Research Hub Research Articles

Introduction: Crossroads of Psychedelic Studies

Since the 1960s, Harvard Divinity School has been an influential hub of research on psychedelics and religion. Yet, in many ways, the work of building a rich scholarly community around this area of study is just beginning. The Psychedelic Intersections: 2024 Conference Anthology is one step in that larger project. This volume is drawn from Harvard’s “Psychedelic Intersections: Cross-cultural Manifestations of the Sacred” conference, and the essays here feature original interdisciplinary research from scholars and practitioners working at the crossroads of psychedelics, religion, medicine, race, Indigeneity, law, and the underground, history, anthropology, and beyond. We see these intersections as sites for collaboration and innovation in two ways: psychedelics as intersections where unlikely peoples, entities, and institutions meet, and as intersectional forces where the study of psychedelics highlights, challenges, or qualifies pre-existing conceptions, be they imbalances of power, uses of law, or notions of religion and spirituality. In light of these intersections, the Anthology invites readers to imagine new futures for the field of psychedelic studies with a vision of scholarship that is multidisciplinary, collaborative, optimistic yet self-critical, involved both within and beyond the academy, attuned to complexity and diversity, and both sympathetic and intelligent.

Creating a collaborative culture of learning within a network of community mental health early psychosis programs in Texas.

Learning Health Systems (LHSs) promise meaningful health care improvement through the ongoing use of data, including the lived experience of diverse constituents, such as people participating in and providing services. Most LHSs operate within a specific healthcare system, typically hospital-based, under a common electronic health record (EHR) and management structure. The Early Psychosis Intervention Network in Texas (EPINET-TX) is a novel case study of a developing LHS across 16 independent community mental health clinics operating state-funded coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs for early psychosis. EPINET-TX is a partnership among a multidisciplinary research hub and state and local entities. Grounded in participatory research frameworks, multiple strategies were utilized to align partners around learning goals, build data use competencies, enhance researchers' understanding of program context, and cultivate a continuous performance improvement mindset. Key strategies for developing a LHS culture included a) intentionally building collaborative relationships, b) establishing shared values and governance, c) collaborating in research and change-focused workgroups, and d) sharing learning and growth experiences. For CSC programs operating within the public mental health system, the LHS framework provides a promising model to foster quality improvement, innovation, and action-oriented participatory research.

Clinical insights into cross-sectional imaging integration in radiography education

IntroductionClinical practice is a critical component of radiography curricula, offering students with essential skills and training for proficient practice. Educational institutions are challenged to review and develop strategies to meet evolving service demands regularly. This study aims to gain insight into the inclusion of cross-sectional imaging within pre-registration radiography training. MethodsAn online questionnaire, based on previous European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS) surveys, included closed-ended questions and ascertained the level of qualification, cross-sectional imaging incorporation, and tasks and assessments within programmes. The questionnaire was distributed through the EFRS Research Hub at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) 2023 and online via social media. Closed-ended questions were summarised using descriptive statistics. ResultsResponses were received from 64 individual radiography educators across 29 different countries. Fifty-seven respondents (91.9 %) reported including cross-sectional imaging training in their institution's pre-registration radiography programme. An increase in the amount of time dedicated to clinical training in cross-sectional imaging was reported by 24 respondents (42.1 %). Overall, 32 individuals (53.3 %) stated that CT is a specialised modality, and dedicated training should be for radiographers once they obtain their basic qualifications. In contrast, 36 respondents (61 %) agreed that MRI should also be reserved as a specialised modality. ConclusionStudy findings indicate a lack of consistency among pre-registration radiography programmes in terms of how they include cross-sectional imaging in their curricula. Differing opinions on this issue are likely to be guided by national standards and workforce requirements upon qualification. Implications for practiceVariations in training curricula can present significant challenges for graduates. To align with the most recent Standards of Proficiency, curricula must be regularly reviewed and updated. Such Standards now typically require radiographers to perform a range of CT scans, including those of the head, C-spine, chest, and abdomen. Therefore, integrating comprehensive training in cross-sectional imaging into pre-registration education is crucial to ensure that future professionals meet these essential competencies and are fully prepared for their roles.

