bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Engineered Nanomaterials on Plants Growth: An Overview
Authors: Aslani Farzad , Bagheri Samira , Muhd Julkapli Nurhidayatullaili , Juraimi Abdul Shukor , Hashemi Farahnaz Sadat Golestan , Baghdadi Ali
Published: August 2014

Rapid development and wide applications of nanotechnology brought about a significant increment on the number of engineered nanomaterials (ENs) inevitably entering our living system. Plants comprise of a very important living component of the terrestrial ecosystem. Studies on the influence of engineered nanomaterials (carbon and metal/metal oxides based) on plant growth indicated that in the excess content, engineered nanomaterials influences seed germination. It assessed the shoot-to-root ratio and the growth of the seedlings. From the toxicological studies to date, certain types of engineered nanomaterials can be toxic once they are not bound to a substrate or if they are freely circulating in living systems. It is assumed that the different types of engineered nanomaterials affect the different routes, behavior, and the capability of the plants. Furthermore, different, or even opposing conclusions, have been drawn from most studies on the interactions between engineered nanomaterials with plants. Therefore, this paper comprehensively reviews the studies on the different types of engineered nanomaterials and their interactions with different plant species, including the phytotoxicity, uptakes, and translocation of engineered nanomaterials by the plant at the whole plant and cellular level.
A Modified Single Mini-Incision Complete Urinary Tract Exenteration for Urothelial Carcinoma in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Chen I-Hsuan , Lin Jen-Tai , Tsai Jeng-Yu , Wu Tony , Yu Chia-Cheng
Published: August 2014

Objective. To present our experience with single mini-incision complete urinary tract exenteration (CUTE) for female dialysis patients suffering from urothelial carcinoma (UC).Patients and Methods. Institutional review board approval was obtained. From 2005 through 2012, 14 female dialysis patients with UC underwent single mini-incision CUTE, in combination with radical hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. All were placed in the modified dorsal lithotomy position without repositioning. An infraumbilical midline mini-incision was made. Bilateral nephroureterectomy was first performed entirely extraperitoneally, followed by radical cystectomy with removal of the uterus and ovaries transperitoneally.Results. All procedures were done successfully without major complications. The median operative time was 242.5 minutes, and estimated blood loss was 500 mL. The median time to oral intake was 2 postoperative days; the median hospital stay was 11 days. Ten patients remained cancer-free at a median follow-up of 46.5 months; six patients were confirmed as having preoperatively undetectable UC or renal cell carcinoma, even after reviewing preoperative computed tomography.Conclusions. This modified technique provides a time-saving complete urinary tract extirpation to eliminate preoperatively undetectable malignancy, reduce metachronous recurrences, and avert perioperative complications associated with pneumoperitoneum and repositioning. Good cancer control and early convalescence can mutually be achieved in experienced hands.
Clinical and Renal Biopsy Findings Predicting Outcome in Renal Thrombotic Microangiopathy: A Large Cohort Study from a Single Institute in China
Authors: YU Xiao-Juan , YU Feng , Song Di , Wang Su-Xia , Song Yan , Liu Gang , Zhao Ming-Hui
Published: August 2014

Objective. The current study aimed to investigate the spectrum of etiologies and associated disorders of renal biopsy-proven thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) patients.Methods. The clinical, laboratory, and renal histopathological data of patients with renal TMA from 2000 to 2012 in our institute were collected and reviewed.Results. One hundred and nine TMA patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 34.0 ± 11.1 years. Seventy patients (64.2%) were male and thirty-nine patients (35.8%) were female. There were eight patients (7.3%) with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Sixty-one patients (56.0%) were secondary to malignant hypertension. Fourteen patients (12.8%) were pregnancy-associated TMA. Other associated disorders included 17 patients with connective tissue disorders, 2 patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, 4 patients with Castleman’s disease, 1 patient with cryoglobulinemia, and 2 patients with glomerulopathy. During followup, 8 patients died due to severe infection, 17 patients had doubling of serum creatinine, and 44 had end-stage renal disease. In multivariate analysis, male, elevated serum creatinine, and decreased hemoglobin were independently associated with poor renal outcomes.Conclusions. Renal TMA changes consisted of different disorders with various etiologies. aHUS, pregnancy-associated TMA, and malignant hypertension accounted for the majority of patients in our cohort.
Acute Demyelinating Polyneuropathy after Lung Transplantation: Guillain-Barré Syndrome or Tacrolimus Toxicity?
Authors: Sharma Nirmal S. , Wille Keith M. , Hoopes Charles W. , Diaz-Guzman Enrique
Published: August 2014

