bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Cervical and Breast Cancer Services at the Four Public Oncology Centers in Botswana
Authors: Friebel-Klingner Tara , Lebelonyana Refeletswe , Legwaila Morongwa , Gutterman Elane , Swart Carl , Ndaba Vusi , Sharma Kirthana , Gaolathe Tendani , Vuylsteke Peter , Marlink Richard
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Cervical and breast cancer are the two most frequently reported female cancers in Botswana and account for 45% of annual female cancer deaths. This high mortality can be attributed, in part, to access barriers along the cancer care continuum. In efforts to combat the increasing cancer burden, Botswana’s government has designated four hospitals as public oncology centers (POC). We conducted a needs assessment to understand the current resources for cancer care at the four POCs.

METHODS

From February-April 2021, interviews with key informants (nurses working in oncology) regarding cancer services were conducted during site visits at the four POCs. These centers are strategically located throughout Botswana and include Princess Marina Hospital (PMH) in the capital city of Gaborone, Nyangabwe Referral Hospital (NRH), Sekgoma Memorial Hospital (SMH), and Letsholathebe II Memorial Hospital (LMH).

RESULTS

The four POCs reported 62 combined staff working in oncology-7 oncologists, 11 physicians, and 44 nurses. Regarding prevention, the only national cancer screening program was for cervical cancer. All four POCs confirmed the availability of pap smears, while only PMH and NRH offered colposcopy. For breast cancer diagnostics, all four POCs reported fine needle aspiration (FNA) services, but only PMH and NRH provided diagnostic mammography services, and ultrasound guided FNA biopsy. For treatment, PMH, NRH and LMH provided intravenous chemotherapy. Though none of the POCs provided onsite radiation therapy, it was offered in Gaborone Private Hospital with costs covered by the government. For surgical procedures, only PMH offered radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer. For breast cancer, PMH, NRH and SMH offered complete mastectomies with axillary lymph node dissection, only PMH performed breast-conserving surgery and no POC offered breast reconstruction. LMH lacked an available surgeon for any procedures. PMH offered a comprehensive palliative care program, although the other centers reported having some aspects of palliative care.

CONCLUSION

PMH and NRH offered the most comprehensive set of cervical and breast cancer services among the POCs, albeit with gaps. LMH and SMH provided minimal cancer services. Additional support and funding are needed to expand equitable and comprehensive cancer care across the country.
Blocking TCA Cycle Enhances T Cell Antitumor Response by Inhibiting the Thrombospondin 2 Signaling Pathway Associated With Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Teng Yong , Yang Jianqiang , Fu Fanghui , Fu Zhenzhen
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle occurs within the mitochondrial matrix plays a critical role in mitochondrial metabolism, providing energy essential for tumor cell proliferation and survival. Despite its significance, there is currently no established connection between the tumor cell TCA cycle and the immune response within the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we use head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells as a research model to investigate the role of tumor cell TCA cycle in regulating antitumor immunity.

METHODS

CPI-613 (devimistat), a novel systemic therapeutic that targets the TCA cycle by inhibiting pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KGDH), was used to treat HNSCC cells. MOC2 ER-BioIDHA cells was generated by transfecting MOC2 cells with ER-BioIDHA construct. Conditioned medium (CM) from cells with or without CPI-613 treatment were collected and incubated with streptavidin beads, followed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) analysis. Molecular alterations were examined by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Immune response was assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Our LC/MS results demonstrate that CPI-613 effectively prevents HNSCC cells from secreting thrombospondin-2 (THBS2), a glycoprotein strongly associated with poor prognosis and immune evasion in HNSCC patients. Mechanistically, CPI-613 induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and triggers the expression level of XBP1s, which transcriptionally suppresses the expression of THBS2 gene. In addition, THBS2 interacts with the membrane protein CD36 presented on the intratumoral CD8+ T cells and activates the downstream signaling pathways of AKT and AMPK. This activation, in turn, enhances the T cell-mediated antitumor immunity.

CONCLUSION

Our research uncovers a novel mechanism whereby CPI-613 enhances the immune response through the inhibition of THBS2 signaling associated with ER stress. These findings offer insights into the immunomodulatory effects of TCA cycle inhibition and establish a robust basis for considering CPI-613 as a promising treatment strategy for HNSCC.
Cancer Surveillance in Ekurhuleni District in Gauteng Province—A Representation of South African Population, 2021
Authors: Ndlovu Babongile , Muchengeta Mazvita
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Cancer surveillance provides data necessary for planning interventions, evaluating programs and determining resource allocation. Population-based cancer registries (PBCRs) are the gold standard for cancer surveillance globally. This report aims to present a 2021 cancer surveillance summary in Ekurhuleni PBCR.

METHODS

Cancer data were actively collected from eight public healthcare facilities (regional and tertiary hospitals), private healthcare oncology groups and hospices in Ekurhuleni district in Gauteng. Cases were extracted from all possible source documents and captured onto REDCap using a standardized data collection form. International Classification of Diseases for Oncology-3 guidelines were used for coding the site and morphology of each case. Stata MP (Version 17, StataCorp) was used for data cleaning, management and analysis.

