Cancer-related Research Research Articles

Reliable RNA-seq analysis from FFPE specimens as a means to accelerate cancer-related health disparities research.

Whole transcriptome sequencing (WTS/ RNA-Seq) is a ubiquitous tool for investigating cancer biology. RNA isolated from frozen sources limits possible studies for analysis of associations with phenotypes or clinical variables requiring long-term follow-up. Although good correlations are reported in RNA-Seq data from paired frozen and formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples, uncertainties regarding RNA quality, methods of extraction, and data reliability are hurdles to utilization of archival samples. We compared three different platforms for performing RNA-seq using archival FFPE oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma (OPSCC) specimens stored up to 20 years, as part of an investigation of transcriptional profiles related to health disparities. We developed guidelines to purify DNA and RNA from FFPE tissue and perform downstream RNA-seq and DNA SNP arrays. RNA was extracted from 150 specimens, with an average yield of 401.8 ng/cm 2 of tissue. Most samples yielded sufficient RNA reads >13,000 protein coding genes which could be used to differentiate HPV-associated from HPV-independent OPSCCs. Co-isolated DNA was used to identify patient ancestry. Utilizing the methods described in this study provides a robust, reliable, and standardized means of DNA & RNA extraction from FFPE as well as a means by which to assure the quality of the data generated.

Socio-demographic variations in prostate cancer diagnosis recording: Primary care compared to the Cancer Registry in England

IntroductionIn the UK, primary care data are often used for cancer-related research, but the accuracy of cancer information is uncertain. ObjectiveWe investigated socio-demographic variation based on the recording date of prostate cancer diagnosis between primary care and the National Cancer Registry (CR). ApproachWe utilised a data extract of 1,600,000 patients over 65 years from Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD). We extracted prostate cancer diagnoses using Read and SNOMED-CT codes from primary care, and ICD-10 from CR. Initial code entry determined diagnosis dates. We categorised recording timing differences as earlier, same-day or later in primary care than CR and used the chi-squared test and logistic regression (adjusted for recording year) to compare these discrepancies across age, deprivation, and ethnicity. ResultsWe included 26,875 men with prostate cancer diagnoses commonly recorded in both sources during 2000-2016 (1,030 excluded with missing ethnicity). Compared to CR, 1,747 (7%) had diagnoses recorded on the same day in primary care, while 20,615 (77%) had later recordings with a median delay of 21 days (IQR: 13-38). Age at diagnosis was associated with recording discrepancies (p<0.001); older men were more likely to have earlier/same-day recordings. Adjusted ORs for age groups were 1.4 (95%CI: 1.3-1.5) for 60-69, 1.3 (1.2-1.5) for 70-79, and 0.9 (0.8-1.0) for ≥80 compared to <60. No associations were found between deprivation (p=0.096) or ethnicity (p=0.067) and recording differences. Conclusion/ ImplicationsThe discrepancy in prostate cancer information between primary care and CR underscores potential biases in studies relying solely on one data source.

Integration of Oncological Data into openEHR: A Path Towards Improved Cancer Care and Research.

The integration of tumor-related diagnosis and therapy data is a key factor for cancer-related collaborative projects and research projects on-site. The Medical Data Integration Center (MeDIC) of the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, resulting from the Medical Informatics Initiative and Network University Medicine in Germany, has agreed on an openEHR-based data management based on a centralized repository with harmonized annotated data. Consequently, the oncological data should be integrated into the MeDIC to interconnect the information and thus gain added value. A uniform national data set for tumor-related reports is already defined for the cancer registries. Therefore, this work aims to transform the national oncological basis data set for tumor documentation (oBDS) so that it can be stored and utilized properly in the openEHR repository of the MeDIC. In a previous work openEHR templates representing the oncological basis data set were modeled. These templates were used to implement a processing pipeline including a metadata repository, which defines the mappings between the elements, a FHIR terminology service for annotation and validation, resulting in a tool to automatically build openEHR compositions from oBDS data. The prototype proved the feasibility of the referred mapping, integration into the MeDIC is straightforward and the architecture introduced is adaptable to future needs by design.