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has been described after solid organ and bone marrow transplantation mostly due to viral infections and possibly calcineurin inhibitors. Incidence after bone marrow transplant is 0.3–0.7%, though incidence in other transplants is not well known. We present the first description of tacrolimus associated GBS in lung transplant recipients in the English language literature. The pathophysiology of tacrolimus-induced polyneuropathy is not known, but some have hypothesized that tacrolimus induces an inflammatory phenomenon by differential effects on T cell subsets. Diagnosis of association may be challenging and requires high index of suspicion. The optimal treatment of GBS-associated with tacrolimus after lung transplantation is unknown, although drug discontinuation may result in improvement in some patients, while some reports suggest that the use of IVIG and/or plasmapheresis may be helpful and safe in organ transplant recipients with severe symptoms.
Unilateral Maxillary Canine Agenesis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Koç Nagihan , Çağırankaya L. Berna , Akkaya Nursel
Published: August 2014

Congenital absence of maxillary permanent canines is an extremely rare condition, which may appear as part of a syndrome or as a nonsyndromic form. Nonsyndromic canine agenesis combined with other types of tooth agenesis has occasionally been described in the literature but isolated cases are rarely observed. This report presents an isolated case of maxillary permanent canine agenesis in a healthy 18-year-old female patient and a literature review on the prevalence, etiology, and differential diagnosis of the condition.
Synthesis of Highly Stable Cobalt Nanomaterial Using Gallic Acid and Its Application in Catalysis
Authors: Naz Saba , Khaskheli Abdul Rauf , Aljabour Abdalaziz , Kara Huseyin , Talpur Farah Naz , Sherazi Syed Tufail Hussain , Khaskheli Abid Ali , Jawaid Sana
Published: August 2014

We report the room temperature (25–30°C) green synthesis of cobalt nanomaterial (CoNM) in an aqueous medium using gallic acid as a reducing and stabilizing agent. pH 9.5 was found to favour the formation of well dispersed flower shaped CoNM. The optimization of various parameters in preparation of nanoscale was studied. The AFM, SEM, EDX, and XRD characterization studies provide detailed information about synthesized CoNM which were of 4–9 nm in dimensions. The highly stable CoNM were used to study their catalytic activity for removal of azo dyes by selecting methyl orange as a model compound. The results revealed that 0.4 mg of CoNM has shown 100% removal of dye from 50 μM aqueous solution of methyl orange. The synthesized CoNM can be easily recovered and recycled several times without decrease in their efficiency.
An Uncommon Case of Bilateral Peroneal Nerve Palsy following Delivery: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bunch Kristen , Hope Erica
Published: August 2014

Peroneal nerve palsy is an infrequent but potential complication of childbirth. Bilateral peroneal palsy is particularly rare following delivery with few reported cases. A 38-year-old gravida 1, para 0 underwent a prolonged second stage of labor, was diagnosed with an arrest of descent, and subsequently underwent an uncomplicated primary cesarean section. The patient was diagnosed with bilateral peroneal neuropathy four days after delivery. By two months postpartum, her foot drop had improved by 85% and the remainder of her symptoms resolved. Awareness of the risks of a peroneal neuropathy as well as implementation of preventive measures is important for members of the delivery team. Regional anesthesia during labor is a risk factor for the development of a peroneal neuropathy.
Distributed Congestion Mitigation and Medium Access in Duty Cycling Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Hao , Liu Ye
Published: August 2014

Duty cycling is an efficient design approach to achieve energy efficiency in wireless sensor networks. However, it may aggravate congestion due to long access delay and amplified hidden/exposed terminal problems. This paper first investigates some key facts that impact congestion and deteriorate packet transmission. With above observations, we propose a queue length based contention window adjustment approach, which allows congested nodes having high priority to access the channel. Then, a batch transmission scheme is introduced to drain accumulated packets rapidly. Finally, a random preamble mechanism is designed, so that congested nodes have more chances to get channel when other transmission is happening. Through the experiments on TelosB nodes test-bed using TinyOS, evaluation results show that our proposed schemes can mitigate congestion efficiently and have better performance than traditional approaches.
Surgical and Visual Outcome for Recurrent Retinal Detachment Surgery
Authors: Pournaras Constantin , Tsika Chrysanthi , Brozou Catherine , Tsilimbaris Miltiadis K.
Published: August 2014

Purpose. To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcome of repeated surgeries for recurrent retinal detachment.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 70 cases with refractory retinal detachment of various etiologies that required multiple operations. Anatomical success (attached retina) or failure (totally/partially-detached retina) was assessed biomicroscopically. The BCVA was used for the evaluation of the functional outcome, at presentation and at the end of follow-up. Various pre-, intra-, and postoperative factors were associated with anatomical success or failure as well as with final functionality.Results. The mean number of surgeries was 4 (range: 2 to 10). The anatomical success rate was 80% (56 attached cases, 14 detached cases). 29% of the attached cases had a BCVA better than 20/40 (Snellen chart). The number of operations doesn’t seem to affect significantly the final visual acuity. The PVR was found to affect both the anatomical and functional outcome (P=0.014&P=0.002, respectively).Conclusions. In the present study, it is suggested that multiple operations for refractory retinal detachment may result in successful anatomic results, with a fare functional outcome at the same time. Eventually, we verified that the existence of PVR worsens the prognosis.
Stabilization of Positive Linear Discrete-Time Systems by Using a Brauer’s Theorem
Authors: Cantó Begoña , Cantó Rafael , Kostova Snezhana
Published: August 2014

