bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the Location Error of Precipitation Nowcasts
Authors: Costa Tomaz de Souza Arthur , Ayzel Georgy , Heistermann Maik
Published: December 2020

In precipitation nowcasting, it is common to track the motion of precipitation in a sequence of weather radar images and to extrapolate this motion into the future. The total error of such a prediction consists of an error in the predicted location of a precipitation feature and an error in the change of precipitation intensity over lead time. So far, verification measures did not allow isolating the extent of location errors, making it difficult to specifically improve nowcast models with regard to location prediction. In this paper, we introduce a framework to directly quantify the location error. To that end, we detect and track scale-invariant precipitation features (corners) in radar images. We then consider these observed tracks as the true reference in order to evaluate the performance (or, inversely, the error) of any model that aims to predict the future location of a precipitation feature. Hence, the location error of a forecast at any lead time Δt ahead of the forecast time t corresponds to the Euclidean distance between the observed and the predicted feature locations at t + Δt. Based on this framework, we carried out a benchmarking case study using one year worth of weather radar composites of the German Weather Service. We evaluated the performance of four extrapolation models, two of which are based on the linear extrapolation of corner motion from t − 1 to t (LK-Lin1) and t − 4 to t (LK-Lin4) and the other two are based on the Dense Inverse Search (DIS) method: motion vectors obtained from DIS are used to predict feature locations by linear (DIS-Lin1) and Semi-Lagrangian extrapolation (DIS-Rot1). Of those four models, DIS-Lin1 and LK-Lin4 turned out to be the most skillful with regard to the prediction of feature location, while we also found that the model skill dramatically depends on the sinuosity of the observed tracks. The dataset of 376,125 detected feature tracks in 2016 is openly available to foster the improvement of location prediction in extrapolation-based nowcasting models.
Privacy-Preserving Multidimensional Data Aggregation Scheme for Smart Grid
Authors: Zhou Yousheng , Chen Xinyun , Chen Meihuan
Published: December 2020

In a smart grid, data aggregation is a common method to evaluate regional power consumption. Data leakage in the process of data transmission poses a security threat to the privacy of users. Many existing data aggregation schemes can only aggregate one-dimensional data; however, it is necessary to aggregate multidimensional data in practical smart grid applications. Therefore, this paper proposes a privacy-preserving multidimensional data aggregation scheme, which can aggregate multidimensional data and protect the individual user’s identity and data privacy. The security of the proposed scheme is proved under the random oracle model. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme has great advantages in computing overhead, and the communication overhead also meets the requirements of the smart grid.
Multimodal Imaging Characteristics of ADRP in a Family with p.Thr58Arg Substituted RHO Mutation
Authors: Ruppert Misty , Pyun John , Chalam K. V. , Sierpina David
Published: December 2020

Background. Autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) is a rare cause of progressive visual impairment in young patients and is frequently a result of RHO gene mutations. p.Thr58Arg rhodopsin mutation leads to misfolding of rhodopsin, subsequent accumulation in the endoplasmic reticulum, and leads to consecutive atrophy of photoreceptor cells through apoptosis. Materials and Methods. We describe multimodal imaging findings in a 58-year-old female with adRP due to a c.173 C > G, p.Thr58Arg rhodopsin mutation (confirmed on genotyping), including ultra-wide-field fundus autofluorescence (UWF-FAF), color scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, structural optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT-angiography (OCT-A), electroretinography (ERG), and visual field testing (HVF). Additionally, we compare the patient’s phenotypic findings to those of her offspring, who was also affected by adRP. Results. The 58-year-old female and her son with symptoms of nyctalopia and decreased vision showed macular pigmentary changes in a bull’s-eye pattern along with bone spicules in periphery with retinal atrophy. Genotyping confirmed p.Thr58Arg rhodopsin mutation. Wide area of dystrophic retina was noted on UWF-FAF, along with corresponding atrophy of photoreceptor layer on OCT. OCTA revealed complete nonperfusion of the superficial capillary plexus in areas of retinal dystrophy. ERG revealed increased latency and decreased amplitudes; HVF revealed constriction of visual fields consistent with retinal findings. Conclusions. Multimodal imaging is extremely helpful in delineating the extent of retinal dystrophy and comparable to ERG for monitoring of progress in retinitis pigmentosa. Photoreceptor layer thickness (measured with OCT) strongly correlated with ERG and can be used as a secondary surrogate for monitoring the disease progress.
Prediction of Low‐Temperature Rheological Properties of SBS Modified Asphalt
Authors: Chen Qian , Wang Chaohui , Song Liang
Published: December 2020

