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Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention

Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention (APOCP)

  • Monthly
  • /
  • 1513-7368(pISSN)
  • /
  • 2476-762X(eISSN)

Domain

  • Health Sciences ＞ Development of Pharmaceutical

Aim & Scope

Cancer is a very complex disease. While many aspects of carcinoge-nesis and oncogenesis are known, cancer control and prevention at the community level is however still in its infancy. Much more work needs to be done and many more steps need to be taken before effective strategies are developed. The multidisciplinary approaches and efforts to understand and control cancer in an effective and efficient manner, require highly trained scientists in all branches of the cancer sciences, from cellular and molecular aspects to patient care and palliation. The Asia Pacific Organization for Cancer Prevention (APOCP) and its official publication, the Asia Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention (APJCP), have served the community of cancer scientists very well and intends to continue to serve in this capacity to the best of its abilities. One of the objectives of the APOCP is to provide all relevant and current scientific information on the whole spectrum of cancer sciences. They aim to do this by providing a forum for communication and propagation of original and innovative research findings that have relevance to understanding the etiology, progression, treatment, and survival of patients, through their journal. The APJCP with its distinguished, diverse, and Asia-wide team of editors, reviewers, and readers, ensure the highest standards of research communication within the cancer sciences community across Asia as well as globally. The APJCP publishes original research results under the following categories: - Epidemiology, detection and screening. - Cellular research and bio-markers. - Identification of bio-targets and agents with novel mechanisms of action. - Optimal clinical use of existing anti-cancer agents, including combination therapies. - Radiation and surgery. - Palliative care. - Patient adherence, quality of life, satisfaction. - Health economic evaluations. All research and manuscript published by the Asia Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, are under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License. This permits anyone to copy, distribute, transmit and adapt the published work, provided the original work and source are appropriately cited. The APJCP strongly supports the Open Access initiative. Each published article is assigned a Crossref Digital Object Identifier (DOI), and full texts (HTML, PDF and XML format) of all articles published by the Asia Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, are freely accessible to everyone immediately after publication. Asia Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention supports the Bethesda Statement on Open Access Publishing.

KSCI

Volume 17 Issue 11

  1. Sahami-Fard, Mohammad Hossein;Yazd, Ehsan Farashahi 4803
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4803 KSCI
  2. Lertpipopmetha, Korn;Tubtawee, Teeravut;Piratvisuth, Teerha;Chamroonkul, Naichaya 4805
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4805 KSCI
    Background: Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) less than 2 cm in diameter generally demonstrate a good outcome after curative therapy. However, the diagnosis of small HCC can be problematic and requires one or more dynamic imaging modalities. This study aimed to compare the sensitivity and agreement between CT and MRI for the diagnosis of small HCCs. Methods: CT and/or MRI scans of HCCs (1-2 cm) diagnosed by histopathology or typical vascular pattern according to the 2005 AASLD criteria were blindly reviewed by an abdominal radiologist. The reports were defined as conclusive/typical when arterial enhancement and washout during the portal/delayed phases were observed and as inconclusive when typical vascular patterns were not observed. The sensitivity and Cohen's kappa (k) for agreement were calculated. Results: In 27 patients, 27 HCC nodules (1-2 cm) were included. Diagnosis with a single-imaging modality (CT or MRI) was 81 % versus 48 % (p = 0.01). The CT sensitivity was significantly higher than MRI (78 % versus 52 %, p = 0.04). Among 27 nodules that underwent both CT and MRI, a discordance in typical enhancement patterns was found (k = 0.319, p = 0.05). In cases with inconclusive CT results, MRI gave only an additional 3.7 % sensitivity to reach a diagnosis. In contrast, further CT imaging following inconclusive MRI results gave an additional 29.6 % sensitivity.Conclusions: A single typical imaging modality is sufficient to diagnose small HCCs. Compared with MRI, multiphasic CT has a higher sensitivity. The limitations of MRI could be explained by the greater need for patient cooperation and the types of MRI contrast agent.
  3. Goyal, Gaurav;Bhagawati, Basavaraj T 4813
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4813 KSCI
    Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of chewing gutka,areca nut, snuff and tobacco smoking among the young population in the Northern India Population between the age of 15 to 22 years. Methods: The study was approved by the ethical committee. A total of 10 school and colleges located in the rural and urban areas was selected. A total of 1500 young individuals aged between 15 to 22 years were selected. A self-administered questionnaire was designed comprised of 14 closed ended questions about Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards consumption of areca nut, gutka and tobacco smoking that were filled by the participants. Descriptive statistics were obtained and mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentages were calculated. Data was analyzed by using SPSS. Result: A total of 1050 out of 1500 students responded to the questionnaire. A total of 227 subjects agreed that they are consuming the tobacco. Out of this, 196 (86.34%) were boys and 31 (13.65%) were girls who agreed in consumption of tobacco product. Out of 196, 150 boys (76.5%) practices the habit of smoking 1 -5 times a day and 46 (23.4% ) practice the habit of chewing areca nut and gutkha 1 - 5 times a day. Out of 31 girls, 25 girls (80.6%) practices the habit of smoking 1 -5 times a day and 6 (19.4%) practice the habit of chewing areca nut and gutkha 1 - 5 times a day. Out of 740 subjects, 530 were boys and 210 girls have full knowledge of deleterious long term effects of tobacco consumption. Conclusion:The present study concluded that young population of North India lack Knowledge, Attitude and Practice regarding consumption of areca nut, gutka and tobacco smoking. Here is an urgent need to take effective steps, especially on launching community awareness programs for the school children and public to educate them about the consequences of tobacco use, and on assessing their effectiveness in curbing the problem.
  4. Hashemi, Farnaz Amouzegar;Barzegartahamtan, Mohammadreza;Mohammadpour, Reza Ali;Sebzari, Ahmadreza;Kalaghchi, Bita;Haddad, Peiman 4819
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4819 KSCI
    Bckground: Adjuvant radiation therapy is commonly administered following breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer patients. Hypofractionated radiotherapy can significantly reduce the waiting time for radiotherapy, working load on machines, patient visits to radiotherapy departments and medical costs. Material/Methods: Fifty-two patients with operable breast cancer (pT1-3pN0M0) who underwent breast conservation surgery in Tehran Cancer Institute during January 2011 to January 2012, were randomly assigned to undergo radiotherapy in two arms (hypofractionated radiotherapy arm with 30 patients, dose 42.5 Gy in 16 fractions; and conventional radiotherapy arm with 22 patients, dose 50 Gy in 25 fractions). W compared these two groups in terms of overall survival, locoregional control, late skin complications and cosmetic results. Results: At a median follow-up of 52.4 months (range: 0-64 months), the follow-up rate was 82.6%. Overall, after 60 months, there was no detectable significant differences between groups regarding cosmetic results (p = 0.857), locoregional control or survival. Conclusions: The results confirm that hypofractionated radiotherapy with a subsequent boost is as effective as conventional radiotherapy, is well-tolerated and can be used as an alternative treatment method following breast conservation surgery.