The stabilization problem of positive linear discrete-time systems (PLDS) by linear state feedback is considered. A method based on a Brauer’s theorem is proposed for solving the problem. It allows us to modify some eigenvalues of the system without changing the rest of them. The problem is studied for the single-input single-output (SISO) and for multi-input multioutput (MIMO) cases and sufficient conditions for stability and positivity of the closed-loop system are proved. The results are illustrated by numerical examples and the proposed method is used in stochastic systems.
Hypervolemia for Hypertension Pathophysiology: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Hür Ender , Özişik Melih , Ural Cihan , Yildiz Gürsel , Mağden Kemal , Budak Köse Sennur , Köktürk Füruzan , Büyükuysal Çağatay , Yildirim İbrahim , Süleymanlar Gültekin , Ateş Kenan , Duman Soner
Published: August 2014

Objectives. Hypertension and hypervolemia relationship was proven among renal disease, although it is not known in normal population. Present study determines the fluid distribution defects in relation to blood pressure.Material and Methods. In a population-based survey in Turkey demographics, height, weight, blood pressure, urine analysis, and serum creatinine measurements were recorded. Bioimpedance measured with the Body Composition Monitor.Results. Total 2034 population of 71.6% male, mean age 47 ± 12.6 (18–89) years, systolic blood pressure (SBP) 134.7 ± 20, diastolic blood pressure 77.9 ± 11.6 mmHg. Body mass index (BMI) was 28.5 ± 4.5 (15.8–50.6) kg/m2; overhydration was 0.05 ± 1.05 L. There was a correlation between extracellular water (ECW)/height and SBP (r= 0.21,P< 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve with the performance of 0.60 (P< 0.001) that showed cut-off value of ECW/height was 10.06 L/m, with the 69% sensitivity and 45% specificity for SBP: 140 mmHg values. Risk factors for high SBP were increase of ECW/Height, age, BMI and presence of diabetes. ECW/height, SBP, and fat tissue index (FTI) increased in BMI categories (low, normal, and obese) and in diabetics. SBP and FTI were lower in smokers.Conclusions. High blood pressure may be accompanied by increased extracellular volume indices. In the future volume status assessment could be of use in evaluating the effectiveness of pharmacological intervention in the treatment of hypertension.
Multiparty Quantum Communication Using Multiqubit Entanglement and Teleportation
Authors: Ghose S. , Kumar A. , Hamel A. M.
Published: August 2014

We propose a 2N qubit entangled channel that can be used to teleport N qubits in a network to a single receiver. We describe the structure of this channel and explicitly demonstrate how the protocol works. The channel can be used to implement a scheme in which all parties have to participate in order for the teleportation to be successful. This can be advantageous in various scenarios and we discuss the potential application of this protocol to voting.
Influence of Styrene-Acrylic Ester Dispersion on the Early Hydration of Cement
Authors: Wang Ru , Shi Xiaoxin
Published: August 2014

Early hydration of cement in the presence of styrene-acrylic ester (SAE) dispersion was investigated, and the hydration heat, hydration degree, and hydrates were analyzed using isothermal calorimeter, XRD, and ESEM. The results show that SAE dispersion prolongs the induction period, postpones and shortens the accelerating period, and inhibits the decelerating and stable periods of cement hydration. The hydration heat and hydration degree of cement in the presence of SAE dispersion are less than those of the control. SAE dispersion inhibits the formation of C4AH13and thus AFt, and more SAE dispersion brings stronger influence, but it enhances the stability of AFt. AFt generation during the early hydration period is controlled gradually by the reaction of C4AH13generation with increasing SAE dispersion, but this is controlled by the reaction of C4AH13consumption for the control paste. Besides, SAE dispersion retards and inhibits the formation of CH and C-S-H and also changes their morphology.
Abstract S2-01: The PRIME II trial: Wide local excision and adjuvant hormonal therapy ± postoperative whole breast irradiation in women ≥ 65 years with early breast cancer managed by breast conservation
Authors: Kunkler IH , Williams LW , Jack W , Canney P , Prescott RJ , Dixon MJ
Published: August 2014

Background. Local Recurrence rates after breast conserving surgery (BCS) are falling because of increasing use of effective systemic therapy. The question of whether whole breast radiotherapy (WBRT) can be omitted in carefully defined groups of older patients receiving appropriate systemic therapy has not been addressed. PRIME II is an International phase III RCT addressing this question.

Methods. Between April 2003 and December 2009, 1326 patients were randomised to receive (n = 658) or nor receive (n = 668) radiotherapy (RT). Eligiblity criteria were ≥65 years, T1-2 (up to 3cm), N0, M0, hormone receptor positive, clear excision margins (≥ 1mm), axillary node negative women in receipt of adjuvant hormone therapy. Patients could have Grade 3 tumours or lympho-vascular invasion but not both. An accrual of 1300 was planned to detect a difference based on estimates of local recurrence of 2% in RT group and 5% in no RT arm at 5 years, with 80% power and 5% significance. The primary endpoint was ipsilateral breast tumour recurrence (IBTR). Secondary endpoints were regional recurrence, contralateral breast cancer, distant metastases and overall survival (OS). Median follow up is 5.0 years.

