bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To Resist is to Survive: Lived Experiences of the Untenured Migrants in the Watershed Protected Areas
Authors: Garson Cecilia , Julian Edward
Published: March 2024

Many watersheds in the country are being occupied by untenured settlers who are not aware of the danger it will cause to our protected areas. Watershed provides a “well-balanced” system. Healthy watersheds also offer commercially viable natural resources (such as wood and non-wood products) and water for residential, agricultural, and industrial applications, well- maintained and balanced watersheds also provide environmental services. Furthermore, watersheds act as homes for different kinds of plants and animals. This study is qualitative research which delved into the experiences and struggles of occupants of informal settlers, within the Olongapo Watershed Forest Reserve, which is reflected in the results and discussion. Results and findings were discussed by forming themes and meanings elicited from informants’ responses. The study revealed that participants chose to stay in the protected area because of the demands of their job, access to basic services, and poverty. People were drawn to occupy the watershed protected areas because they could not afford a decent house to call their own. Furthermore, illegal occupants and DENR representatives face inherent problems due to a lack of knowledge and strict implementation of certain policies, which explains why these tenants continue to stay in the said location. It is also fascinating that, considering the tenants’ anxieties brought by the threat of termination or eviction, they still hope that the government will give them consideration to have a full legal right to own a piece of land from the protected area or give them justifiable relocation sites where they can start anew. On the other hand, while it is difficult for them to grasp the reality of the consequences of living there, they are all open to dialogue and prepared to follow the rule of law. In addition, the government must set the proper conditions and benefits for the informal settlers to have a successful peaceful and humane manner of relocating informal settlers if they want to conserve and protect the OWFR.
Tutorat auprès d’apprenants en situation de handicap : quels apprentissages pour les étudiants-tuteurs d’une Grande École d’ingénieurs?
Authors: Husson Lionel , Philion Ruth , Janand Anne , Bournaud Isabelle
Published: March 2024

Les établissements d’enseignement connaissent depuis une dizaine d’années une augmentation importante des élèves et étudiants en situation de handicap (SH). Plusieurs de ces apprenants rencontrent des défis reliés à l’apprentissage ou à l’intégration scolaire et sociale. Pour les aider à remédier à ces difficultés, une Grande École d’ingénieurs française a déployé un programme de tutorat qui consiste à offrir un soutien disciplinaire et méthodologique à des apprenants en SH. Étant donné le caractère novateur de ce projet, nous avons mené une recherche qualitative afin d’appréhender l’expérience de 12 étudiants-tuteurs de cette Grande École ayant documenté dans un journal d’expériences chacune des séances offertes à leur tutoré. L’analyse des données met en évidence les multiples apprentissages réalisés sur les plans pédagogiques (adaptation de leurs enseignements et leurs approches), personnels (mise à contribution d’une diversité de compétences) et professionnels (évolution de leur rapport au handicap et plus grande ouverture à l’inclusion). Des défis sont également soulignés, notamment lorsque les compétences ou connaissances à mobiliser entraîne un investissement trop important, ainsi que les limites du tutorat offert en distanciel.
Efficacy of intraovarian autologous platelet-rich plasma administration in women with low ovarian reserve: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sa’diah Yasmin Sabina , Dewanto Agung , Chandra Lukman A
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To conduct a systematic examination and meta-analysis of the most reliable data from experimental studies evaluating the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on low ovarian reserve.

Methods:

A comprehensive search was performed utilizing pertinent search terms across electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. We included studies that assigned infertile women with low ovarian reserve in experimental studies. Ovarian reserve parameters were measured before and after PRP injection into ovaries. The data of each study was retrieved and subsequently compiled.

Results:

Of 301 articles collected and reviewed, six studies were finally included in the meta-analysis. Following PRP injection, infertile women showed a non-significant increase in anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level (MD=0.10; 95% CI -0.04, 0.23), a significant increase in antral follicular count (AFC) (MD=1.88; 95% CI 0.47, 3.29), and a non-significant reduction in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level (MD=-0.22; 95% CI -8.32, 7.87).

Conclusions:

Autologous PRP may increase AFC, but not AMH. Although it is found beneficial in enhancing ovarian reserve (AFC), further research with strong evidence is still required.
Effect of herbal mouthwashes from Nimba (Azardirachta indica A. Juss) and curry leaves (Murraya Koenigii (L.) Spreng.) on dental plaque, Streptococcus mutans count, and gingival health in school-going children: An open-label, randomized trial
Authors: Yadav Madhukar , Gupta Sonal , Panwar Mahima
Published: March 2024

Background:

Herbal drugs have been used since ancient times; oral rinse of Nimba (Azardirachta indica A. Juss, locally known as the Neem) and curry leaves (Murraya Koenigii (L.) Spreng., locally known as the Meethi Neem) is one of them for maintaining better oral hygiene.

Aim:

The study aimed at determining the effect of indigenously prepared two herbal and 0.2% chlorhexidine (control group) mouthwashes on dental plaque, Streptococcus mutans count and gingival health in school-going children.