The extreme learning machine (ELM) algorithm optimized by genetic algorithm (GA) was used to quickly predict the low‐temperature rheological properties of styrenic block copolymer (SBS) modified asphalt through the properties of the raw materials. In this work, one hundred groups of survey data and test data were collected and analyzed. Fourteen vital raw material parameters, such as chemical composition indexes of matrix asphalt and technical indexes of SBS modifier, were selected as the input parameter. The stiffness modulus and m‐value of SBS modified asphalt were taken as the output parameter. Then, the GA‐ELM prediction model of low‐temperature rheological properties was established. According to comparison and analysis with other prediction models, the accuracy and output stability of the GA‐ELM prediction model were verified. The results show that the GA‐ELM model had obvious accuracy and efficiency. It can be used to predict the low‐temperature rheological properties of SBS modified asphalt. Compared with the traditional prediction models, the error of the GA‐ELM model was reduced by 68.97–81.48%.
Numerical Study of Disturbance Resistance of Oblique Detonation Waves
Authors: Liu Yu , Xiao Baoguo , Wang Lan , Wang Chao
Published: December 2020

The stability of oblique detonation waves (ODWs) is a fundamental problem, and resistance of ODWs against disturbances is crucial for oblique detonation engines in high-speed propulsion. In this work, numerical studies on ODW stability in disturbed flows are conducted using the two-dimensional reactive Euler equations with a two-step induction-reaction kinetic model. Two kinds of flow disturbances are, respectively, introduced into the steady flow field to assess ODW stability, including upstream transient high-pressure disturbance (UTHD) and downstream jet flow disturbance (DJFD) with different durations. Generally, an ODW is susceptible to disturbances at larger wedge angles and stable at smaller wedge angles. In the unstable wedge angle range, different ODW structures and transition patterns are obtained after disturbances, including different locations of the primary triple points, different numbers of the steady triple points on the wave surface, and different transition patterns from the leading oblique shock wave to the ODW. It is found that the primary triple point tends to move upstream for the disturbances that can form a local strong detached bow shock wave near the wedge tip. In contrast, the wave surface and the transition pattern are susceptible to all of the disturbances introduced in this study. Despite the unstable responses of the ODWs to the disturbances, the ODWs can keep standing stability after disturbances, which is beneficial to the propulsion application of ODWs.
Potential Application of Green Composites for Cross Arm Component in Transmission Tower: A Brief Review
Authors: Asyraf M. R. M. , Ishak M. R. , Sapuan S. M. , Yidris N. , Ilyas R. A. , Rafidah M. , Razman M. R.
Published: December 2020

Recently, advanced technologies exploit materials from nonrenewable resources such as petroleum, natural gas, metal ores, and minerals. Since the depletion of these resources and environmental issues, it has brought attention to researchers to progress in the development of biodegradable materials from green composites. Most biofibres and biopolymers are obtained from agricultural waste products either from stem, leaf, stalk, or fruit. Nowadays, green composites with well-regulated life span have been widely discussed in numerous fields and applications. Some studies have shown that biofibres and biopolymers have comparable mechanical, thermal, and physical properties with glass fibre and other synthetic polymers. Thus, researchers are progressively narrowing down the development of green composite materials in many high strength applications, such as house deck and automotive components. This review focuses on the background of green composites (natural fibres and biopolymers), the manufacturing processes, potential applications in cross arm structures, and testing evaluations. This article also focuses on the specific current cross arm configurations and the pultrusion process to form squared hollow section beams. Many open issues and ideas for potential applications of green composites are analysed, and further emphases are given on the development of environmentally friendly material structures. Hence, the article is expected to deliver a state-of-art review on manufacturability and perspectives of natural fibre reinforced biopolymer composite cross arms for transmission towers.
Traffic Speed Forecast in Adjacent Region between Highway and Urban Expressway: Based on MFD and GRU Model
Authors: Gao Yuan , Zhao Jiandong , Qin Ziyan , Feng Yingzi , Yang Zhenzhen , Jia Bin
Published: December 2020

Traffic congestion in the adjacent region between the highway and urban expressway is becoming more and more serious. This paper proposes a traffic speed forecast method based on the Macroscopic Fundamental Diagram (MFD) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) model to provide the necessary traffic guidance information for travelers in this region. Firstly, considering that the road traffic speed is affected by the macroscopic traffic state, the adjacent region between the highway and expressway is divided into subareas based on the MFD. Secondly, the spatial-temporal correlation coefficient is proposed to measure the correlation between subareas. Then, the matrix of regional traffic speed data is constructed. Thirdly, the matrix is input into the GRU prediction model to get the predicted traffic speed. The proposed algorithm’s prediction performance is verified based on the GPS data collected from the adjacent region between Beijing Highways and Expressway.
Hypertriglyceridemic Waist Phenotype and Lipid Accumulation Product: Two Comprehensive Obese Indicators of Waist Circumference and Triglyceride to Predict Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Chinese Population
Authors: Xu Minrui , Huang Mingtao , Qiang Deren , Gu Jianxin , Li Yong , Pan Yingzi , Yao Xingjuan , Xu Wenchao , Tao Yuan , Zhou Yihong , Ma Hongxia
Published: December 2020