RESULTS

In 2021, 4,631 cases were reported. 55% (n=2,526) of the cases were females and 45% (n=2,105) were males. The majority of cases were recorded from the black population (n=2,546, 55%) followed by white population (n=1,945, 42%). Black females contributed 34% and White males 24% of the total cases. The age groups 45-50 to 70-75-years contributed most cases (more than 400 cases from each age group). 57% of the cases were diagnosed from the public sector and 43% from private sector. Private sector cases consisted of 83% White population and public sector 88% of Black population. Most common cancers were basal cell carcinoma (White males and females) reported from private sector, breast and cervical cancers (Black females) and prostate cancer (black males) reported from public sector.

CONCLUSION

The most represented population groups are the Black and White. More sampling of PBCRs is needed to cater for Colored and Indian populations. Cases reported from private sector are not significantly lower than cases from public sector, as would be expected as private sector only serves 20% of the population. This indicates a high proportion of missing cases from public sector.
City-Led Multi-Sectoral Stakeholder Engagement to Advance Evidence-Informed Cancer Care in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Njoku Chris C. , Fasawe Adedolapo , Shinkaffi-Bagudu Zainab , Nwokwu Uchechukwu E. , Ibeka Paulette , Mallafré-Larrosa Meritxell , Bussman-Kemdjo Sophie , Polo Alfredo
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Cancer is a growing epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA): with a population of over 220 million people, Nigeria registers 127,763 new cancer cases yearly and 79,542 deaths due to cancer. Like other SSA nations, Nigeria's fragile health system is poorly equipped to tackle this crisis, facing challenges like inadequate availability of and limited access to care, huge shortfall of trained medical personnel, incomplete cancer registries, among other compounding factors to the deteriorating situation. In the federal capital of Abuja, the City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/Can) is conveying a multi-sectoral stakeholder platform to enable locally led implementation-planning and eventual evidence-informed decision making within the cancer care ecosystem.

METHODS

Through C/Can's City Engagement Process Framework (CEPF), a novel implementation framework, a bottom-up city-led approach is used to identify cancer care gaps, to then collectively develop and implement contextually targeted solutions that will improve access to quality cancer care. A key initial step within the CEPF is to map and engage stakeholders across city and national levels that'll lead on health systems strengthening for cancer care with the support of C/Can's technical cooperation program.

RESULTS

Since the launch of the C/Can Abuja initiative in October 2023, stakeholder engagement across sectors including the government offices (n=6), treatment/diagnostics centers (n=8), civil society organizations (n=15), professional medical associations (n=10), media (n=8), and private sector (n=8) have been fundamental in connecting the cancer ecosystem. Overall, more than 150 institutions have been mapped. 22 in-person meetings have been conducted with key stakeholders to identify common goals and explore areas of collaboration. Notably, showprooving the city's readiness and commitment, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Abuja Federal Capital Territory Administration, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative and Medicaid Cancer Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding with C/Can to formalize the initiative.

CONCLUSION

Multi-sectoral stakeholder engagement and its local ownership is fundamental to achieving C/Can's initiative. Abuja city stakeholders are collectively working together to transform the cancer care landscape, with the goal to advance access to quality cancer care for patients in Abuja, eventually informing national policymaking and practice.
Disparities in Native American Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An NCDB Analysis
Authors: Al Kurnas Mohammed , Mishra Anjali , Wu Xinxin , Silberstein Peter
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is on the rise in the United States and worldwide. Native Americans have been found to have higher rates of mortality from HCC compared to the rest of the population. The purpose of this study is to identify disparities that affect Native Americans with HCC.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort analysis utilizing the National Cancer Database identified 275801 patients diagnosed with HCC (ICD-8170-3) between 2004 and 2020. Descriptive statistics for all HCC patients were collected. Those who identified as American Indian, Aleutian, or Eskimo were grouped as Native American, and all other races (AOR) were grouped as other. Sex, median household income, and facility type were compared between Native American patients and patients of AOR using Pearson Chi-Square test. Age at diagnosis and great circle distance between Native Americans and AOR were evaluated using independent t-test. All variables were evaluated for a significance of P < 0.05.

RESULTS

In total, 2078 cases were in Native Americans (0.8%) with 205246 cases in white patients (74.4%) and 40772 cases in black patients (14.8%). Native Americans had a higher proportion of female patients compared to AOR (30.8% vs. 25.8%, P < 0.05). Native Americans were less likely to be treated at an academic facility compared to AOR (42.2% vs. 51.0%, P < 0.05). Native Americans were also more likely to be lower income when compared to AOR (51.0% vs 39.6%). The average age at diagnosis was significantly lower in Native Americans compared with AOR (61.6 years vs. 64.1 years, P < 0.05). Great circle distance was significantly greater for Native Americans compared with AOR (90.8 miles vs. 40.6 miles, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Having identified significant disparities in Native Americans with HCC, we hope this can provide a starting point in studying the effects these disparities may have on treatment outcomes and overall survival.
Epidemiology of Lymphomas in Latin America
Authors: Beltran Brady , Torres Maria , Villela Luis , Idrobo Henry , von Glasenapp Alana , Valvert Fabiola , Oliver Carolina , Roa Macarena , Candelaria Myrna , Stemmelin German , Rios Rosa , Perini Guilherme , Zamora Marcela , Macias Jose , Leautaud Veronica , Flowers Christopher
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is the most common hematological cancer worldwide. T/NK cell and viral-associated NHL (EBV, HTLV-1) are aggressive cancers that, although considered rare in the United States, are commonly seen in Latin American (LATAM) countries and carry poor outcomes with conventional therapies. This study aims to address the significant burden of NHL in LATAM by establishing the ‘Epidemiology of Lymphomas in Latin America (ELLA)’ cohort study. The purpose is to improve understanding of NHL prevalent in LATAM, develop novel prognostication models, and explore novel immunotherapeutic strategies using antigen-discovery platforms.

