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Weiner AK, Palmer A, Moll MF, Lindberg G, Reidy K, Diskin SJ, Mackall CL, Maris JM, Sullivan PJ. Advancing childhood cancer research through young investigator and advocate collaboration. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024:e31127. [PMID: 38867370 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Amber K Weiner
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Antonia Palmer
- Advocacy for Canadian Childhood Oncology Research Network (Ac2orn), Toronto, Canada
| | - Melanie Frost Moll
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Kevin Reidy
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sharon J Diskin
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Crystal L Mackall
- Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Stanford Cancer Institute, and Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - John M Maris
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick J Sullivan
- Advocacy for Canadian Childhood Oncology Research Network (Ac2orn), Toronto, Canada
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Cheung CK, Miller KA, Goings TC, Thomas BN, Lee H, Brandon RE, Katerere-Virima T, Helbling LE, Causadias JM, Roth ME, Berthaud FM, Jones LP, Ross VA, Betz GD, Simmons CD, Carter J, Davies SJ, Gilman ML, Lewis MA, Lopes G, Tucker-Seeley RD. BIPOC experiences of (anti-)racist patient engagement in adolescent and young adult oncology research: an electronic Delphi study. Future Oncol 2024; 20:547-561. [PMID: 38197386 PMCID: PMC10988539 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims: To characterize Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients' experiences of patient engagement in AYA oncology and derive best practices that are co-developed by BIPOC AYAs and oncology professionals. Materials & methods: Following a previous call to action from AYA oncology professionals, a panel of experts composed exclusively of BIPOC AYA cancer patients (n = 32) participated in an electronic Delphi study. Results: Emergent themes described BIPOC AYA cancer patients' direct experiences and consensus opinion on recommendations to advance antiracist patient engagement from BIPOC AYA cancer patients and oncology professionals. Conclusion: The findings reveal high-priority practices across all phases of research and are instructional for advancing health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly A Miller
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | | | - Bria N Thomas
- Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Haelim Lee
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Rachel E Brandon
- University of Michigan School of Social Work, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Laura E Helbling
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - José M Causadias
- T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Michael E Roth
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | | | - Valentina A Ross
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Gail D Betz
- University of Maryland Baltimore Health Sciences & Human Services Library, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Cole D Simmons
- Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, USA
| | - Jay Carter
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | | | - Megan L Gilman
- AYA Psychiatry, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Mark A Lewis
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, 84107 USA
| | - Gilberto Lopes
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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3
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Hughes A, Guha C, Sluiter A, Himmelfarb J, Jauré A. Patient-Centered Research and Innovation in Nephrology. ADVANCES IN KIDNEY DISEASE AND HEALTH 2024; 31:52-67. [PMID: 38403395 DOI: 10.1053/j.akdh.2023.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Patient involvement in research can improve the relevance of research, consequently enhancing the recruitment, retention, and uptake of interventions and policies impacting patient outcomes. Despite this, patients are not often involved in the design and conduct of research. The research agenda and innovations are frequently determined by the interest of health and industry professionals rather than proactively aligning with the priorities of patients. It is now being encouraged and recommended to engage patients in research priority setting to ensure interventions and trials report outcomes valuable to patients, moving away from a history of overlooking the outcomes that reflect the feel and function of patients. Involving patients ensures constant innovative research in nephrology, as this broader depth of evidence fortifies reliability and validity through knowledge gained from lived experience. Findings from such research can enhance clinical practice and strengthen decision-making and policy to support better outcomes. We aim to outline principles and strategies for patient involvement in research, including setting research priorities, identifying and designing interventions, selecting outcomes, and disseminating and translating research. Principles and strategies including engagement, education and training, empowerment, and connection and community provide guidance in patient involvement. There are increasing efforts to involve patients across all stages of research including setting research priorities. Efforts are rising to involve patients across all stages of research including priority setting, identifying and designing interventions, selecting outcomes, and dissemination and translation. Patient involvement throughout the research cycle drives innovative investigations ensuring funding, efforts, and resources are directed toward priorities of patients, contributing to catalyst advancements in care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Hughes