Results

IBTR at 5 years was 4.1% (95% CI 2.4, 5.7%) without RT, 1.3% (95% CI 0.2, 2.3%) with RT. The hazard ratio for IBTR in those IBTR receiving radiotherapy was 4.34 (1.79, 10.55) (p = 0.001).

Overall actuarial survival at 5 years was 93.8% (95% CI 91.6, 95.9%) without RT and 94.2% (95% CI 92.2, 96.3%) with RT, (p = 0.24). No significant differences in regional recurrence (1.4% no RT vs 0.5% RT), contralateral breast cancer (0.9% no RT vs 1.5% RT), nor distant metastases (1.0% vs 0.3%) were seen. Breast cancer-free survival was 94.6% (95% CI 92.7, 96.5%)for no RT and 97.3% (95% CI 95.9, 98.8%) for those receiving RT (p = 0.003): this difference was due to the greater IBTR in no RT group. The majority of deaths were not linked to breast cancer (35 no RT vs 29 RT from a total of 87 deaths), with no influence of omission of RT (p = 0.27).

Conclusions

The randomised International Trial has shown that

• Omission of RT in women ≥65 year of age with N0, ER positive breast cancer receiving endocrine therapy results in only a 4.1% 5 year IBTR

• Although RT reduces IBTR significantly, the absolute reduction in this study is very small.

• RT does not reduce the rate of regional recurrence, distant metastases or affect overall survival.

• Omission of postoperative WBRT in this population based on the 5 year rate of IBTR appears safe, especially in the presence of comorbidities.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr S2-01.
Abstract A21: Exercising our AABCs: A community-based pilot intervention in African American breast cancer survivors (AABCs).
Authors: Nock Nora L. , Owusu Cynthia , Kullman Emily S. , Austin Kris , Roth Beth , Harmon Carl , Cerne Stephen , Moore Halle , Hergenroeder Paul , Vargo Mary , Malone Hermione , Rocco Michael , Lazarus Hillard M. , Kirwan John P. , Heyman Ellen , Berger Nathan A.
Published: August 2014

African-American (AA) women have higher rates of breast cancer (BRCA) mortality than Caucasian women and, this disparity is even greater in certain local communities including Cuyahoga County, Ohio. Randomized control trials involving supervised aerobic and resistance training exercise have shown improved body composition and quality of life (QoL) in BRCA patients; however, most studies have focused on Caucasian women and many have been conducted in clinic-based settings. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of conducting a 20-week, supervised, resistance training, group exercise intervention coupled with a support group program and home walking program utilizing facilities and personnel at a community cancer support center (The Gathering Place, Beachwood, Ohio) in 18 AA Stage I-III BRCA survivors who were within 12 months of completing treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation). On average, the patients were 56.4 ± 10.8 years old and had a baseline BMI of 32.5 ± 6.3 kg/m2. Attendance rates were 70.0 ± 19.1% for the exercise sessions and 63.1 ± 13.8% for the support group. We found a post-treatment decrease in waist circumference (Baseline (B):93.7 ± 14.1 cm; End of Treatment (EOT): 92.0 ± 14.0 cm; p=0.02) and total body fat (B: 45.4 ± 7.1%; EOT: 44.1 ± 7.9%; p=0.01) and an increase in lean mass (B: 42.4 ± 4.4 kg; EOT: 43.2 ± 4.8 kg; p=0.02) among those who attended 70% or more of the sessions (n=12). We also found a clinically relevant improvement in overall QoL using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B) scale (B: 101.1 ± 21.5; EOT: 108.6 ± 19.8; p=0.05). Our preliminary results demonstrate that conducting lifestyle interventions in AA BRCA survivors in a community setting is feasible. Future interventions should include strategies to enhance adherence and include dietary and supervised aerobic exercise components to enable greater weight loss.

Citation Format: Nora L. Nock, Cynthia Owusu, Emily S. Kullman, Kris Austin, Beth Roth, Carl Harmon, Stephen Cerne, Halle Moore, Paul Hergenroeder, Mary Vargo, Hermione Malone, Michael Rocco, Hillard M. Lazarus, John P. Kirwan, Ellen Heyman, Nathan A. Berger. Exercising our AABCs: A community-based pilot intervention in African American breast cancer survivors (AABCs). [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A21.
Abstract A22: Single institution analysis of disparities in colon rectal cancer in Hispanics and non-Hispanics.
Authors: Yu Steven , Shabihkhani Maryam , Yang Dongyun , Barzi Afsaneh
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Despite advances in treatment and decreasing mortality rates in colorectal cancer over the past decade, Hispanics have experienced less improvement in mortality rates compared to other racial groups. We investigate whether delays in presentation and treatment contribute to less improvement in Hispanic.