Material and methods:

Trial design was parallel with an allocation ratio of 1:1:1. Total 120 included children aged 8–14 years were randomized into three groups, namely, Neem leaves (n = 40), curry leaves (n = 40), and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash (n = 40) group. At the baseline examination, plaque and gingival scores were recorded and plaque samples were taken for S. mutans count estimation. The data were entered into Microsoft Excel and analysis was performed using statistical software “SPSS-22.” Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance were applied for evaluation. Tukey’s post hoc test was used to evaluate the difference between the pairs of mouthwashes.

Results:

Statistically significant differences were found between CHX and Neem and curry leaves in plaque index, S. mutans count, and gingival index at 14 and 21 days from baseline. Neem and curry leaves were equally effective as CHX.

Conclusion:

Neem and curry leaves mouthwashes are equally effective as antiplaque and anti-gingivitis agents as that of CHX mouthwash.
Efficacy and safety of Naga Bhasma and Nisha-Amalaki Churna in the management of Madhumeha (type 2 diabetes) - A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Krushnakumar Taviad , Sarika Makwana , Prashant Bedarkar , Patgiri BJ
Published: March 2024

Background:

Increasing global incidence of diabetes is a serious issue and large number of researches are undergoing to find promising cure of this chronic disease. Many Ayurveda drugs have been evaluated for anti-diabetic properties; however, researches on metallic/mineral based drugs are very few. The present study aimed to assess the comparative efficacy and safety ofShashti Puta Naga Bhasma(SNB) -Trimshati Puta Naga Bhasma(TNB) withNisha-Amalaki Churna(NAC), NAC and metformin in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods:

In this prospective, randomized, double blind, active controlled study; 132 patients with type 2 diabetes were included and randomly divided into four groups. Patients were treated with NAC (125 mg) with placebo (roastedSooji;course powder of wheat flour), SNB (62.5 mg) with NAC (125 mg), TNB (62.5 mg) with NAC (125 mg) twice daily before food with honey while patients in last group were continued with their ongoing Tablet Metformin 500 mg prescribed by physician as standard control without any other additional intervention for 90 days. The assessment of changes observed in blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile, hemogram, hepatic, renal profile, and clinical symptoms was carried out.

Results:

After 90 days of medication, fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels and clinical symptoms in three groups were significantly decreased when compared with baseline except NAC group. Hemogram and hepatic and renal profiles (safety parameters) in the four groups were not significantly different from the baseline. No adverse events were reported with the use of the studied medicine.

Conclusion:

SNB along with NAC possessed more symptomatic relief in comparison to TNB with NAC, NAC alone and Metformin thereby improving the quality of life of patients along with significant glycemic control and free from any significant side effects.
Microbiological indices of unregulated herbal drinks in Benin City, Nigeria: A potential health hazard to consumers
Authors: Omoruyi Zainab , Okundaye Moses Ikpomwonsa , Egunjobi Tunde Oluwasegun
Published: March 2024

Background:

The use of herbal medicine has increased globally due to people’s dissatisfaction with conventional medicine, family traditions, poverty, and prior positive experiences. Since the last decade, the general public has become increasingly interested in herbal products from several medicinal plants. This study sought to evaluate the microbial contamination of liquid herbal drinks sold in Benin City, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty different herbal medicines were purchased from three different locations in the study area. The 50 herbal medicines were centrifuged and the sediment was used for culture, biochemical, and antibiotic tests for the identification of isolated microorganisms and the assessment of the total viable bacterial count.

Results:

In comparison to regulated herbal preparations (4%), a percentage (36%) of unregulated herbal preparations contained viable bacteria. The most common bacterium found in unlicensed herbal medicines was Klebsiella pneumonia (10%). The percentage of regulated and unregulated herbal preparations that had microbiological contamination that was above the permissible limit (>10 colony-forming unit/ml) was 2% and 26%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Numerous unlicensed herbal treatments in Benin City have microbial contamination over the World Health Organization-permitted limit for aerobic and coliform bacteria. The regulatory bodies should step up their efforts to make sure that all herbal medicines marketed in the nation are legally registered and created in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practice standards.
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) dose optimization technique and image quality assessment scoring
Authors: Trivedi Gaurav , Singh Pushpendra P. , Oinam Arun S. , Singh Ranjit
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Linear accelerator (LINAC) embedded with kV source–imager system is capable to do image-guided radiotherapy. The only disadvantage of cone-beam computed tomography image acquisition during treatment is the extra radiation dose to the patient. The aim of this study is to optimize the CBCT imaging doses likely to be received by the patient undergoing radiotherapy without affecting image quality.

Material and Methods:

The imaging dose to the patient was estimated on CTDI phantoms. The effect of additional filters of different materials (copper, brass, aluminum of thickness 0.1 mm each) was evaluated to find the optimized dose imaging technique. For the pelvis, a single imaging protocol available on the machine was used, whereas for the head and neck region, two protocols, high-quality head and standard-dose head were used. The image quality was assessed on CATPHAN-504 phantom using Owl CATPHAN® QA online tool. A new term “Image Assessment score” (IAS) was introduced to evaluate the image quality.