Experiences in Recruitment for Hispanic, Non-Hispanic Black, and Other Non-White Cancer Survivors Through Community Outreach and Other Targeted Approaches

ObjectivesRecruitment of racial/ethnic underserved populations in oncology research is essential to address health disparities. This article presents strategies and lessons learned from community outreach and other approaches for recruiting non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and other non-White survivors of cancer into a pilot study that investigated biopsychosocial determinants of health behaviors. MethodsWe critically examined the participant recruitment approaches to explore challenges and successful strategies and develop recommendations for future studies. Direct recruitment strategies included engaging with research staff members’ personal community contacts/liaisons and participating in community outreach events (eg, farmers’ markets, block parties, library events, cancer awareness events). Indirect recruitment strategies included posting and distribution of study flyers in community centers (eg, LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, churches, libraries), online platforms (eg, FORCE, Survivor Journey website), and invitation letters sent to individuals identified as eligible through a single state cancer registry. ResultsBetween April 2022 and May 2023, among the 64 individuals recruited, 36 were non-Hispanic Black, 25 were Hispanic, and three were American Indian/Alaska Native people. The use of a state cancer registry (64.1%), snowballing/word of mouth (7.8%), and advertisement through an established cancer support organization (ie, FORCE) website (7.8%) were the most effective strategies in this study. ConclusionRecruitment of non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and other non-White people into biobehavioral studies through community-engaged research is challenging and requires long-term commitment and engagement with partners from target communities and affiliated organizations. Implication for Nursing PracticeRegistries and community outreach events can build trust for successful enrollment. Using multiple strategies can provide the best opportunities to reach diverse populations and enroll them in cancer-related research studies.

Experiences of underrepresented adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors engaging in research-related activities.

10073 Background: Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors are an age-defined cohort (15-39 years at diagnosis) confronting unique biopsychosocial needs throughout their cancer experience. Underrepresented (sexual and gender minority [SGM] and/or Black, Indigenous, and People of Color [BIPOC]) AYAs face additional challenges associated with discrimination, mistrust of providers, and culturally incongruent services. As a result, many underrepresented AYAs experience suboptimal oncological care and disparate outcomes when compared to cis-gendered heterosexual and/or white peers. This study explored the experiences of underrepresented AYA cancer survivors engaging in research-related activities. Methods: This study is part of a larger Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)-funded project that is evaluating multilevel facilitators and barriers to oncological care and research for underrepresented AYA cancer survivors. With support from five academic cancer centers and five community-based organizations supporting AYAs across the US, we have assembled an intersectional community advisory panel (CAP) of 10 AYAs who identify as BIPOC and/or SGM. Together with the CAP, a semistructured interview guide was developed, and from January to February 2024, we conducted video interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis of verbatim transcribed interview scripts. The CAP assisted the investigative team in the analyses and interpretation of data. Results: Of the 20 participants interviewed, roughly 70% identified as BIPOC, 40% as SGM, and 10% as both BIPOC and SGM. Participants included underrepresented AYA cancer survivors who, prior to this specific study, had or had not participated in cancer-related research. Three major themes affecting underrepresented AYAs and engagement in research-related activities were discovered, and included: 1) Layering of identities, culture, and stigma; 2) The role of trusted conduits in facilitating engagement; and 3) Beyond compensation: reasons of pursuance. Conclusions: The resultant themes illuminate multilevel facilitators and barriers to research engagement among underrepresented AYA cancer survivors. Findings will assist in guiding researchers, oncology care providers and program administrators both in academic and community settings in the design of inclusive and equitable cancer care delivery programs for underrepresented AYA cancer survivors.

Trust and Support for Cancer Research Biobanks: Insights from Cancer Patients in Poland.

BACKGROUND Biobanks are legally regulated entities that acquire, store, prepare, preserve, test, analyze, and distribute defined biological material and related information and data from human sources. This study aimed to evaluate trust, support and willingness to donate personal data and tissue samples for biobanking from cancer patients attending oncology departments in Poznań, Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study utilized data from questionnaire-based survey conducted from February to June 2023 among 548 patients from 2 Poznań hospitals equipped with oncology treatment units. The survey employed convenience sampling. Statistical analysis was carried out using JASP 0.18.3 and PQStat1.8.6., with significance levels set at 0.05. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were utilized to present the results. RESULTS 92.2% of cancer patients supported the establishment of cancer research biobank in Poland, and 93.1% declared the willingness to share their cancer tissues for research purposes. Patients' willingness to donate was associated with biomedical research conducted by biobanks and types of biobank institutions. Most patients were willing to donate for research on cancer, genetic and autoimmune diseases or dementia, but were reluctant to participate in research on sexual identity, intelligence, aggression and for-profit research. Patients were willing to donate to biobanks managed by medical universities, public institutions, clinical hospitals and national biobanks but not to foreign and private biobanks. CONCLUSIONS Although patients' support for cancer biobank is high it is not unconditional as their willingness to participate in cancer-related research is associated with types of biomedical research conducted by biobanks and different types of biobank institutions.

