, Maha M. Aleid, Amal N. Almadouj, Sukina Qanbar, Dahish S. Ajarim, Ibrahim H. Kaya, Ali S. Al-Zahrani. Racial and ethnic differences in breast cancer incidence, clinicopathological features and survival by age and breast cancer subtypes [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C114.
Validation of a New PCR-Based Screening Method for Prevention of Serratia marcescens Outbreaks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Sciesielski Lina K. , Osang Luisa K.M. , Dinse Nicole , Weber Anna , Bührer Christoph , Kola Axel , Dame Christof
Published: January 2023

Background: Serratia marcescens may cause severe nosocomial infections, mostly in very low birth weight infants. Since S. marcescens exhibits by far the highest adjusted incidence rate for horizontal transmission, it can cause complex outbreak situations in neonatal intensive care units. Objective: The aim of this study was to establish a fast and highly sensitive colonization screening for prompt cohorting and barrier nursing strategies. Methods: A probe-based duplex PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene of S. marcescens was developed and validated by using 36 reference strains, 14 S. marcescens outbreak- and nonoutbreak isolates, defined by epidemiological linkage and molecular typing, and applied in 1,347 clinical specimens from 505 patients. Results and Conclusions: The novel PCR assay proved to be highly specific and had an in vitro sensitivity of 100 gene copies per reaction (∼15 bacteria). It showed a similar (in laryngeal/tracheal specimens) or even higher (in rectal/stoma swabs) in vivo sensitivity in comparison to routine microbial culture and was much quicker (<24 h vs. 2 days). By combining different oligonucleotide primers, there was robust detection of genetic variants of S. marcescens strains. PCR inhibition was low (1.6%) and observed with rectal swabs only. Cohort analysis illustrated applicability of the PCR assay as a quick tool to prevent outbreak scenarios by allowing rapid decisions on cohorting and barrier nursing. In summary, this novel molecular screening for colonization by S. marcescens is specific, highly sensitive, and substantially accelerates detection.
Effect of Different Types of Hypoglycemic Medications on Psoriasis: An Analysis of Current Evidence
Authors: Sun Xiaoying , Cai Xiaoce , Liu Liu , Li Hongjin , Zhou Yaqiong , Luo Ying , Su Yonghua , Li Bin , Li Xin
Published: January 2023

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic recurrent inflammatory skin disease with a high risk of diabetes based on disease severity. Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of different hypoglycemic medications in patients with psoriasis. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of hypoglycemic medications in patients with psoriasis. The primary outcome was of changes in the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score, and a 75% improvement in PASI from baseline (PASI75). Subgroup analysis was used to investigate associations among the types of hypoglycemic medicines, combination therapy, patient characteristics, course of treatment, and curative effect. Results: We included 3,286 patients from 19 studies to explore the effects of hypoglycemic medications. Patients randomized to receive hypoglycemic medicines showed a more significant decrease in the PASI score (standard mean difference = −0.55, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.87 to −0.23, p = 0.0007) and a higher PASI75 ratio (RR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.20–2.71, p = 0.0046). Patients consuming thiazolidinediones (TZDs) were more likely to reach PASI75 than those consuming glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors. The combined use of hypoglycemic medicines had an add-on effect on the standard psoriasis treatment, and the proportion of PASI75 in the combination group was nearly four times that in the noncombination group (p = 0.0216). In addition, hypoglycemic medications can reduce body weight, waist circumference, triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and systolic blood pressure. Conclusions: Certain hypoglycemic drugs, such as GLP-1 RAs and TZDs, are beneficial for treating psoriasis. Multidisciplinary collaboration is recommended for the management of systemic inflammation in patients with psoriasis and diabetes.
Do Regions of Increased Inflammation Progress to New White Matter Hyperintensities?: A Longitudinal Positron Emission Tomography-Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Tozer Daniel J. , Brown Robin B. , Walsh Jessica , Hong Young T. , Williams Guy B. , O’Brien John T. , Aigbirhio Franklin I. , Fryer Tim D. , Markus Hugh S.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Recent studies have demonstrated increased microglial activation using
11
C-PK11195 positron emission tomography imaging, indicating central nervous system inflammation, in cerebral small vessel disease. However, whether such areas of neuroinflammation progress to tissue damage is uncertain. We determined whether white matter destined to become white matter hyperintensities (WMH) at 1 year had evidence of altered inflammation at baseline.