Result:

In the pelvis protocol, CBCT imaging doses with an additional 0.1-mm brass, copper, and aluminum filter were measured to be reduced by 7.1%, 4.7%, and 2.5%, respectively, whereas for high-quality head protocol, the dose reduction was 25.4% (with brass filter), 22% (with copper filter), and 3.1% (with aluminum filter). For the standard-dose head protocol, doses were reduced by 7.5%, 2.8%, and 2.1% with additional 0.1-mm brass copper and aluminum filters, respectively. Acceptable image quality was observed with all the filters.

Conclusion:

Although the reconstructed images were found somewhat noisier, they did not affect the purpose of imaging, that is, treatment position verification. It was observed that these extra filters further reduce the imaging dose without much affecting the image quality.
PD-L1 expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and its clinical significance: A prospective observational study from a tertiary care centre
Authors: Kilaru Sindhu , Panda Soumya Surath , Moharana Lalatendu , Mohapatra Debahuti , Mohapatra Satya Sundar G. , Panda Adyakinkar , Kolluri Spoorthy , Devaraj Suma , Kabi Ananya , Das Bharat , Biswas Ghanashyam
Published: March 2024

Background:

Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in tumor cells contribute to tumor immunity and therapies directed against it, have shown encouraging results in recent years. As there is limited data on the significance of PD-L1 expression in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) from India, we aimed to study the PD-L1 expression and its relation with different clinic-pathological parameters in patients of HNSCC from a tertiary care center in Eastern India.

Methods:

A prospective evaluation of HNSCC patients diagnosed and managed at our center over a period of two and half years, was performed. PD-L1 expression in formalin fixed-paraffin embedded tumor tissue specimens was measured using SP-263 (Ventana) and 22C3 (Dako). A PD-L1 expression of <1%, 1–19%, ≥20% were considered negative, low, and high expression, respectively, and was correlated with various parameters.

Results:

A total of 71 patients (mean age 50.8 ± 13.3 years, 86% males) were diagnosed with HNSCC (buccal mucosa-28, tongue-22, rest of oral cavity-8, larynx-7, nasopharynx-6). The tumor was poorly differentiated in 12 (17%). PD-L1 positivity was seen in a total of 51 (71.8%) patients (1–19%:18, ≥20%:33). Thirty (85.7%) patients among those aged <50 years and 58.3% of those aged ≥50 years showed PD-L1 positivity which was significant (P = 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in PD-L1 positivity with respect to gender, tobacco use, tumor grade as well as tumor and nodal stage. Median follow up duration was 18 months (range 3–31 months) and there was significant difference in overall survival among PD-L1 positive and negative groups (31 vs 24 months; log rank P = 0.03).

Conclusions:

72% of HNSCC patients in our cohort showed PD-L1 positivity and it was not associated with any patient demographic characteristics or aggressive pathological features. Positive PD-L1 expression may have a beneficial effect on overall survival in HNSCC.
Histologic grading of salivary gland mucoepidermoid carcinoma: A comparison of four grading systems and correlation with survival
Authors: Sood Neelam , Meena Swati , Gupta Ruchika , Gupta Sanjay
Published: March 2024

Background:

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common malignant lesion of salivary glands. A number of histologic grading systems are in use for MEC with variable agreement between them.

Methods:

This study was aimed at comparison of four grading systems for MEC: two qualitative (modified Healy and MSKCC grading) and two quantitative (AFIP and Brandwein grading). A retrospective search for diagnosed cases of MEC over eight years yielded 11 cases with adequate clinical details and histologic slides available for review. All cases were reviewed and graded as per the four grading systems. An inter-system agreement was assessed, and Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to correlate the grading with clinical outcomes.

Results:

A general agreement between all four grading systems was seen in 72.7% of cases. Brandwein grading assigned the highest percentage of high grades (18.2%), whereas Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) assigned the highest percentage of low-grade MEC (72.7%). The agreement between MSKCC and modified Healy was highest at 90% of cases. There was generally a poor agreement between MSKCC and Brandwein grading systems. The MSKCC grading system showed a significant correlation with disease-free survival in MEC patients.

Conclusion:

Hence, the MSKCC grading system might serve as a better histologic grading system with a predictive value for the biologic behavior of the tumor. Further larger studies are required to validate these findings and implement the uniform use of MSKCC grading for MEC of salivary glands.
Study of a plastic scintillating plate-based quality assurance system for pencil beam scanning proton beams
Authors: Seo Jaehyeon , Chung Kwangzoo , Han Youngyih , Jeong Seonghoon , Jo Yunhui , Oh Geon , Gi Yongha , Sung Heehun , Ahn Sung Hwan , Yoon Myonggeun
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a plastic scintillating plate-based beam monitoring system to perform quality assurance (QA) measurements in pencil beam scanning proton beam.