  5. Nasar, Alwahaibi;Waad, Alsalami;Atheer, Alzaabi;Nasra, Alramadhani 4825
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4825 KSCI
    Background: In developed countries, awareness of cervical cancer screening is well documented. In contrast, in Oman as a developing country, public responses regarding cervical screening are unclear. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness about cervical cancer and Papanicolau (Pap) smear testing and to establish any correlations between knowledge and demographic factors among Omani women. Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, participants were divided into three groups: patients who attended the Outpatient Gynecology Department in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), Oman, female staff from SQUH, College of Medicine and College of Nursing at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and graduating female students at SQU. Data collection was through interview-based and online self-administered questionnaires. Cumulative scoring was used for data analysis. Results: There were 204 outpatients, 133 staff and 157 students. Outpatients (79.4%), staff (97.7%) and students (75.2%) had heard of cervical cancer. Nevertheless, their specific knowledge, regarding signs and symptoms, risk factors and Pap smear, was low at 38.7%, 35.3% and 7.6% among outpatients, staff and students, respectively. Some 39.9% of the married outpatients had adequate overall knowledge as compared to none of the single women. Educational level was found to be significantly associated with outpatient knowledge with the highest awareness levels among postgraduates and medical university graduates (61.5%). Conclusion: Specific knowledge of cervical cancer, its risk factors and cervical Pap smear is generally poor among Omani women. This lack of knowledge may be one of the contributing factors for the high incidence of cervical cancer in Oman relative to that in developed countries.
  6. Park, Sun A;Chung, Seung Hyun;Lee, Youngjin 4831
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4831 KSCI
    The study aimed to find out to what degree suicidal thoughts and associated factors affect the suicide risk of advanced cancer patients. The frequency of suicidal thoughts among patients with cancer, especially in the advanced stages, is about 3 times greater than the adult average in South Korea. We recruited 457 participants with four types of cancers (colon, breast, cervical, and lung) using stratified sampling. Data collection was carried out through one-on-one interviews by trained nurses using a structured questionnaire. Advanced cancer patients with high, vs. low, levels of anxiety and pain had a higher suicide risk. In contrast, having one's spouse as the primary care provider was associated with a low suicide risk. Overall, the three factors of anxiety, pain, and the primary caregiver being one's spouse explained 17.2% of the variance in suicide risk. In conclusion, we derived influencing factors of suicide risk using a sample of patients with various types of advanced cancer. The results provide systematic baseline data for preparing nurse-led interventions to prevent suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts among advanced cancer patients.
  7. Jayant, Kasturi;Sankaranarayanan, Rengaswamy;Thorat, Ranjit V;Muwonge, Richard;Hingmire, Sanjay J;Panse, Nandkumar S;Shastri, Surendra S;Malvi, Sylla G;Nene, Bhagwan 4837
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4837 KSCI
    Objectives: To describe the survival experience of cervix cancer patients in a screened rural population in India. Methods: Included 558 cervical cancer patients diagnosed in 2000-2013 in a cohort of 100,258 women invited for screening during 2000-2003. The primary end point was death from cervical cancer. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to estimate cumulative observed survival and Cox proportional hazards regression to assess the effect of patient characteristics on survival after diagnosis. Results: Of the 558 cases included, 143 (26%) and 114 (20%) were diagnosed in stages IA and IB respectively; 252 (45.2%) were dead, and 306 (54.8%) were alive at the last follow-up. The overall 5-year observed survival was 60.5%. The 5-year survival of stage IA patients was 95.1% and 5.3% for stage IV patients. All surgically treated stage IA patients, 94.1% of stage IB patients receiving intracavitary radiotherapy, 62% of stage IIB, 49% of stage III and 25% of stage IV patients receiving radiotherapy survived for 5 years. Conclusion: Higher 5-year survival in our study than elsewhere in India is due to the high proportion of early stage cancers detected by screening combined with adequate treatment, resulting into a favourable prognosis.
  8. Faghani, Safieh;Ghaffari, Fatemeh 4845
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4845 KSCI
    Background and Objectives: As one of the most common treatments for breast cancer, mastectomy has adverse effects on the quality of sexual life and sexual functioning in the impacted women. Various strategies have therefore been proposed to resolve their sexual problems. The present study was conducted to determine the effect of sexual rehabilitation using the PLISSIT model in post-mastectomy breast cancer survivors. Materials and Methods: The present quasi-experimental study was conducted on a population of post-mastectomy breast cancer survivors and their husbands. Sample size was calculated as 50 each for intervention and non-intervention groups. The former received sexual counseling based on the PLISSIT model consisting of four levels of intervention: permission, limited information, specific suggestion and intensive therapy, presented in four 90-minute sessions. Data were collected using the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Results: No significant differences were observed in the mean quality of sexual life scores between the intervention and control groups (P>0.05) before the intervention; however, a significant difference emerged between the groups after the intervention (P<0.01). Thus the mean score for sexual functioning in the intervention group was $26.3{\pm}3.76$ before and $30.0{\pm}4.38$ after the intervention (P<0.0001). In the control group, however, the difference between the pre- and post-intervention mean scores was not statistically significant (P=0.713). Conclusion: The present study showed that nurses can use the PLISSIT model in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy to teach coping and problem-solving skills to women with breast cancer and their husbands and to encourage their participation in group programs for expressing their feelings and attitudes about their current sex life and thus help enhance quality of sexual life and sexual functioning in this group.
  9. Zhao, Youna;Lau, Lit-Fui;Dai, Xiangrong;Li, Benjamin 4853
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4853 KSCI
    Objective: Gimatecan is a new camptothecin (CPT) analogue that inhibits tumor growth by targeting DNA topoisomerase I (TOP I) and introducing strong and persistent DNA cleavage. Anti-tumor activity has been demonstrated with a wide range of solid tumors in previous preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we investigated for the first time the effects of gimatecan on the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Anticancer efficacy of gimatecan were evaluated in a panel of HCC cell lines and corresponding mouse xenograft models. Inhibition of cell proliferation was measured by CellTiter-Glo cell viability assay. In vivo, gimatecan and control preparations were orally administered every four days, for a total of four times. Tumor volume and body weights of the mice were measured twice weekly. Results: In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation showed that gimatecan inhibited the proliferation of a large panel of HCC cell lines in a dose dependent manner, with IC50 values ranging between 12.1~1085.0 nM. In vivo evaluation in mouse xenograft models showed significant antitumor effects of gimatecan at 0.8mg/kg and 0.4mg/kg as compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study suggested that gimatecan may have the potential to be used as a chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of HCC.