Methods:

Forty subjects with small vessel disease (20 sporadic and 20 cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy) and 20 controls were recruited to this case-control observational study from in- and out-patient clinics at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, UK and imaged at baseline with both
11
C-PK11195 positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging; and magnetic resonance imaging including diffusion tensor imaging was repeated at 1 year. WMH were segmented at baseline and 1 year, and areas of new lesion identified. Baseline
11
C-PK11195 binding potential and diffusion tensor imaging parameters in these voxels, and normal appearing white matter, was measured.

Results:

Complete positron emission tomography-magnetic resonance imaging data was available for 17 controls, 16 sporadic small vessel disease, and 14 cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy participants.
11
C-PK11195 binding in voxels destined to become new WMH was lower than in normal appearing white matter, which did not progress to WMH (−0.133[±0.081] versus −0.045 [±0.044];
P
<0.001). Mean diffusivity was higher and mean fractional anisotropy lower in new WMH voxels than in normal appearing white matter (900 [±80]×10
−6
versus 1045 [±149]×10
−6
mm
2
/s and 0.37±0.05 versus 0.29±0.06, both
P
<0.001) consistent with new WMH showing tissue damage on diffusion tensor imaging a year prior to developing into new WMH; similar results were seen across the 3 groups.

Conclusions:

White matter tissue destined to develop into new WMH over the subsequent year is associated with both lower neuroinflammation, and white matter ultrastructural damage at baseline. Our results suggest that this tissue is already damaged 1 year prior to lesion formation. This may reflect that the role of neuroinflammation in the lesion development process occurs at an early stage, although more studies over a longer period would be needed to investigate this further.
Five new species and two new records of Erythroneurini from China (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae)
Authors: LIN SHUANGHU , ZOU HONGFEN , HUANG MIN , ZHANG YALIN
Published: January 2023

Five new species and two new records of Erythroneurini are reported from China. The five new species, Dentaneura biangulata, Motaga rokfaoides, Seriana paraequata, Shibinga graciliprocessa and S. grossiprocessa spp. nov. are described and illustrated. Two new records from China, Alnetoidia pavo Dworakowska, 1994 and Empoascanara angkhangica, Hongsaprug, 1983, are also illustrated.
Serum Tryptase in Allergic Rhinitis: Effect of Cetirizine Treatment
Authors: Bruno G. , Andreozzi P. , Magrini L. , Santangelo G. , Graf U. , Angelino A.
Published: January 2023

Activated mast cells release a large range of potent mediators of allergic inflammation, including proteases. The tryptase serum levels were evaluated in 13 subjects suffering from allergic perennial rhinitis. Moreover, the effects of cetirizine treatment on serum tryptase were studied using the UniCap™ tryptase fluoroenzymeimmunoassay.

In allergic patients the serum tryptase values (M±SD: 6.1 ± 2.4 μg/L) were significantly (p < 0.02) higher than the values detected in controls (3.0 ± 1.2 μg/L). In allergic rhinitis, after antihistamine treatment, tryptase values (4.4 ± 1.8 μg/L) decreased significantly (p < 0.001). After two weeks from the cetirizine stop, the tryptase levels increased again (5.5 ± 2.6 μg/l).

The results demonstrate that mast cells are constantly activated in perennial allergic rhinitis. The antihistamine treatment is effective in reducing the tryptase release from mast cells, but the mechanism of action of cetirizine is still to understand.
GBCdb: RNA expression landscapes and ncRNA–mRNA interactions in gallbladder carcinoma
Authors: Guo Li , Xiang Yangyang , Dou Yuyang , Yin Zibo , Xu Xinru , Tang Lihua , Yu Jiafeng , Wang Jun , Liang Tingming
Published: January 2023

Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC), an aggressive malignant tumor of the biliary system, is characterized by high cellular heterogeneity and poor prognosis. Fewer data have been reported in GBC than other common cancer types. Multi-omics data will contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cancer, cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Herein, to provide better understanding of the molecular events in GBC pathogenesis, we developed GBCdb (http://tmliang.cn/gbc/), a user-friendly interface for the query and browsing of GBC-associated genes and RNA interaction networks using published multi-omics data, which also included experimentally supported data from different molecular levels. GBCdb will help to elucidate the potential biological roles of different RNAs and allow for the exploration of RNA interactions in GBC. These resources will provide an opportunity for unraveling the potential molecular features of Gallbladder carcinoma.
Characterization of Danube Swabian population samples on a high-resolution genome-wide basis
Authors: Bánfai Zsolt , Kövesdi Erzsébet , Sümegi Katalin , Büki Gergely , Szabó András , Magyari Lili , Ádám Valerián , Pálos Ferenc , Miseta Attila , Kásler Miklós , Melegh Béla
Published: January 2023