Methods:

Single spots and scanned fields were measured with the high-resolution dosimetry system, consisting of a plastic scintillation plate coupled to a camera in a dark box at the isocenter. The measurements were taken at 110–190 MeV beam energies with 30° gantry angle intervals at each energy. Spot positions were determined using the plastic scintillating plate-based dosimetry system at the isocenter for 70–230 MeV beam energies with 30° gantry angle intervals. The effect of gantry angle on dose distribution was also assessed by determining the scanning pattern for daily QA and 25 fields treated with intensity-modulated proton therapy.

Results:

Spot size, field flatness, and field symmetry of plastic scintillating plate-based dosimetry system were consistent with EBT3 at all investigated energies and angles. In all investigated energies and angles, the spot size measured was ±10% of the average size of each energy, the spot position measured was within ±2 mm, field flatness was within ±2%, and field symmetry was within ±1%. The mean gamma passing rates with the 3%/3 mm gamma criterion of the scanning pattern and 25 fields were 99.2% and 99.8%, respectively.

Conclusions:

This system can be effective for QA determinations of spot size, spot position, field flatness, and field symmetry over 360° of gantry rotation in a time- and cost-effective manner, with spatial resolution comparable to that of EBT3 film.
Naples prognostic score may predict overall survival in metastatic pancreatic cancer
Authors: Gulturk Ilkay , Yilmaz Mesut , Tacar Seher Y. , Bakkaloglu Oguz K. , Sonmezoz Gulru B. , Erdal Gulcin S. , Ozmen Aykut , Tural Deniz
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Naples prognostic score (NPS) based on nutritional and inflammatory parameters can predict response to chemotherapy and overall survival (OS) in many cancer types. However, its significance in metastatic pancreatic cancer (PC) remains unclear. We evaluated the prognostic significance of the NPS in patients with metastatic PC receiving first line chemotherapy.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed 215 patients with metastatic PC receiving first line FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy. NPS’s were calculated using pre-chemotherapy laboratory data. Patients were divided into three groups according to their scores (NPS: 0; 1 & 2; 3 & 4 were grouped as 1, 2 and 3, respectively). The association of NPS with clinicopathological features and OS were evaluated.

Results:

Median age was 64 years, and median OS was 10.5 months. Hemoglobin levels were lower and Ca-19-9 values were higher with increasing NPS. Frequency of patients with bone and/or liver metastases, and with greater than 5 metastatic focus were higher in group 3. A lower NPS was associated with longer OS. The median OS in groups 1, 2, and 3 were 19.5, 12, and 8 months, respectively, and differed significantly. Univariate analysis revealed effect of NPS (3-4) on OS (HR: 2.38, 1.77–3.19). Other prognostic factors affecting OS were age, ECOG, liver, bone or lymph node metastases, number of metastatic foci (<5 vs >5), de-novo metastatic disease, and serum Ca-19-9 levels. NPS (3-4) was identified as an independent prognostic factor negatively affecting OS (HR: 1.89, 1.34–2.65) in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:

NPS may be a useful prognostic marker for the prediction of OS in metastatic PC patients receiving systemic chemotherapy.
Swallowing in advanced oral cancers: A prospective observational study
Authors: Malik Akshat , Sharin Florida , Balaji Arun , Mathur Yash , Nair Sudhir , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Nair Deepa
Published: March 2024

Background:

Advanced head and neck cancers are known to cause swallowing dysfunction due to anatomical and post-treatment changes. Literature is sparse on post-surgical and/or multi-modality therapy-associated swallowing function in advanced oral cancers. We conducted this study to longitudinally assess and compare the pre- and post-therapy swallowing dysfunction associated with locally advanced oral cancers.

Methods and Material:

A prospective observational longitudinal study was conducted at a tertiary cancer center from 2017 to 2018 including treatment-naive cT4a oral cancer patients (AJCC 7th edition). The assessment was done pre-surgery, post-surgery, and post-adjuvant setting as per the scales (Dysphagia score, Penetration aspiration scale, and Yale pharyngeal residue (vallecular and pyriform fossa).

Results:

Of the 30 patients in the study, 47.4%, 47.4%, 52.6%, and 47.4% experienced deterioration of Dysphagia score, Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS), vallecula residue, and pyriform residue scores in the postoperative period. And 52.6%, 47.4%, 68.4%, and 57.9% had inferior dysphagia score, PAS, vallecula, and pyriform residue scores even 6 months after completion of adjuvant therapy. The dysphagia score correlated well with other objective assessment scores at different time points.