High workload and under-appreciation lead to burnout and low job satisfaction among radiographers

IntroductionBurnout and low job satisfaction in healthcare can impact patient safety and staff retention. This study aims to gain information on the factors influencing burnout and job satisfaction among radiographers in the UK, Ireland and internationally. This can inform strategies for improving the workforce supply and demand imbalance. MethodsAn online questionnaire was developed, which included demographic questions and two validated instruments, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS). The questionnaire was distributed to diagnostic radiographers through the EFRS Research Hub at the European Congress of Radiology, Vienna, in early March 2023. It was disseminated online through Twitter, Facebook, and email over six weeks. Results245 radiographers completed the questionnaire, with the majority (n = 207, 84.5 %) female. Not all respondents responded to all questions. The numbers of respondents for each section were: Pay n = 205, Promotion = 206, supervision = 212, fringe benefits = 211, CR = 212, OC = 214, Co-workers = 213, NoW = 211, Communication = 213 and overall JS = 205. The questionnaire had participants from twenty-one countries, with 66.5 % from Ireland. The mean values for emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalisation (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA) indicate moderate levels of burnout among responding radiographers. 44.2 % of radiographers were dissatisfied, 43.7 % were ambivalent, and 12.1 % were satisfied overall. Workload, under-appreciated work, and time pressures were ranked as the top three factors contributing to burnout. Staff numbers, workload and poor management were the top three factors reducing job satisfaction. ConclusionBurnout levels were moderate, and overall job satisfaction was very low among radiographers. Workload and under-appreciation were key factors impacting low job satisfaction and high burnout. Implications for practiceHealthcare policies that address radiographer burnout through wage structure adjustments, targeted human capital investment, and management practices aligned with staff needs are needed. Implementing these strategies is essential for improving healthcare efficiency, staff wellbeing, and patient care outcomes.

Uncovering Global Trends in Internet of Behaviors (IoB) Research through Bibliometric Analysis

The Internet of Behaviors (IoB) represents an emerging multidisciplinary field that integrates technology, data analytics, and behavioral science to influence and understand human actions through digital interactions. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis to uncover global research trends in IoB, highlighting its evolution, key themes, and emerging areas of interest. The analysis, based on publications from 2001 to 2024, reveals the central role of technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and IoT in driving IoB research. Key applications include personalized marketing, healthcare optimization, and smart city development, while ethical and privacy concerns remain critical challenges. India is identified as a leading contributor and global hub for IoB research, with significant international collaborations. Despite its rapid growth, gaps exist in understanding the long-term societal impacts of IoB and its applicability in underrepresented regions. This study emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research, ethical governance, and inclusive collaboration to maximize IoB's potential for innovation and societal benefit.

Navigating the dynamics of present-day academic libraries: An in-depth analysis of strategies, challenges, and emerging trends

Academic libraries are undergoing significant transformations to meet the evolving needs of users in a digital era characterized by technological advancements and changing educational paradigms. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted landscape of modern academic libraries, encompassing strategies, challenges, and future trends. Through repositioning efforts, case study analyses, and the anticipation of emerging trends, academic libraries strive to remain relevant and effective. Challenges such as budget constraints and shifting user expectations are countered by opportunities presented by emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), blockchain technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics. By embracing user-centered design, fostering collaboration, and advocating open access initiatives, academic libraries can position themselves as dynamic hubs for learning, innovation, and research. Looking forward, academic libraries must adapt, innovate, and align their strategies with institutional goals to continue serving as indispensable resources for the academic community and beyond.