METHODS

The ELLA study proposes a prospective cohort design over 5 years, involving the enrollment of up to 3,000 newly diagnosed NHL patients in LATAM enriched for T/NK and viral-associated NHL (e.g. peripheral T cell lymphomas, EBV positive lymphomas). Clinical data will be recorded into RedCap database (powered by MD Anderson’s RedCap system); germline DNA and tumor samples will be collected at diagnosis and to perform WES and RNA seq. Current prognostic scoring systems (developed in Causian populations) will be validated and develop novel prognostic scoring systems for patients with NHL in LATAM. We will also characterize the immunologic landscape of T/NK and viral-associated NHL using the generated genomic data and for epitope discovery and mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidome validation for the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies.

RESULTS

The Grupo de Estudio Latinoamericano de Linfoproliferativos (GELL) has collected retrospective data and tumor samples of >5000 LATAM NHL patients. Leveraging GELL’s experience, through the establishment of the ‘ELLA’ cohort study, prospective data on NHL patients in LATAM will be gathered. To date, we have validated the IPI, R-IPI, PIT, and NCCN IPI scores in LATAM NHL patients and have developed novel prognostic models for HTLV-1-associated adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and EBV positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma. Genomic sequencing of patients with these viral-associated NHL is undergoing.

CONCLUSION

The 'ELLA' cohort study holds promise in addressing the disparities and challenges faced by NHL patients in LATAM. By empowering local clinicians and scientists, narrowing healthcare disparities, and improving prognostication and therapeutic strategies, this study aims to improve outcomes, survivorship, and the development of clinical trials in the region.
Evaluation of Urban Versus Rural Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Africa
Authors: Mann Erin , Loon Erica , Akambase Joseph , Searle Kelly , Debes Jose
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Sub-Saharan Africa carries one of the highest burdens of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the world, with hepatitis B (HBV) as the most common cause. Globally, there is evidence that rural communities experience disproportionate cancer morbidity compared to urban ones. However, no study has examined these differences in Africa.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of studies on HCC in Africa, later completing a meta-analysis using data from those studies to assess mean age, proportion of males, and of HBV positive patients in relation to location of the study. Using land-use/land cover data available from European Space Agency sentinel imagery on Africa, we categorized locations and calculated the distance in kilometers from each study site to the closest rural area (agricultural land). These distances were divided into halves and subsequent quartiles. Logistic regression models were fit to estimate 1) the association between distance to the closest rural area and HBV and 2) the association between distance to the closest rural area and gender. Weighted mean age was calculated for each quartile.

RESULTS

978 studies were retrieved through electronic database search. After removing duplicates and relevance, fifty-seven articles were included. Data on 10,608 patients was used in the meta-analysis across 19 countries in Africa. 74% of patients were male and the weighted mean age was 52.5 years. Proximity to a rural area was associated with increased odds of HBV after controlling for country, with locations closest to a rural region (<3.2 km) having 3.1 times higher odds of HBV-HCC (95% CI 2.65 - 3.60, p <0.001) compared to patients in locations furthest from rural areas (>9.5 km). When analyzing only studies in West Africa, those in locations closest to rural areas also showed higher odds of HBV-HCC (OR: 1.43, 95% CI 1.15-1.76, p<0.001) compared to those furthest from rural areas. However, patients in studies between 6.3 and 9.5 km had decreased odds of HBV (OR: 0.42, 95% CI 0.28-0.63, p<0.001). No association was found between proximity to a rural area and gender or age (50, 53, 47 and 53 y/o, respectively, per distance quartile).

CONCLUSION

We found an association between proximity to a rural area and odds of HBV-associated HCC in Africa in the first study of its kind. Further research is needed to understand the burden of HBV-related HCC in Africa across rural and urban areas.
Exploring pVHL Regulation of α5 Integrin by the Endocytic Pathway in Relation to Kidney Cancers Resulting From VHL Disease
Authors: Dave Chandni
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

The Von-Hippel Lindau (VHL) gene encodes for a tumor suppressor protein, pVHL, which is responsible for the regulation of a family cancer syndrome. Mutations in pVHL render the protein non-functional which can lead to VHL disease and the growth of benign and malignant tumors. pVHL is part of the ubiquitin E3 ligase complex which attaches ubiquitin to target substrates. Alpha 5 (α5) integrin levels have shown to decrease in the presence of functional pVHL, however, the mechanism by which the process occurs is unclear. It is hypothesized that mutations in pVHL could inhibit integrin degradation and allow some integrins to recycle to the cell membrane leading to tumor metastasis.