Purpose. To determine whether hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) and high lipid accumulation product (LAP) preceded the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and to investigate the interactions of HTGW and LAP with other components of metabolic syndrome on the risk of T2DM. Methods. A total of 15,717 eligible participants without baseline T2DM and aged 35 and over were included from a Chinese rural cohort. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association of HTGW and LAP with the incidence of T2DM, and the restricted cubic spline model was used to evaluate the dose-response association. Results. Overall, 867 new T2DM cases were diagnosed after 7.77 years of follow-up. Participants with HTGW had a higher hazard ratio for T2DM (hazard ratio (HR): 6.249, 95% confidence interval (CI): 5.199-7.511) after adjustment for potential confounders. The risk of incident T2DM was increased with quartiles 3 and 4 versus quartile 1 of LAP, and the adjusted HRs (95% CIs) were 2.903 (2.226-3.784) and 6.298 (4.911-8.077), respectively. There were additive interactions of HTGW (synergy index (SI): 1.678, 95% CI: 1.358-2.072) and high LAP (SI: 1.701, 95% CI: 1.406-2.059) with increased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) on the risk of T2DM. Additionally, a nonlinear (

P

nonlinear < 0.001) dose-response association was found between LAP and T2DM. Conclusion. The subjects with HTGW and high LAP were at high risk of developing T2DM, and the association between LAP and the risk of T2DM may be nonlinear. Our study further demonstrates additive interactions of HTGW and high LAP with increased FPG on the risk of T2DM.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Successfully Deliver Oncolytic Virotherapy to Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma
Authors: Chastkofsky Michael I. , Pituch Katarzyna C. , Katagi Hiroaki , Zannikou Markella , Ilut Liliana , Xiao Ting , Han Yu , Sonabend Adam M. , Curiel David T. , Bonner Erin R. , Nazarian Javad , Horbinski Craig M. , James C. David , Saratsis Amanda M. , Hashizume Rintaro , Lesniak Maciej S. , Balyasnikova Irina V.
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is among the deadliest of pediatric brain tumors. Radiotherapy is the standard-of-care treatment for DIPG, but offers only transient relief of symptoms for patients with DIPG without providing significant survival benefit. Oncolytic virotherapy is an anticancer treatment that has been investigated for treating various types of brain tumors.

Experimental Design:

Here, we have explored the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for oncolytic virus (OV) delivery and evaluated treatment efficacy using preclinical models of DIPG. The survivin promoter drives the conditional replication of OV used in our studies. The efficiency of OV entry into the cells is mediated by fiber modification with seven lysine residues (CRAd.S.pK7). Patients' samples and cell lines were analyzed for the expression of viral entry proteins and survivin. The ability of MSCs to deliver OV to DIPG was studied in the context of a low dose of irradiation.

Results:

Our results show that DIPG cells and tumors exhibit robust expression of cell surface proteins and survivin that enable efficient OV entry and replication in DIPG cells. MSCs loaded with OV disseminate within a tumor and release OV throughout the DIPG brainstem xenografts in mice. Administration of OV-loaded MSCs with radiotherapy to mice bearing brainstem DIPG xenografts results in more prolonged survival relative to that conferred by either therapy alone (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Our study supports OV, CRAd.S.pK7, encapsulated within MSCs as a therapeutic strategy that merits further investigation and potential translation for DIPG treatment.
A Performance Comparison of Commonly Used Assays to Detect RET Fusions
Authors: Yang Soo-Ryum , Aypar Umut , Rosen Ezra Y. , Mata Douglas A. , Benayed Ryma , Mullaney Kerry , Jayakumaran Gowtham , Zhang Yanming , Frosina Denise , Drilon Alexander , Ladanyi Marc , Jungbluth Achim A. , Rekhtman Natasha , Hechtman Jaclyn F.
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

Selpercatinib and pralsetinib induce deep and durable responses in patients with advanced RET fusion–positive lung and thyroid cancer. RET fusion testing strategies with rapid and reliable results are critical given recent FDA approval. Here, we assess various clinical assays in a large pan-cancer cohort.

Experimental Design:

Tumors underwent DNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) with reflex to RNA-based NGS if no mitogenic driver or if a RET structural variant of unknown significance (SVUS) were present. Canonical DNA-level RET fusions and RNA-confirmed RET fusions were considered true fusions. Break-apart FISH and IHC performance were assessed in subgroups.

Results:

A total of 171 of 41,869 patients with DNA NGS harbored RET structural variants, including 139 canonical fusions and 32 SVUS. Twelve of 32 (37.5%) SVUS were transcribed into RNA-level fusions, resulting in 151 oncogenic RET fusions. The most common RET fusion–positive tumor types were lung (65.6%) and thyroid (23.2%). The most common partners were KIF5B (45%), CCDC6 (29.1%), and NCOA4 (13.3%). DNA NGS showed 100% (46/46) sensitivity and 99.6% (4,459/4,479) specificity. FISH showed 91.7% (44/48) sensitivity, with lower sensitivity for NCOA4-RET (66.7%, 8/12). A total of 87.5% (7/8) of RET SVUS negative for RNA-level fusions demonstrated rearrangement by FISH. The sensitivity of IHC varied by fusion partner: KIF5B sensitivity was highest (100%, 31/31), followed by CCDC6 (88.9%, 16/18) and NCOA4 (50%, 6/12). Specificity of RET IHC was 82% (73/89).

