bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Preliminary Study on Microbiota Characteristics of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid in Patients with Pulmonary Nodules Based on Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Yuan Qian , Wang Xiaojin , Li Zhanglin , Guo Wenzhuo , Cheng Hua , Cao Qingdong
Published: February 2023

Background: The characteristics and roles of microbes in the occurrence and development of pulmonary nodules are still unclear. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the microbial mNGS results of BALF from 229 patients with pulmonary nodules before surgery, and performed a comparative analysis of lung flora between lung cancer and benign nodules according to postoperative pathology. The analysis also focused on investigating the characteristics of lung microbiota in lung adenocarcinomas with varying histopathology. Results: There were differences in lung microbiota between lung cancer and benign lung nodules. Bacterial diversity was lower in lung cancer than in benign lung nodules. Four species (Porphyromonas somerae, Corynebacterium accolens, Burkholderia cenocepacia and Streptococcus mitis) were enriched in lung cancer compared with the benign lung nodules. The areas under the ROC curves of these four species were all greater than 0.6, and the AUC of Streptococcus mitis was 0.702, which had the highest diagnostic value for differentiating lung cancer from benign lung diseases. The significantly enriched microbiota varied with the different pathological subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma. Streptococcus mitis, Burkholderia oklahomensis and Burkholderia latens displayed a trend of increasing from the benign lung disease group to the AIS group, MIA group and IAC group, whereas Lactobacillus plantarum showed a downward trend. Conclusion: Changes in the abundance of lung microbiota are closely related to the development of infiltrating adenocarcinoma. Our findings provide new insights into the relationship between the changes in lung microbiota and the development of lung cancer.
Multilineage-Differentiating Stress-Enduring Cells (Muse Cells): The Future of Human and Veterinary Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Velasco María Gemma , Satué Katy , Chicharro Deborah , Martins Emma , Torres-Torrillas Marta , Peláez Pau , Miguel-Pastor Laura , Del Romero Ayla , Damiá Elena , Cuervo Belén , Carrillo José María , Cugat Ramón , Sopena Joaquín Jesús , Rubio Mónica
Published: February 2023

In recent years, several studies have been conducted on Muse cells mainly due to their pluripotency, high tolerance to stress, self-renewal capacity, ability to repair DNA damage and not being tumoral. Additionally, since these stem cells can be isolated from different tissues in the adult organism, obtaining them is not considered an ethical problem, providing an advantage over embryonic stem cells. Regarding their therapeutic potential, few studies have reported clinical applications in the treatment of different diseases, such as aortic aneurysm and chondral injuries in the mouse or acute myocardial infarction in the swine, rabbit, sheep and in humans. This review aims to describe the characterization of Muse cells, show their biological characteristics, explain the differences between Muse cells and mesenchymal stem cells, and present their contribution to the treatment of some diseases.
Immune Recognition versus Immune Evasion Systems in Zika Virus Infection
Authors: Chan Yee Teng , Cheok Yi Ying , Cheong Heng Choon , Tang Ting Fang , Sulaiman Sofiah , Hassan Jamiyah , Looi Chung Yeng , Tan Kim-Kee , AbuBakar Sazaly , Wong Won Fen
Published: February 2023

The reemergence of the Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in recent years has posed a serious threat to global health. Despite being asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic in a majority of infected individuals, ZIKV infection can result in severe manifestations including neurological complications in adults and congenital abnormalities in newborns. In a human host, ZIKV is primarily recognized by RIG-like receptors and Toll-like receptors that elicit anti-viral immunity through the secretion of type I interferon (IFN) to limit viral survival, replication, and pathogenesis. Intriguingly, ZIKV evades its host immune system through various immune evasion strategies, including suppressing the innate immune receptors and signaling pathways, mutation of viral structural and non-structural proteins, RNA modulation, or alteration of cellular pathways. Here, we present an overview of ZIKV recognition by the host immune system and the evasion strategies employed by ZIKV. Characterization of the host–viral interaction and viral disease mechanism provide a platform for the rational design of novel prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against ZIKV infection.
Molecular Screening of Bioactive Compounds of Garlic for Therapeutic Effects against COVID-19
Authors: Ashraf Huma , Dilshad Erum , Afsar Tayyaba , Almajwal Ali , Shafique Huma , Razak Suhail
Published: February 2023