METHODS

Endocytic pathway proteins Rab5a and Rablla were used as vesicle markers to characterize the movement of integrins on the pathway. The 786-O cell line comes from a patient that had VHL disease. 786-O VHL– cells are the parental line that do not have a functional VHL gene. 786-O VHL+ cells are a cell line in which a functional copy of the VHL gene was reintroduced as a plasmid to the parental cell line. The 786-O cell lines will be immunostained to determine changes in abundance and location of vesicles containing these proteins.

RESULTS

Immunostaining revealed that Rab11a has been shown to localize closer to the surface of cancerous 786-O cells in comparison to non-cancerous 786-O cells. Immunostaining of the Rab5a dominant active form Q79L was shown to form large vesicles in VHL+ cells while the dominant negative Rab5a S34N was shown to form smaller vesicles in VHL+ cells.

CONCLUSION

Rab11a may play a role in the mechanism behind tumor development in VHL disease because of the distinct organization of the proteins to the cell surface in cancerous 786-O cells. Rab5a dominant active and dominant negative forms have been shown to affect the formation of vesicles between VHL– and VHL+ 786-O cells. Immunostaining and immunoprecipitation assays will be conducted to determine whether Rab11a and Rab5a colocalize with α5 integrin.
Exploring Regional Disparities: Access to Non-Surgical Liver Neoplasm Treatments in Brazil
Authors: da Silva Meneses Beatriz , Eduarda de Aguiar Tavares Marcella , Krug Alana Bruna , da Silva de Carvalho Luiza , Dornelas Luana Baptistele , Vitória da Silva Vieira Laynara , Pitombo Marcos Bettini
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

To investigate the geographic accessibility of non-surgical treatments for liver neoplasms across Brazilian regions, analyzing the correlation between the patient's residential location and hospitalization site.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted following the STROBE checklist, utilizing DATASUS’s Hospital Information System. Data confidentiality and ethical approval were ensured. All percutaneous alcohol injection, radiofrequency ablation, and chemoembolization from all hospitals were searched. Based on the PICO principle: People with liver cancer in Brazil from 2013 to 2023 (Population) analyzing the correlation between the patient's residence location and the patient's place of hospitalization for percutaneous alcohol injection (Cod: 0416040179), radiofrequency ablation (Cod: 0416040187), and chemoembolization (Cod: 0416040195) (Interest) Brazilian region (Context).

RESULTS

In our analysis of patients undergoing liver neoplasm treatment search a total of 14104 procedures. A descriptive statistical analysis of hospitalization data unveils a noteworthy trend in patient relocation. The North showed the highest relocation rate (91.41%) only 17 inpatients at local hospitals out of a total of 198 with liver cancer. The Midwest region also stood out due to migration, with 237 patients treated at local hospitals out of a total of 467 residents, there were 230 migrations (49,25%). The South region (0.93%, 31 inpatients) smaller migration. The Southeast region, witnessing a substantial influx of 8142 hospitalizations compared to 7767 residents (increase of 4.8% due to patient migration). The Northeast region, where hospitalizations sums up to 2431, accounting for 2364 resident patients (2.83% increase due to migration).

CONCLUSION

The North region may see high patient mobility for medical care, contrasting with the Southeast. The healthcare gap highlights the need for equity measures and regional integration to enhance liver cancer treatment for all patients, regardless of location.
Future Fertility Among Pediatric Cancer Patients: Experiences and Perspectives of Health Workers in a Low Resource Setting
Authors: Kayiira Anthony , McLaughlin Sarah , John Jennifer Neda , Zaake Daniel , Xiong Serena , Balagadde Joyce Kambugu , Gomez-Lobo Veronica , Wabinga Henry , Ghebre Rahel
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

While fertility preservation for childhood and adolescent cancer patients is considered standard of care in the high-resource settings, it is rarely offered in low-resource settings. This study explores the experiences and perspectives of oncology healthcare professionals in Uganda to identify contextual barriers and facilitators to addressing oncofertility in low-resource settings.

METHODS

As part of the Understanding Reproductive Health among Survivors of Pediatric and Young adult (URHSPY) cancers project, we conducted in-depth interviews of healthcare professionals involved in the cancer care of pediatric patients at the Uganda Cancer Institute. Participants were asked about their understanding of fertility preservation for pediatric cancer patients and their perspectives on implementing this care in the institution. This qualitative approach applied ground theory methodology. Interview transcripts were openly coded and analyzed into refined categories and concepts.

RESULTS

Twelve healthcare professionals were interviewed. Most participants identified as female (n=9). Their role in the medical team varied from nurses (n=6), medical officers (n=3), pediatric oncologists (n=2), and pediatric oncology fellow (n=1). Six themes were noted: (1) Importance of information, (2) Importance of future fertility, (3) inadequate consideration to future fertility, (4) communication barriers, (5) inadequate knowledge, and (6) resource barriers.