  10. Zamani, Afiqah;Jusoh, Siti Asmaa Mat;Al-Jamal, Hamid Ali Nagi;Sul'ain, Mohd Dasuki;Johan, Muhammad Farid 4857
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4857 KSCI
    Background: Imatinib mesylate, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor specifically targeting the BCR/ABL fusion protein, induces hematological remission in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, the majority of CML patients treated with imatinib develop resistance with prolonged therapy. Dendrophthoe pentandra (L.) Miq. is a Malaysian mistletoe species that has been used as a traditional treatment for several ailments such as smallpox, ulcers, and cancers. Methods: We developed a resistant cell line (designated as K562R) by long-term co-culture of a BCR/ABL positive CML cell line, K562, with imatinib mesylate. We then investigated the anti-proliferative effects of D. pentandra methanol extract on parental K562 and resistant K562R cells. Trypan blue exclusion assays were performed to determine the IC50 concentration; apoptosis and cell cycle analysis were conducted by flow cytometry. Results: D. pentandra extract had greater anti-proliferative effects towards K562R ($IC50=192{\mu}g/mL$) compared to K562 ($500{\mu}g/mL$) cells. Upon treatment with D. pentandra extract at the IC50. concentration: K562 but not K562R demonstrated increase in apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Conclusion: D. pentandra methanol extract exerts potent anti-proliferative effect on BCR/ABL positive K562 cells.
  11. Rodriguez, Martha I Davila;Morales, Cesar V Ignacio;Tovar, Anel R Aragon;Jimenez, Delia Olache;Maldonado, Edmundo Castelan;Miranda, Sandra Lara;Gutierrez, Elva I Cortes 4863
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4863 KSCI
    Background: Prostatic adenocarcinoma by Prosate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent cancer and the second cause of cancer-related death among men in the Western world. Human papilloma virus (HPV) may be considered as a preventable risk factor. In this study, we assessed the frequencies of HPV infection in prostatic adenocarcinoma and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) cases in Northeast Mexico. Materials and Methods: A total of 87 paraffin-embedded blocks (from 25 and 62 patients with definite diagnoses of BPH and adenocarcinoma, respectively) were selected and subjected to INNOLiPA HPV Genotyping to detect 28 high- and low-risk HPV types. The rates of infection were compared in the two studied groups. Results: INNOLiPA HPV demonstrated great sensitivity for HPV detection on paraffin-embedded tissue. Global prevalence was 14.9% (13/87). HPV infection was positive in 19.4% (12/62) of patients with adenocarcinoma and 4.0% (1/25) of patients with BPH. HPV-11, which is considered to be low risk, was more prevalent. Interestingly, one patient with BPH and six with prostate cancer showed examples considered to be high risk (HPV-18, -51, -52, and -66). Conclusion: A higher rate of HPV infection among Mexican patients with prostatic carcinoma than among those with BPH was observed. HPV infections may thus contribute to the risk of prostate cancer. Further studies are required to elucidate any roles of HPV infection in prostate disease in Mexico and the effect of prevention and treatment of HPV infection on prostatic adenocarcinoma.
  12. Qureshi, Asim;Lakhtakia, Ritu;Bahri, Maiya AL;Haddabi, Ibrahim Al;Saparamadu, Anna;Shalaby, Asem;Riyami, Marwa Al;Rizvi, Gauhar 4867
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4867 KSCI
    Prostatic adenocarcinoma is the commonest solid malignancy seen in Omani elderly males 60-80 years of age. The Gleason grade is the most widely used grading system for prostatic carcinoma and is recommended by the World Health Organization. A peer review was carried out at the Pathology Department of Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), Oman, to assess the quality of reporting at the center. The aim of this study was to determine inter-observer variation among 7 pathologists working at a tertiary care center in Oman. A total of 47 consecutive prostatic biopsies were interdependently reviewed by seven pathologists and the results obtained were compared with each other and the original diagnosis. This peer review indicated a fair inter-observer agreement (0.482) among 7 pathologists in the department, with fair to moderate agreement when the results were compared to the reported diagnosis, comparable to the published literature. Dual and sub-specialty reporting are being instituted to improve the performance in this vital aspect of pathology.
  13. Geetha, K;Rajan, C 4869
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4869 KSCI
    Colonoscopy is currently the best technique available for the detection of colon cancer or colorectal polyps or other precursor lesions. Computer aided detection (CAD) is based on very complex pattern recognition. Local binary patterns (LBPs) are strong illumination invariant texture primitives. Histograms of binary patterns computed across regions are used to describe textures. Every pixel is contrasted relative to gray levels of neighbourhood pixels. In this study, colorectal polyp detection was performed with colonoscopy video frames, with classification via J48 and Fuzzy. Features such as color, discrete cosine transform (DCT) and LBP were used in confirming the superiority of the proposed method in colorectal polyp detection. The performance was better than with other current methods.
  14. Li, Lun;Yuan, Liqin;Chen, Xianyu;Wang, Quan;Tian, Jinhui;Yang, Kehu;Zhou, Enxiang 4875
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4875 KSCI
    Background and objective: Breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) is a disabling complication with long term impact on quality on life after breast cancer treatment. Its management remains a major challenge for patients and health care professionals; the goal of this overview was to summarize effects of different treatment strategies for patients with BCRL. Methods: A thorough search was undertaken to allow a systematic review or meta-analysis of treatments for BCRL. Two investigators independently selected studies and abstracted the data. Results: Combined physical therapy (CPT) with different combinations of surgery, oral pharmaceuticals, low-level laser therapy, weight reduction, mesenchymal stem cell therapy, kinesio tex taping, and acupuncture might be effective in reducing lymphoedema, but exercise demonstrated no obvious benefit. The results of direct comparisons showed CPT might be more effective than standard physiotherapy (ST). Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) may not offer additional benefits to ST for swelling reduction, but could facilitate compression bandaging. MLD seemed to have similar effects with self-administered simple lymphatic drainage (SLD) or using an intermittent pneumatic compression pump (IPC). IPC might also not be associated with additional effectiveness for CPT. Efficacy of stem cell therapy vs. compression sleeve or CPT, as well as the effects of daflon and coumarin could not be established. Conclusion: Although many treatments for BCRL might reduce lymphoedema volume, their effects were not well established. The quality of many of the original studies in the included reviews was not optimal, so that in future randomized control trials are a high priority.
  15. Lu, Xiaoxiao;Holt, Cheryl L;Chen, Julia C;Le, Daisy;Chen, Jingjing;Kim, Gil-yong;Li, Jun;Lee, Sunmin 4885
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4885 KSCI
    Background: Chinese and Korean Americans have lower colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates than other racial/ ethnic groups, which may be explained by a low level of CRC knowledge and a high level of misconceptions. This study explores the role of knowledge in CRC screening among these groups. Methods: Chinese (N=59) and Korean (N=61) Americans older than 50 were recruited from the Washington D.C. Metropolitan area. They completed a detailed survey and participated in focus groups to discuss their knowledge on CRC and CRC screening. Seventeen physicians, community leaders, and patient navigators participated in key informant interviews. Using a mixed methods approach, data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Results: Participants lacked knowledge about CRC and CRC screening. More than half did not know that screening begins at age 50 and there are several types of tests available. More than 30% thought CRC screening was not necessary if there were no symptoms or there was nothing they could do to prevent CRC. Focus group findings suggested understanding about CRC was limited by an inadequate source of linguistically and culturally relevant health information. For example, many participants considered CRC a western condition mainly caused by unhealthy diet. This led to under-estimations about their susceptibility to CRC. Knowledge was positively associated with self-reported screening. Participants who had higher knowledge scores were more likely to report ever having had a colonoscopy and confidence in ability to have CRC screening. Conclusions: Mixed-methods analysis provides multi-faceted perspectives on CRC knowledge and its influence on screening. Study findings can help inform interventions to increase CRC screening among Chinese and Korean Americans.