An outbreak of pneumonia occurred on December 2019 in Wuhan, China, which caused a serious public health emergency by spreading around the globe. Globally, natural products are being focused on more than synthetic ones. So, keeping that in view, the current study was conducted to discover potential antiviral compounds from Allium sativum. Twenty-five phytocompounds of this plant were selected from the literature and databases including 3-(Allylsulphinyl)-L-alanine, Allicin, Diallyl sulfide, Diallyl disulfide, Diallyl trisulfide, Glutathione, L-Cysteine, S-allyl-mercapto-glutathione, Quercetin, Myricetin, Thiocysteine, Gamma-glutamyl-Lcysteine, Gamma-glutamylallyl-cysteine, Fructan, Lauricacid, Linoleicacid, Allixin, Ajoene, Diazinon Kaempferol, Levamisole, Caffeicacid, Ethyl linoleate, Scutellarein, and S-allylcysteine methyl-ester. Virtual screening of these selected ligands was carried out against drug target 3CL protease by CB-dock. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties defined the final destiny of compounds as drug or non-drug molecules. The best five compounds screened were Allicin, Diallyl Sulfide, Diallyl Disulfide, Diallyl Trisulfide, Ajoene, and Levamisole, which showed themselves as hit compounds. Further refining by screening filters represented Levamisole as a lead compound. All the interaction visualization analysis studies were performed using the PyMol molecular visualization tool and LigPlot+. Conclusively, Levamisole was screened as a likely antiviral compound which might be a drug candidate to treat SARS-CoV-2 in the future. Nevertheless, further research needs to be carried out to study their potential medicinal use.
PEDOT-Polyamine-Based Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Monitoring Protein Binding
Authors: Montero-Jimenez Marjorie , Amante Francisco L. , Fenoy Gonzalo E. , Scotto Juliana , Azzaroni Omar , Marmisolle Waldemar A.
Published: February 2023

The fabrication of efficient organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs)-based biosensors requires the design of biocompatible interfaces for the immobilization of biorecognition elements, as well as the development of robust channel materials to enable the transduction of the biochemical event into a reliable electrical signal. In this work, PEDOT-polyamine blends are shown as versatile organic films that can act as both highly conducting channels of the transistors and non-denaturing platforms for the construction of the biomolecular architectures that operate as sensing surfaces. To achieve this goal, we synthesized and characterized films of PEDOT and polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH) and employed them as conducting channels in the construction of OECTs. Next, we studied the response of the obtained devices to protein adsorption, using glucose oxidase (GOx) as a model system, through two different strategies: The direct electrostatic adsorption of GOx on the PEDOT-PAH film and the specific recognition of the protein by a lectin attached to the surface. Firstly, we used surface plasmon resonance to monitor the adsorption of the proteins and the stability of the assemblies on PEDOT-PAH films. Then, we monitored the same processes with the OECT showing the capability of the device to perform the detection of the protein binding process in real time. In addition, the sensing mechanisms enabling the monitoring of the adsorption process with the OECTs for the two strategies are discussed.
Horseradish Peroxidase-Encapsulated Fluorescent Bio-Nanoparticle for Ultra-Sensitive and Easy Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Lee Myeong-Jun , Song Ji-Ae , Choi Jin-Ha , Shin Jeong-Hyeop , Myeong Ji-Woon , Lee Ki-Ppeum , Kim Taehwan , Park Ki-Eob , Oh Byung-Keun
Published: February 2023

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) has been a fascinating target in various chemical, biological, clinical, and industrial fields. Several types of fluorescent protein-stabilized gold nanoclusters (protein-AuNCs) have been developed for sensitive and easy detection of H2O2. However, its low sensitivity makes is difficult to measure negligible concentrations of H2O2. Therefore, to overcome this limitation, we developed a horseradish peroxidase-encapsulated fluorescent bio-nanoparticle (HEFBNP), comprising bovine serum albumin-stabilized gold nanoclusters (BSA-AuNCs) and horseradish peroxidase-stabilized gold nanoclusters (HRP-AuNCs). The fabricated HEFBNP can sensitively detect H2O2 owing to its two properties. The first is that HEFBNPs have a continuous two-step fluorescence quenching mechanism, which comes from the heterogenous fluorescence quenching mechanism of HRP-AuNCs and BSA-AuNCs. Second, the proximity of two protein-AuNCs in a single HEFBNP allows a reaction intermediate (•OH) to rapidly reach the adjacent protein-AuNCs. As a result, HEFBNP can improve the overall reaction event and decrease the loss of intermediate in the solution. Due to the continuous quenching mechanism and effective reaction event, a HEFBNP-based sensing system can measure very low concentrations of H2O2 up to 0.5 nM and show good selectivity. Furthermore, we design a glass-based microfluidic device to make it easier use HEFBNP, which allowed us to detect H2O2 with the naked eye. Overall, the proposed H2O2 sensing system is expected to be an easy and highly sensitive on-site detection tool in chemistry, biology, clinics, and industry fields.
Covalent Organic Frameworks-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Food Safety Analysis
Authors: Lu Zhenyu , Wang Yingying , Li Gongke
Published: February 2023

Food safety is a key issue in promoting human health and sustaining life. Food analysis is essential to prevent food components or contaminants causing foodborne-related illnesses to consumers. Electrochemical sensors have become a desirable method for food safety analysis due to their simple, accurate and rapid response. The low sensitivity and poor selectivity of electrochemical sensors working in complex food sample matrices can be overcome by coupling them with covalent organic frameworks (COFs). COFs are a kind of novel porous organic polymer formed by light elements, such as C, H, N and B, via covalent bonds. This review focuses on the recent progress in COF-based electrochemical sensors for food safety analysis. Firstly, the synthesis methods of COFs are summarized. Then, a discussion of the strategies is given to improve the electrochemistry performance of COFs. There follows a summary of the recently developed COF-based electrochemical sensors for the determination of food contaminants, including bisphenols, antibiotics, pesticides, heavy metal ions, fungal toxin and bacterium. Finally, the challenges and the future directions in this field are discussed.
Review of HIV Self Testing Technologies and Promising Approaches for the Next Generation
Authors: Bacon Amanda , Wang Weijing , Lee Hankeun , Umrao Saurabh , Sinawang Prima Dewi , Akin Demir , Khemtonglang Kodchakorn , Tan Anqi , Hirshfield Sabina , Demirci Utkan , Wang Xing , Cunningham Brian T.
Published: February 2023