Background

German-derived ethnicities are one of the largest ethnic groups in Hungary, dating back to the formation of the Kingdom of Hungary, which took place at the beginning of the 11th century. Germans arrived in Hungary in many waves. The most significant immigration wave took place following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in East-Central Europe which closed the 150 year long Ottoman occupation. To date, there are no comprehensive genome-wide studies investigating the genetic makeup of the Danube Swabians. Here we analyzed 47 Danube Swabian samples collected from elderly Swabian individuals living in the Dunaszekcső-Bár area, in Danube side villages of Southwest Hungary. These Swabians, according to self-declaration, did not admix with other ethnic groups for 3–6 succeeding generations. Using Illumina Infinium 720 K Beadchip genotype data, we applied allele frequency-based and haplotype-based genome-wide marker data analyses to investigate the ancestry and genetic composition of the collected Danube Swabian samples.

Results

Haplotype-based analyses like identity by descent segment analysis show that the investigated Danube Swabians possess significant German and other West European ancestry, but their Hungarian ancestry is also prominent. Our results suggest that their main source of ancestry can be traced back to Western Europe, presumably to the region of Germany.

Conclusion

This is the first analysis of Danube Swabian population samples based on genome-wide autosomal data. Our results establish the basis for conducting further comprehensive research on Danube Swabians and on other German ethnicities of the Carpathian basin, which can help reconstruct their origin, and identify their major archaic genomic patterns.
Single‑pass four‑throw versus traditional knotting pupilloplasty for traumatic mydriasis combined with lens dislocation
Authors: Shen Chaolan , Liu Lingjuan , Su Ning , Cui Ling , Zhao Xin , Li Min , Zhong Haibin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To compare the use of single‑pass four‑throw (SFT) and traditional double-pass two-throw knotting (DTT) techniques in pupilloplasty for traumatic mydriasis combined with lens dislocation, and to evaluate the learning curve between the two knotting techniques by wet lab.

Method

The eyes of 45 patients (45 eyes) were divided into two groups according to the knotting technique used: single‑pass four‑throw (22 eyes) or traditional double-pass-two-throw knotting (23 eyes). Combined phacoemulsification and pupilloplasty with pars plana vitrectomy were performed in traumatic mydriasis patients with lens dislocation. Preoperative and postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), pupil diameter, intraocular pressure (IOP), pupilloplasty time, and complications were compared. Twenty ophthalmology residents were randomized to perform a pupilloplasty suturing exam with or without SFT knotting techniques in porcine eyes.

Result

All cases had a minimum follow‑up period of 6 months (range 6–12 months). There was no significant difference in the CDVA (P = 0.55), postoperative pupil diameter (P = 0.79), IOP (P > 0.05), anterior chamber exudate degree, and loosening or shedding of the line knot between the two groups. The duration of the pupilloplasty was 22.32 ± 4.58 min in the SFT group and 30.35 ± 5.55 min in the traditional group, which was a significant difference (P < 0.01). The residents in the SFT group had higher test scores and fewer surgical mistakes (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The SFT knotting technique has a similar treatment effect and safety as the traditional technique but requires a shorter time and is easier to perform in pupilloplasty surgery.
Exploring the predictors of physical inactivity in a university setting
Authors: Ndupu Lawrence Bismarck , Faghy Mark , Staples Vicki , Lipka Sigrid , Bussell Chris
Published: January 2023

Background

Changes in lifestyle patterns and the dependence on technology have contributed to an increase in prevalence of inactivity. To address this there is a need to identify the predictors of physical inactivity using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).

Methods

One hundred and twenty-one university administrative staff and 114 PhD students completed a survey. Physical activity (PA) levels were assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), with participants scoring below 600 MET-minutes/week of total PA regarded as inactive. The predictors of physical inactivity were assessed using the Determinants of Physical Activity Questionnaire (DPAQ). Multiple regression analyses were used to identify which domains of the TDF predicted physical inactivity in the study samples.

Results

The results indicated that 64% of administrative staff (Mean = 411.3 ± 118.3 MET-minutes/week of total PA) and 62% of PhD students (Mean = 405.8 ± 111.0 MET-minutes/week of total PA) did not achieve the recommended PA levels. The physical skills domain (t 106 = 2.198, p = 0.030) was the significant predictor of physical inactivity amongst the administrative staff. Knowledge (t 99 = 2.018, p = .046) and intentions (t 99 = 4.240), p = 0.001) domains were the significant predictors of physical inactivity amongst PhD students.

Conclusions

The results of this study should be used as a theoretical starting point in carrying out behavioural diagnosis, which could inform the design of effective interventions to increase PA levels in universities and other settings.