EXPLOITING LIMITATIONS: EXAMINING THE CONCEPT OF “BRICOLAGE” IN MANAGEMENT STUDIES THROUGH A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS

Bricolage, a novel concept derived from anthropology, has a significant impact on contemporary management practices by promoting the use of available resources to deal with challenges and exploit resources. Previous research has highlighted the importance of bricolage in encouraging innovative thinking and adaptability in organizations, particularly in developing nations where resources are scarce. Although the notion is very adaptable, researchers could encounter the difficulty of combing through the diverse range of publications to find essential academic sources and articles on management. Therefore, a bibliometric analysis is necessary to thoroughly review and assess current trends in the management literature on bricolage. This study examines the existing literature on bricolage in management studies to identify research trends and potential gaps. The study's sample consisted of 209 publications published between 2003 and March 2024 in the Web of Science database. VOSviewer was used to analyze and display the associations among journals, authors, countries, and keywords. According to the results, bricolage is an important tool for businesses to overcome limitations within the entrepreneurial domain. The findings indicate that the United States, England, and China are significant research hubs in the research network. Also, keyword analysis revealed that a growing body of research is bridging the gap between entrepreneurship and other fields, such as technology, innovation, policy, and society, according to the relationships discovered. This study provides a comprehensive overview of bricolage research in management studies and practical suggestions for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to enhance the application of bricolage in various organizational and management contexts.

The Rise of Open Banking: A Comprehensive Analysis of Research Trends and Collaborative Networks

This study explores the changing landscape of Open Banking-a financial services model where third-party providers get access through APIs to banking data for further innovation and customer experience improvements. The analysis is based on Scopus bibliographic data and relies on Biblioshiny and Citespace for the analysis of trends from 1999 to 2024. The main indicators analyzed include the dynamics of the annual scientific production, which increased after 2018 by a factor driven by regulatory frameworks such as PSD2. The main contributors are leading authors and sources, among them the Journal of Payments Strategy and Systems, while country-specific analyses definitely point out the UK, India, and China as major Open Banking research hubs. Thematic and trend analyses show that themes like data sharing, fintech, and API regulation are well-developed, whereas API security and risk management are still underexplored. Co-citation network visualizations depicted clear collaboration networks between countries and then between key authors. Factorial analysis further identified clusters of research related to technologically integrated themes, such as machine learning and blockchain. Key research gaps were identified in areas such as security and risk management, which are considered critical, with Open Banking’s continued expansion across the world. Practical implications include more robust API security frameworks and a deeper dive into the advanced technology-regulatory compliance link.

The Evolution of SDGs Rival: A Bibliometric Analysis of Greenwashing Over 30 Years

Objective: The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of greenwashing research from 1995 to 2024, with the aim of understanding the evolution, key themes, and influential contributors in the field. Theoretical Framework: This study uses social network theory and Lotka’s Law to identify key contributors and collaboration patterns in greenwashing research, highlighting influential authors and the concentration of productivity in the field. Method: Scopus was selected as the database for data collection, and data was gathered through systematic searches. The method employed is bibliometric analysis, focusing on performance analysis and science mapping with metrics such as total citations, citations per year, and author dominance. The analysis also explored trends, key contributors, collaboration networks, and etc. Results: The results reveal significant growth in greenwashing research since 2010, with the USA and China identified as major research hubs. Two primary research clusters were identified: corporate sustainability and consumer marketing. The analysis also identified key authors, influential journals, the most impactful articles, collaboration patterns, and changes in research focus over time. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research include insights into how greenwashing practices impact corporate reputation, consumer trust, and regulatory frameworks. These implications are relevant for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners aiming to foster transparency and accountability in sustainability efforts. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by providing an in-depth bibliometric analysis that identifies influential contributors, emerging trends, and collaboration patterns in greenwashing research. The relevance of this study is demonstrated by its potential to guide future research and inform policy on addressing deceptive sustainability practices.

Informatics innovation to provide return of value to participant communities in the All of Us Research Program.

The All of Us Research Program harnesses advances in technology, science, and engagement for precision medicine research. We describe informatics innovations which support that goal and return value to the participant cohort and community. Research data from the All of Us Research Program are available to authorized users on the All of Us Researcher Workbench. We describe the technical infrastructure that enables data access and usage for researchers. Participants are considered partners. To ensure return of value, we outline participant access to information. The All of Us Research Hub allows broad access to data, regardless of background. The innovations described are rooted in the program's core values: participation is open and reflects the diversity of the United States; participants are partners and have access to their information; transparency, security, and privacy are of the highest importance; data are broadly accessible; and the program promotes positive change. We assess research impact and reflect on how All of Us can increase existing return of value to participant communities through future informatics advancements. The program will continue to support efforts to ensure equitable access to data and return of value to participants. Looking ahead, we invite the community to join us. All of Us research findings can change clinical care, inform guidelines, and set a new bar for data sharing. The ultimate return of value is better care for all.