The ability to self-test for HIV is vital to preventing transmission, particularly when used in concert with HIV biomedical prevention modalities, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In this paper, we review recent developments in HIV self-testing and self-sampling methods, and the potential future impact of novel materials and methods that emerged through efforts to develop more effective point-of-care (POC) SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. We address the gaps in existing HIV self-testing technologies, where improvements in test sensitivity, sample-to-answer time, simplicity, and cost are needed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and widespread accessibility. We discuss potential paths toward the next generation of HIV self-testing through sample collection materials, biosensing assay techniques, and miniaturized instrumentation. We discuss the implications for other applications, such as self-monitoring of HIV viral load and other infectious diseases.
Influence of Executive Function Training on BMI, Food Choice, and Cognition in Children with Obesity: Results from the TOuCH Study
Authors: Luis-Ruiz Sandra , Sánchez-Castañeda Cristina , Garolera Maite , Miserachs-González Sara , Ramon-Krauel Marta , Lerin Carles , Sanchez Consuelo , Miró Núria , Martínez Sònia , Jurado Maria Angeles
Published: February 2023

Background: Children with obesity have a higher risk of future health and psychological problems. Executive functions (EFs) play a key role in successful dietetic and exercise planning; therefore, new treatments aimed at improving EFs may optimize outcomes. Objectives: This study evaluates the impact of EF training on body mass index (BMI), food choice, and cognition in children with obesity. We also examine their real-life executive functioning, emotional state, and quality of life. Methods: Randomized controlled double-blind trial. Forty-six children with obesity were randomly allocated into an executive functions training or a control task training group and attended 30–45 min of daily training (5/week over 6 weeks), with both groups receiving counseling on diet and wearing an activity/sleep tracker. Participants were evaluated at baseline and after treatment. Results: BMI decreased over time in the whole sample, although there were no differences between groups at post-training in BMI, food choice, and cognition. Both groups showed significant improvements in attention, speed, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. Additionally, there were some benefits in real-life executive functioning and self-esteem. Over the 6 weeks, participants showed worse food choices in both groups. Conclusions: EFs training showed a lack of significant effects. The executive function enhancement alone did not explain these changes, as there were no significant differences between the experimental groups. It might be that the control task training could also produce some benefits, and multi-component interventions might be useful for weight loss.
Identification of Dysregulated microRNAs in Glioblastoma Stem-like Cells
Authors: Evers Lara , Schäfer Agnes , Pini Raffaella , Zhao Kai , Stei Susanne , Nimsky Christopher , Bartsch Jörg W.
Published: February 2023

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Despite multimodal therapy, median survival is poor at 12–15 months. At the molecular level, radio-/chemoresistance and resulting tumor progression are attributed to a small fraction of tumor cells, termed glioblastoma stem-like cells (GSCs). These CD133-expressing, self-renewing cells display the properties of multi-lineage differentiation, resulting in the heterogenous composition of GBM. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level can alter many pathways pivotal to cancer stem cell fate. This study explored changes in the miRNA expression profiles in patient-derived GSCs altered on differentiation into glial fiber acid protein (GFAP)-expressing, astrocytic tumor cells using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array. Initially, 22 miRNAs showed higher expression in GSCs and 9 miRNAs in differentiated cells. The two most downregulated miRNAs in differentiated GSCs were miR-17-5p and miR-425-5p, whilst the most upregulated miRNAs were miR-223-3p and let-7-5p. Among those, miR-425-5p showed the highest consistency in an upregulation in all three GSCs. By transfection of a 425-5p miRNA mimic, we demonstrated downregulation of the GFAP protein in differentiated patient-derived GBM cells, providing potential evidence for direct regulation of miRNAs in the GSC/GBM cell transition.
Exploring Associations between C-Reactive Protein and Self-Reported Interoception in Major Depressive Disorder: A Bayesian Analysis
Authors: Eggart Michael , Valdés-Stauber Juan , Müller-Oerlinghausen Bruno , Heinze Martin
Published: February 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with dysfunctional self-reported interoception (i.e., abnormal perception of the body’s physiological state) and systemic inflammation, both of which adversely affect treatment response. In this study, we explored associations between C-reactive protein (CRP) and self-reported interoception, to gain more insight into the pathophysiology of interoceptive impairments in MDD. We also aimed to replicate previous findings on the associations of depression and fatigue severity with CRP. The study included 97 depressed individuals, who completed self-administered questionnaires (Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA-2); Beck Depression Inventory-II, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory). CRP concentrations were analyzed in the serum using a particle-enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay. We applied Bayesian inference to estimate robust effect parameters from posterior distributions based on MCMC sampling, and computed Bayes factors (BF10) as indices of relative evidence. The bivariate analysis supported evidence against associations between CRP and self-reported interoception (BF10 ≤ 0.32), except for one dimension (Not-Distracting: r = 0.11, BF10 > 0.43, absence of evidence). Positive correlations with overall depression (r = 0.21, BF10 = 3.19), physical fatigue (r = 0.28, BF10 = 20.64), and reduced activity (r = 0.22, BF10 = 4.67) were found. The multivariate analysis showed moderate evidence that low-grade inflammation predicted higher scores on the MAIA-2 Not-Worrying scale (β = 0.28, BF10 = 3.97), after controlling for relevant confounders. Inflammatory responses, as measured by CRP, may not be involved in the pathophysiology of dysfunctional self-reported interoception. However, systemic low-grade inflammation could potentially exert a protective effect against worries about pain or discomfort sensations. An immunological involvement in interoceptive impairments cannot be ruled out until future studies considering additional biomarkers of inflammation replicate our findings.
The Relationship between Exercise Re-Participation Intention Based on the Sports-Socialization Process: YouTube Sports Content Intervention
Authors: Oh Youngtaek
Published: February 2023