Conclusions:

Although DNA sequencing has high sensitivity and specificity, RNA sequencing of RET SVUS is necessary. Both FISH and IHC demonstrated lower sensitivity for NCOA4-RET fusions.
Combining Nivolumab and Ipilimumab with Infliximab or Certolizumab in Patients with Advanced Melanoma: First Results of a Phase Ib Clinical Trial
Authors: Montfort Anne , Filleron Thomas , Virazels Mathieu , Dufau Carine , Milhès Jean , Pagès Cécile , Olivier Pascale , Ayyoub Maha , Mounier Muriel , Lusque Amélie , Brayer Stéphanie , Delord Jean-Pierre , Andrieu-Abadie Nathalie , Levade Thierry , Colacios Céline , Ségui Bruno , Meyer Nicolas
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

TNF blockers can be used to manage gastrointestinal inflammatory side effects following nivolumab and/or ipilimumab treatment in patients with advanced melanoma. Our preclinical data showed that anti-TNF could promote the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Patients and Methods:

TICIMEL (NTC03293784) is an open-label, two-arm phase Ib clinical trial. Fourteen patients with advanced and/or metastatic melanoma (stage IIIc/IV) were enrolled. Patients were treated with nivolumab (1 mg/kg) and ipilimumab (3 mg/kg) combined to infliximab (5 mg/kg, N = 6) or certolizumab (400/200 mg, N = 8). The primary endpoint was safety and the secondary endpoint was antitumor activity. Adverse events (AEs) were graded according to the NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events and response was assessed following RECIST 1.1.

Results:

Only one dose-limiting toxicity was observed in the infliximab cohort. The two different combinations were found to be safe. We observed lower treatment-related AEs with infliximab as compared with certolizumab. In the certolizumab cohort, one patient was not evaluable for response. In this cohort, four of eight patients exhibited hepatobiliary disorders and seven of seven evaluable patients achieved objective response including four complete responses (CRs) and three partial responses (PRs). In the infliximab cohort, we observed one CR, two PRs, and three progressive diseases. Signs of activation and maturation of systemic T-cell responses were seen in patients from both cohorts.

Conclusions:

Our results show that both combinations are safe in human and provide clinical and biological activities. The high response rate in the certolizumab-treated patient cohort deserves further investigations.
Abstract A37: Restoration of oral microbiota dysbiosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma after surgery
Authors: Chan Jason Y.K. , Wong Bowie , Wong Eddy W.Y. , Chan Paul , Chen Zigui
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Increasing reports have indicated the association between oral microbiota dysbiosis and HNSCC, while it is unclear how the oral microbiota responds to surgery. In this study, we longitudinally collected oral rinse samples from patients with HNSCC right before and after surgery at 1, 3, and 6 months, in order to elucidate the dynamic changes of oral microbiota upon treatment.

Materials and Methods: A total of 91 HNSCC patients were recruited, with 20 having been collected for a longitudinal set of samples for 6 months. Meanwhile, 93 healthy subjects were selected as controls. The microbiota from oral rinses was classified by 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 amplicon sequencing and QIIME2 algorithm.

Results: Although there was no obvious difference in the alpha- and beta-diversities of oral microbiota between HNSCC patients and healthy subjects, we observed a number of bacterial genera significantly discriminating cases from controls. Further analysis of oral microbiota in HNSCC between pre- and post-surgery found that the community diversity was dramatically depressed at 1 month after surgery (p=0.001), but this was able to restore to the normal level from 3 months with no significant difference between 3 months and preop (p>0.05). The relative abundance of the commensal bacteria, including Streptococcus, Rothia, Corynebacterium, and Granulicatella, consistently increased along 1-, 3-, and 6-month recovery, while the periodontal pathogens Fusobacterium and Peptostreptococcus decreased.

Conclusions: The findings indicate that a taxonomically defined microbial consortium is associated with HNSCC and the oral microbiota is able to restore to the community, trending to healthy status after surgery.