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Chandana Guha
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amanda Sluiter
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jonathan Himmelfarb
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Kidney Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Allison Jauré
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
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4
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Chen RC, Krebill H, Kennedy T, Douglas S, Neufeld KL, Welch DR, Jernigan C, Kimminau KS, Johnston K, Hughes J, Jensen RA. A community engagement training program for basic and translational cancer researchers. Cancer Causes Control 2023; 34:1123-1132. [PMID: 37505316 PMCID: PMC10902867 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-023-01752-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is an increasing awareness of the importance of patient engagement in cancer research, but many basic and translational researchers have never been trained to do so. To address this unmet need, a 1-year patient engagement training program for researchers was developed. METHODS Eleven researchers and eleven paired research advocates participated. This program, designed for virtual delivery, included 3 didactic modules focused on (1) Community Outreach and Engagement principles and methods, (2) Communication skills, and (3) Team Science. This was followed by longitudinal projects to be completed by the researcher/advocate pairs, including learning about the research project, and co-authoring abstracts, manuscripts and grant proposals. Monthly group meetings allowed pairs to share their experiences. The program culminated in the pairs creating and presenting oral abstracts for the University of Kansas Cancer Center's Annual Research Symposium. RESULTS All participants indicated that the modules had a positive impact on their ability to collaborate in research. Both researcher self-evaluations and patient advocate evaluations of their researcher partner showed an improvement in researcher communication competency. Results from the Patient Engagement in Research Scale showed that advocates were highly engaged. Within 1 year after program completion, participating pairs have completed four abstracts and 9 grant proposals. CONCLUSION The program will be modified based on participant feedback, and can be adapted for future cohorts if an increased number of sessions per month and shortened program duration are desired. The program's virtual format allows scalability across institutions to potentially benefit large cohorts of researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald C Chen
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.
| | - Hope Krebill
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
- Masonic Cancer Alliance, University of Kansas Medical Center, Fairway, KS, USA
| | - Teri Kennedy
- Office of Interprofessional Practice, Education, Policy, & Research, University of Kansas School of Nursing, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Sara Douglas
- Patient and Investigator Voices Organizing Together, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Fairway, KS, USA
| | - Kristi L Neufeld
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Danny R Welch
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Cheryl Jernigan
- Patient and Investigator Voices Organizing Together, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Fairway, KS, USA
| | - Kim S Kimminau
- Patient and Investigator Voices Organizing Together, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Fairway, KS, USA
- University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kristy Johnston
- Center for Interprofessional Practice, Education, and Research , University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Jane Hughes
- Organizational Development Office, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Roy A Jensen
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Porter LD, Goodman KA, Mailman J, Garrett WS. Patient Advocates and Researchers as Partners in Cancer Research: A Winning Combination. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e100035. [PMID: 37167582 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Inclusion of advocates as partners in research is now required by numerous international funding agencies. The role of advocates has expanded in recent years to include all areas of research, including basic cancer research, translational research, and clinical trial design and development. The involvement of advocates as partners in cancer research can be challenging for the advocate and for the researchers, but this collaboration is beneficial to all involved. Herein, we will define patient advocacy, explore advocate engagement, and share information on programs that train advocates and researchers to work together as partners.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wendy S Garrett