A case study into the safety management systems for the effects of potential space weather risks, for operators of very high altitude ‘near space’ flights from Mojave Air & Space Port, California, and the associated regulatory challenges

Mojave Air & Space Port is located in Mojave, California, United States. It is at an elevation of 2,801 feet (854 m), is nearly 3000 acres in size and has three runways. It is licensed by the FAA for horizontal launches of reusable spacecraft and is already a major hub for aerospace research and space enterprises, which includes potential space flights and very high altitude subsonic, supersonic, and hypersonic flights.During potential very high-altitude ‘near space’ space flights, the effects of cosmic radiation exposure, especially during sudden changes in space weather, such as ground level enhancement (GLE) or solar particle events (SPEs), could have significant health implications for crew and passengers. This case study examines the intricate landscape of radiation risks, regulatory challenges, licensing complexities, and approaches to risk management for very high-altitude ‘near space’ space flights from Mojave Air and Space Port carrying one or more paying "space flight participant" (being an individual, who is not crew, carried aboard a launch vehicle or re-entry vehicle).The study explores the specific challenges of risk assessment of very high-altitude flights, looking in detail at the risk posed by the space weather radiation environment in flight planning and execution, for both Space Port and flight operator. The study covers the ‘end to end’ licensing process and the regulatory considerations of space weather required for both Space Port and flight operator. Further, we look at the integration of Safety Management Systems (SMS), namely, we explore how SMS frameworks proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks throughout the ‘near space’ space flight process. Further, the study presents a template for addressing the regulatory framework for flights, risk assessment, pre-flight briefings, and the flight licensing procedure.This case study offers valuable insights for Space Port and flight operators, regulators, and policymakers, contributing to the development of comprehensive safety strategies, which are crucial for safe very high-altitude ‘near space’ space exploration.Plain Language Summary: A case study of how the potential space weather risks can be successfully managed for very high altitude ‘near space’ subsonic, supersonic, and hypersonic flights from Mojave Air and Space Port, California, USA carrying one or more space flight participant(s).

Mapping Knowledge Landscapes and Evolving Trends of Clinical Hypnotherapy Practice: A Bibliometrics-Based Visualization Analysis.

Increasing interest in hypnotherapy's application for a wide range of health conditions has spurred a rise in global research and publications. This study aims to visualize development patterns and current research hotspots in clinical hypnotherapy practice using scientometric methods, and to predict future research directions based on the keyword trending topics analysis. Data on hypnotherapy applications and mechanisms in clinicalsettings between 1994 and 2023 were gathered from Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, followed by analysis and visualization using the VOSviewer, Bibliometrix package inR, and CiteSpace. A total of 1,549 publications were examined, indicating a steady annual increase with an average growth rate of 8.5%, reaching a high of 134 publications in 2022. The United States was the primary research hub. Collectively, 1,464 distinct institutions involving 3,195 scholars contributed to this research theme. Collaboration was predominantly confined to the same country, institution, and/or research team. High-frequency keywords included "Pain", "Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)", and "Anxiety". Systematic review and/or meta-analysis have emerged as favored research methods. fMRI and EEG were commonly used techniques for exploring the neuropsychological mechanisms underlying hypnotherapy. "Self-Hypnosis", "Virtual Reality", and "Meditation" were predicted as trending topics, indicating that patients' self-managed hypnosis practice, virtual reality hypnotherapy, and exploration of the variations in mechanisms between meditation and hypnotherapy might be emerging topics and/or future key research directions within the current field. The use of hypnotherapy for diverse clinical issues, particularly pain, IBS, and comorbid anxiety, is garnering global attention. The evidence-based approach is widely used to assess the quality of clinical evidence for hypnotherapy. Researchers are keen on innovating traditional hetero-hypnosis, with a shift towards more cost-effective self-hypnosis and immersive virtual reality hypnotherapy. Promoting and reinforcing collaborative research efforts across countries, institutions, and teams is warranted.