CONCLUSION

Although healthcare providers at the Uganda Cancer Institute face contextual barriers to addressing future fertility among pediatric cancer patients, they value the importance of preserving fertility in this population. Future initiatives that aim to introduce oncofertility care in low-resource settings should prioritize educating providers and building capacity to meet the oncofertility needs in this setting.
Interactive Education Promotes Cervical Cancer Preventative Practices in Northwest Nigeria: Interactive Education Promotes Cervical Cancer Preventative Practices in Northwest Nigeria
Authors: Mfuh Anita Yafeh , Lukong Christopher , Ejembi Clara
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Cervical cancer is a significant health issue worldwide. In 2020, it accounted for 604 000 new cases and 342 000 deaths (WHO, 2022), with low- and middle-income nations contributing over 90% of new cases and related deaths worldwide (Sung, 2021). Nigeria has one of the highest rates of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa (Bruni et al, 2021). Lack of awareness about cervical cancer prevention was reported in 72.2% of studies of young people (Adewumi et al., 2022). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cervical cancer prevention interactive education program on female student`s knowledge and willingness to prevent cervical cancer in Northwest Nigeria.

METHODS

We employed a quasi-experimental design with a self-administered questionnaire for data collection. Respondents were of ages 18-35 years recruited by clustering faculties and using systematic sampling method. Information about cervical cancer and prevention was administered twice, with a 6-hour interval after the education by lecture method using power-point. Data analysis was by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Descriptive and inferential statistics for frequency distribution, chi square test and paired t-test were computed.

RESULTS

Knowledge mean score for cervical cancer improved from (11.33±7.28) at pre intervention to (21.20±47) at post intervention phase. Knowledge of cervical cancer prevention also increased, from a mean score of 0.99 to 1.44 between pre- and post-test. The intention towards preventing cervical cancer also increased from an aggregate mean score at pretest of 1.11 to 1.37 at posttest. The paired t- test also showed a difference in the mean pretest and post test score (t =4.406 p = 0.012) and implied knowledge gain for cervical cancer prevention.

CONCLUSION

Educational intervention was effective at improving student`s knowledge of cervical cancer and their intent to prevent it. We therefore recommend that educational interventions should be carried out among students in northwest Nigeria.
Metabolic Reprogramming and Extracranial Solid Tumor Evolution in Infants
Authors: Subramanian Poorvi , Aravindan Natarajan
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Disease progression after intensive multi modal clinical therapy poses grave concern not only on the quality of life but on the very survival of children presented with neuroblastoma. Acquired modifications of energy metabolism in the tumor cells that defy clinical therapy plays pivotal role in frequent and rapid tumor relapse.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We investigated the mechanisms of how these cells adopt metabolic rearrangements with therapy pressure. Our earlier findings showed the constitutive availability of retinal degeneration protein 3 (RD3) in human fetal tissues beyond retina, displayed its functional role in tumor pathogenesis, and unearthed its significance in neuroblastoma clinical outcomes. Herein, with the gene surrogate strategy, the whole genome RNA sequencing in reverse engineered (bed-to-bench) patient derived cell lines showed a patient-independent, RD3-dependent stabilization of metabolic programming. Loss of RD3 altered crucial metabolic pathways and coordinated metabolic mayhem in high-risk stage-4 disease. Evaluating the glycolysis phenotype with seahorse revealed that RD3 loss dependent increase in extracellular acidification rate (EACR) associated with glycolysis, glycolytic capacity and glycolytic reserves in therapy defying progressive disease. Critically, therapeutic delivery of RD3 (custom archived and characterized RD3 peptide candidates) significantly deregulated glycolysis in such progressive disease that lack RD3, recognizing a RD3-dependent regulation of metabolic activity.

CONCLUSION

Our study outcomes clearly portrayed the thus far unrealized significance of therapy pressure driven RD3 loss mediated metabolism deregulation in neuroblastoma. Crucially, these new findings will pave way for the identification of a novel targeted maintenance therapeutic strategy for treatment of this deadly disease.
Circulating Lipid Profiles Associated With Resistance to Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lin Hui-Ming , Yang Xiaoyu , Centenera Margaret M. , Huynh Kevin , Giles Corey , Dehairs Jonas , Swinnen Johannes V. , Hoy Andrew J. , Meikle Peter J. , Butler Lisa M. , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Horvath Lisa G.
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Intense androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) before radical prostatectomy (RP) produced favorable pathologic responses in approximately 20% of patients. The molecular reason for the low rate of response remains unclear. Lipid metabolism is known to influence androgen receptor signaling and ARPI efficacy. The aim of the study was to identify circulating lipid profiles associated with ADT/ARPI resistance in localized prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two independent experimental approaches were used. Experiment 1: Post hoc analysis of the association between plasma lipidomic profiles and ADT/ARPI response was performed on patients (n = 104) from two phase II trials of neoadjuvant ADT/ARPI. Response to ADT/ARPI was defined by pathologic response. Experiment 2: Patient-derived tumor explants from RP (n = 105) were cultured in enzalutamide for 48 hours. Explant response to enzalutamide was evaluated against pre-RP plasma lipidomic profiles (n = 105) and prostate tissue lipidomic profiles (n = 36). Response was defined by Ki67 (cell proliferation marker) fold difference between enzalutamide and vehicle-treated explants. In both experiments, associations between lipid profiles and ADT/ARPI response were analyzed by latent class analysis.