Citation Format: Jason Y.K. Chan, Bowie Wong, Eddy W.Y. Wong, Paul Chan, Zigui Chen. Restoration of oral microbiota dysbiosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma after surgery [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Microbiome, Viruses, and Cancer; 2020 Feb 21-24; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(8 Suppl):Abstract nr A37.
Abstract B37: Analysis of the differential expression of human endogenous retrovirus in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Yuan Zihao , Zhang Ningyan , An Zhiqiang , Zheng Wenjin
Published: December 2020

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive and deadly brain tumor. It is primarily diagnosed at older ages and has 5-year survival rate less than 6% even with the most aggressive therapies; the lack of biomarkers for GBM makes the development of its immunotherapy challenging. Human endogenous retrovirus (HERVs) are a group of long terminal repeat (LTR) elements that are believed to be relics from ancient viral infections. Recent studies have found their important roles in regulating various biologic processes. However, our understanding of the LTR elements is greatly lacking. The purpose of our study was to comprehensively characterize the expression profile of LTRs in the GBM compared with normal brain. The 1,077.4 GB of sequencing data contain 111 GBM tissue studies, 30 GBM cell lines studies, and 45 normal brain tissues studies were obtained from public database; the differential expressed repetitive elements were analyzed between GBM and normal brain samples. 48 LTR elements were found differentially expressed (p-value < 0.05) between GBM and normal brain, of which 46 are HERV elements. 34 out of 46 significantly changed HERVs belong to the ERV1 superfamily. Most (43/46) of the differential expressed HERV elements are upregulated in GBM compared with normal brain. Our results suggest a potentially important role of HERVs in the etiology of GBM and future application of these elements as biomarkers for GBM treatments.

Citation Format: Zihao Yuan, Ningyan Zhang, Zhiqiang An, Wenjin Zheng. Analysis of the differential expression of human endogenous retrovirus in glioblastoma multiforme [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Microbiome, Viruses, and Cancer; 2020 Feb 21-24; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(8 Suppl):Abstract nr B37.
Abstract PO-041: Multiplexed ion beam imaging to describe tumor-immune microenvironment and tumor heterogeneity in neuroblastoma
Authors: Kammersgaard Marte B. , Bosse Marc , Martinez Daniel , Bosse Kristopher R. , Maris John M. , Mackall Crystal L. , Angelo Robert M. , Davis Kara L.
Published: December 2020

Neuroblastoma is a tumor of the peripheral sympathetic nervous system, accounting for 10% of pediatric cancer associated deaths and the most common cancer diagnosed during infancy(1,2). This neural crest derived malignancy is characterized by clinical heterogeneity ranging from spontaneous regression in some patients to treatment resistance, metastasis and death in others(3,4). Here, we report the application of Multiplexed Ion Beam Imaging (MIBI), a single-cell, high-dimensional imaging method to determine the expression and co-expression of antigens on neuroblastoma cells and describe the local immune environment. We have optimized a 40-antibody panel to capture adrenergic or mesenchymal identity(5,6), infiltrating immune cells, tissue architecture and known neuroblastoma proteins. We optimized our antibody staining and determined tissue specificity using a unique tissue microarray which included 32 NBL cores but also additional childhood solid tumors including osteosarcoma, glioblastoma, Ewing’s sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor, and Wilms tumor. Healthy pediatric tissues from various organs including kidney, liver, and tonsil were also included. We have uncovered divergent neuroblastoma cell populations differentiated by co-expression of CD57, Ki67 and GPC2 as well as mesenchymal (FN1 and SNAI2/SLUG) and adrenergic (TH, GATA3 and PHOX2B) antibodies, demonstrating promising early results of our application of MIBI. We will describe infiltrating immune populations and spatial relationships to these unique tumor cell populations. Our work demonstrates the feasibility of using MIBI to make translatable discoveries in neuroblastoma and other childhood cancers. With this we will lay the foundation for future discovery and validation of novel targets for immunotherapy in neuroblastoma.

Citation Format: Marte B. Kammersgaard, Marc Bosse, Daniel Martinez, Kristopher R. Bosse, John M. Maris, Crystal L. Mackall, Robert M. Angelo, Kara L. Davis. Multiplexed ion beam imaging to describe tumor-immune microenvironment and tumor heterogeneity in neuroblastoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Special Conference on Tumor Heterogeneity: From Single Cells to Clinical Impact; 2020 Sep 17-18. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(21 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-041.
Abstract IA08: Re-examining the Interplay between Structure, Cancer, and Cancer Health Policy
Authors: Winn Robert A.
Published: December 2020

The current COVID crisis has reminded many of us of the importance of structure on health. Whether the structure is a built environment, housing, education, or of the social construct type, it has significant impact at both the community and on an individual level. Many of the current structures contribute to the large disparities we have witnessed especially during this period of COVID. While there is much talk about the upstream determinants of health, it is important to recognize that these upstream determinants are also affected by the politics, policies, and economic realities of the day. For example, while informal discrimination and segregation has always existed in the US, the start of "Red-Lining" was started with the creation of the National Housing Act of 1934, which established the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The effects of Red-lining exacerbated and formalized segregation in the US, and the long lasting negative consequences of this policy are still felt today. There are a number of structural issues that have enhanced health disparities and specifically cancer health disparities. We will examine how the history of e.g. of “structural racism” has contributed to cancer health disparities and the current efforts underway to reduce these disparities. We will further discuss the interplay between current existing structures and their contribution to cancer, and the policies that contribute to cancer health disparities. Lastly, we will address the call to action to create beneficial policies that will help eradicate cancer health disparities.