Few studies have used a quantitative research methodology to examine the socialization process model, and such studies were conducted to verify a new model by intervening in the variables of YouTube sports content. To understand this process, we tested the moderated mediating effect by intervening in YouTube sports content based on the sports socialization process model. We recruited 274 participants from the Jeju Residents’ Jeju Sports Festival, Korea. The PROCESS Macro program was performed to test the research hypotheses. The findings indicate that social support had a significant effect on re-participation intention. Social support had a significant mediation effect on exercise interruption intention, re-participation intention, and exercise performance satisfaction. Furthermore, through the relationship between social support and exercise interruption intention, YouTube sports content showed a significant interaction of re-participation intention in exercise. These results extend sports socialization theory by discovering a new model that explains the relationship between the sports socialization process and YouTube sports content. In addition, it will provide a basis for delivering educational information to the public so that they can recognize the importance of physical activity and exercise skills.
Analyzing Customers’ Demands for Different Housing Features in Buildings Using a Data Mining Method
Authors: Keleş Abdullah Emre , Arıkan Yusuf Can
Published: February 2023

There are many options and factors in the production phase of housing. In the marketing phase, houses are presented to the customer’s taste. Therefore, it is clear that a customer-oriented approach is necessary to establish a supply–demand balance in housing production on the basis of quality. This study aimed to determine customers’ housing demands in the construction sector. Within the scope of the study, 303 surveys were conducted in 30 different provinces of Turkey. The data obtained were analyzed by WEKA software with association rule extraction as the data mining method. The distribution of other attributes was determined according to two different class labels, namely the ownership status of the houses (tenant or homeowner) and customers’ expectations of the houses. As a result of the study, it is clear that people living in Turkey prefer a south-facing facade when purchasing a house. In addition, it is seen that the property owners demand 4 + 1 independent units. It is remarkable that individuals who are tenants want the living room to be spacious. The results of the study also revealed that female individuals have higher expectations of housing than male individuals. At the same time, it is understood that people’s expectations of housing differ according to the variables of age, education level, and the number of family members. The majority of the results in this study had a confidence value of 90% and above. This study was intended to serve as a guide for housing developers in Turkey to better understand and meet the demands of buildings’ residents.
Implementing Lean Construction: A Literature Study of Barriers, Enablers, and Implications
Authors: Moradi Sina , Sormunen Piia
Published: February 2023

The challenges of adopting and implementing lean construction (LC) have led to substantial but isolated research studies concerning the relevant barriers, enablers, and implications, which lack a comprehensive approach and analytical as well as conceptual perspectives. Hence, this study aims to fill the mentioned knowledge gap by identifying the barriers, enablers, and implications of implementing lean construction and exploring their relatedness. A systematic literature review was carried out through which 230 located studies were analyzed using thematic and content analysis methods to realize the objectives of this study. The findings suggest that the lack of awareness and understanding of LC, resistance to change, and a lack of support and commitment from top management are the top three barriers toward LC adoption and implementation, which can be overcome using the identified enablers, among which the top three ones were developing lean culture, application of lean principles tools and techniques, and top management support and commitment. Moreover, the results present a model which portrays the relatedness between the discovered barriers, enablers, and implications of applying lean construction. The findings can be insightful for the research community and project practitioners in their efforts for facilitating the adoption and implementation of lean construction.
Influence of Complex Hydraulic Environments on the Mechanical Properties of Pile-Soil Composite Foundation in the Coastal Soft Soil Area of Zhuhai
Authors: Fu Xiaohai , Li Jinze , Liu Jiankun , Hu Zheng , Tang Changyi
Published: February 2023