RESULTS

Pretreatment plasma lipid profiles classified each experimental cohort into two groups with differences in ADT/ARPI response rates. The response rates of the groups were 9.6% versus 29% in experiment 1 (chi-squared test P = .012) and 49% versus 70% in experiment 2 (chi-squared test P = .037). In both experiments, the group with a higher incidence of ADT/ARPI resistance had higher plasma levels of sphingomyelin, glycosylceramides, free fatty acids, acylcarnitines, cholesterol esters, and alkyl/alkenyl-phosphatidylcholine and lower plasma levels of triacylglycerols, diacylglycerols, and phosphoethanolamine (t-test P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment circulating lipid profiles are associated with ADT/ARPI resistance in localized cancer in both human cohorts and explant models.
Dynamic Incentives and Permit Market Equilibrium in Cap-and-Trade Regulation
Authors: Toyama Yuta
Published: July 2024

This paper develops and estimates a dynamic structural model of emissions abatement, investment, and permit trading with banking under cap-and-trade regulation. The model accounts for forward-looking behavior and transaction costs in the permit market, which determine the temporal and geographical distribution of emissions in equilibrium and, thus, the welfare implications of the regulation. The model is applied to the US Acid Rain Program to evaluate the role of regulatory designs. Permit banking mitigates inefficiencies arising from transaction costs and modifies the timing of emissions. An emissions tax policy could achieve an outcome close to dynamic cap and trade without transaction costs. (JEL D23, H23, L94, L98, Q52, Q53, Q58)
Everyday Econometricians: Selection Neglect and Overoptimism When Learning from Others
Authors: Barron Kai , Huck Steffen , Jehiel Philippe
Published: July 2024

This study explores selection neglect in an experimental investment game where individuals can learn from others’ outcomes. Experiment 1 examines aggregate-level equilibrium behavior. We find strong evidence of selection neglect and corroborate several comparative static predictions of Jehiel’s (2018) model, showing that the severity of the bias is aggravated by the sophistication of other individuals and moderated when information is more correlated across individuals. Experiment 2 focuses on individual decision-making, isolating the influence of beliefs from possible confounding factors. This allows us to classify individuals according to their degree of naïvety and explore the limits of, and potential remedies for, selection neglect. (JEL C91, D12, D83, D91, G41)
Correlation Neglect in Student-to-School Matching
Authors: Rees-Jones Alex , Shorrer Ran , Tergiman Chloe
Published: July 2024

We present results from three experiments containing incentivized school choice scenarios. In these scenarios, we vary whether schools’ assessments of students are based on a common priority (inducing correlation in admissions decisions) or are based on independent assessments (eliminating correlation in admissions decisions). The quality of students’ application strategies declines in the presence of correlated admissions: application strategies become substantially more aggressive and fail to include attractive “safety” options. We provide a battery of tests suggesting that this phenomenon is at least partially driven by correlation neglect, and we discuss implications for the design and deployment of student-to-school matching mechanisms. (JEL C78, C91, D82, I23)
Monitoring Teams
Authors: Halac Marina , Kremer Ilan , Winter Eyal
Published: July 2024

A principal incentivizes a group of agents to work by choosing a monitoring structure and a scheme of performance-contingent rewards. The monitoring structure partitions the set of agents into monitoring teams, each delivering a signal of joint performance. We show that unlike under partial implementation, the principal always exhausts her monitoring capacity to optimally implement work as a unique outcome. Optimal monitoring teams are homogeneous between them: equally sized and with agents allocated in an anti-assortative fashion. Higher-effort-cost agents receive lower rents, and they tend to be monitored more closely than lower-effort-cost agents when the principal’s allocation is constrained. (JEL D82, D86, M54)
Enhancing the antibacterial and surface hardness of glass ionomer cement modified with Salvadora persica and Chlorhexidine: An in vitro study
Authors: Siddiqui Adel Zia , Sultana Nighat , Mirani Zulfiqar Ali , Alkhureif Abdulaziz Abdullah , Rehan Faisal , Siddiqui Iftikhar Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Objective: This laboratory study evaluated the effect of Salvadora persica (S. persica) root extracts and Chlorhexidine Digluconate (CHX) on the antibacterial and surface hardness properties of glass ionomer cement (GIC).
Methods: The in vitro experimental study was conducted at the Baqai Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan, from October 2022 to March 2023. There were a total four experimental groups. The first group consisted of ethanol extract (GIC-SPEE) and second group consisted of hexane extract as (GIC-SPHE) both prepared from Salvadora persica root respectively, and mixed with liquid of GIC separately. The third group comprised chlorhexidine (GIC-CHX) that was also mixing into liquid portion of GIC and the last group was Control i.e. (cGIC). The GIC samples were prepared by using stainless steel metallic moulds with dimension (5mm x 2mm), following the manufacturer guidelines. Antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans was done by disc diffusion test (DDT), and surface hardness test was done by Vickers hardness tester. Statistical analysis was performed using One-Way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc tests (p<0.05).
Results: The antibacterial activity against S. mutans reported that the maximum zone of inhibition was obtained at 3 wt% by the GIC-SPEE, when compared with other experimental groups. For surface hardness, the highest mean and standard deviation and significant findings was reported by the group GIC-SPEE.
Conclusions: Considering the outcome of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that the addition of 3 wt% GIC-SPEE increased the surface hardness and antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.8.9190
How to cite this: Siddiqui AZ, Sultana N, Mirani ZA, Alkhureif AA, Rehan F, Siddiqui IA. Enhancing the antibacterial and surface hardness of glass ionomer cement modified with Salvadora persica and Chlorhexidine: An in vitro study. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(8):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.8.9190
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Γνωσιολογικά ζητήματα στο ανέκδοτο φιλοσοφικό έργο του Γερασίμου Βλάχου "Εἰς τὰ Περὶ τῆς ψυχῆς τοῦ Ἀριστοτέλους Βιβλία (1654)"
Authors: Νταλιάνη Ελευθερία
Published: July 2024