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard Medical School, The Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT Boston, MA
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Leader AE, Melillo RJ, Greene Q, Blanding-Godbolt J, Shimada A, Eischen CM, Aplin AE. Engaging community members in cancer research: an assessment of an NCI-designated cancer center. Cancer Causes Control 2023; 34:307-319. [PMID: 36598655 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-022-01666-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the importance of engaging community members in research, multiple barriers exist. We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation to understand the opportunities and challenges of engaging community members in basic, clinical, translational, and population science research. METHODS We designed a survey and an interview guide based on the constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Surveys were distributed electronically to all cancer center investigators and interviews were conducted virtually with a select group of basic, clinical, and population science investigators. Survey data (n = 77) were analyzed across all respondents using frequency counts and mean scores; bivariate analyses examined differences in responses by research program affiliation, gender, race, and faculty rank. Interviews (n = 16) were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a reflective thematic approach. RESULTS There was strong agreement among investigators that "Community engagement in research will help the SKCC address cancer disparities in the catchment area" (M 4.2, SD 0.9) and less agreement with items such as "I know how to find and connect with community members who I can engage in my research" (M 2.5, SD 1.3). Investigators mentioned challenges in communicating complex science to a lay audience but were open to training and workshops to acquire skills needed to integrate community members into their research. CONCLUSION Cancer centers should develop and promote training and collaborative opportunities for investigators and community members. Overcoming challenges will lead to more patient- and community-centered cancer research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Leader
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA. .,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA. .,Thomas Jefferson University, 833 Chestnut Street, 11th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
| | - Rebecca J Melillo
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Ayako Shimada
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christine M Eischen
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew E Aplin
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Liskey D, Cynkin L, Wolfram J. Patients as biomedical researchers. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:1022-1024. [PMID: 36195518 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Advancements in biomedical research are highly dependent on critical thinking and problem solving. When quality of life and life-saving interventions rely on biomedical discoveries, every perspective is valuable. Therefore, a key contributor to the progress of health-related research is missing when patient representation is deficient in the biomedical research workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delaney Liskey
- Regenerative Sciences Ph.D. Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; National Institutes of Health Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55902, USA.
| | - Laurie Cynkin
- Office of Advocacy Relations, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Joy Wolfram
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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Hlubocky FJ, Daugherty CK, Peppercorn J, Young K, Wroblewski KE, Yamada SD, Lee NK. Utilization of an Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Platform to Evaluate the Psychosocial and Quality-of-Life Experience Among a Community Sample of Ovarian Cancer Survivors. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2022; 6:e2200035. [PMID: 35985004 PMCID: PMC9470143 DOI: 10.1200/cci.22.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Novel distress screening approaches using electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) measurements are critical for the provision of comprehensive quality community cancer care. Using an ePRO platform, the prevalence of psychosocial factors (distress, post-traumatic growth, resilience, and financial stress) affecting quality of life in ovarian cancer survivors (OCSs) was examined. METHODS A cross-sectional OCS sample from the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition-Illinois Chapter completed web-based clinical, sociodemographic, and psychosocial assessment using well-validated measures: Hospital Anxiety/Depression Scale-anxiety/depression, Post-traumatic Growth Inventory, Brief Resilience Scale, comprehensive score for financial toxicity, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Ovarian (FACT-O/health-related quality of life [HRQOL]). Correlational analyses between variables were conducted. RESULTS Fifty-eight percent (174 of 300) of OCS completed virtual assessment: median age 59 (range 32-83) years, 94.2% White, 60.3% married/in domestic partnership, 59.6% stage III-IV, 48.8% employed full-time/part-time, 55.2% had college/postgraduate education, 