A bird's eye view of the potential role of NFKBIA in pan-cancer

In the 21st century, cancer remains a serious threat to people's health and has become a prominent public health problem. NFKBIA is involved in the pathological process of many diseases including cancer, but its specific role in pan-cancer has not yet been fully elucidated. This study aims to deepen the understanding of cancer pathology by analyzing the potential functions of NFKBIA in pan-cancer. We used TCGA data to analyze differences of expression of NFKBIA in pan-cancer. We explored the prognostic value, clinical relevance, immune relevance, potential biological function, and diagnosis and treatment value of NFKBIA in pan-cancer through bioinformatics analysis. This study found that in pan-cancer, NFKBIA exhibits differences in expression, which correlate with the prognosis, diagnosis, treatment value and clinical and immune parameters. We have identified that Aspirin, Astaxanthin and Bardoxolone methyl are expected to play a potential therapeutic role in pan-cancer. The results of this study will help to improve our understanding of the role and potential mechanism of NFKBIA in cancer pathology, which may provide guidance for cancer-related research and clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Advances in applications of artificial intelligence algorithms for cancer-related miRNA research.

MiRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs, which regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by partial complementary base pairing. Aberrant miRNA expressions have been reported in tumor tissues and peripheral blood of cancer patients. In recent years, artificial intelligence algorithms such as machine learning and deep learning have been widely used in bioinformatic research. Compared to traditional bioinformatic tools, miRNA target prediction tools based on artificial intelligence algorithms have higher accuracy, and can successfully predict subcellular localization and redistribution of miRNAs to deepen our understanding. Additionally, the construction of clinical models based on artificial intelligence algorithms could significantly improve the mining efficiency of miRNA used as biomarkers. In this article, we summarize recent development of bioinformatic miRNA tools based on artificial intelligence algorithms, focusing on the potential of machine learning and deep learning in cancer-related miRNA research.

Abstract 4970: Multi-modal machine learning approaches for predicting cancer type and Gleason grade leveraging public TCGA data

Abstract Introduction: To better understand the complex and challenging nature of diseases such as cancer and for improved diagnosis, it may require the combination of multiple data modalities, such as histopathological images and omics data such as RNA-seq. By integrating these heterogeneous but complementary data, a multimodal approach unites both worlds and could achieve better synergistic results compared to using a single modality. The growing availability of large datasets such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) with more than 10000 patients made it possible to combine different modalities to train machine learning algorithms which offers great potential to address challenging cancer related research. In this proof of concept initiative we use machine learning approaches within an open-source framework in order to leverage the potential of multimodality (Histopathology Whole Slide Images (WSI) and Genomics/RNA-seq) to build predictive AI models for cancer type and prostate Gleason score, and provide a potential to develop a quality control step. Method: We used matched WSI and RNA-Seq profiles from TCGA, including 11093 samples and 30 cancer types to develop a pancancer classification model using both modalities. For prostate Gleason score prediction 401 patients were available. Both datasets were split into a train (70%) and test (30%) components. We used a late fusion approach where we combined the RNA-seq model (linear SVM) with the WSI model (Resnet18) by multiplying the probability scores of each single-modality model. Model performance was measured with the F1 metric. Results: For cancer type prediction, the multimodality model achieved an F1 score of 0.95 on the test set. About 40% of the cancer types benefited from a synergistic effect by combining the two modalities. Cancer types and percent increase in F1 scores, respectively, that benefit most by combining modalities are: Cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (4.23%), Cholangiosarcoma (6.66%) and Uterine carcinosarcoma (4%). Interestingly, in other cancer types the combination did not result in improved predictive scores compared to a single modality model, e.g. in Rectum adenocarcinoma, Sarcoma or Stomach adenocarcinoma. For Prostate cancer grading, Gleason score prediction of patterns 3/4/5, combined multi modality model earned 0.73 F1 outperforming the single modality models. Conclusion: By combining histopathology imaging and omics modalities we demonstrated synergistic effects in predictive power for both cancer-related research questions. We show improved predictive performance in 40% of the classified cancer types by taking both modalities. Imaging or omics modalities alone can be sufficient in some cases and their strengths are very problem-specific. Citation Format: Christian Wohlfart, Eldad Klaiman, Jacub Witkowski, Michael King, Jacob Gildenblat, Ofir Etz-Hadar, Mohammad Ashtari, Antoaneta Vladimirova. Multi-modal machine learning approaches for predicting cancer type and Gleason grade leveraging public TCGA data [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4970.