  16. Li, Changyou;Wu, Xiao;Sun, Rongli;Zhao, Peng;Liu, Fengjuan;Zhang, Chunling 4893
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4893 KSCI
    Objective: To investigate the impact of a Croton tiglium extract on cellular proliferation and apoptosis in a non-small cell lung cancer cell line (A549) in vitro. Methods: A Croton tiglium seed methanol extract was prepare and assessed for effects on A549 cells regarding cellular proliferation, apoptotic rates, and expression of apoptosis related genes and proteins using real-time PCR and immunofluorescence. Results: The tested Croton tiglium extract inhibited A549 cell proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner, with significant elevation of apoptotic indexes at various concentrations after 24 h. In addition, rates in both early and late stages were higher in treated than untreated groups, the $100{\mu}g/ml$ dose causing the highest levels of apoptosis. RT-PCR showed that A549 cells treated with $100{\mu}g/ml$ Croton tiglium extract for 24 h has markedly higher Bax mRNA expression levels and obviously lower Bcl-2 expression levels than controls, equivalent results being observed for proteins by immunofluorescence. However, the mRNA expression levels of Fas and caspase-8 were not significantly altered. Conclusion: A Croton tiglium extract can inhibit proliferation of A549 cells and promote apoptosis though Bax/Bcl-2 pathways.
  17. Dineshkumar, Thayalan;Ashwini, Balakuntla Krishnamurthy;Rameshkumar, Annasamy;Rajashree, Padmanaban;Ramya, Ramadas;Rajkumar, Krishnan 4899
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4899 KSCI
    Aim: To assess the diagnostic utility of serum and salivary interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels in the differential diagnosis of potentially malignant lesions and conditions (PMLs/PMCs) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in a high oral cancer prevalence region. Methods: After appropriate ethical clearance and informed consent, salivary and blood samples were collected from 100 participants in each group (OSCC, PMLs, and healthy controls). Serum and salivary IL-6 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and data were subjected to appropriate statistical analysis. Results: Significant differences in IL-6 concentration were noted between OSCC and PML/C patients in both serum and saliva, with salivary levels being 2 to 3 fold higher than serum values in all the groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated 96% specificity and 99% sensitivity for salivary IL-6 in differentiating PML from OSCC. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, is elevated in the saliva of patients with OSSC compared to PMD and controls, and thus may prove to have diagnostic and/or prognostic significance.
  18. Afshar, Reza Malekpour;Mollaei, Hamid Reza;Zandi, Bahare;Iranpour, Maryam 4907
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4907 KSCI
    Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive of the gliomas, a collection of tumors arising from glia in the central nervous system. Possible associations between the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and the JC virus with GBM are now attracting interest. Our present aim was to investigate the prevalence of the two viruses in Iranian patients from Kerman's cities in the south of Iran. In addition, the expression rates of pp65, large T antigen and p53 proteins were assessed and their relation with GBM evaluated using reverse transcription real time PCR (rReal Time PCR). A total of 199 patients with GBM cancer were enrolled, with $mean{\pm}SD$ ages of $50.0{\pm}19.5$ and $50.7{\pm}19.6$ years for males and females, respectively. The P53 rate was dramatically low suggesting an aetiological role,. Large T antigen expression was found in JC positive samples, while the PP65 antigen was observed in patients positive for CMV and JC. HCMV products and JC virus with oncogenic potential may induce the development of various tumors including glioblastomas. The JC virus produces an early gene product, T-antigen, which has the ability to associate with and functionally inactivate well-studied tumor suppressor proteins including p53 and pRB.
  19. Rezaianzadeh, Abbas;Sepandi, Mojtaba;Rahimikazerooni, Salar 4913
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4913 KSCI
    Objective: As a source of information, medical data can feature hidden relationships. However, the high volume of datasets and complexity of decision-making in medicine introduce difficulties for analysis and interpretation and processing steps may be needed before the data can be used by clinicians in their work. This study focused on the use of Bayesian models with different numbers of nodes to aid clinicians in breast cancer risk estimation. Methods: Bayesian networks (BNs) with a retrospectively collected dataset including mammographic details, risk factor exposure, and clinical findings was assessed for prediction of the probability of breast cancer in individual patients. Area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were used to evaluate discriminative performance. Result: A network incorporating selected features performed better (AUC = 0.94) than that incorporating all the features (AUC = 0.93). The results revealed no significant difference among 3 models regarding performance indices at the 5% significance level. Conclusion: BNs could effectively discriminate malignant from benign abnormalities and accurately predict the risk of breast cancer in individuals. Moreover, the overall performance of the 9-node BN was better, and due to the lower number of nodes it might be more readily be applied in clinical settings.
  20. Kaewbubpa, Walennee;Areepium, Nutthada;Sriuranpong, Virote 4917
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4917 KSCI
    For advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases, a platinum-based regimen is the first-line chemotherapy treatment. The excision repair cross-complementing group 1 (ERCC1) plays an important role in DNA repair and has been related to resistance to platinum chemotherapy. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the ERCC1 (C118T) polymorphism on treatment response in 26 Thai advanced NSCLC patients receiving first line platinum-based chemotherapy during January to July 2015 at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital (KCMH). DNA was extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes and the single nucleotide polymorphism of ERCC1 was genotyped using a real-time PCR method with the TaqMan assay. The distribution of C/C, C/T and T/T genotypes was 57.7 %, 34.6 % and 7.7 %, respectively. The response rate to platinum-based chemotherapy in the wild type (C/C) of ERCC1 (C118T) was better than with the variant types (C/T and T/T) but the difference was not statistically significant (29.7% vs 9.1%, P=0.274). The results showed that a genetic polymorphism in ERCC1 might influence patient response to platinum-based chemotherapy. Further multicenter studies are now required to confirm the results of our study.
  21. Asgarlou, Zoleykha;Tehrani, Sepideh;Asghari, Elnaz;Arzanlou, Mohammad;Naghavi-Behzad, Mohammad;Piri, Reza;Sheyklo, Sepideh Gareh;Moosavi, Ahmad 4921
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4921 KSCI
    Background: Cervical cancer is a major preventable cancers. The, current study aimed to assess relevant knowledge and attitude of female students and hospital staff in Iran. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Medical and Nursing faculties and hospitals of East-Azerbaijan Province of Iran. Participants were medical and paramedical female students and female staff in hospitals selected by stratified random sampling techniques. Tools for data collection were questionnaires for which validity and reliability had been verified (${\alpha}=0.8$). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data with SPSS.16. Result: Response rates were 71 % (426 from 600) and 63.5% (254 from 400) for students and staff, respectively. Some 29.1% admitted that they had no information about cervical cancer, only 70 (10.3%) thinking their knowledge as high, 360 (52.9%) as intermediate, and 237 (34.9%) as low. While 93% of participants considered cervical cancer as a severe health problem, the only statistically significant relationships with knowledge were for education (p<.001) and occupation (p<.001) variables. Conclusion: Given the importance of the roles of medical students and personnel as information sources and leaders in health and preventive behavior, increasing and improving their scientific understanding seems vital. Comprehensive and appropriate education of all people and especially students and personnel of medical sciences and improving attitudes towards cervical cancer and its monitoring are to be recommended.