Methods: Our study is a retrospective cohort study on 158 patients treated for stage IV colorectal cancer presenting from 2006-2011 to Los Angeles County (LAC-USC) Medical Center. All patients had at least one cycle of their first line chemotherapy completed at LAC- USC. We assessed potential factors such as time from symptom to presentation, time from presentation to treatment, age, gender, race, tumor site, and stage at time of diagnosis. Statistical analysis used the aforementioned data as covariates comparing Hispanics to non-Hispanic whites and analyzed by the Cox proportional hazard model.

Result: Median age 54 (21-82) years old, 58% of patients were male and 42% were female. 54% of patients were Hispanics, 25% were Asian, 11% were Black and 10% were White. 69 % of patients had metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis and 31% had non-metastatic disease. 47% of patients had left sided cancer, 25% had right sided and 28% had rectal cancer. Median time between symptom to presentation was 83 days; 88 days in Hispanics, 86 days in non-Hispanic Whites (NHW), 93 days in Blacks and 81 days in Asian. Median start day of treatment was 88 days; 103 days in Hispanics, 116 days in NHW, 31 days in Blacks and 66 days in Asians. Median age at the time of presentation, location of tumor, time between first symptom to presentation and time between presentation and treatment were not significantly significant in Hispanics compared to NHW.

Conclusions: In our small cohort we failed to show any association between race, presentation, and initiation of treatment. This data suggests that biological differences in Hispanics may be contribute to colorectal outcomes.

Note: This abstract was not presented at the conference.

Citation Format: Steven Yu, Maryam Shabihkhani, Dongyun Yang, Afsaneh Barzi. Single institution analysis of disparities in colon rectal cancer in Hispanics and non-Hispanics. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A22.
Abstract A31: Factors associated with compliance to adjuvant hormone therapy for African American and Caucasian women.
Authors: Suh Christina H. , Bhatta Sumita , Hou Ningqi , Moton Zakiya N. , Hong Susan
Published: August 2014

Background: Studies have documented lower rates of breast cancer survival for African American versus Caucasian women. Differences in compliance to adjuvant hormone therapy (AHT) may partially explain the survival disparity. The purpose of our study is to examine whether or not a difference in self-reported compliance to AHT exists between African American and Caucasian women and to describe which factors may impact this compliance.

Methods: Women who were 2-10 years from diagnosis of estrogen receptor positive, non-metastatic breast cancer at the University of Chicago Hospital were asked to complete a voluntary mail-in survey. All information was self-reported. Compliance to AHT was defined as not missing more than 2 doses of therapy a month and completing 5 years of therapy (or still taking therapy if less than 5 years had passed between initiation of therapy and date of survey completion). Chi square tests and logistic regressions were performed to compare compliance rates by sociodemographic factors, reported perception of AHT importance, and self-perceived risk for breast cancer recurrence.

Results: Among the 381 eligible patients, 217 (56.9%) completed the survey. Overall self-reported compliance rate to AHT was 78.5%. African American women (n = 66, 30.8%) reported lower compliance rates compared to Caucasian women (70.0% vs. 82.3%, P = 0.055). For both African American and Caucasian women, perceived importance of AHT (from not important to very important) was correlated with higher rates of reported compliance (OR = 10.65; 95% CI: 3.55-31.94). Patients who weighted their cancer doctor's opinion more when considering taking or stopping AHT were also more likely to report being compliant (OR = 1.99; 95% CI: 0.75-5.25), whereas patients who reported being very worried about side effects were less likely to report being compliant (OR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.10-1.13). Perceived risk of breast cancer recurrence, however, was not associated with reported compliance.

Conclusions: For both African American and Caucasian women, compliance to adjuvant hormone therapy was associated with greater perceived importance of therapy. This study suggests that educating our patients on the importance of hormone therapy may significantly impact their compliance.

Citation Format: Christina H. Suh, Sumita Bhatta, Ningqi Hou, Zakiya N. Factors associated with compliance to adjuvant hormone therapy for African American and Caucasian women. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A31.
Abstract A69: The association between chronic stress and telomere length in African American men.
Authors: Simon Samantha , Sharif Wallace
Published: August 2014

The telomere is a region of repetitive DNA located at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes, which protect genetic material from degradation during cellular replication. As a consequence of the inability of DNA polymerase to fully replicate the ends of the chromosome, the telomere progressively shortens as an organism ages. Telomere length in individuals is highly variable, and studies have shown that shortened telomeres are associated with poor prognoses in many diseases, including cancers and other diseases that disproportionately affect American-Americans. There is also strong evidence that environmental and behavioral factors can play an epigenetic role in telomere length homeostasis. Chronic stress is associated with shorter telomeres in women, but studies have not been explicitly done to assess the role of chronic stress in men or minorities. Though there is little evidence of a functional relationship between shortened telomeres and heightened disease states, it is clear that telomeres reflect the health of the individual. We hypothesize that telomere length can be used as a diagnostic indicator of health status, and that the average telomere length are shorter in African-American men due in part to higher levels of chronic stress. To test this hypothesis, we examined the telomere length of DNA from the peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes of more than 40 African-American men and administered a stress survey to assess chronic stress levels. Preliminary analysis of the data indicates a potential negative association between stress and telomere length, though the results are not significant. We also observed a significant negative correlation between telomere length and body mass index. The results indicate that environmental factors can affect telomere length in African-American men, and that telomere length may be a useful health status indicator in this population.