Need for Culturally Competent and Responsive Cancer Education for African Immigrant Families and Youth Living in the United States.

Cancer prevalence data for Black Americans is monolithic and fails to consider the diverse cultures and backgrounds within that community. For instance, African immigrants constitute a meaningful proportion of the foreign-born Black immigrants in the United States (42%), but the prevalence of cancer in the African immigrant community itself is unknown. Therefore, without accurate cancer prevalence data, it is impossible to identify trends and other key factors that are needed to support the health of African immigrants and their children. Moreover, it is impossible to understand how the culture and language of subgroups influence their cancer-related health behavior. While research in this area is limited, the existing literature articulates the need for culturally responsive and culturally tailored cancer education for African immigrants and their adolescent children, which is what we advocate for in this viewpoint paper. Existing projects demonstrate the feasibility of culturally responsive programming for adults; however, few projects include or focus on adolescents or children born to African immigrants. To best meet the needs of this understudied community, researchers must use culturally competent interventions alongside familiar, usable media. For adolescents, technology is ubiquitous thus, the creation of a culturally tailored digital intervention has immense potential to improve cancer awareness and prevention for youth and their community. More research is needed to address many of the existing research gaps and develop a rich understanding of the unique experience of cancer among African immigrant families that can be used to inform intervention development. Through this viewpoint, we review the current state of cancer-related research among African immigrant families in the United States. In this paper, we acknowledge the current knowledge gaps and issues surrounding measurement and then discuss the factors relevant to designing an educational intervention targeted at African immigrants and the role of African immigrant youth.

Knowledge domains and emerging trends in immune-related adverse events from immune checkpoint inhibitors: A bibliometrics and visualized analysis

ObjectiveThe primary objective of this paper is to investigate the research hotspots and future trends of immune-related adverse events induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors, offering valuable insights for researchers in this field. MethodologyUsing the visual analysis software, this study conducted quantitative statistics and visualization research on the relevant literature concerning immune-related adverse events caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors in the Web of Science Core Collection Database. By evaluating the publication trends, countries, institutions, keywords, research status, cited documents, and document co-citations, among several others, the discussion revolved around the hot spots and future development trends in this field and provided references for future research. Findings and conclusionsA total of 514 English articles were included, and the top three countries in the research field at the time of this study were the United States, Japan, and China. More specifically, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Massachusetts General Hospital have been the top three research institutes with more than 10 publications. The frequency of keyword use linked to immune-related adverse events caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors in literature research has been steadily growing over the years. Additionally, the research with respect to the disease focuses on melanoma, cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and breast cancer. In the context of drugs, cancer-related research has mainly focused on the combined use of nivolumab, pembrolizumab, ipilimumab, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Meanwhile, research on adverse events has delved into the immune checkpoint inhibitors causing vitiligo, thyroid dysfunction, pancreatitis, cholangitis, and rheumatism. Related studies cover acute arthritis, myositis, acute kidney injury, as well as the combination therapy of immune checkpoint inhibitors and docetaxel, management of irAEs in cancer immunotherapy, and biomarkers of immune adverse reactions of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Finally, case report studies of immune adverse reactions caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors could serve as research hotspots in the future.

Bibliometric analysis of breast cancer-related lymphedema research trends over the last 2 decades.

As breast cancer cases rise globally, post-mastectomy lymphedema garners increasing scholarly attention. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema (BCRL) research from 2003 to 2022, identifying trends and providing global research insights for future studies. The literature for this analysis was extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection, encompassing 1199 publications, including 702 articles and 101 reviews, totaling 803. Using advanced bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer and CiteSpace, quantitative and visual analyses were performed to map collaboration networks, research clusters, and emerging trends. The search strategy included specific terms related to lymphedema, breast cancer, and BCRL, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the research landscape. The bibliometric analysis revealed a steady increase in BCRL publications over the studied period, reaching a peak in 2018. The United States emerged as the leading contributor to BCRL literature, with China also demonstrating a significant presence. Collaboration networks were visualized, showcasing the interconnectedness of institutions and researchers globally. Key research hotspots identified include preventive strategies, complex decongestive therapy, and reconstructive interventions. In conclusion, this pioneering bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of BCRL research trends and collaborations globally. The findings contribute valuable insights into the evolution of the field, highlighting areas of focus and emerging research themes. This study serves as a foundational resource for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, fostering evidence-based practices and interventions for BCRL in the future.