Analysis of research trends and hotspots in the primary treatment of end-stage renal disease.

There is a lack of bibliometric analysis in research regarding primary therapy for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This study aims to analyze the literature on ESRD therapy published over the past decade to understand current conditions and study trends for future research. Data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. Tools like CiteSpace 6.2.R4, 6.1.R6, VOSviewer 1.6.18, and Bibliometrix R4.1.1 were used to reveal research trends and hotspots. In addition, KEGG/GO analysis examined the probable functionalities of genes implicated in ESRD therapy to guide future research. The bibliometric analysis presented in this paper indicates that the number of publications has remained relatively stable since 2013. The level of international collaboration is notably high, with the United States serving as the dominant research hub in this field. The University of California system is the most prolific institution, and Transplantation Proceedings is the most frequently published journal in this area. Kalantar-Zadeh, Kamyar is recognized as the most published and cited author. Keywords such as "secondary hyperparathyroidism," "uremic toxins," "cyclosporine," "mycophenolate mofetil," and "biomarkers" have seen a surge in interest recently, reflecting emerging research trends. Furthermore, inflammation and stem cell research have been identified as promising new therapeutic avenues for ESRD. This study identifies major areas, frontiers, and trends in research on primary treatments for ESRD, providing significant implications for future research.

Envisioning doctoral education as research hubs in Latin America (2011–2021): waves of evolution

ABSTRACT This study analyses 70 scholarly articles on doctoral education in Latin America from 2011 to 2021, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) model. The research identifies key trends, themes, and defining characteristics within the literature. We propose a three-wave evolution model for doctoral education in Latin America based on the findings. The results show the consolidation of doctoral education in several countries, the ‘second wave’, with themes such as quality assurance policy, program development, learning, curriculum, and advising. The study also highlights the emergence of research hubs as a ‘third wave’, in which doctoral programs attract individuals from different backgrounds and locations who mobilise knowledge and ideas within and across regions. Our three-wave model of evolution for doctoral education offers a way to articulate research and policy around doctoral education in Latin America, a critical step towards significant research hubs and pertinent programs.

Views from Multinational Pharmaceutical Companies on Allocation of Clinical Trials in Saudi Arabia-Qualitative Study.

Clinical trials conducted by pharmaceutical companies are essential for bridging local research efforts with broader populations, facilitating the transfer of valuable insights and solutions. This study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators affecting clinical trials in Saudi Arabia from the perspective of key personnel within the pharmaceutical industry and Contract Research Organizations (CROs). We conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with nine participants, which provided a holistic understanding of the intricate dynamics shaping the landscape of clinical trials in the country. The analysis revealed three prominent themes: operational challenges, complexities in navigating approval hurdles, and the unique value proposition for conducting clinical trials in Saudi Arabia. The participants expressed pride in the local infrastructure but acknowledged existing flaws, particularly in regulatory processes that contribute to delays in trial initiation. They emphasized the importance of conducting clinical trials in areas such as diabetes, crowd management during pilgrimages, and rare diseases, which are prevalent in the region. Despite the limited number of clinical trials registered (354 from 2009 to 2020, with only 1% being phase 1 studies), Saudi Arabia's total pharmaceutical market exceeds SAR 13 billion, positioning it as the largest market in the region. Stakeholders recognized the country's potential as a research hub, particularly within the Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) region. However, to attract more trials and enhance the medical research landscape, it is crucial to address the identified barriers, streamline processes, and improve stakeholder alignment. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to overcome these challenges and leverage Saudi Arabia's investments in healthcare infrastructure since its transformation program launched in 2010. By enhancing the regulatory environment and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Saudi Arabia can solidify its role as a key player in international clinical research.