Citation Format: Robert A. Winn. Re-examining the Interplay between Structure, Cancer, and Cancer Health Policy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA08.
Abstract IA09: How Patient Advocates can Advance Cancer Health Equity – Tales from the Frontlines
Authors: Laudico Lisa
Published: December 2020

In the early days of the SARS CoV-2 Coronavirus pandemic, volunteer Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) patient advocates, affiliated with SHARE Cancer Support, launched a podcast dedicated to exploring life with MBC from the perspective of us, the people living with this disease, and the experts who partner with us to help make our lives better. The “Our MBC Life” Podcast was launched on July 27, 2020 and our inaugural episodes were focused on disparities in MBC healthcare for black women. SHARE Cancer Support started in 1976 as an organization of women helping women, and peer support remains central to SHARE’s work today. It has now grown into a national nonprofit support organization for women affected by breast cancer, MBC, ovarian and uterine cancer. We meet the needs of women wherever they are, especially in medically underserved communities. Our African American Ambassador and Latina SHARE programs are grassroots efforts designed to empower medically underserved communities of color and reduce outcomes in health disparities. In addition, the “Our MBC Life” Podcast team signed onto the #inclusion pledge, the new health equity initiative focusing on diversity and inclusion to eliminate disparities for black women. Black women are often diagnosed at later stages of their breast cancer when treatments are more limited, costly and the prognosis is poor. Black women are often diagnosed at younger ages, have more aggressive breast cancer and have a 40% higher mortality rate. Furthermore, Black women have a 39% recurrence rate of breast cancer versus an approximate 20% recurrence rate found in the total breast cancer population. The #inclusionpledge, launched by the Tigerlily Foundation at the December 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, provides a transparent and tangible framework across stakeholders to identify and track equity actions, holding all involved accountable with measurable and improved equity and outcomes for women of color. Two of the founding members of the pledge are co-hosts with the “Our MBC Life” Podcast. The “Our MBC Life” Podcast team is made up of a diverse group of ten individuals living with MBC with 3 Black Co-hosts, 1 Latinx Co-host, 1 male MBC Co-host and an LGBTQ producer. We cover racial disparity issues in healthcare in every interview with research stakeholders, oncologists and foundation leaders. This presentation will cover the work being done by the “Our MBC Life” podcast to change racial disparities in healthcare for black women and provide an overview of the impact of the #inclusionpledge initiative.

Citation Format: Lisa Laudico. How Patient Advocates can Advance Cancer Health Equity – Tales from the Frontlines [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA09.
Abstract IA23: Cadmium exposure, DNA methylation and liver cancer
Authors: Hoyo Catherine
Published: December 2020

Background. In the last 30 years, the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has increased faster than other solid tumors and race/ethnic disparities are widening, yet suspected risk factors whose prevalence has also been on a parallel increase, cannot fully explain either this steep increase in incidence or the widening racial/ethnic gap. An understudied, yet potent risk-factor whose prevalence has been on the increase and disproportionately affects ethnic minorities, is exposure to environmental contaminants e.g., cadmium—a probable carcinogen whose main target organ is the liver. Methods. We measured cadmium concentrations in maternal blood samples obtained prenatally using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. In umbilical cord blood leukocytes, we measured DNA methylation at a regulatory sequence controlling the expression of the gene cluster that includes DLK1, MEG3, MEG9, MEG8, DIO3 and some SNORD genes. Hyper-methylation at this sequence region—the first exon of MEG3—has been associated with HCC. We used zip-code level North Carolina Cancer Registry data to estimate liver cancer incidence, and Getis-Ord Gi* statistic and regression models to evaluate the relationships among cadmium exposure, MEG3 hyper-methylation and HCC incidence. Results. We found that higher cadmium concentrations were associated with significant MEG3 hypermethylation (p=0.03), and associations were specific to African Americans (p=0.01). We also found a significant geographic cluster of MEG3 hypermethylation, in the zip-code with the highest liver cancer incidence (p=0.01). ~75% of which HCC. Conclusion. Our data suggest that hypermethylation of the sequence that regulates MEG3, an established tumor suppressor is associated with cadmium exposure early life and HCC in adults. A comprehensive characterization of other networks that are altered in response to environmental exposures that disproportionately affect ethnic minorities, is urgently needed.

Citation Format: Catherine Hoyo. Cadmium exposure, DNA methylation and liver cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA23.
Abstract IA47: Overcoming Barriers and Defining Success: Diversity Inclusion and Belonging in the Healthcare Workforce
Authors: Reede Joan Y. , Landry Alden
Published: December 2020

Medicine had historically overlooked the need for a diverse workforce, instead focusing on efforts to address health equity though cultural competency education and other proxies with poorly measured success. All the while, studies have shown the value of a diverse workforce on research innovation and health care outcomes. In these sessions, we will explore why it is important for institutions to focus on diversity, equity and belonging and create programming that supports individuals form under-represented backgrounds to pursue a career in health, with a specific focus on cancer research.