Based on a plain concrete pile composite foundation project in the coastal area of Zhuhai, considering the complex hydraulic load environment induced by tidal water-level changes, finite element simulations and parameter calibrations were carried out to determine the physical and mechanical properties of plain concrete pile composite foundation. The hardening soil small (HSS) model, which can be used to simulate the complex mechanical behavior of soft soil under small strain, was selected for modeling analysis. Model parameters were calibrated through resonance column tests, triaxial consolidation drainage loading and unloading shear tests. The complex hydraulic loads were analyzed, including the effects of cyclic tidal action and the sudden rise and fall of the water level induced by strong storm surges on the force, deformation of plain concrete piles, and the mechanical seepage properties of soft soil around piles. The results indicate that: (1) Compared with coastal soft soil in Shanghai, Zhoushan, Tianjin, and other areas, the soft soil in the Zhuhai area has a smaller dynamic shear modulus, cohesion and internal friction angle, and worse engineering properties. (2) The sudden rise of water level leads to a sudden change in the pore pressure of the groundwater, which induces a large deformation of the pile-soil composite foundation. If the foundation on the offshore (dike) side exhibits the most prominent deformation and foundation damage, such as uneven settlement is prone to occur. (3) The offshore side pile is most affected by the hydraulic loads. The deformation of the pile body along the pile body is uneven and the deformation of the upper pile body is relatively large, which may cause fracture damage.
Relationship between Being Overweight and Clinical Outcomes of Ablation Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma under Ultrasound Guidance: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Hatanaka Takeshi , Yata Yutaka , Saito Naoto , Nakano Sachi , Nakano Yuya , Hazama Yoichi , Yoshida Sachiko , Hachisu Yoko , Tanaka Yoshiki , Yoshinaga Teruo , Naganuma Atsushi , Kakizaki Satoru
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect of being overweight on the outcome of ablation therapy for patients with early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This retrospective study included 198 patients with HCC who underwent radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation at Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital between April 2017 and December 2021. We divided the patients into two groups based on their body mass index (BMI): overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, n = 74 (37.4%)) and non-overweight (BMI < 25 kg/m2, n = 124 (62.6%)). The technical success rates (TSRs) in the first session were 78.4% and 90.3% in overweight and non-overweight patients, respectively, with a significant difference (p = 0.03). Additional ablation therapy for residual tumors was required in 15 (20.3%) overweight and 11 (8.9%) non-overweight patients (p = 0.03), resulting in 95.9% and 99.2% TSRs at the final session, respectively, without a significant difference (p = 0.3). While local tumor progression and distant recurrence rates were not significantly different between the two groups, overall survival was better in overweight patients than in non-overweight patients (p < 0.001). Despite the potential adverse impact of being overweight on public health problems, the present findings showed the relationship between being overweight and improved survival. The negative aspects of being overweight might remain as minor technical issues in HCC patients receiving ablation therapy.
Body Shape Phenotypes and Breast Cancer Risk: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Peruchet-Noray Laia , Dimou Niki , Sedlmeier Anja M. , Fervers Béatrice , Romieu Isabelle , Viallon Vivian , Ferrari Pietro , Gunter Marc J. , Carreras-Torres Robert , Freisling Heinz
Published: February 2023

Observational and genetic studies have linked different anthropometric traits to breast cancer (BC) risk, with inconsistent results. We aimed to investigate the association between body shape defined by a principal component (PC) analysis of anthropometric traits (body mass index [BMI], height, weight, waist-to-hip ratio [WHR], and waist and hip circumference) and overall BC risk and by tumor sub-type (luminal A, luminal B, HER2+, triple negative, and luminal B/HER2 negative). We performed two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses to assess the association between 188 genetic variants robustly linked to the first three PCs and BC (133,384 cases/113,789 controls from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC)). PC1 (general adiposity) was inversely associated with overall BC risk (0.89 per 1 SD [95% CI: 0.81–0.98]; p-value = 0.016). PC2 (tall women with low WHR) was weakly positively associated with overall BC risk (1.05 [95% CI: 0.98–1.12]; p-value = 0.135), but with a confidence interval including the null. PC3 (tall women with large WHR) was not associated with overall BC risk. Some of these associations differed by BC sub-types. For instance, PC2 was positively associated with a risk of luminal A BC sub-type (1.09 [95% CI: 1.01–1.18]; p-value = 0.02). To clarify the inverse association of PC1 with breast cancer risk, future studies should examine independent risk associations of this body shape during childhood/adolescence and adulthood.
Genetics, Treatment, and New Technologies of Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Sebastian William , Forchette Lauren , Donoughe Kelsey , Lun Yibei , Verma Anisha , Liu Tuoen
Published: February 2023