  22. Abd-Rabou, Ahmed A;Zoheir, Khairy M A;Kishta, Mohamed S;Shalby, Aziza B;Ezzo, Mohamed I 4929
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4929 KSCI
    Cancer, a worldwide epidemic disease with diverse origins, involves abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade other parts of the body. Globally, it is the main cause of mortality and morbidity. To overcome the drawbacks of the commercially available chemotherapies, natural products-loaded nano-composites are recommended to improve cancer targetability and decrease the harmful impact on normal cells. This study aimed at exploring the anti-cancer impacts of Moringa oleifera seed oil in its free- (MO) and nano-formulations (MOn) through studying whether it mechanistically promotes mitochondrial apoptosis-mediating cell death. Mitochondrial-based cytotoxicity and flow cytometric-based apoptosis analyses were performed on cancer HepG2, MCF7, HCT 116, and Caco-2 cell lines against normal kidney BHK-21 cell line. The present study resulted that MOn triggered colorectal cancer Caco-2 and HCT 116 cytotoxicity via mitochondrial dysfunction more powerful than its free counterpart (MO). On the other side, MOn and MO remarkably induces HCT 116 mitochondrial apoptosis, while sparing normal BHK-21 cells with minimal cytotoxic effect. The present results concluded that nano-micelle of Moringa oleifera seed oil (MOn) can provide a novel therapeutic approach for colorectal and breast cancers via mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, while sparing normal and even liver cancer cells a bit healthy or with minimal harmful effect. Intriguingly, MOn induced breast cancer not hepatocellular carcinoma cell death.
  23. Simson, David K;Mitra, Swarupa;Ahlawat, Parveen;Sharma, Manoj Kumar;Yadav, Girigesh;Mishra, Manindra Bhushan 4935
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4935 KSCI
    Objective: To compare dosimetric parameters of 3 dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3 DCRT) and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in terms of target coverage and doses to organs at risk (OAR) in the management of rectal carcinoma. Methods: In this prospective study, conducted between August 2014 and March 2016, all patients underwent CT simulation along with a bladder protocol and target contouring according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) guidelines. Two plans were made for each patient (3 DCRT and IMRT) for comparison of target coverage and OAR. Result: A total of 43 patients were recruited into this study. While there were no significant differences in mean Planning Target Volume (PTV) D95% and mean PTV D98% between 3 DCRT and IMRT, mean PTV D2% and mean PTV D50% were significantly higher in 3 DCRT plans. Compared to IMRT, 3 DCRT resulted in significantly higher volumes of hot spots, lower volumes of cold spots, and higher doses to the entire OAR. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that IMRT achieves superior normal tissue avoidance (bladder and bowel) compared to 3 DCRT, with comparable target dose coverage.
  24. Hoang, Van Dong;Lee, Andy H;Pham, Ngoc Minh;Xu, Dan;Binns, Colin W 4939
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4939 KSCI
    Background: An upward trend has been noted for the incidence of prostate cancer (PCa) in Vietnam, but information is limited on modifiable factors associated with this form of cancer. This case-control study was conducted to ascertain any relationship between habitual tea consumption and PCa risk. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and fifty-three incident patients with histologically confirmed PCa and 419 (340 community-based and 79 hospital-based) controls, matched by age, were recruited in Ho Chi Minh City during 2013-2015. Information on frequency, quantity and duration of tea consumption, together with demographics, habitual diet and lifestyle characteristics, was obtained by direct interviews using a validated questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations between tea consumption variables and PCa risk. Results: The control subjects reported higher tea consumption levels in terms of cumulative exposure, frequency and quantity of tea drank than the PCa patients. After accounting for confounding factors, increasing tea consumption was found to be associated with reduced risk of PCa. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 0.52 (95% CI 0.35-0.79) and 0.30 (95% CI 0.18-0.48) for participants drinking 100-500 ml/day and > 500 ml/day, respectively, relative to those drinking < 100 ml/day. Significant inverse dose-response relationships were also observed for years of drinking and number of cups consumed daily (P <0.01). Conclusion: Habitual tea consumption is associated with a reduced risk of PCa in Vietnamese men.
  25. Azhary, Nevin M Al;Kamel, Mahmoud M;Ismail, Yahia M;Mahmoud, Amal A;Radwan, Enas M 4945
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4945 KSCI
    Background: Breast cancer is the commonest cancer in Egyptian females. Nrf2 is involved in oxidative stress while P73 functions in response to DNA damage. This study aimed to assess the role of Nrf2 promoter and P73 G4C14 to A4T14 SNPs in breast cancer in Egypt. Patients: Eighty-five female patients with breast tumours (41 malignant, 44 benign) were included. Nrf2 (rs6721961) and p73 (G4A) SNPs were determined by PCR- CTPP assay. Results: Genotype frequencies of the Nrf2 promoter SNP were 34.2% and 37.9% for AA in benign and malignant groups respectively, and 43.9% and 40.5% for CC and, 21.9 % and 21.6% for CA. Genotype frequencies for the P73 G4A SNP were 52.9% and 44.7% for GA in benign and malignant groups respectively, and 47.1% and 55.3% for GG. Discussion: Nrf2 genotypes in pre - and post-menopausal patients, showed significantly different distributions in the 2 patient groups, the AA genotype being significantly more common in pre-menopausal patients. The P73 G4A SNP showed no relation to age of disease onset. Conclusion: The Nrf2 (rs6721961) AA genotype might be related to early breast cancer onset. In contrast the P73 G4A polymorphism showed no relation to either disease risk or age at presentation.
  26. Chan, Huan Keat;Lim, Yik Ming 4951
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4951 KSCI
    Background: Apart from reducing occupational exposure to cytotoxic hazards, the PhaSeal(R) closed-system transfer device (CSTD) can extend the beyond-use dates (BUDs) of unfinished vials of antineoplastic drugs for up to 168 hours (seven days). In this study, the total material cost incurred by its use in a Malaysian government-funded hospital was calculated. Methods: A list of vial stability following initial needle punctures of 29 commonly-used antineoplastic drugs was compiled. The amount of the materials used, including drugs, infusion bottles, the PhaSeal(R) CSTD and other consumables, was recorded on a daily basis for three months in 2015. The total cost was calculated based on the actual acquisition costs, and was compared with that of a hypothetical scenario, whereby conventional syringe-needle sets were used for the same amounts of preparations. Results: The use of the PhaSeal(R) CSTD incurred a cost of MYR 383,634.52 (USD 92,072.28) in three months, representing an average of MYR 170.5 (USD 40.92) per preparation or an estimated annual cost of MYR 1,534,538.08 (USD 368,289.14). Compared with conventional syringe-needle approach, it is estimated to lead to an additional spending of MYR 148,627.68 (USD 35,670.64) yearly. Conclusion: Although there was a reduction of drug wastage achieved by extending BUDs of unfinished vials using the PhaSeal(R) CSTD, cost saving was not observed, likely attributable to the wide use of lower-priced generic drugs in Malaysia. Future studies should further evaluate the possibility of cost saving, especially in health settings where branded and high-cost antineoplastic drugs are more commonly used.
