Buccal microRNA dysregulation in lung field carcinogenesis: gender-specific implications.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be reliable early biomarkers in a variety of cancers including that of lung. We ascertained whether the biomarker potential of miRNAs could be validated in microscopically normal and easily accessible buccal epithelial brushings from cigarette smokers as a consequence of lung cancer linked 'field carcinogenesis'. We found that compared to neoplasia-free subjects, a panel of 68 miRNAs were upregulated and 3 downregulated in the normal appearing buccal mucosal cells collected from patients harboring lung cancer (n=76).

Clinical heterogeneity of patients with complex sleep apnea syndrome.

Background: The definition of complex sleep apnea (CompSAS) encompasses patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who develop central apnea activity upon restitution of airway patency. Presence of arterial hypertension (HTN), coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure (HF) have been proposed as risk factors for CompSAS among OSA patients. Using our database of patients with CompSAS, we examined the prevalence of these risk factors and defined other clinical characteristics of patients with CompSAS.

Screening for lung cancer--a review.

Despite recent advances in oncology lung cancer remains the most common cause of cancer death in the United States, and its cure rate has not improved for the past 20 years. Lung cancer has been a target for numerous screening strategies, aimed at its earlier detection, and potentially improved cure. We describe the research grounds for screening for malignancies, including types of bias inherent to screening trials and present a brief discussion of potential outcomes of screening.