71.9% completed primary treatment, and median disease duration 6 (range < 1-34) years. On average, OCS endorsed normal levels of anxiety (mean ± standard deviation = 6.9 ± 3.8), depression (4.1 ± 3.6), mild total distress (10.9 ± 8.9), high post-traumatic growth (72.6 ± 21.5), normal resilience (3.7 ± 0.72), good FACT-O-HRQOL (112.6 ± 22.8), and mild financial stress (26 ± 10). Poor FACT-O emotional well-being was associated with greater participant distress (P < .001). Partial correlational analyses revealed negative correlations between FACT-O-HRQOL and anxiety (r = -0.65, P < .001), depression (r = -0.76, P < .001), and total distress (r = -0.92, P < .001). Yet, high FACT-O-HRQOL was positively correlated with post-traumatic coping (r = 0.27; P = .006) and resilience (r = 0.63; P < .001). CONCLUSION ePRO assessment is feasible for identification of unique psychosocial factors, for example, financial toxicity and resilience, affecting HRQOL for OCS. Future investigation should explore large-scale, longitudinal ePRO assessment of the OCS psychosocial experience using innovative measures and community-based advocacy populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fay J. Hlubocky
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Cancer Research Center, Supportive Oncology Program, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Department of Gynecology/Obstetrics, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Christopher K. Daugherty
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Cancer Research Center, Supportive Oncology Program, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Jeffery Peppercorn
- Division of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Dana Farber Partners, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Karen Young
- Illinois Chapter of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), Chicago, IL
| | - Kristen E. Wroblewski
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Seiko Diane Yamada
- Department of Gynecology/Obstetrics, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Nita K. Lee
- Department of Gynecology/Obstetrics, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
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Benedict J. Patient Advocacy in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation. Front Psychol 2022; 13:943393. [PMID: 35923735 PMCID: PMC9340068 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.943393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Improving the odds together: a framework for breast cancer research scientists to include patient advocates in their research. NPJ Breast Cancer 2022; 8:75. [PMID: 35773258 PMCID: PMC9247104 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-022-00440-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Including patient advocates in basic cancer research ensures that breast cancer research is intentional, supports effective communication with broader audiences, and directly connects researchers with those who they are striving to help. Despite this utility, many cancer research scientists do not work with patient advocates. To understand barriers to engagement and build a framework for enhanced interactions in the future, we hosted a workshop with patient advocates and researchers who do engage, then discussed findings at an international metastatic breast cancer conference to solicit additional feedback and suggestions. Findings demonstrate that researchers are uncertain about how to initiate and maintain relationships with advocates. We offer actionable steps to support researchers working with patient advocates to improve cancer research and accomplish our collective goal of improving lives of those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. We hope that this initiative will facilitate such collaborative efforts.
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Zhang L, Liu M, Song B, Miao W, Zhan R, Yang S, Han Z, Cai H, Xu X, Zhao Y, Han Z, Guo T, Yao J, Huang Q. Decoding the multidimensional signatures of resident and expanded natural killer cells generated from perinatal blood. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:2132-2145. [PMID: 35693070 PMCID: PMC9185604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes and play a pivotal role in innate and adaptive immune responses against infections and malignancies. Longitudinal studies have indicated the feasibility of perinatal blood for large-scale NK cell generation, yet the systematic and detailed comparations of the signatures of resident and expanded NK cells (rNKs, eNKs) are largely obscure. Herein, we harvested rNKs from umbilical cord blood (rUC-NKs) and placental blood (rP-NKs) as well as the corresponding eNKs (eUC-NKs, eP-NKs). Furthermore, the biological properties and transcriptomic signatures including cellular subpopulations, cytotoxicity, gene expression profiling, genetic characteristics, signaling pathways and gene set-related biological process were investigated. The enriched rNKs and eNKs exhibited diversity in biomarker expression pattern, and eNKs with higher percentages of NKG2D+, NKG2A+, NKp44+ and NKp46+ subsets. rNKs or eNKs with different origins showed more similarities in transcriptomic signatures than those with the same origin. Our data revealed multifaceted similarities and differences of the indicated rNKs and pNKs both at the cellular and molecular levels. Our findings provide new references for further dissecting the efficacy and molecular mechanisms of rNKs and eNKs, which will collectively benefit the fundamental and translational studies of NK cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leisheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical Oncology in Gansu Province & NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Gastrointestinal Tumor, Gansu Provincial HospitalLanzhou 730000, Gansu, China