Aντικείμενο της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής είναι η μελέτη, η μεταγραφή και η ερμηνευτική προσέγγιση του χειρόγραφου φιλοσοφικού συγγράμματος του Γερασίμου Βλάχου με τίτλο "Εἰς τὰ Περὶ τῆς ψυχῆς τοῦ Ἀριστοτέλους Βιβλία (1654)" από το οποίο συνάγονται οι γνωσιοθεωρητικές θέσεις του Νεοέλληνα φιλοσόφου αξιοποιώντας τη μέθοδο της Immanentinterpretation, της εγγενούς δηλαδή ερμηνείας. Οι απόψεις του Βλάχου αφορούν τον τρόπο με τον οποίο συγκροτείται το γνωστικό γεγονός, τις πηγές της γνώσης και την ουσία της ψυχής, θέματα τα οποία προσείλκυσαν το ενδιαφέρον κορυφαίων Νεοελλήνων φιλοσόφων, όπως επί παραδείγματι του Ευγένιου Βούλγαρη. Ωστόσο, το χειρόγραφο αυτό είναι ένα χρήσιμο εργαλείο για την ερμηνεία όχι μόνο γνωσιολογικών, αλλά και ευρύτερου ενδιαφέροντος ζητημάτων.
Comparative evaluation of efficacy of Trayodashang Guggul versus Rasona Pinda as an adjuvant with Katibasti in the management of Grudhrasi (Sciatica): A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rai Mayank , Misar Sadhana , Gamne Reeya
Published: July 2024

Background In ayurveda, sciatica can be correlated to ‘Grudhrasi’ under Vata Nanatmaja-Vyadhi (neurological disorders caused by Vata, one of the bodily humour). In this mainly bodily humours vata and kapha are vitiating producing symptoms like piercing pain, stiffness, twitching, numbness and pain radiating from lumbosacral region to lower limb up to the foot. Therapeutic plan includes stabilizing and bringing back the vitiated vata and kapha humours to equilibrium. The prevalence of sciatica varies considerably ranging from 3.8% in the working population to 7.9% in the nonworking population. Aim Comparative evaluation of efficacy of Rasonapinda and Trayodashang guggul as an adjuvant to katibasti (oil pooling therapy) in the management of Grudhrasi (Sciatica). Objectives To assess the efficacy of Rasonapinda as an adjuvant to katibasti in subjective and objective parameters of Grudhrasi (Sciatica). To assess the efficacy of Trayodashang guggul as an adjuvant to katibasti in subjective and objective parameters of Grudhrasi (Sciatica). To compare the efficacy of Rasonapinda and Trayodashang guggul as an adjuvant to katibasti in subjective and objective parameters. Standardisation of Rasonapinda (modified formvati). Methods In this study, a total of 60 patients will be enrolled and divided equally into two groups. In group A, Trayodashang Guggul 500 mg twice a day after meal with warm water for 30 days adjuvant with katibasti for the initial 7 days will be given. In group B, Rasonapinda 500 mg twice a day after meal with warm water adjuvant with katibasti for the initial 7 days will be given for 30 days. Result The result will be assessed on baseline of subjective and objective parameters and data will be compared after treatment. Conclusions It will be based on observations and results obtained. Trial registration CTRI No. - CTRI/2022/12/048534 Dated – 27/12/2022.
Standard operating procedure for the analysis of major ions in hydrothermal fluids by ion chromatography
Authors: Correggia Monica , Di Iorio Luciano , Bastianoni Alessia Benedicta , Yucel Mustafa , Cordone Angelina , Giovannelli Donato
Published: July 2024

This standard operating procedure (SOP) describes an ion chromatography (IC) procedure for the major cations and anions in hydrothermal fluids. Hydrothermal fluids are aqueous solutions with a wide range of temperature, salinity, pH and ion species that can be used by microbial metabolism as electron donors and electron acceptors. Due to the high variability of the environmental physical-chemical parameters in these samples, we have developed this protocol taking into account the special features of the matrices analyzed. An Eco IC Metrohm system equipped with a conductivity detector was used. Calibration curves are linear in the 0.1 to 10 mg/L concentration range for cations Ca2+, Na+, K+, Mg2+, NH4 + and anions Cl-, Br-, NO3 -, NO2 -, SO4 2- , PO4 3-.
Comparative analysis of identity management, access control, and authorization practices in public and private universities
Authors: Mollakuqe Elissa , Dimitrova Vesna
Published: July 2024