The North Carolina Tissue Consortium: Ensuring Equitable Representation and Accessibility to Cancer Specimens from Eastern North Carolina.

The objective of the North Carolina Tissue Consortium is to facilitate cancer-related research by providing a means through which normal and malignant tissue specimens are procured, processed, stored, and distributed to researchers while protecting the rights and confidentiality of participants.

ENGAGING DIVERSE OLDER ADULTS IN AGING RESEARCH: IDENTIFYING COMMUNICATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Abstract A growing challenge is ensuring that diverse older adults participate in research studies. If studies are not inclusive of diverse populations, it is not possible to determine if interventions are likely to be universally beneficial or reduce health disparities. Smaller and more regional studies are particularly likely to struggle to recruit and retain diverse older adults for their research. This project uses quantitative and qualitative data based on a new collaboration consisting of independent scholars at four research institutions associated with three participant research registries on aging in Florida. The aims of this project are to: 1) describe characteristics of aging-focused research registrants, and 2) share communication strategies for recruitment specifically designed to increase participation of a variety of underrepresented populations, including minority, rural, and under-served. Preliminary results show that it is important to specifically adopt culturally informed recruitment strategies given its direct result in adequate representation from diverse and under-represented groups. All three participating registries are currently enrolling persons and seek a specific diverse demographic which captures the racial, cultural and geographic variation observed in residents throughout Florida. For example, these registries seek individuals who self-identify as African American/Black, Caribbean, Hispanic/Latino adults aged > 55 years; persons living in rural communities, and persons who have survived cancer or are interested in cancer-related research. We describe current infrastructure employed at each institution as well as recommendations in building long-term trust across each collaborating institution. Finally, we share an innovative model leveraging strengths and opportunities for statewide engagement across each registry.

WITHDRAWN: In Vitro three-dimensional (3D) cell culture tools for spheroid and organoid models

Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture technology has been steadily studied since the 1990′s due to its superior biocompatibility compared to the conventional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture technology, and has recently developed into an organoid culture technology that further improved biocompatibility. Since the 3D culture of human cell lines in artificial scaffolds was demonstrated in the early 90′s, 3D cell culture technology has been actively developed owing to various needs in the areas of disease research, precision medicine, new drug development, and some of these technologies have been commercialized. In particular, 3D cell culture technology is actively being applied and utilized in drug development and cancer-related precision medicine research. Drug development is a long and expensive process that involves multiple steps—from target identification to lead discovery and optimization, preclinical studies, and clinical trials for approval for clinical use. Cancer ranks first among life-threatening diseases owing to intra-tumoral heterogeneity associated with metastasis, recurrence, and treatment resistance, ultimately contributing to treatment failure and adverse prognoses. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of efficient drugs using 3D cell culture techniques that can closely mimic in vivo cellular environments and customized tumor models that faithfully represent the tumor heterogeneity of individual patients. This review discusses 3D cell culture technology focusing on research trends, commercialization status, and expected effects developed until recently. We aim to summarize the great potential of 3D cell culture technology and contribute to expanding the base of this technology.

Educating the next generation of cancer researchers: Evaluation of a cancer research partnership training program.

African American, American Indian and Alaska Native, Hispanic (or Latinx), Native Hawaiian, and other Pacific Islander groups are underrepresented in the biomedical workforce, which is one of the barriers to addressing cancer disparities among minority populations. The creation of a more inclusive biomedical workforce dedicated to reducing the burden of cancer health disparities requires structured, mentored research and cancer-related research exposure during the earlier stages of training. The Summer Cancer Research Institute (SCRI) is a multicomponent 8-week intensive summer program funded under the Partnership between a Minority Serving Institute and a National Institutes of Health-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. In this survey study, we found that students who participated in the SCRI Program reported greater knowledge and interest in pursuing careers in cancer-related fields than their counterparts who did not participate in SCRI. Successes, challenges, and solutions in providing training in cancer and cancer health disparities research to improve diversity in the biomedical fields were also discussed.