Conclusion:

Swallowing functions are significantly affected by surgery and adjuvant therapy and continue to be affected even 6 months after completion of treatment. Appropriate rehabilitation and intervention must be offered to patients to reduce this problem. Dysphagia scores can predict the swallowing status similar to other objective assessments.
Methylation study of tumor suppressor genes in human aberrant crypt foci, colorectal carcinomas, and normal colon
Authors: Sarangi Jayati , Das Prasenjit , Ahmad Aijaz , Sulaiman Mohamed , Ghosh Shouriyo , Gupta Brijnandan , Panwar Rajesh , Pal Sujoy , Yadav Rajni , Ahuja Vineet , Sen Sudip , Upadhyay Asish D. , Dash Nihar R. , Sharma Atul , Gupta Siddhartha D.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) are the earliest preneoplastic lesions in human colon, identifiable on chromoendoscopic screening. Our objective was to evaluate the %methylation of APC, CDKN2A, MLH1, RASSF1, MGMT, and WIF1 tumor suppressor genes (TSG) in ACF, corresponding colorectal carcinomas (CRC), and normal colonic mucosal controls.

Methods:

In this study, macroscopically normal-appearing mucosal flaps were sampled 5–10 cm away from the tumor mass from 302 fresh colectomy specimens to identify ACF-like lesions. Thirty-five cases with multiple ACFs were selected (n 35) as the main study group, with corresponding sections from CRC (n 35) as disease controls, and mucosal tissue blocks from 20 colectomy specimens (normal controls), operated for non-neoplastic pathologies. Genomic DNA was extracted, and methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on a customized methylation array model. %Methylation data were compared among the groups and with clinicopathological parameters. Selected target mRNA and protein expression studies were performed.

Results:

%Methylation of TSGs in ACF was intermediate between normal colon and CRC, although a statistically significant difference was observed only for the WIF1 gene (P < 0.01). Also, there was increased nuclear β-catenin expression and upregulation of CD44-positive cancer-stem cells in ACF and CRCs than in controls. Right-sided ACFs and dysplastic ACFs had a higher %methylation of CDKN2A (P < 0.01), whereas hyperplastic ACFs had a higher %methylation of RASSF1 (P 0.04). The topographic characteristics of ACFs did not correlate with TSG %methylation.

Conclusions:

Early epigenetic methylation of WIF1 gene is one of the mechanisms for ACF development in human colon.
Prognostic value of radiomic features in patients with esophageal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Jinnouchi Haruka , Yamashita Hideomi , Nozawa Yuki , Nakamoto Takahiro , Sawayanagi Subaru , Katano Atsuto
Published: March 2024

Background:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prognostic value of radiomic features in patients who underwent chemoradiotherapy for esophageal cancer.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, two independent cohorts of esophageal cancer patients treated with chemoradiotherapy were included. Radiomics features of each patient were extracted from pre-treatment computed tomography (CT) images. Radiomic features were selected by employing univariate and multivariate analyses in the test cohort. Selected radiomic features were verified in the validation cohort. The endpoint of the present study was overall survival.

Results:

A total of 101 esophageal cancer patients were included in our study, with 71 patients in the test cohort and 30 patients in the validation cohort. Univariate analysis identified 158 radiomic features as prognostic factors for overall survival in the test cohort. A multivariate analysis revealed that root mean squared and Low-High-High (LHH) median were prognostic factors for overall survival with a hazard ratio of 2.23 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–4.70, P = 0.017) and 0.26 (95% CI: 0.13–0.54, P < 0.001), respectively. In the validation cohort, root mean squared high/LHH median low group had the most preferable prognosis with a median overall survival of 73.30 months (95% CI: 32.13–NA), whereas root mean squared low/LHH median low group had the poorest prognosis with a median overall survival of 9.72 months (95% CI: 2.50–NA), with a P value of < 0.001.

Conclusions:

We identified two radiomic features that might be independent prognostic factors of overall survival of esophageal cancer patients treated with chemoradiotherapy.
Depletion of CNOT4 modulates the DNA damage responses following ionizing radiation (IR)
Authors: Eskandarian Samira , Grand Roger J. , Irani Shiva , Saeedi Mohsen , Mirfakhraie Reza
Published: March 2024

Background:

The Ccr4–Not complex (CNOT complex in mammals) is a unique and highly conserved complex with numerous cellular functions. Until now, there has been relatively little known about the importance of the CNOT complex subunits in the DNA damage response (DDR) in mammalian cells. CNOT4 is a subunit of the complex with E3 ubiquitin ligase activity that interacts transiently with the CNOT1 subunit. Here, we attempt to investigate the role of human CNOT4 subunit in the DDR in human cells.

Material and Methods:

In this study, cell viability in the absence of CNOT4 was assessed using a Cell Titer-Glo Luminescence assay up to 4 days post siRNA transfection. In a further experiment, CNOT4-depleted HeLa cells were exposed to 3Gy ionizing radiation (IR). Ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) and ATM Rad3-related (ATR) signaling pathways were then investigated by western blotting for phosphorylated substrates. In addition, foci formation of histone 2A family member X (γH2AX), replication protein A (RPA), TP53 binding protein 1 (53BP1), and DNA repair protein RAD51 homolog 1 was also determined by immunofluorescence microscopy comparing control and CNOT4-depleted HeLa cells 0, 8, and 24 h post IR treatment.