Citation Format: Samantha Simon, Wallace Sharif. The association between chronic stress and telomere length in African American men. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A69.
Abstract A72: Bilateral oophorectomy and cancer mortality in African American women.
Authors: Boggs Deborah A. , Palmer Julie R. , Rosenberg Lynn
Published: August 2014

Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures in the U.S., and many women also undergo bilateral oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy. African American women are more likely than white women to undergo gynecologic surgery, particularly at younger ages. The effect of premature loss of ovarian hormones on long-term health is not well understood. Based on limited epidemiologic data, bilateral oophorectomy has been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer but an increased risk of colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and total cancer mortality. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relation of bilateral oophorectomy to cancer mortality among African American women. We used data from the Black Women's Health Study, a follow-up of women aged 21-69 years at enrollment in 1995. The analysis was restricted to 11,745 women who had had a hysterectomy, either with bilateral oophorectomy (47%) or with retention of both ovaries (53%). Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for cancer mortality in relation to bilateral oophorectomy compared with hysterectomy alone. Multivariable models were adjusted for age, age at surgery, female hormone use, and other lifestyle factors. During 14 years of follow-up from 1995 to 2009, 241 cancer deaths occurred in the study group. The multivariable HRs were 1.05 (95% CI 0.79-1.39) for bilateral oophorectomy overall, 1.05 (95% CI 0.77-1.44) for bilateral oophorectomy at age <45 years, and 1.18 (95% CI 0.76-1.83) for bilateral oophorectomy among nonusers of female hormones. For breast cancer mortality, the HRs were 0.70 (95% CI 0.33-1.49) for all bilateral oophorectomies, 0.57 (95% CI 0.23-1.42) for bilateral oophorectomy before age 45, and 0.58 (95% CI 0.14-2.52) among nonusers of female hormones. The corresponding HRs for mortality from other (non-reproductive) cancers were 1.19 (95% CI 0.87-1.63), 1.23 (95% CI 0.88-1.73), and 1.34 (95% CI 0.83-2.17), respectively. Our results suggest that women who undergo surgical removal of their ovaries and do not take female hormone supplements may have a reduction in mortality from breast cancer but an increased mortality from other cancers. Further work is needed to establish the magnitude of these risks and benefits.

Citation Format: Deborah A. Boggs, Julie R. Palmer, Lynn Rosenberg. Bilateral oophorectomy and cancer mortality in African American women. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A72.
Abstract A74: The impact of health-related legal issues on timely care among women with abnormal cancer screening.
Authors: Battaglia Tracy A. , Primeau Sarah W. , Bak Sharon M. , Heeren Timothy , Morton Samantha , Freund Karen M.
Published: August 2014

Introduction: The presence of health-related legal issues, defined as adverse social circumstances with legal remedies that reside in laws, regulation or polices, may contribute to cancer disparities. For example, the denial of adequate food, housing or insurance may impact one's ability to engage in recommended care.

Methods: The Boston Patient Navigation Research Program collected data (2007-2008) for women with a breast or cervical cancer screening abnormality at 6 community health centers. This secondary analysis assesses the impact of health-related legal issues on timeliness to diagnostic care, defined as resolution within 365 days from the abnormal screen. Legal issues were captured in 5 categories: income supports, housing and utilities, education and employment, legal status, and personal or family stability and safety.

Results: 1,493 women received navigation; mean age 39 years; 31% Hispanic, 27% Black, 32% White; 37% non-English speakers and 28% had private health insurance. Overall, 88 women (6%) had legal issues identified by the navigator. Compared to those without legal issues, those with were more likely to be younger (p=.001) and have public or no health insurance (p=.03). The association between the presence of legal issues and time to resolution was found to be time-dependent. When controlling for age, race, insurance, language and care site, women with legal issues were less likely to resolve early on (60 day HR=.51 (0.39, 0.66)), though the effect diminished with follow-up time (180 day HR=0.81 (0.57, 1.14)).

Conclusion: The presence of health-related legal issues negatively impacts timely resolution of screening abnormalities, suggesting unmet needs despite navigation.