- Center for Cellular Therapies, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical UniversityJinan 250014, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Technology and Biophysics, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of SciencesHefei 230031, Anhui, China
- Institute of Health-Biotech, Health-Biotech (Tianjin) Stem Cell Research Institute Co., Ltd.Tianjin 301701, China
| | - Min Liu
- Veterinary Bureau, Department agriculture and Animal Husbandry of Inner Mongolia Autonomous RegionHohhot 010011, China
| | - Baoquan Song
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenjing Miao
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rucai Zhan
- Center for Cellular Therapies, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical UniversityJinan 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Sijun Yang
- Jiangxi Research Center of Stem Cell Engineering, Jiangxi Health-Biotech Stem Cell Technology Co., Ltd.Shangrao 334000, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhihai Han
- Jiangxi Research Center of Stem Cell Engineering, Jiangxi Health-Biotech Stem Cell Technology Co., Ltd.Shangrao 334000, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hui Cai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical Oncology in Gansu Province & NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Gastrointestinal Tumor, Gansu Provincial HospitalLanzhou 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Xianghong Xu
- Department of Biotherapy Center, Gansu Provincial HospitalLanzhou 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yixiao Zhao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry UniversityYangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhongchao Han
- Institute of Health-Biotech, Health-Biotech (Tianjin) Stem Cell Research Institute Co., Ltd.Tianjin 301701, China
- Jiangxi Research Center of Stem Cell Engineering, Jiangxi Health-Biotech Stem Cell Technology Co., Ltd.Shangrao 334000, Jiangxi, China
- Stem Cell Bank of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Health-Biotech Biotechnology Co., Ltd.Guiyang 550000, Guizhou, China
| | - Tiankang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical Oncology in Gansu Province & NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Gastrointestinal Tumor, Gansu Provincial HospitalLanzhou 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Jun Yao
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhou 350002, Fujian, China
| | - Qing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Technology and Biophysics, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of SciencesHefei 230031, Anhui, China
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Kasper B, Schuster K, Wilson R, Bickley S, Blay JY, Reinke D, Wartenberg M, Haas R. Global Patient Involvement in Sarcoma Care-A Collaborative Initiative of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) & Sarcoma Patients EuroNet (SPAEN). Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040854. [PMID: 35205602 PMCID: PMC8870105 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Patients and patient advocates from Sarcoma Patients EuroNet (SPAEN), a global network of national Sarcoma Patient Advocacy Groups, and medical experts from the scientifically driven Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) came together on 9 November 2021 at an official ancillary event to the CTOS 2021 Annual Meeting. At the event, representatives of CTOS and SPAEN jointly discussed gaps and challenges in global sarcoma care and management. This resulting position paper highlights the main findings and possible future steps. Abstract Sarcomas are a grouping of rare cancers with a wide variety of histological types that are difficult to diagnose and treat. This leads to many varying challenges not only for sarcoma patients, but also for doctors, researchers, and caregivers. Patient advocacy groups have an important role to play in rare cancers such as sarcomas, especially in collaboration with experts and their medical societies. To this end, patients and patient advocates from Sarcoma Patients EuroNet (SPAEN), a global network of national Sarcoma Patient Advocacy Groups, and medical experts from the scientifically driven Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) came together on 9 November 2021 at an official ancillary event to the CTOS 2021 Annual Meeting. At the event, representatives of CTOS and SPAEN jointly discussed gaps and challenges in global sarcoma care and management. This resulting position paper highlights the main findings and possible future steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Kasper
- Sarcoma Unit, Mannheim Cancer Center (MCC), Mannheim University Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-621-383-2580
| | - Kathrin Schuster
- Sarcoma Patients EuroNet, SPAEN, 61200 Wölfersheim, Germany; (K.S.); (R.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Roger Wilson
- Sarcoma Patients EuroNet, SPAEN, 61200 Wölfersheim, Germany; (K.S.); (R.W.); (M.W.)