Impact of family engagement on client participation in coordinated specialty care for first episodes of psychosis

BackgroundCoordinated specialty care (CSC) programs for first episodes of psychosis are increasingly offered in the United States. A component of CSC programs is active family engagement in treatment, though research on the impact of this engagement is limited. This study examined the characteristics of families engaged compared to families not engaged in treatment, and the impact of family engagement on client participation and medication adherence over the first 6 months of treatment.MethodsUsing data from the Early Psychosis Intervention Network (EPINET) research hub in Minnesota (EPI-MINN), we compared two groups of individuals: clients who had a family member(s) engaged in their treatment vs. clients who did not. Family engagement was defined as any treatment services provided to a family member(s) by CSC clinical staff. The groups were compared on intake demographic variables, duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), hospitalizations, symptom severity, and functioning. A comparison of the total number of treatment visits during the first 6 months of treatment was tested using both nonparametric (Mann Whitney U) and parametric (ANCOVA) tests. Group comparisons on self ratings of “intent to attend visits,” “intent to complete the program,” and medication adherence were tested with ANCOVA and Chi-Square.ResultsFamily-engaged clients were younger, with less years of education, and more often White; clients without family engagement were more often Black. Family engagement was positively associated with increased total number of visits for all interventions with the exceptions of client peer support and case management visits. Family engagement increased clients’ self-reported intent to attend visits, though not intention to complete the program, which was moderately to markedly high in both groups. No differences were noted with medication adherence, with high rates of adherence across the entire study sample.ConclusionsOverall, results of the study support the benefits of family engagement in CSC on client participation, though future research is needed to understand why Black families are less engaged and what treatment adaptations are needed to reduce these racial differences. The results also support the value of CSC programs for medication adherence, a critical factor in symptom reduction and mental health recovery.

Exploring the Lived Experiences of Members of a Faculty Research Hub Design Team in a College of Education at an HSI

ABSTRACT Researchers used a transcendental phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of faculty members in a Faculty Research Hub design team at a Hispanic-Serving Institution. Through data analysis, several themes emerged: (1) Support and leadership, (2) Commitment to improvement, (3) Individual motivation, (4) Structure and collaborative nature of the team, (5) Small team size with diverse expertise, and (6) Faculty learning and development. These themes align with the input, process, or outcome stages of Binkhorst et al.’s (2015) integrative descriptive framework for Teacher Design Teams (TDTs). The study suggests that Hispanic-Serving Institutions aspiring to become R1 institutions should consider implementing and evaluating Faculty Design Teams (FDTs) to enhance faculty research productivity and doctoral student success.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Higher Education: A Critical Examination of Governance and Policy

The contemporary university has evolved into a multifaceted institution, serving not only as a hub for research, professional training, and knowledge dissemination, but also as a pivotal component of economic machinery and societal advancement, especially within the context of globalization and intense competition. These institutions are now expected to significantly contribute to the socio-economic development of their surroundings, striving for excellence and competing within an increasingly interconnected global framework. To meet these heightened expectations, universities have undergone profound transformations over recent decades. This period of change is particularly notable within the Spanish context, mirroring the broader societal shifts since the onset of the democratic transition in 1975 through to the present day in 2024. This era has necessitated substantial reforms in university governance, equipping these institutions with the requisite tools to navigate and address emerging challenges effectively. A pivotal moment in this transformative journey was the enactment of the University Reform Law of 1983. Grounded in constitutional principles, this law marked a significant milestone in updating and revitalizing university education in Spain. After this, the Organic Law on Universities of 2001 further aligned the Spanish university framework with the broader European educational landscape, reinforcing the integration and competitiveness of Spanish institutions on a continental scale. However, to comprehensively grasp the magnitude and implications of these changes, it is essential to extend our analysis beyond the immediate past and explore the historical trajectory of Spanish universities over previous centuries. By examining this extensive historical context, we can better understand the foundational elements that have shaped the current state of higher education. This article aims to meticulously analyze the evolution of the Spanish university system, delineating the chronological progress, identifying persistent challenges, and engaging in a critical discourse on potential solutions. Through this examination, the article seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the interplay between historical legacies and contemporary reforms, offering insights that are essential for shaping the future trajectory of higher education in Spain.

The Pivotal Function of SLC16A1 and SLC16A1-AS1 in Cancer Progress: Molecular Pathogenesis and Prognosis.