The current molecular classification divides breast cancer into four major subtypes, including luminal A, luminal B, HER2-positive, and basal-like, based on receptor gene expression profiling. Luminal A and luminal B are hormone receptor (HR, estrogen, and/or progesterone receptor)-positive and are the most common subtypes, accounting for around 50–60% and 15–20% of the total breast cancer cases, respectively. The drug treatment for HR-positive breast cancer includes endocrine therapy, HER2-targeted therapy (depending on the HER2 status), and chemotherapy (depending on the risk of recurrence). In this review, in addition to classification, we focused on discussing the important aspects of HR-positive breast cancer, including HR structure and signaling, genetics, including epigenetics and gene mutations, gene expression-based assays, the traditional and new drugs for treatment, and novel or new uses of technology in diagnosis and treatment. Particularly, we have summarized the commonly mutated genes and abnormally methylated genes in HR-positive breast cancer and compared four common gene expression-based assays that are used in breast cancer as prognostic and/or predictive tools in detail, including their clinical use, the factors being evaluated, patient demographics, and the scoring systems. All these topic discussions have not been fully described and summarized within other research or review articles.
How Is the Spectrum of Sarcoma Surgery Assessed?
Authors: Theus-Steinmann Carlo , Schelling Georg , Heesen Philip , Breitenstein Stefan , Scaglioni Mario F. , Fuchs Bruno
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To meet the challenges of the precision medicine era, quality assessment of shared sarcoma care becomes pivotal. The MDT approach is the most important parameter for a successful outcome. Of all MDT disciplines, surgery is the key step to rendering sarcoma patients disease free; therefore, defining its spectrum is critical. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, a comprehensive interoperable digital platform to assess the scope of sarcoma surgery in its full complexity is lacking. Methods: An interoperable digital platform on sarcoma surgery has been created to assess the clinical exposure, tumor characteristics, and surgical settings and techniques applied for both resections and reconstructions of sarcomas. Results: The surgical exposure of an individual surgeon over time served as a pilot. Over the study period of 10 years, there were 723 sarcoma board/MDT meetings discussing 3130 patients. A total of 1094 patients underwent 1250 surgical interventions on mesenchymal tumors by one single sarcoma surgeon. These included 615 deep soft tissue tumors (197 benign, 102 intermediate, 281 malignant, 27 simulator, 7 metastasis, 1 blood); 116 superficial soft tissue tumors (45 benign, 12 intermediate, 40 malignant, 18 simulator, 1 blood); and 519 bone tumors (129 benign, 112 intermediate, 182 malignant, 18 simulator, 46 metastasis, 14 blood, and 18 sequelae of first treatment). Detailed types of resections and reconstructions were analyzed. Conclusions: An interoperable digital data platform on sarcoma surgery with transparent real-time descriptive analytics is feasible and enables large-scale definition of the spectrum of sarcoma surgery to meet the challenges of sarcoma precision care in the future.
Real-World Evidence: How Long Do Our Patients Fast?—Results from a Prospective JAGO-NOGGO-Multicenter Analysis on Perioperative Fasting in 924 Patients with Malignant and Benign Gynecological Diseases
Authors: Beck Maximilian Heinz , Balci-Hakimeh Derya , Scheuerecker Florian , Wallach Charlotte , Güngor Hannah Lena , Lee Marlene , Abdel-Kawi Ahmed Farouk , Glajzer Jacek , Vasiljeva Jekaterina , Kubiak Karol , Blohmer Jens-Uwe , Sehouli Jalid , Pietzner Klaus
Published: February 2023

Background: Despite the key role of optimized fasting in modern perioperative patient management, little current data exist on perioperative fasting intervals in routine clinical practice. Methods: In this multicenter prospective study, the length of pre- and postoperative fasting intervals was assessed with the use of a specifically developed questionnaire. Between 15 January 2021 and 31 May 2022, 924 gynecology patients were included, from 13 German gynecology departments. Results: On average, patients remained fasting for about three times as long as recommended for solid foods (17:02 ± 06:54 h) and about five times as long as recommended for clear fluids (9:21 ± 5:48 h). The average perioperative fasting interval exceeded one day (28:23 ± 14:02 h). Longer fasting intervals were observed before and after oncological or extensive procedures, while shorter preoperative fasting intervals were reported in the participating university hospitals. Smoking, treatment in a non-university hospital, an increased Charlson Comorbidity Index and extensive surgery were significant predictors of longer preoperative fasting from solid foods. In general, prolonged preoperative fasting was tolerated well and quality of patient information was perceived as good. Conclusion: Perioperative fasting intervals were drastically prolonged in this cohort of 924 gynecology patients. Our data indicate the need for better patient education about perioperative fasting.
Breast Cancer: How Hippotherapy Bridges the Gap between Healing and Recovery—A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Viruega Hélène , Galy Corinne , Loriette Célia , Jacquot Stéphane , Houpeau Jean Louis , Gaviria Manuel
Published: February 2023

Background: Breast cancer is the most diagnosed women’s cancer, and has a high survival rate. Despite great progress in detection and treatment, life reconstruction requires comprehensive cross-sectoral approaches between different disciplines and deeper consideration of the patient’s challenges. Hippotherapy is an emerging specialized rehabilitation approach, performed by accredited health professionals and equine specialists, on specially trained horses via their movement, activating major paths for physical, mental, psychic and social reinforcement, and is synergistic to rehabilitative and supportive care. Methods: We conducted a randomized open, prospective, two-armed, controlled trial on the effectiveness of hippotherapy versus conventional supportive care on adult women with a diagnosis of breast cancer, after the period of primary treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy). The 6-month program included, in the treated group, an initial 1-week daily hippotherapy session, followed by three short 2-day sessions with an interval of 2 months between each, where the patients received conventional supportive care. The control group received 6 months of conventional supportive care. The primary end point was quality of life. Cognitive performances, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and body image were the secondary end points. Measurements were done through self-reported questionnaires. Results: We observed statistical differences in the evolution of the measured parameters over time between the two groups. The hippotherapy group showed a much faster, favorable and continuous improvement until the end of the program for each function assessed. The most striking improvements were observed in global quality of life, and fatigue, while breast cancer-specific quality of life, cognitive performance, anxiety and depression and body image showed a less marked but still statistically significant difference at the final post-treatment evaluation. Conclusions: We demonstrate the therapeutic relevance of hippotherapy, a one-health approach, as a key initial stage after cancer diagnosis and treatment to foster recovery. Furthermore, hippotherapy has a strong impact on cancer treatments’ efficiency and reconstruction of patient’s life and ecosystem. This work reveals a layer of complexity that needs to be broadly considered. Trial registration: ClincalTrials.gov NCT04350398 accessed on 1 January 2022. Registered 17 April 2020, retrospectively registered; French Clinical Trials in Cancer Register RECF3818. Registered 18 March 2019, retrospectively registered.
Insights into Cancer Immunotherapies: Recent Breakthroughs, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Pappas Evan G. , Kershaw Michael H. , Slaney Clare Y.
Published: February 2023