| | | | | | - Denise Reinke
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Markus Wartenberg
- Sarcoma Patients EuroNet, SPAEN, 61200 Wölfersheim, Germany; (K.S.); (R.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Rick Haas
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
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13
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Samson S, Northey JJ, Acerbi I, Goga A, Flink CL, Weaver VM, LaBarge MA. NCI's publication affiliation conundrum: Reframing innovation to incentivize an equitable path for advocate representation. Transl Oncol 2022; 16:101325. [PMID: 34974281 PMCID: PMC8728534 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Advocacy engagement has been at the forefront of National Cancer Institute (NCI) efforts to advance scientific discoveries and transform medical interventions. Nonetheless, the journey for advocates has been uneven. Case in Point: NCI publication affiliation rules of engagement pose unique equity challenges while raising questions about structural representation in biomedical research. Abiding by the core rationale that publication affiliation should be tailored to employment status, the NCI has systematically denied research advocate volunteers the opportunity to specifically list NCI as an institutional affiliation on academic publications. Unpacking advocate NCI publication affiliation restrictions and its links with advocacy heritage preservation and convergent science goals poses unique diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges and opportunities. Improving the quality of structural representation in biomedical research requires new theories of action and flexible planning to advance, promote and build capacity for strategic advocacy inclusion and equity within publication affiliation initiatives. Here we highlight several opportunities for how leadership might formulate a radically different vision for NCI's approach. This perspective interrogates the best way forward for ensuring that biomedical employee and volunteer advocate workforce publication affiliation intersections are characterized by increased creativity and representation parity. Imbuing the scientist and clinical researcher archetype with social dimensions, we join NCI critical thinkers in urging employees, funded academics, and volunteer citizen scientists to collectively assume the role as paladins of science and integrity who view the triumphs of making a difference in science alongside the social responsibility of promoting transdisciplinary professionalism and the democratization of science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Samson
- Breast Oncology Program, Breast Science Advocacy Core (BSAC), University of California, San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94115; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States; Physical Sciences and Oncology Network Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States.
| | - Jason J Northey
- Department of Surgery and Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Irene Acerbi
- Department of Surgery and Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Andrei Goga
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States; Department of Cell and Tissue Biology and Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Carl L Flink
- College of Liberal Arts, Theatre Arts and Dance, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Valerie M Weaver
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States; Department of Surgery and Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Mark A LaBarge
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, United States
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14
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Haq AA, Reitzel LR, Chen TA, Chang S, Escoto KH, Solari Williams KD, Roberson C, Koshy L, McNeill LH. "UHAND"-A National Cancer Institute Funded Partnership to Advance Cancer Health Equity through Scholar Training. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5054. [PMID: 34064663 PMCID: PMC8151028 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Black and Hispanic adults are disproportionately affected by cancer incidence and mortality, and experience disparities in cancer relative to their White counterparts in the US. These groups, including women, are underrepresented among scientists in the fields of cancer, cancer disparities, and cancer care. The "UHAND" Program is a partnership between institutions (University of Houston and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center) aiming to build the capacity of underrepresented and racial/ethnic minority student "scholars" to conduct research on eliminating cancer inequities by reducing social and physical risk factors among at-risk groups. Here, we examine the outcomes of the UHAND Program's first scholar cohort (n = 1 postdoctoral fellow, n = 3 doctoral scholars, n = 6 undergraduate scholars). Data collection included baseline, mid-program, and exit surveys; program records; and monthly scholar achievement queries. From baseline to exit, scholars significantly increased their research self-efficacy (p = 0.0293). Scholars largely met goals for academic products, achieving a combined total of 65 peer-reviewed presentations and nine empirical publications. Eight scholars completed the 2-year program; one undergraduate scholar received her degree early and the postdoctoral fellow accepted a tenure-track position at another university following one year of training. Scholars highly rated UHAND's programming and their mentors' competencies in training scholars for research careers. Additionally, we discuss lessons learned that may inform future training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arooba A. Haq
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.A.H.); (T.A.C.); (K.D.S.W.); (L.K.)
| | - Lorraine R. Reitzel
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.A.H.); (T.A.C.); (K.D.S.W.); (L.K.)
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Tzuan A. Chen
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.A.H.); (T.A.C.); (K.D.S.W.); (L.K.)