More than 300 membranes make up the SLC family of transporters, utilizing an ion gradient or electrochemical potential difference to move their substrates across biological membranes. The SLC16 gene family contains fourteen members. Proton-linked transportation of monocarboxylates can be promoted by the transporters MCT1, which the SLC16A1 gene family encodes. Glycolysis is constitutively up-regulated in cancer cells, and the amount of lactate produced as a result is correlated with prognosis. Further speaking, SLC16A1 plays an essential role in controlling the growth and spread of tumors, according to mounting evidence. Additionally, LncRNAs are the collective term for all genes that produce RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides but do not convert into proteins. It has steadily developed into a hub for research, offering an innovative approach to tumor study as technology related to molecular biology advances. The growing study has uncovered SLC16A1-AS1, an RNA that acts as an antisense to SLC16A1, which is erroneously expressed in various types of cancers. Therefore, we compiled the most recent information on the physiological functions and underlying processes of SLC16A1 and the LncRNA SLC16A1-AS1 during tumor development to explore their impact on cancer treatment and prognosis. We compiled the most recent information on the physiological functions and underlying processes of SLC16A1 and the LncRNA SLC16A1-AS1 during tumor development to explore their impact on cancer treatment and prognosis. Relevant studies were retrieved and collected through the PubMed system. After determining SLC16A1 and SLC16A1-AS1 as the research object, we found a close relationship between SLC16A1 and tumorigenesis as well as the influencing factors through the analysis of the research articles. SLC16A1 regulates lactate chemotaxis while uncovering SLC16A1- AS1 as an antisense RNA acting through multiple pathways; they affect the metabolism of tumor cells and have an impact on the prognosis of patients with various cancers.

Abstract A011: PVT1 risk variant rs127920247 for colorectal cancer is shared by African American and Hispanic colorectal cancer patients

Abstract Background: Colorectal cancer, one of the most lethal and prevalent cancers across the world, is in large part due to genetic mutations. The plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) gene has an established association with many cancers, including colorectal cancer. There is increasingly abundant data on the mechanisms of action of PVT1 leading to the initiation and progression of these cancers. Identifying PVT1 variants linked to cancer may lead to uncovering their utility as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. The All of Us Research hub contains a diverse set of data from hundreds of thousands of participants. Stratifying and comparing risk variants across racial and ethnic demographics may provide insight into disparities underlying disparate incidence of colorectal cancer amongst minoritized and medically underserved communities. The All of Us database provides a novel opportunity to study PVT1 variation in a large cohort of patients from racial backgrounds with demonstrated greater incidence, prevalence, and worse outcomes from colorectal cancer. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients in the All of Us Research hub. The cohort studied comprised 930 patients ranging in age from 18 to 70 years with colorectal cancer, and no additional cancer diagnosis noted. Racial and ethnic backgrounds were selected if there were at least 100 patients of identified background with colorectal cancer. These consisted of patients of: African American, non-Hispanic white, and Hispanic backgrounds. We extracted data from short-read whole genome sequencing. A filtered matrix was built comparing the genetic sequence of our cohort of cancer patients to the reference genome GRCh38. We then stratified the different variants by allelic frequency across the sample cohort to report the variants with the greatest frequencies. All analyses were conducted using Python on Jupyter Notebook in the All of Us Research platform. Results: The top 5 PVT1 variants with the greatest frequency in patients of the three chosen racial and ethnic backgrounds were identified and compared to find commonalities. Rs127920247 was a PVT1 risk variant shared by African American and Hispanic patients as the 2nd highest risk variant for both. The most frequent risk variants for each group is as follows: Rs128085054 for African Americans, Rs128139524 for Non-Hispanic White Americans, and Rs127870242 for Hispanic Americans. Conclusion: PVT1 risk variants in colorectal cancer can be uncovered from data in the All of Us Research hub. Thus, genetic risk variants for cancers can be uncovered from analysis of data available in the All of Us Research hub. Identification of specific PVT1 variants similarly prevalent in colorectal cancer amongst distinct racial and ethnic communities is a significant first step towards developing them as potential diagnostic or prognostic tools. Citation Format: Sujay Singh, Olorunseun Ogunwobi. PVT1 risk variant rs127920247 for colorectal cancer is shared by African American and Hispanic colorectal cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A011.