This Special Issue reminds us that, although incredible developments have occurred in the field of cancer immunotherapy, there is still plenty of room for improvement [...]
How Biology Guides the Combination of Locoregional Interventional Therapies and Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Cytokines and Their Roles
Authors: Fu Yan , Zeng Chu Hui , An Chao , Liu Yue , Shin Ji Hoon , Li Xiao
Published: February 2023

As most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are diagnosed at the intermediate or advanced stage and are no longer eligible for curative treatment, the overall survival rate of HCC remains unsatisfactory. Locoregional interventional therapies (LITs), and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based immunotherapy, focus on treating HCC, but the efficacy of their individual application is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to discuss the biological roles of cytokines and their therapeutic potential in the combination therapy of LITs and ICI-based immunotherapy. The two common techniques of LITs are ablative and transarterial therapies. Whether LITs are complete or incomplete can largely affect the antitumor immune response and tumor progression. Cytokines that induce both local and systemic responses to LITs, including interferons, interleukins, chemokines, TNF-α, TGF-β, VEGF, and HGF, and their roles are discussed in detail. In addition, specific cytokines that can be used as therapeutic targets to reduce immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are introduced. Overall, incomplete LITs in a tumor, combined with specific cytokines, are thought to be effective at improving the therapeutic efficacy and reducing treatment-induced irAEs, and represent a new hope for managing unresectable HCC.
Prognostic Factors in Pseudomyxoma Peritonei with Emphasis on the Predictive Role of Peritoneal Cancer Index and Tumor Markers
Authors: Blaj Sebastian , Dora David , Lohinai Zoltan , Herold Zoltan , Szasz Attila Marcell , Herzberg Jonas , Kodacsi Roland , Baransi Saher , Schlitt Hans Jürgen , Hornung Matthias , Werner Jens M. , Slowik Przemyslaw , Acs Miklos , Piso Pompiliu
Published: February 2023

Background: Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare peritoneal condition where mucus-secreting tumorous cells progressively produce a thick, gelatin-like substance. The prognosis of patients with PMP is determined by the degree of cellularity within the mucin (low-grade (LAMN) vs. high-grade (HAMN) histologic features) and by the extent of the disease. Methods: Prognostic relevance of tumor markers CA19-9 and CEA, gender, Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI), and completeness of cytoreduction (CC) after cytoreductive surgery were evaluated on 193 consecutive PMP patients, based on a retrospective analysis of prospectively gathered data from a German tertial referral center. Results: We demonstrated that low PCI, CC0 status, low-grade histology, and female gender were independent positive prognostic factors for both overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Furthermore, LAMN patients with achieved CC0 status show significantly better OS and PFS compared to those with CC1 status (p = 0.0353 and p = 0.0026 respectively). In contrast, the duration and drug of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) were not prognostic in any comparison. Increased CA19-9 and CEA levels were significantly associated with HAMN cases, but also predicted recurrence in patients with low-grade histologies. Conclusion: Our study confirmed the prognostic role of tumor markers and emphasized the importance of CC status and PCI in a large cohort of PMP- and LAMN patients.
Cancer Research in Adenocarcinoma, Adenoma, Adenomatous Polyposis Coli, and Colitis-Associated Neoplasia: A Special Issue
Authors: Moriichi Kentaro , Fujiya Mikihiro
Published: February 2023

Recent technological advancements have enabled us to analyze a variety of aspects of colorectal cancer (CRC), including both clinical and basic science [...]
Special Issue: Diagnostic and Predictive Tissue Markers in G.I. Cancers
Authors: Chillotti Stefano , Vasuri Francesco
Published: February 2023

The compelling advancements in systemic targeted therapies for cancer drastically changed the role of histopathological analyses in recent decades [...]
Occupational Cancers among Employed Women: A Narrative Review
Authors: Teglia Federica , Collatuzzo Giulia , Boffetta Paolo
Published: February 2023