  27. Taximaimaiti, Reyisha;Abuliken, Xiekelai;Maihemuti, Muzhapaer;Abudujilile, Dilinuer;Abudulimu, Haimiti 4959
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4959 KSCI
    Objective:Cervical cancer is one of the major causes of mortality of Uyghur women in Xinjiang, China. Although increased expression of orexin receptor (OxR), known to be strongly expressed in human placenta, has a proven relation to some cancers, there have been few studies of cervical cancer. Thus, we explored this question by evaluating the expression of orexin receptor as a biomarker for screening early stage of cervical cancer in Uyghur women with highest occurrence rate of cervical cancer in China. Study Design: We used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemical staining to determine the expression of both Ox1R and Ox2R in cervical cancer and cervicitis biopsies collected from Uyghur women infected with human papilloma virus (HPV)16. The expression rate was compared between cervical cancers of low, intermediate and high differentiation and cervicitis. Results:Although there was no significant difference in the expression rate of Ox1R between groups, Ox2R was significantly overexpressed in cervical cancer patients when compared to the cervicitis group. Ox1R was negative in normal human placenta while Ox2R was positive. Conclusions: While expression of Ox1R had no correlation with invasion or metastatic potential, Ox2R demonstrated elevation in cervical cancer with heterogeneity in groups with different metastatic potential, in the human placenta as well, implying that it might serve as an indicator of invasive capacity along with other indices.
  28. Shabanah, Othman A AL;Alotaibi, Moureq R;Rejaie, Salim S Al;Alhoshani, Ali R;Almutairi, Mashal M;Alshammari, Musaad A;Hafez, Mohamed M 4965
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4965 KSCI
    Objective: Breast cancer is global female health problem worldwide. Most of the currently used agents for breast cancer treatment have toxic side-effects. Ginseng root, an oriental medicine, has many health benefits and may exhibit direct anti-cancer properties. This study was performed to assess the effects of ginseng on breast cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxicity of ginseng extract was measured by MTT assay after exposure of MDA-MB-231, MCF-10A and MCF-7 breast cancer cells to concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 mg/well. Expression levels of p21WAF, p16INK4A, Bcl-2, Bax and P53 genes were analyzed by quantitative real time PCR. Results: The treatment resulted in inhibition of cell proliferation in a dose-and time-dependent manner. p53, p21WAF1and p16INK4A expression levels were up-regulated in ginseng treated MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells compared to untreated controls and in MCF-10A cells. The expression levels of Bcl2 in the MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were down-regulated. In contrast, that of Bax was significantly up-regulated. Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that ginseng may inhibit breast cancer cell growth by activation of the apoptotic pathway.
  29. Silva, William P P;Stramandinoli-Zanicotti, Roberta T;Schussel, Juliana L;Ramos, Gyl H A;Ioshi, Sergio O;Sassi, Laurindo M 4973
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4973 KSCI
    Objective: This article concerns evaluation of the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of FNAB for pre-surgical diagnosis of benign and malignant lesions of major and minor salivary glands of patients treated in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery of Erasto Gartner Hospital. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed medical records from January 2006 to December 2011 from patients with salivary gland lesions who underwent preoperative FNAB and, after surgical excision of the lesion, histopathological examination. Results: The study had a cohort of 130 cases, but 34 cases (26.2%) were considered unsatisfactory regarding cytology analyses. Based on the data, sensitivity was 66.7% (6/9), specificity was 81.6% (71/87), accuracy was 80.2% (77/96), the positive predictive value was 66,7% (6/9) and the negative predictive value was 81.6% (71/87). Conclusion: Despite the high rate of inadequate samples obtained in the FNAB in this study the technique offers high specificity, accuracy and acceptable sensitivity.
  30. Nasr, Mohamed Y;Deeb, Ammar S Ali;Badra, Gamal;Sayed, Ibrahim H El 4977
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4977 KSCI
    Introduction: Elevated serum interleukin (IL) 6 has been reported in patients infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), but it remains debatable whether this influences the production of autoantibodies and the biochemical profile of HCV disease. Therefore, this current study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between IL-6 and circulating autoantibody levels in HCV positive patients. Methods: Levels of IL-6 in serum samples from 102 patients with HCV and 103 normal controls were determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Autoantibodies were detected by immunofluorescence. Results: Levels of IL-6 were significantly higher (p=0.028) in patients infected with (HCV) compared with normal group. Autoantibodies were noted in in 43.1% of the patients; of these, 23.5% featured anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA+), 16.7% anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA+), 7.8% anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA+), 17.6% anti-parietal cell antibodies (APCA+), 7.8% anti canalicular antibodies, and 2.9% anti reticulin antibodies (ARA+). No patients were found to be positive for anti-brush border antibodies (ABBA) or anti-ribosomal antibodies. (ARiA). No links with IL-6 levels were apparent. Conclusions: IL-6 levels are increased in patients infected with HCV disease and could influence the production of autoantibodies. However, this study did not provide evidence of a specific relationship between IL6 and circulating autoantibodies in such cases.
  31. Sukkong, Kanchanok;Sananpanichkul, Panya;Teerakidpisan, Prasong;Bhamarapravatana, Kornkarn;Suwannarurk, Komsun 4981
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4981 KSCI
    Background: Adnexal torsion results in ischemia of structures distal to twisted pedicle and acute onset of pain is responsible for about 3% of all gynecologic emergencies. Ovarian torsion classically occurs in a pathological enlarged ovary, as with cancer, but diagnosis remains a challenge. Objective: Our purpose was to evaluate clinical risk factors predictive of torsion with gangrenous adnexa. Material and methods: A retrospective descriptive study and chart review of surgically proven ovarian torsion/adnexal torsion cases at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Prapokklao Hospital, Chanthaburi, Thailand between January 2011 and December 2015 was conducted. Result: Seventy-eight cases were identified. Mean age at presentation was 35.5 years. The average maximum diameter of the ovarian tumors was 10.8 cm. The percentage of gangrenous ovarian cysts in this study was 46.2 (36/78). The precision to determine the pathological site by patient, physician and ultrasonography was 8.5, 24.2 and 83.3 percent, respectively with statistically significant variation. Conclusion: Ovarian/adnexal torsion remains a challenge condition especially in young nulliparous women. Sophisticated investigation does not guarantee ovary preservation. Combining clinical acumen, appropriate tests and detailed consideration may be the best practice at the present time.