Citation Format: Tracy A. Battaglia, Sarah W. Primeau, Sharon M. Bak, Timothy Heeren, Samantha Morton, Karen M. Freund. The impact of health-related legal issues on timely care among women with abnormal cancer screening. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A74.
Abstract A87: “I didn't know what to think. I thought I was going to die.” Latinas' understanding and attitudes toward an abnormal Pap test result.
Authors: Carosso Elizabeth , Martinez Javiera , Banegas Matthew , Coronado Gloria , Thompson Beti
Published: August 2014

Background and purpose: There is a disproportionate burden of cervical cancer among Latinas compared with non-Latino White women. This is thought to be attributed to both low rates of screening and poor adherence to recommended diagnostic follow-up after an abnormal Pap test. The purpose of this study is to assess knowledge, attitudes, barriers and facilitators to follow up after an abnormal Pap test result in Latinas.

Study Design: We conducted 26 semi-structured interviews among Latinas aged 21 to 64 years old who had an abnormal Pap test result in rural Eastern Washington. Interviews were conducted in the participants' preferred language. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and uploaded into Atlas.ti for coding and analysis.

Results/Outcome: One of the main themes that emerged as a potential barrier to follow up was misconceptions and secrecy around an abnormal Pap test result. Upon receiving the result, all women instantly believed they had cancer, and many felt desperate and embarrassed to talk to close family and friends. Transportation, lack of insurance and pain from the procedures were also mentioned as very important barriers to follow up. For those participants who had shared their result, family support was mentioned as a key facilitator to follow up. Interestingly, trusting oneself and having faith in God were also mentioned by some as facilitators to follow up. Within our participants, unlike previous studies, “Fatalismo” did not emerge as a barrier.

Impact: Understanding the barriers and facilitators to follow up care after an abnormal Pap test as well attitudes and knowledge of the implications of an abnormal Pap test can help us improve the education and outreach strategies used in reaching the Latina population.

Discussion: Latinas seem to have misconceptions about the implications of having an abnormal Pap. There are important cultural barriers that derive from these misconceptions that may be affecting the uptake and follow up of cervical cancer screening in this population. Our results will inform an intervention to increase cervical cancer screening in Latinas in Eastern Washington.

Citation Format: Elizabeth Carosso, Javiera Martinez, Matthew Banegas, Gloria Coronado, Beti Thompson. “I didn't know what to think. I thought I was going to die.” Latinas' understanding and attitudes toward an abnormal Pap test result. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A87.
Abstract B05: Technical assistance as part of capacity building for collaborative research in breast cancer, the environment, and/or disparities.
Authors: Fernandez Senaida , Plumb Marj , Thomsen Catherine , Susan Braun , Sarantis Heather , Olphen Juliana van , Galpern Emily , Kavanaugh-Lynch Marion
Published: August 2014

Training and technical assistance efforts for community based participatory research (CBPR) partnerships have the potential to improve outcomes in both scientific rigor and collaboration. Successful competition for regional or national funding for CBPR represents a critical step in this trajectory. To this end, a collaboration funded through this NIEHS award has developed and implemented an intensive training program (Community Based Research Infrastructure to Better Science [CRIBS]) to build capacity among community-academic teams to conduct CBPR into disparities in breast cancer and/or environmental causes of breast cancer. The program includes face-to-face training; online training; mock grant review; and technical assistance (TA); and skill-building in creating CBPR partnerships; understanding the science of the environmental causes of and disparities in breast cancer; creating a pathway from vision to project; and writing successful grant applications. Participants in the training included 31 individuals in 12 partnerships with at least one community and one academic member in each. Fifty-five percent of participants identified as belonging to an ethnic or racial minority group; 81% identified as female; 58% identified as community partners; the mean age was 49.76 years old (median = 52; range = 23 to 71). Partnerships came from twelve locations across California. TA efforts began in the second month of F2F trainings and included: a) four, monthly, tailored, in-person consultations of up to 1.5 hrs in length; b) review of an 8-page concept paper prepared by each team; c) four, monthly, tailored one-hour phone consultations. TA was provided by CRIBS staff and representatives from national funding organizations with expertise in scientific and collaborative aspects of breast cancer research, as well as by experts in the field of CBPR, disparities, and the environment. Over time, improved clarity and specificity were evident in the research questions formulated across partnerships. Implications of tailored, technical assistance for partnerships embarking on CBPR in disparities are discussed.

Citation Format: Senaida Fernandez, Marj Plumb, Catherine Thomsen, Braun Susan, Heather Sarantis, Juliana van Olphen, Emily Galpern, Marion Kavanaugh-Lynch. Technical assistance as part of capacity building for collaborative research in breast cancer, the environment, and/or disparities. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B05.
Abstract B13: Development of culturally tailored breast cancer brochures for the American Indian community in Kansas and Missouri.
Authors: Pacheco Joseph , Hammer Tara , Buffalo Ruth , Filippi Melissa K. , Greiner K. Allen , Daley Christine M.
Published: August 2014

The Center for American Indian Community Health (CAICH) conducted focus groups (n=48) to better understand screening attitudes and behaviors concerning breast cancer among American Indians (AI) living in Kansas and Missouri. Data revealed that study participants desire brochures that target AI needs, with an emphasis on local resources. CAICH is in the process of completing brochures that detail breast cancer knowledge and screening. Using principles of community-based participatory research, AI and non-AI research team members created a set of culturally targeted brochures for our local community. Team members came to a consensus concerning appropriate information, local resources, images, and literacy levels to include. CAICH presented the brochures at four cultural events during the summer of 2012 to solicit community feedback. Our Susan G. Komen for the Cure Scholars designed a method for interpreting comments and feedback from community members. The majority of brochures had several constructive comments, meaning that community members took time during cultural events to read, consider, and critique the content provided.