The facts that occupational cancer in women is under-investigated, with few in-depth analyses are well known. In recent decades the workforce has changed, with an increasing number of women employed. Therefore, the inclusion of women in occupational cancer studies has become more urgent and feasible than in the past decades. The difficulties to evaluate occupational causes of female gynecologic tumors in most past cohorts and the potential variation in outcome responses between men and women must be taken into consideration. This narrative review discusses women’s occupational cancer as a current area of research, focusing on three groups of workers characterized by peculiar exposure to occupational carcinogens and where women are often employed: beauticians and hairdressers; farmers; and healthcare workers. We discuss the most relevant cancers in each working category, with a particular focus on female breast cancer. In the three industries reviewed in detail, there are some risk factors which may affect primarily women, inducing breast cancer and cervical cancer, as well as risk factors that are carcinogenic in both genders, but whose effects are less well known in women.
Removal of Safranin O from Water by UV/TiO2/IO3− Advanced Oxidation Process: Parametric Study and Impact of Inorganic Ions and Humic Acid
Authors: Bendjama Meriem , Hamdaoui Oualid , Ferkous Hamza , Alghyamah Abdulaziz
Published: February 2023

In the present paper, the influence of iodate (IO3−) ions on the photocatalytic process using titanium dioxide (UV/TiO2) was systematically examined. The innovative studied system (UV/TiO2/IO3−) demonstrated high performance in the elimination of safranin O (SO), a model dye, from water due to the implication of iodine radicals (IO3•, IO2•, IO•, etc.). The degradation was assessed by monitoring the change in initial substrate concentration (5–30 mg∙L−1), TiO2 loading (0.01–3 g∙L−1), IO3− concentration, liquid temperature, and initial pH. Further enhancement of oxyanion amount was beneficial for the initial rate of degradation (r0) over the range 0.1–50 mM, such that r0 rose from 0.724 to 1.12 mg∙L−1∙min−1. However, a concentration of 100 mM IO3− slowed the removal kinetics. Low pH values were found to be favorable for pollutant removal. Furthermore, a variety of inorganic and organic substances was employed to clarify the effect of the UV/TiO2/IO3− process in natural waters. The findings revealed a negative impact of chloride excess in seawater and a decline in SO degradation in mineral water as a result of HCO3− presence at more than 1 mM. At high concentrations of natural organic matter, the heterogeneity and the strong adsorption of humic acid on the TiO2 surface were found to be harmful for SO decay.
The Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in Preeclampsia
Authors: Psilopatis Iason , Vrettou Kleio , Fleckenstein Florian Nima , Theocharis Stamatios
Published: February 2023

Preeclampsia is a common pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder. Often presenting as preexisting or new-onset hypertension complicated by proteinuria and/or end-organ dysfunction, preeclampsia significantly correlates with maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptor proteins that regulate gene expression. In order to investigate the role of PPARs in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, we conducted a literature review using the MEDLINE and LIVIVO databases. The search terms “peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor”, “PPAR”, and “preeclampsia” were employed and we were able to identify 35 relevant studies published between 2002 and 2022. Different study groups reached contradictory conclusions in terms of PPAR expression in preeclamptic placentae. Interestingly, PPARγ agonists alone, or in combination with well-established pharmaceutical agents, were determined to represent novel, potent anti-preeclamptic treatment alternatives. In conclusion, PPARs seem to play a significant role in preeclampsia.
Dual Effects of miR-181b-2-3p/SOX21 Interaction on Microglia and Neural Stem Cells after Gamma Irradiation
Authors: Wang Hong , Ma Zhao-Wu , Ho Feng-Ming , Sethi Gautam , Tang Feng Ru
Published: February 2023

Ionizing radiation induces brain inflammation and the impairment of neurogenesis by activating microglia and inducing apoptosis in neurogenic zones. However, the causal relationship between microglial activation and the impairment of neurogenesis as well as the relevant molecular mechanisms involved in microRNA (miR) remain unknown. In the present study, we employed immunohistochemistry and real-time RT-PCR to study the microglial activation and miRNA expression in mouse brains. Real-time RT-PCR, western blot, ELISA, cell proliferation and cytotoxicity assay were used in BV2 and mouse neural stem cells (NSCs). In the mouse model, we found the acute activation of microglia at 1 day and an increased number of microglial cells at 1, 7 and 120 days after irradiation at postnatal day 3 (P3), day 10 (P10) and day 21 (P21), respectively. In cell models, the activation of BV2, a type of microglial cell line, was observed after gamma irradiation. Real-time RT-PCR analysis revealed a deceased expression of miR-181b-2-3p and an increased expression of its target SRY-related high-mobility group box transcription factor 21 (SOX21) in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. The results of the luciferase reporter assay confirmed that SOX21 was the target of miR-181b-2-3p. Furthermore, SOX21 knockdown by siRNA inhibited the activation of microglia, thereby suggesting that the direct interaction of 181b-2-3p with SOX21 might be involved in radiation-induced microglial activation and proliferation. Interestingly, the gamma irradiation of NSCs increased miR-181b-2-3p expression but decreased SOX21 mRNA, which was the opposite of irradiation-induced expression in BV2 cells. As irradiation reduced the viability and proliferation of NSCs, whereas the overexpression of SOX21 restored the impaired cell viability and promoted the proliferation of NSCs, the findings suggest that the radiation-induced interaction of miR-181b-2-3p with SOX21 may play dual roles in microglia and NSCs, respectively, leading to the impairment of brain neurogenesis.