Background This research delves into the critical aspects of identity management, access control, and authorization practices within the domains of public and private universities. Identity management involves the meticulous management and control of user identities, encompassing the establishment and maintenance of user profiles, role assignments, and access privileges. Access control is the practice of defining and enforcing policies that govern who can access an IT system or application and which resources they can interact with. Authorization, meanwhile, determines the specific actions and privileges granted to users based on their roles and permissions. Methods To understand the variances in identity management and access control approaches, we conducted a comparative analysis between public and private universities. Our investigation scrutinized the user populations with access to university systems, the enforcement of access limitations, authentication methods, and password policies. Additionally, we examined the nuances of authorization processes, levels of authorization, access approval authorities, user status and role changes, unique user account management, account deletion procedures, user authentication methods, password complexity and expiration policies, password storage methods, and session termination policies. Results This study revealed that both public and private universities prioritize these security measures, with a common categorization of these processes. Nevertheless, there exist disparities, such as the inclusion of contractors and vendors in the user population at private universities, the manual deletion of user accounts in private institutions, and variations in password policies and storage methods. Private universities tend to enforce stricter password policies, employ more secure password storage methods, and implement automatic session termination features. Conclusions This research provides valuable insights into the practices and approaches adopted by public and private universities to safeguard their digital environments. The findings serve as a valuable resource for enhancing identity management, access control, and authorization protocols, enabling institutions to fortify their cybersecurity defenses in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
CMIP6-based global estimates of future aridity index and potential evapotranspiration for 2021-2060
Authors: Zomer Robert J. , Xu Jianchu , Spano Donatella , Trabucco Antonio
Published: July 2024

The “Future Global Aridity Index and PET Database” provides high-resolution (30 arc-seconds) average annual and monthly global estimates of potential evapotranspiration (PET) and aridity index (AI) for 22 CMIP6 Earth System Models for two future (2021-2041; 2041-2060) and two historical (1960-1990; 1970–2000) time periods, for each of four shared socio-economic pathways (SSP). Three multimodel ensemble averages are also provided (All; Majority Consensus, High Risk) with different level of risks linked to climate model uncertainty. An overview of the methodological approach, geospatial implementation and a technical evaluation of the results is provided. Historical results were compared for technical validation with weather station data (PET: r 2 = 0.72; AI: r 2 = 0.91) and the CRU_TS v 4.04 dataset (PET: r 2 = 0.67; AI: r 2 = 0.80). Within the context of projected significant change in the near- and medium-term, the “Future_Global_AI_PET Database” provides a set of data projections and tools available for a variety of scientific and practical applications, illustrating trends and magnitude of predicted climatic and eco-hydrological impacts on terrestrial ecosystems. The Future_Global_AI_PET Database is archived in the ScienceDB repository and available online at: https://doi.org/10.57760/sciencedb.nbsdc.00086
Later eating rhythm measured in children at 7 years of age in the ALSPAC cohort
Authors: Zou Mengxuan , Johnson Laura , Leary Sam , Ibacache Fuentes Francisca , Northstone Kate
Published: July 2024

Later eating rhythm (LER) refers to later timing, greater energy intake (EI), and higher frequency of eating occasions (meal/snack) in the evening. The significance of LER in child health is becoming increasingly recognised. However, the lack of consensus regarding definitions of LER make it challenging to fully comprehend its role. This data note describes LER variables derived in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), an ongoing birth cohort which enrolled 14,541 pregnant women living in Avon, UK, with an expected date of delivery between April 1991 - December 1992. When children were 7 years, parents completed a structured 3-day food diary, recording all foods/drinks consumed over 3 days (preferably 1 weekend day and 2 weekdays). Data was available for 7,285 children (50.1% response rate). A subsample of 4,869 children had exact time of eating occasions added to the existing database, which only included broad indications of eating timing based on 2-7 hour long meal slots. 13 LER variables were derived for the entire week and weekdays/weekend days separately. These comprise: 1) eating around individual bedtime (number days); 2) eating around average bedtime (0number days); 3) time of evening main meal (hrs:mins); 4) time of last eating occasion (hrs:mins); 5) EI in the evening (percentage of total daily energy intake, %TDEI); 6) EI within 2hrs before bedtime (%TDEI); 7) EI for evening main meal (%TDEI); 8) EI for evening snacks (%TDEI); 9) Night eating1 (NE1): eating over 30% of total daily energy intake after 18:00 (number days); 10) NE2: eating over 25% of total daily energy intake within 2hrs before bedtime (number days); 11) eating frequency after 17:00 (number of eating occasions); 12) regularity of dinner (0, 1, 2, 3 days); 13) frequency of evening snacks (number days). We describe the derivation, prevalence and inter-corelations between LER variables.
The genome sequence of the springtail, Dicyrtomina minuta (O.Fabricius, 1783)
Authors: Jaron Kamil S. , Schneider Clément , Hodson Christina N. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Dicyrtomina minuta (springtail; Arthropoda; Collembola; Symphypleona; Dicyrtomidae). The genome sequence is 582.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 5 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X1 and X2 sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.59 kilobases in length.