Results:

Our results from cell viability assays showed a significant reduction of cell growth activity at 24 (P value 0.02) and 48 h (P value 0.002) post siRNA. Western blot analysis showed slightly reduced or slightly delayed DDR signaling in CNOT4-depleted HeLa cells after IR. More significantly, we observed increased formation of γH2AX, RPA, 53BP1, and RAD51 foci after IR in CNOT4-depleted cells compared with the control cells.

Conclusion:

We conclude that depletion of CNOT4 affects various aspects of the cellular response to DNA damage.
Single-agent temozolomide as salvage therapy in heavily pretreated metastatic sarcoma patients
Authors: Dogan Izzet , Paksoy Nail , Basaran Mert
Published: March 2024

Background:

Treatment options for patients with metastatic sarcoma are limited. The goal of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of temozolomide in pretreated patients with soft tissue sarcoma.

Methods:

We recorded the pathological, clinical, and treatment data of the patients with metastatic soft tissue sarcoma retrospectively. We evaluated the efficacy and side effects of temozolomide in this patient group.

Results:

This study involved 16 patients. The average age was detected as 48 (21–73) years. Six (37.5%) patients had de-novo metastatic disease at diagnosis. Primary of tumors had originated from intra-abdominal (43.7%), extremity (31.3%), head-and-neck (12.5%), and intrathoracic (12.5%) regions. The patients previously had received at least two different chemotherapy regimens (75%), pazopanib (50%) and palliative radiotherapy (31.3%). Temozolomide-related median progression-free survival time was found as 3.5 (95% CI, 2.6-4.3) months. One patient (6.3%) had a partial response, while four patients (25%) had stable disease. Nine individuals (56.3%) had grade 1–2 adverse events, while one patient (6.3%) had grade 3–4 adverse events.

Conclusions:

We observed that temozolomide was well tolerated but had limited efficacy in the treatment of metastatic sarcoma patients. In patients with extensively pretreated soft tissue sarcoma, temozolomide may be considered a therapeutic option as a single-agent.
Expression of HIF-1α and Nestin in oral squamous cell carcinoma and its association with vasculogenic mimicry
Authors: Murugesan Ambika , Bharath C , Balakrishnan Sekar , Kandasamy Saravanan , Priyadharshini Indra , Ravi Saranyan
Published: March 2024

Oral cancer is a common cause of morbidity and mortality with poor prognosis in head and neck carcinomas. The cancer is a complex structure, where 50%–60% of solid tumors exhibit areas of hypoxia which is influenced by the transcriptional activity of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF). HIF promotes stemness and proliferation of vessel-like structures tumors which are responsible for invasion and metastasis.

Aim:

To evaluate and correlate the expression of HIF1-α and Nestin in tumor center and periphery of nonmetastatic, and recurrent oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its association with vasculogenic mimicry.

Materials and Methods:

About 60 histopathological proven cases of OSCC with proper tumor center and periphery were collected. Among them 25 are nonmetastatic, 25 metastatic, and 10 recurrent cases of OSCC. Immunohistochemical analysis of HIF, Nestin, and CD31/PAS (periodic acid Schiff) was done.

Results:

Based on the extent of tumor cells stained, staining intensity and index score, expression of both HIF and Nestin was highly significant in periphery of metastatic OSCC with a P value of 0.003* and 0.001*. The total number of vessels expressed in nonmetastatic, metastatic, and recurrent OSCC was not significant but the overall expression of CD31/PAS was significant in the periphery of the tumor with a P value of 0.024*. Correlating the overall expression, HIF showed a positive relation with Nestin and CD31/PAS with a P value of 0.026* and 0.038* in nonmetastatic OSCC using Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis.

Conclusion:

Based on the above results hypoxia plays a vital role in cancer stem cells maintenance with the formation of vessel-like structures by tumor cells at an early stage of cancer development.
Association of systemic inflammatory markers with prognosis in erlotinib-treated EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Yetişir Abdullah Evren , Paydaş Semra , Büyükşimşek Mahmut , Oğul Ali , Kolsuz İrem , Kıdı Mehmet Mutlu
Published: March 2024

Background:

To evaluate the relationship of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) with the derived neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:

The study included 43 patients with EGFR-mutant metastatic NSCLC. The dNLR, NLR, LMR, and PLR values were calculated using the baseline complete blood counts before and after treatment with erlotinib.

Results:

The NLR value had the best diagnostic test performance with a sensitivity of 91.3%. dNLR, NLR, LMR, and PLR were found to be significant for the prediction of OS and PFS. While the delta dNLR and NLR values were significant for OS, only the delta NLR value was significant for PFS.

Conclusions:

The dNLR, NLR, LMR, and PLR values were found to be significant in the prediction of OS and PFS in erlotinib-treated metastatic NSCLC. Further clinical studies are needed to determine the ideal target-specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor in cases of metastatic NSCLC presenting with the EGFR-activating mutation.
Cancer trend and radiotherapy utilization at a tertiary academic hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Gan Daniel E. H. , Bustam Anita Z.
Published: March 2024

Aims:

To determine the trend of cancer cases referred to the Department of Clinical Oncology in UMMC in terms of patient volumes over a period of 10 years. To define the stage at presentation of the top five cancers in males and females, respectively. To determine the overall radiotherapy utilization rates.