  32. Hashemi, Mohammad;Bahari, Gholamreza;Naderi, Majid;Bojd, Simin Sadeghi;Taheri, Mohsen 4985
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4985 KSCI
    Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a novel class of non-protein coding RNAs that are involved in a wide variety of biological processes. There are limited data regarding the impact of lnc-LAMC2-1:1 rs2147578 as well as CASC8 rs10505477 T>C polymorphisms on cancer development. Here we examined for the first time whether rs2147578 and rs10505477 polymorphisms are associated with childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in a total of 110 cases and 120 healthy controls. Genotyping was achieved by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The rs2147578 variant increased the risk of ALL in codominant (OR=4.33, 95%CI=2.00-9.37, p<0.0001, CG vs CC, and OR=5.81, 95%CI=2.30-14.69, p=0.0002, GG vs CC), dominant (OR=4.63, 95%CI=2.18-9.86, p<0.0001, CG+GG vs CC), overdominant (OR=1.74, 95%CI=1.02-2.97, p=0.0444, CG vs CC+GG) and allele (OR=1.91, 95%CI=1.32-2.77, p=0.0008, G vs C) inheritance models tested. No significant association was found between the CASC8 rs10505477 T>C variant and risk of childhood ALL. In conclusion, the present study revealed that the lnc-LAMC2-1:1 rs2147578 polymorphism may be a risk factor for developing childhood ALL. Further studies with larger sample sizes with different ethnicities are now required to confirm our findings.
  33. Ahmed, Hanaa H;Aglan, Hadeer A;Zaazaa, Asmaa M;Shalby, Aziza B;Toumy, Sayed A El 4991
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4991 KSCI
    Objective: This research was conducted to explore mechanisms behind the potency of quercetin in inhibiting colon cancer induced in an experimental model. Materials and Methods: Forty adult male rats of Wistar strain were distributed into 4 groups; a negative control group, a colon cancer bearing group, a quercetin-treated group and a 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-treated group. Serum TAG72 and GAL3 levels were quantified by ELISA. Colonic Wnt5a and Axin-1 gene expression was estimated by PCR. In addition, colonic tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical examination of Bax expression and histological investigation of histopathological alterations. Results: Quercetin elicited significant reduction in serum TAG72 and GAL3 levels, in addition to significant suppression of colonic Wnt5a gene expression and amplification of colonic Axin-1 gene expression. Also, it caused moderate positive reaction for Bax in mucosal epithelium. Conclusion: The present research provides experimental evidence about the activity of quercetin in the colon cancer of rats. Inhibitory effects on cancer development might be ascribable to regulatory action on Wnt signaling and induction of apoptosis.
  34. Ugwumba, Fred O;Ekwueme, Osa Eloka C;Okoh, Agharighom D 4999
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.4999 KSCI
    The testicular cancer (TCa) incidence is increasing in many countries, with age-standardized incidence rates up to 7.8/100,000 men in the Western world, although reductions in mortality and increasingly high cure rates are being witnessed at the same time. In Africa, where rates are lower, presentation is often late and morbidity and mortality high. Given this scenario, awareness of testicular cancer and practice of testicular self-examination among future first response doctors is very important. This study was conducted to determine knowledge and attitude to testicular cancer, and practice of testicular self-examination (TSE) among final (6th) year medical students. In addition, the effect of an intervention in the form of a single PowerPoint(R) lecture, lasting 40 minutes with image content on testicular cancer and testicular self examination was assessed. Pre and post intervention administration of a self-administered structured pre tested questionnaire was performed on 151 medical students, 101 of whom returned answers (response rate of 66.8%). In the TC domain, there was a high level of awareness of testicular cancer, but poor knowledge of the age group most affected, with significant improvement post intervention (p<0.001). Notable also was the poor awareness of the potential curability of TC, this also being improved following the intervention (p<0.001). A poor level of awareness and practice of testicular self-examination pre-intervention was found considering the nature of the study group..Respondents had surprisingly weak/poor responses to the question "How important to men's health is regular testicular self-examination?" Answers to the questions "Do you think it is worthwhile to examine your testis regularly?" and "Would you be interested in more information on testicular cancer and testicular self-examination?" were also suboptimal, but improved post intervention p<0.001, p<0.001 and p=0.037. Age, gender and marital status were without specific influence. In conclusion, this study showed poor levels of knowledge regarding epidemiology of TCa and its potential curability when detected early. There was also a poor awareness of, practice of, and poor attitudes to TSE. The significant improvement in these parameters post intervention indicates value in educational intervention. We recommend inclusion of TCa coverage and TSE teaching in the secondary school curriculum (targeting adolescents). Greater emphasis should also be given to testicular cancer in the curricula of medical schools and other training institutions for health care personnel.
  35. Reddy, Parthasarathi;Anjum, Shakeel;Monica, M;Rao, K Yadav;Akula, Sheetal;Pravallika, T Sai 5005
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5005 KSCI
    Introduction: Gutkha contains harmful and carcinogenic chemicals and oral cancer caused by tobacco usage has been reported as a major preventable cause of death worldwide by the World Health Organization. The Telangana state government implemented a ban on gutkha usage starting in 2013 but how effective this ban has been remains unclear. Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the actual impact of the gutkha ban on users and vendors. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among gutkha users and tobacco vendors in Ranga Reddy district, Telangana. Based on a pilot study the sample size was determined as 368 and 384 for users and vendors respectively. Two separate questionnaires were administered to these groups. The parameters studied mainly included knowledge regarding the ban, and its impact. Results: About 49.1% of the users were aware of the ban on gutkha. Newspapers were the main source of information regarding the ban as reported by 45.3% of users. After the ban, 29.8% of gutkha users switched to other tobacco products. Awareness of health hazards and non-availability of gutkha was the most important reason stated for quitting or reducing consumption. Conclusion: The perspective of ban when visualized from the users point of view depicted a negative impact while the vendors portrayed a positive impact. Considering the addictive potential of the ingredients of gutkha, recording the effects of the ban on regular consumers and determining whether they can still obtain the products by illicit trade, would be noteworthy for implementation of strict rules.
  36. Thongsak, Natthapat;Chitapanarux, Imjai;Suprasert, Prapaporn;Prasitwattanaseree, Sukon;Bunyatisai, Walaithip;Sripan, Patumrat;Traisathit, Patrinee 5011
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5011 KSCI
    Background: Cervical cancer is a major public health problem worldwide. There have been several studies indicating that risk is associated with geographic location and that the incidence of cervical cancer has changed over time. In Thailand, incidence rates have also been found to be different in each region. Methods: Participants were women living or having lived in upper Northern Thailand and subjected to cervical screening at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital between January 2010 and December 2014. Generalized additive models with Loess smooth curve fitting were applied to estimate the risk of cervical cancer. For the spatial analysis, Google Maps were employed to find the geographical locations of the participants' addresses. The Quantum Geographic Information System was used to make a map of cervical cancer risk. Two univariate smooths: x equal to the residency duration was used in the temporal analysis of residency duration, and x equal to the calendar year that participants moved to upper Northern Thailand or birth year for participants already living there, were used in the temporal analysis of the earliest year. The spatial-temporal analysis was conducted in the same way as the spatial analysis except that the data were split into overlapping calendar years. Results: In the spatial analysis, the risk of cervical cancer was shown to be highest in the Eastern sector of upper Northern Thailand (p-value <0.001). In the temporal analysis of residency duration, the risk was shown to be steadily increasing (p-value =0.008), and in the temporal analysis of the earliest year, the risk was observed to be steadily decreasing (p-value=0.016). In the spatial-temporal analysis, the risk was stably higher in Chiang Rai and Nan provinces compared to Chiang Mai province. According to the display movement over time, the odds of developing cervical cancer declined in all provinces. Conclusions: The risk of cervical cancer has decreased over time but, in some areas, there is a higher risk than in the major province of Chiang Mai. Therefore, we should promote cervical cancer screening coverage in all areas, especially where access is difficult and/or to women of lower socioeconomic status.