Prospects and challenges of CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in cancer research.

Cancer, one of the leading causes of death, usually commences and progresses as a result of a series of gene mutations and dysregulation of expression. With the development of clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 gene-editing technology, it is possible to edit and then decode the functions of cancer-related gene mutations, markedly advance the research of biological mechanisms and treatment of cancer. This review summarizes the mechanism and development of CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in recent years and describes its potential application in cancer-related research, such as the establishment of human tumor disease models, gene therapy and immunotherapy. The challenges and future development directions are highlighted to provide a reference for exploring pathological mechanisms and potential treatment protocols of cancer.

Utilization of basic medical insurance data in cancer-related researches in China

Objective: To explore the utilization of cancer-related data from basic medical insurance databases in China, and promote the application of medical insurance data in cancer prevention and treatment. Methods: Database PubMed, Web of Science, Wanfang, and CNKI were used to select related research papers using data from basic medical insurance system in China published by December 2021. Descriptive analysis was conducted in terms of the number of publications, types of cancer, primary research contents and author affiliations. Results: A total of 65 papers were included in the study. The number of publications increased rapidly after 2016. The most studied cancer type was lung cancer, and healthcare costs were the most common research contents. Fujian, Beijing, and Anhui have made a better use of cancer-related medical insurance databases compared to other provincial regions. The accessibility of the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme data was limited due to the high regional barriers, while the accessibility of the urban basic medical insurance data was relatively high. The researchers from Peking University and Fudan University had higher utilization of basic medical insurance data compared with those from other institutions. Conclusions: The utilization of cancer-related data from basic medical insurance databases in China is limited because of poor accessibility, insufficient data sharing, and regional restrictions. Thus, it is urgent to improve data accessibility and promote the integration and utilization of regional medical insurance data.

Beyond Participation: Evaluating the Role of Patients in Designing Oncology Clinical Trials.

Historically, subject matter experts and healthcare professionals have played a pivotal role in driving oncology clinical trials. Although patients have been key participants, their deliberate and active contribution to the design and decision-making process has been limited. This scoping review aimed to examine the existing literature to scope the extent of active patient engagement in the design of oncology clinical trials and its corresponding influence on trial outcomes. We conducted a systematic search using two databases, namely MEDLINE (Ovid) and EMBASE, to identify relevant studies exploring patient engagement in cancer-related clinical research design. We identified seven studies that met the eligibility criteria. The studies highlighted the benefits of active patient involvement, such as improved recruitment strategies, and the attainment of more patient-centered trial outcomes. The influence of patient involvement varied from tangible developments like patient-friendly resources to indirect impacts like improved patient experiences and potentially higher adherence to trial intervention. The future of clinical trials should prioritize patients' values and perspectives, with regulatory bodies fostering these practices through clear guidelines. As the concept of patient centricity takes root in oncology research, the involvement of patients should evolve beyond mere participation.

Cancer-Related Symptom Frameworks Using a Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Perspective: A Scoping Review.

Research to understand and manage cancer-related symptoms continues to advance, yet work that more fully adopts a biopsychosocial-spiritual view of symptoms is needed. The purpose of this article is to review existing frameworks that have the potential to guide research on cancer-related symptoms, to explore the characteristics of each framework, and to appraise each using a biopsychosocial-spiritual lens. A scoping review was conducted to identify available frameworks that could be applied to guide cancer-related symptom research and to assess their characteristics. Research questions and criteria were formulated at the outset, followed by identifying relevant publications detailing novel frameworks, charting data, and collating results. Upon identification of available frameworks, each was appraised for alignment with a standard definition of "biopsychosocial-spiritual." Eleven frameworks were identified to guide cancer-related symptom research. All were developed in the United States, led by nurse scientists, including symptom experiences as well as their antecedents and outcomes, and could be applied to one or more concurrent cancer-related symptoms. While all 11 frameworks included biopsychosocial dimensions, only 4 included spirituality. Four biopsychosocial-spiritual frameworks offer unique insight to support advancement of cancer-related symptom research and practice from a holistic perspective. This foundational work could lead to development and validation of new frameworks and modification of existing frameworks to more closely align with a biopsychosocial-spiritual view of cancer-related symptoms. This review offers a starting point to carefully and explicitly adopt frameworks in research and practice with increased emphasis on considering spiritual dimensions of symptoms.