Citation Format: Joseph Pacheco, Tara Hammer, Ruth Buffalo, Melissa K. Filippi, K. Allen Greiner, Christine M. Daley. Development of culturally tailored breast cancer brochures for the American Indian community in Kansas and Missouri. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B13.
Abstract B23: Curcumin suppresses the growth and metastasis of prostate cancer cells by downregulation of SKP2.
Authors: Gong Yuanying , Lu Wenfu , Xie Yingqiu , Yang Qing , Matusik Robert J. , Chen Zhenbang
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Prostate Cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in American men. The morbidity and mortality to PCa are 2.39-fold higher in African American men as compared to Caucasian males. Aberrant overexpression of SKP2 is frequently found in human cancers including prostate cancer, but little is known about pharmacological compounds targeting Skp2 activity. This study investigated inhibitory effects of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) on malignant features of prostate cancer cells in vitro and xenograft mouse models in vivo, and mechanistically on Skp2 level.

Design Methods: Prostate cancer cells (PC3) and mouse prostate cancers cells (MPC3) in culture were treated with curcumin solution for indicated periods of time in vitro. Quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analyses were used to determine mRNA and protein expression of Skp2 in cancer cells. Cell proliferation, colony formation, and invasion assay were compared between curcumin-treated and control cells. Mouse prostate cancer cells were injected into immunodeficient mice followed with curcumin administration (200mg/kg/day). Tumorigenesis was analyzed in curcumin-treated and control mice after 20 days.

Results: Curcumin treatment of PC3 cells resulted in a significant reduction of cell proliferation, soft agar transformation and invasion as compared to controls. Curcumin treatment led to a decrease of Skp2 level through a reduction of Skp2 mRNA and a shortened half-life of Skp2 protein. As expected, p27 protein, a major downstream target of Skp2, was increased upon curcumin treatment, whereas c-Myc protein level was not affected by curcumin treatment in prostate cancer cells. MPC3 cells, administered into immunodeficient mice via tail vein or orthotopic implantation, developed lung metastasis or enlarged prostate tumors, respectively. Importantly, cancer progression was significantly suppressed by curcumin treatment. A reduced level of Skp2 protein and induction of cell senescence were detected in tumors of curcumin-treated mice, but not in tumors of control mice.

Conclusion: Our results indicated that curcumin suppresses both the tumor growth in mouse prostates and distant metastasis of prostate cancer cells in lung by inhibiting Skp2 level.

Citation Format: Yuanying Gong, Wenfu Lu, Yingqiu Xie, Qing Yang, Robert J. Matusik, Zhenbang Chen. Curcumin suppresses the growth and metastasis of prostate cancer cells by downregulation of SKP2. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B23.
Abstract B46: Isolation, identification, and sensitivity pattern on fatty acid composition of edible oil in Bangladesh: From preclinical studies to international clinical trials.
Authors: Mollik Md. Ariful Haque
Published: August 2014

Bangladesh is a potential market for essential commodities, including edible oils, because of insufficient local production, a steadily growing population that now exceeds 150 million, and its improving economy. Edible oil is an energy-dense food nutrient providing 9.0 kcal/g. Oil rich in long chain monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially essential fatty acids (linoleic, and linolenic), is of primary importance for its digestion and absorption. Butter oil, corn oil, mustard oil, olive oil, palm oil, and soybean oil are the six major edible oils consumed in Bangladesh. Soybean oil is the highest consumed edible oil, catering to 59% of the demand. Find out a suitable variety of locally available edible oil for general mass to combat malnutrition and to control cardiovascular diseases and gastrointestinal disorders. Fatty acid analysis of six varieties included butter oil, corn oil, mustard oil, olive oil, palm oil, and soybean oil of locally consumed edible oils was carried out on a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector and stainless steel-packed column. Nitrogen was used as a carrier gas. Corn oil contained the highest percentage of long chain monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids (93.10±3.59%) compared to mustard oil (79.25±5.99%), soybean oil (75.88±2.93), palm oil (51.48±0.75%), olive oil (24.18±.96%), and butter oil (8.29±1.33%). Corn oil with the highest percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids appears to be the most suitable edible oil for consumption, especially from the standpoint of cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and nutritional rehabilitation of post-diarrheal patients.

Note: This abstract was not presented at the conference.

Citation Format: Md. Ariful Haque Mollik. Isolation, identification, and sensitivity pattern on fatty acid composition of edible oil in Bangladesh: From preclinical studies to international clinical trials. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B46.