  37. Rosales, Azucena Moreno;Molina, Miguel Corres;Moo, Jacqueline Gongora;Morelos, Pablo Romero;Bandala, Cindy 5019
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5019 KSCI
    Background: In Mexico, breast cancer (BCa) is in first place regarding cancer mortality and has been established as a priority health issue. The incidence of metastasis from BCa is very high and presents as the principal mortality factor among women younger than 40 years of age. OBJECTIVE. To determine any associations between clinicopathological characteristics and metastasis in Mexican women under 40 years of age. Methods: During the 2010-2015 period, a total of 180 female BCa cases seen at the Navy General High Specialty Hospital, SEMAR, in Mexico City; we collected information on 20 patients with BCa younger than 40 years of age. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Students t, Fisher, Chi square, and Mantel-Haenszel tests. Results: The prevalence of women with BCa younger than the age of 40 years during the 2010-2015 period was 13.3%. We found a high frequency of obesity in of these cases (>75%); 100% of obese patients with a history of smoking presented with metastasis (p <0.05). In addition, the hormone phenotype was important; HER2-positive cases were 12 times more likely tto exhibit metastasis (p <0.05), while expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors appeared to be protective. Diabetes mellitus in combination with smoking was also a risk factor for development of metastasis (p <0.05). Conclusion: In this study, we obtained essential data regarding risk of metastasis in young breast cancer cases which could be useful for predicting disease evolution and treatment response.
  38. Tanaka, Rina;Matsuzaka, Masashi;Nakaji, Shigeyuki;Sasaki, Yoshihiro 5025
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5025 KSCI
    The objective of this study was to clarify how distance from place of residence to the nearest specialist cancer hospital affects the survival of lung cancer patients and the treatment received. For all patients diagnosed with lung cancer in the Aomori cancer registry database for the period from 2009 to 2011 (n=3,986). The distance to the treating hospital was measured as the straight line from a person's place of residence, and compared with findings from the Ederer II method for calculating relative survival. Information on treatments given was obtained by data extraction. We defined a hospital having respiratory medicine as specialist, while all private hospitals and clinics were included in the general category. Patients attending specialist hospitals numbered 2,548 (67.0%), and those treated at general institutions were 1,255 (33.0%). The patients who had the lowest relative survival with localized lesions lived <20 km from general hospitals and clinics. With more advanced stages, relative survival of those living <20 km from a specialist hospital was the lowest. Although the survival rate was not affected by the distance between place of residence and hospital, even when patients are diagnosed at a localized stage at a general hospital or clinic within 20 km from their home, they did survive longer in comparison with patients diagnosed at a specialist hospital.
  39. Mohammadian, Jamal;Sabzichi, Mehdi;Molavi, Ommoleila;Shanehbandi, Dariush;Samadi, Nasser 5031
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5031 KSCI
    Docetaxel, recognized as a stabilizing microtubule agent, is frequently administrated as a first line treatment for prostate cancers. Due to high side effects of monotherapy, however, combinations with novel adjuvants have emerged as an alternative strategy in cancer therapy protocols. Here, we investigated the combined effects of stattic and docetaxel on the DU145 prostate cancer cell line. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assay. To understand molecular mechanisms of stattic action, apoptotic related genes including Bcl-2, Mcl-1, Survivin and Bax were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. Alteration in the expression of pro-apoptotic Bax and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 genes and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio were investigated via the $2^{{\Delta}{\Delta}CT}$ method. The $IC_{50}$ values for docetaxel and stattic were $3.7{\pm}0.9nM$ and $4.6{\pm}0.8{\mu}M$, respectively. Evaluation of key gene expression levels revealed a noticeable decrease in antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 along with an increase in pro-apoptotic Bax mRNA levels (p<0.05). Our results suggest that combination of a STAT3 inhibitor with doctaxel can be considered as a potent strategy for induction of apoptosis via increasing Bax mRNA expression.
  40. Naseer, Rabia;Naz, Iram;Mahmood, Muhammad Khurram 5037
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5037 KSCI
    Objectives: To determine the frequency of delayed diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma in our setup; highlighting factors responsible for any delay and their possible relevance to demographic and diagnostic features. Methods: This cross sectional study of six months duration was conducted in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of the Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. A total of 246 patients, both male and female, having a biopsy proven definitive diagnosis of OSCC were included using a consecutive sampling technique. Delay in diagnosis was assessed from the stated period of time from when the patient first noticed symptoms of disease until a definitive diagnosis was made. We concluded delayed diagnosis if this was more than 40 days. Results: The ages of patients ranged from 27 to 60 years with a mean of $46.7{\pm}10.2$ years and a marked male predominance (3.7:1). Delayed diagnosis was observed in 91.5% of cases. However, statistically no significant differences were found with age, gender, marital, education status, household income and time of biopsy. Conclusion: Our primary finding of delayed diagnosis with no prior contact with any health care professional clearly reflects a need of taking urgent measures to avoid serious impacts on morbidity and mortality associated with OSCC.
  41. Aktan, Meryem;Kanyilmaz, Gul;Koc, Mehmet;Aras, Serhat 5041
    https://doi.org/10.22034/APJCP.2016.17.11.5041 KSCI
    Background: Patients with recurrent or progressive lung cancer experience a significant symptom burden, negatively affecting quality of life and reducing life expectancy. Thoracic re-irradiation can be used for palliative treatment to relieve symptoms or as a curative treatment. Methods: Using patient charts, we identified and reviewed 28 cases that had received palliative thoracic re-irradiation for recurrent lung cancer. Results: Before re-irradiation, 32% of patients had stage III non-small cell lung cancer and six had small cell lung cancer. The median interval between treatments was 18.7 months. Median follow-up was 31.2 months from the initial radiotherapy and 5 months after re-irradiation. A better performance status before re-irradiation (<80 vs >80, p=0.09) and a lower overlap 90% isodose (<70 vs >70, p=0.09) showed trends toward improved survival. Grade 1-2 toxicity from re-irradiation was recorded in 12/28 patients, and no grade 3 or 4 acute toxicity was encountered. Conclusion: The role of palliative treatment in survival is not clear but it can provide symptomatic relief in patients, with no high grade toxicity. Further studies with greater patient numbers and longer follow-up times should facilitate determination of the role of this treatment in toxicity and effects on survival.