Citation Format: Joan Y. Reede, Alden Landry. Overcoming Barriers and Defining Success: Diversity Inclusion and Belonging in the Healthcare Workforce [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA47.
Abstract PO-025: The Durham Initiative for Stomach Health (DISH): A pilot community-based Helicobacter pylori education and screening study
Authors: Crankshaw Sydnee , Butt Julia , Gierisch Jennifer , Barrett Nadine , Mervin-Blake Sabrena , Oeffinger Kevin , Patierno Steven , Worthy Valarie , Godbee Ronald , Epplein Meira
Published: December 2020

Background: Approximately 15% of all cancers are due to infection. The bacteria Helicobacter pylori is the single leading carcinogenic infectious agent and the main cause of stomach cancer. Prevalence of H. pylori, and, correspondingly, stomach cancer incidence and mortality, is significantly greater among African Americans than whites in the United States. In the present study, we conducted a pilot community- engaged H. pylori education and screening study in partnership with a predominantly African American church in Durham, North Carolina. Methods: Initially, we consulted with community advisory boards and convened stakeholder meetings with local community members and primary care physicians. We then developed this pilot study through an iterative collaboration with church partners. Our main outcomes were feasibility and acceptability as measured by participation in a one-day H. pylori screening initiative, and participation in follow-up for those who tested positive. We also sought to determine prevalence and determinants of active H. pylori infection in this population. Results: Community engagement informed the event logistics, messaging, educational materials provided, and follow-up plans. A total of 92 individuals participated in the primary study event, 25% of whom had a current H. pylori infection. Of those, 87% returned for the follow-up events, among whom 70% had successfully cleared their infection. Conclusions: Through community engagement, community-based H. pylori screening and stomach cancer prevention is feasible and acceptable. This is a necessary step in order to move stomach cancer prevention forward to population-based precision H. pylori screening and eradication.

Citation Format: Sydnee Crankshaw, Julia Butt, Jennifer Gierisch, Nadine Barrett, Sabrena Mervin-Blake, Kevin Oeffinger, Steven Patierno, Valarie Worthy, Ronald Godbee, Meira Epplein. The Durham Initiative for Stomach Health (DISH): A pilot community-based Helicobacter pylori education and screening study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-025.
Abstract PO-046: Predicting breast cancer survival outcomes in a tri-racial/ethnic population
Authors: Wang Kaicheng , Yang George R. , Hu Jennifer J. , Reis Isildinha M. , Zhao Wei , Herna Stuart
Published: December 2020

Objective: In the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer for women, and it alone accounts for 30% of all new cancer diagnoses in women. Considered the complexity of decision on breast cancer therapy decision, we develop a model to predict 5-year overall survival at the time of diagnosis based on demographic and pathological factors, and estimate the potential benefit from different breast cancer treatment regimens for each individual patient. Methods: Using tumor registry data from University of Miami Health System and Jackson Memorial Hospital from 2008 to 2018, 4021 breast cancer patients were selected.

After preliminary screening of data, based on previous research and clinical evidence, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed to assess the effect of the potential prognosticators of overall survival. Twelve variables from multivariate Cox model were selected to build the prediction model with adjustment of interaction between predictors. Results: This prediction model based on race/ethnicity, age at diagnosis, smoking status, tumor stage, tumor grade, hormone receptor status, human epidermal growth factor 2, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy had good discrimination and calibration in bootstrap validation set with an C-statistic 0.82, and no significant difference between the predicted and the observed probabilities. Conclusion: We have developed a robust, relatively accurate, and easy-demonstrated tool that is able to predict 5-year overall survival in patients with invasive breast cancer, with reference to indicate the impact of potential treatment on prognosis. This allowed better communication between clinician and individual patient to make joint clinical decision.

Citation Format: Kaicheng Wang, George R. Yang, Jennifer J. Hu, Isildinha M. Reis, Wei Zhao, Stuart Herna. Predicting breast cancer survival outcomes in a tri-racial/ethnic population [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-046.
Abstract PO-048: Community focused research, application and translation academy for investigators
Authors: Goldtooth Carol , Begay Andria , Teufel-Shone Nicolette I.
Published: December 2020

Background: Scholars and students drawn to health research with underserved communities often are motivated by their commitment to understand and change poor health outcomes. Yet, they may have limited exposure to application and translation skills and struggle to convey the potential of their work to communities. Exposure to application and translation skills training can augment scholars’ and students’ existing skills to communicate with communities, local leadership, and practitioners. Objective: The intention of Research, Application and Translation Academy (RATA) developed by the Outreach Core of the NCI funded Native American Cancer Research Prevention Partnership was to provide and augment the understanding of application and translation processes and project-specific technical assistance to develop educational information in a range of media, research- informed policy briefs, and presentations. Methods: RATA framework uses a three- stage training approach: awareness through acceptance to adoption. The training is provided to research teams, ideally with community partners. Components include:

1) Overview of terms, steps to identify characteristics of a targeted audience, and review of communication venues, e.g., presentations, radio, newspaper, social media and policy briefs; 2) team-based practice in defining characteristics and motivations of specific target audiences, message design and local methods and trusted sources of communication; and 4) implementation of communication and message strategies; and 5) evaluation of outreach. Conclusion: RATA strengths include the use of team-based exercises, a review of effective and ineffective messaging, incorporating interactive technology platforms, project-specific technical support, and evaluation metrics. Challenges are leadership investment and understanding of the importance of non-scientific dissemination, and a tendency to not incorporate RATA skills or move plans to action. With the emphasis on steps to identify the target audience, tailor the messages, use locally effective communication strategies and action, RATA can contribute to conveying that the knowledge generated in health research can benefit communities.

Citation Format: Carol Goldtooth, Andria Begay, Nicolette I. Teufel-Shone. Community focused research, application and translation academy for investigators [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-048.
Abstract PO-073: A qualitative study of research staff centered approaches for optimizing recruitment and retention in biomedical cohort studies in the Caribbean
Authors: Bailey Althea , Govia Ishtar , McKenzie Joette , Richards Sade , Coleman Sheldon , Tulloch-Reid Marshall , Ragin Camille , Ashing Kimlin
Published: December 2020

Objective: To identify the best practices of research staff that facilitate achieving enrollment and retention targets in biomedical cohort studies in Black Caribbean populations. Design and Methods: Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were held with research stakeholders including research (i) nurses/ study supervisors, (ii) field staff/data collectors and (iii) rural and urban participants of the Third Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey (a national NCD risk factor survey with biospecimen collection) to capture qualitative data on experiences with recruitment, training, logistical issues in the field, retention challenges and potential solutions or strategies for strengthening future efforts. Results: Our findings suggest that ongoing training and supervision with clearly defined roles and responsibilities of the study staff enhanced the adeptness of field operations and attracted volunteers. Targeted community engagement and strong support in the field from the coordinating center increased the reach and efficiency of the data collectors. The need for gender appropriate approaches and socioeconomic balance to enhance equitable enrollment and participation in all aspects of the study was emphasized. Conclusion: Enrollment and retention in Jamaican studies is improved by creating and sustaining well-functioning research teams and applying community and gender appropriate approaches. These strategies may also enhance the recruitment of other Black populations in the Diaspora including the US and Caribbean into biomedical studies including cancer research.

Citation Format: Althea Bailey, Ishtar Govia, Joette McKenzie, Sade Richards, Sheldon Coleman, Marshall Tulloch-Reid, Camille Ragin, Kimlin Ashing. A qualitative study of research staff centered approaches for optimizing recruitment and retention in biomedical cohort studies in the Caribbean [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-073.
Abstract PO-116: Pentagalloyl glucose inhibits GRO-α/CXCL1 pro-inflammatory cytokine and induces expression of apoptosis-related genes in racially different TNBC cells
Authors: Messeha Samia , Soliman Karam F.A. , Mendonca Patricia , Alghamdi Sumaiah
Published: December 2020

A distinctive tumor microenvironment associated with chronic inflammation, cancer development, and drug resistance in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) affect disproportionally Caucasian and African American women. PURPOSE: This investigation presents possible new biomarkers that could be modulated by the natural compound pentagalloyl glucose (PGG) in MM-231 (Caucasians) and MM-468 (African American) TNBC cells. METHODS: Cytokine arrays, ELISA, RT-PCR, flow cytometry, and Western analysis were performed. RESULTS: PGG reduced the expression of GRO-α/CXCL1 pro-inflammatory cytokine, which is associated with tumor recurrence and chemoresistance. PGG inhibited IκBKE and MAPK1 gene and protein expression indicating a possible signaling pathway for CXCL1 downregulation through NFκB and MAPK signaling. PGG also inhibited cell growth in both cell lines, which could be associated with a decrease in CXCL1 levels. Besides, PGG induced apoptosis, modulating numerous genes, including caspases, TNF, and TNF superfamily receptor genes. Remarkably, PGG promoted a 154.6-fold increase in TNF expression in African American compared to 14.6-fold in Caucasian cells.

CONCLUSION: the findings show PGG potential in ameliorating inflammatory processes and reducing resistance to chemotherapeutic agents since TNF has been demonstrated to sensitize tumor cells. Thus, the use of PGG may be a helpful tumor therapeutic strategy to increase tumor sensitivity to chemotherapy and slow cancer progression.

Citation Format: Samia Messeha, Karam F.A. Soliman, Patricia Mendonca, Sumaiah Alghamdi. Pentagalloyl glucose inhibits GRO-α/CXCL1 pro-inflammatory cytokine and induces expression of apoptosis-related genes in racially different TNBC cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-116.