Methods and Material:

This is a retrospective analysis of all new cases seen at the Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), from the year 2009 to 2018 inclusive. The top five cancers in males and females were defined in terms of patient volumes and stage at presentation. The overall actual radiotherapy utilization rates were determined.

Results:

A total of 12,672 patients were included for analysis. A total of 62.9% of the cases were females and 37.1% were males. The median age of presentation was 59 years old. Breast cancer was the most common cancer, followed by colorectal, lung, thyroid, and prostate cancer. The most common presenting stage was stage 4. The overall actual radiotherapy utilization rate (aRTU) was 40.1%. Curative intent makes up 74.3% of radiotherapy and 66.6% of chemotherapy utilization.

Conclusions:

The cancer distribution and trends among our patients are comparable with national and regional data. The overall actual radiotherapy utilization rate in the UMMC was lower than the estimated optimal rate of 53% but higher than the actual rate of 28% for Malaysia. This study provides valuable insight into current cancer trends and treatment demands to facilitate service planning.
Efficacy of the collapsed cone algorithm calculated radiotherapy plans in intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT): A comparative dosimetric study in tumors of thorax
Authors: Mishra Atul , Pathak Ramji , Mittal Kailash Kumar , Srivastava Anoop Kumar , Dayashankar Maurya Surendrakumar , Mishra Surendra Prasad , Singh Sudesh Kumar
Published: March 2024

Aim:

In this study, efficacy of collapsed cone algorithm-generated intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) were evaluated for treatment of thoracic esophageal cancer.

Materials and Methods:

Ten previously treated patients with VMAT were considered for evaluation. The planning parameters were evaluated in terms of max dose, mean dose, Homogeneity Index, Conformity Index for planning target volume, and organ at risk doses. Total monitor unit, treatment time, and gamma passing index were also reported.

Results:

The target dose coverage of the VMAT and IMRT plans achieved the clinical dosimetric criteria for all ten patients in the evaluation. Under the condition of equivalent target dose distribution, the VMAT plan’s Conformity Index, monitor unit, treatment time, and gamma passing index rate were superior than in the IMRT plan, and the result was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Collapsed cone algorithm-based VMAT can have a more effective and better approach for esophageal cancer than IMRT
Glandular odontogenic cyst: Review of literature and report of two cases
Authors: Ajay Ashwini , Vasanthi V , Ramadoss Ramya , Kumar Annasamy Ramesh
Published: March 2024

Glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) is a rare developmental odontogenic cyst from the cell rests of Serres. GOC is locally aggressive with a tendency toward recurrence. The most common site of occurrence is the anterior mandible with an asymptomatic presentation. Radiographically, it presents as unilocular or multilocular radiolucency. It bears histopathological resemblance to low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma. We report two cases of GOC occurring in a 16-year-old and a 33-year-old male patient with a review of the clinical presentation, histopathological features, and diagnostic aspects of GOC reported so far in literature.
Primary squamous cell carcinoma of thyroid gland—First case report from state Punjab, India
Authors: Sidhu Manjinder S. , Paul Davinder , Bhutani Puneet , Kaur Harpreet
Published: March 2024

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid is a very rare thyroid malignancy. In addition, due to its presentation as a locally advanced disease with a high tendency to metastasize, it has a poor prognosis and outcome. We report a 60-year-old male patient with PSCC, which was confirmed by immunohistochemistry on biopsy. The patient was staged as T4N1M0 and was planned as per the multidisciplinary team approach. In sum, pathologic examination and IHC aid in distinguishing this lesion and help in differentiating it from other tumors of similar histology. Furthermore, it also aids in planning treatment.
Single-nucleotide polymorphism in CYP1A1, CYP1B1, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, and CYP2C9 genes and their association with gastrointestinal cancer: A hospital-based case-control study
Authors: Patil Madhavi N. , Datkhile Kailas D. , Gudur Anand K. , Gudur Rashmi A. , Patil Satish R.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) comprises a group of phase-I metabolizing enzymes that are important in xenobiotics metabolism. Genetic polymorphism of CYPs has been comprehensively studied for their association with a range of diseases. In this study, we assessed single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of CYP1A, CYP1B, CYP2B, and CYP2C and their role in gastrointestinal (GI) cancer susceptibility in the rural population of Maharashtra.