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Shine Chang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1155 Pressler St., Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Kamisha H. Escoto
- Department of Health Disparities Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler St., Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.H.E.); (C.R.); (L.H.M.)
| | - Kayce D. Solari Williams
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.A.H.); (T.A.C.); (K.D.S.W.); (L.K.)
| | - Crystal Roberson
- Department of Health Disparities Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler St., Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.H.E.); (C.R.); (L.H.M.)
| | - Litty Koshy
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.A.H.); (T.A.C.); (K.D.S.W.); (L.K.)
| | - Lorna H. McNeill
- Department of Health Disparities Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler St., Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.H.E.); (C.R.); (L.H.M.)
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15
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Development of a Digital Research Assistant for the Management of Patients' Enrollment in Oncology Clinical Trials within a Research Hospital. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11040244. [PMID: 33801668 PMCID: PMC8066078 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11040244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials in cancer treatment are imperative in enhancing patients’ survival and quality of life outcomes. The lack of communication among professionals may produce a non-optimization of patients’ accrual in clinical trials. We developed a specific platform, called “Digital Research Assistant” (DRA), to report real-time every available clinical trial and support clinician. Healthcare professionals involved in breast cancer working group agreed nine minimal fields of interest to preliminarily classify the characteristics of patients’ records (including omic data, such as genomic mutations). A progressive web app (PWA) was developed to implement a cross-platform software that was scalable on several electronic devices to share the patients’ records and clinical trials. A specialist is able to use and populate the platform. An AI algorithm helps in the matchmaking between patient’s data and clinical trial’s inclusion criteria to personalize patient enrollment. At the same time, an easy configuration allows the application of the DRA in different oncology working groups (from breast cancer to lung cancer). The DRA might represent a valid research tool supporting clinicians and scientists, in order to optimize the enrollment of patients in clinical trials. User Experience and Technology The acceptance of participants using the DRA is topic of a future analysis.
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16
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Jiang L, Zhu X, Yang H, Chen T, Lv K. Bioinformatics Analysis Discovers Microtubular Tubulin Beta 6 Class V (TUBB6) as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Glioblastoma. Front Genet 2020; 11:566579. [PMID: 33193654 PMCID: PMC7531581 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.566579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) has long been a major clinical research challenge to scientists. The pivotal role of the mitochondria related gene family in the promotion of GBM tumorigenesis is not clear. We detected that microtubular tubulin beta 6 class V (TUBB6) was one of 33 differentially expressed mitochondrial-focused genes (DEMFGs) in GBM, and considered that TUBB6 is a potential therapeutic target in GBM. TUBB6 was vital for GBM and marked as the key prognostic gene in primary GBM. Mutations of TUBB6 in GBM were rare. Only four TUBB6 co-expressed hub genes (ANXA2, S100A11, FLNA, and MSN) exhibited poorer overall survival rates in higher expression groups (p-value < 0.05). We have confirmed the up-regulation of TUBB6 and its partners, ANXA2 and S100A11 in GBM and validated their importance as prognostic factors in primary GBM. TUBB6 was significantly correlated with stromal score in GBM samples (p-value = 6.99E-04). This study aimed to assess the importance of novel hub genes by analyzing the expression, potential function and prognostic impact of TUBB6 in human primary GBM cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Jiang
- Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Xiaolong Zhu
- Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Tianbing Chen
- Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Kun Lv
- Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
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17
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Riter RN, Weiss RS. Connecting Students with Patients and Survivors to Enhance Cancer Research Training. Cancer Res 2019; 79:4011-4014. [PMID: 31366587 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-0603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The professional training of cancer researchers in the basic sciences rarely involves interactions with patients. To provide nascent cancer scientists with an appreciation for and experience in interacting with the people most vested in their work, we created a program at Cornell University in which cancer researchers in training engage with the local patient community. Through this program, trainees gain a broader understanding of cancer, beyond the fundamental biology, and learn to effectively communicate scientific information to the public. We find that trainees and community members both benefit from interacting with one another and learning together about cancer using a common language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert N Riter
- Physical Sciences Oncology Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York.
| | - Robert S Weiss
- Physical Sciences Oncology Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
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