Materials and Methods:

In this hospital-based case-control study, the association of polymorphism of CYP genes was studied by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The study subjects included 200 clinically confirmed GI cancer patients and equal number of healthy controls. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and P value were evaluated to find out the level of association, where P ≤ 0.005 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

After the analysis of CYP1A1*2A (rs4646903), CYP1B1*3 (rs1059836), CYP2B6*5 (rs3211371), CYP2C8*2 (rs11572103), CYP2C9*2 (rs1799853), and CYP2C9*3 (rs1057910), we noticed that variant (T) allele of CYP2B6*5 possessed significantly elevated risk (OR = 4.43; 95% CI: 2.20–8.90; P < 0.0001) of GI cancer in studied population. The genotypic distribution of G/C heterozygote allele of CYP1B1*3 (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.12–0.32; P < 0.0001) and homozygous variant C/C allele (OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.13–0.45; P < 0.0001) showed a negative association with the development of GI cancer.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study supported that polymorphism of CYP2B6*5gene may be involved in the development of GI cancer. However, other SNPs of CYP1A, CYP1B, and CYP2C genes did not signify the risk for GI cancer in the studied population of rural Maharashtra.
Hospital factors determining overall survival in cancer patients undergoing curative treatment
Authors: Muzumder Sandeep , Tripathy Arkaja , Alexander Hadrian N. , Srikantia Nirmala
Published: March 2024

Background:

In oncology, overall survival (OS) and quality of life (QoL) are key indicators. The factors that affect OS and QoL include tumor-related characteristics (stage and grade), patient-related factors (performance status and comorbidities), and cancer-directed therapy (CDT)-related aspects. In addition, external factors such as governance or policy (e.g., inaccessibility to CDT, increased distance to service, poor socioeconomic status, lack of insurance), and hospital-related factors (e.g., facility volume and surgeon volume) can influence OS and QoL.

Materials and Methods:

The primary objective of this narrative review was to identify hospital-related factors that affect OS and QoL in patients receiving curative CDT. The authors defined extrinsic factors that can be modified at the hospital level as “hospital-related” factors. Only factors supported by randomized controlled trials (RCT), systematic reviews (SR) and/or meta-analyses (MA), and population database (PDB) analyses that address the relationship between OS and hospital factors were considered.

Results:

The literature review found that high hospital or oncologist volume, adherence to evidence-based medicine (EBM), optimal time-to-treatment initiation (TTI), and decreased overall treatment time (OTT) increase OS in patients undergoing curative CDT. The use of case management strategies was associated with better symptom management and treatment compliance, but had a mixed effect on QoL. The practice of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in cancer patients did not result in an increase in OS. There was insufficient evidence to support the impact of factors such as teaching or academic centers, hospital infrastructure, and treatment compliance on OS and QoL.

Conclusion:

The authors conclude that hospital policies should focus on increasing hospital and oncologist volume, adhering to EBM, optimizing TTI, and reducing OTT for cancer patients receiving curative treatment.
Metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma: Liver metastases presenting with diffuse nodular calcifications on CT
Authors: Unal Caglar , Saglam Sezer
Published: March 2024

We report a case of the 46-year-old female patient, who presented with diffuse nodular liver calcifications on computed tomography. Histopathology of the calcified nodules revealed neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Calcified NET liver metastases are extremely rare and need to be considered in the differential diagnosis with other benign and malignant liver calcification.
Endometrial stromal tumors: A clinico-histomorphological spectrum of endometrial stromal tumors with review of literature
Authors: Verma Ankita , Tomar Reena , Chaturvedi Anubhuti , Dhankar Nimisha , Mallya Varuna , Khurana Nita
Published: March 2024

Background:

Endometrial stromal tumors (ESTs) are rare subset of mesenchymal uterine neoplasms. There are heterogeneous morphological, immunohistochemical, and genetic features. Approximately 50% of ESTs occur in perimenopausal women. In 2020, WHO sub-categorized ESTs into four groups: endometrial stromal nodule (ESN), low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (LGESS), high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (HGESS), and undifferentiated uterine sarcoma (UUS).

Objective:

To review the morphological spectrum of endometrial stromal tumors.

Method:

This retrospective study reviewed the histomorphological features of 15 endometrial stromal tumors with respect to atypia, necrosis, mitosis, collagen bands, whorling around vessels, myometrial invasion, and inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemistry markers (CD10, SMA, and ER) along with special stains (Masson’s trichrome, toluidine blue) were also studied.

Results:

The age of the patients ranged from 32 to 60 years. Three patients were postmenopausal. The most common presenting symptom was vaginal bleeding. Five patients were operated with a clinical diagnosis of uterine fibroid. One patient presented with prolapse with no other complaint. All the 15 patients had total abdominal hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy. One case showed necrosis, eight cases showed collagen bands, all the 15 cases showed whorling around vessels, one case showed vascular emboli, and seven cases showed inflammatory cells. In low-grade cases, one case showed focal atypia and one case showed focal coagulative necrosis indicating infarction. Thirteen cases were LGESS, and one case of ESN and HGESS. All cases were positive for ER and CD10.

Conclusion:

Endometrial stromal tumors demonstrate extensive permeation of the myometrium as irregular islands with frequent vascular invasion, whorling around vessels, collagen bands, and inflammatory cells. All these features should be observed thoroughly on microscopy by pathologists to clearly differentiate the low-grade and high-grade endometrial stromal tumors, and to understand the overlapping gray areas morphologically as it affects the prognosis of the patient.
Successful Treatment of Double Malignant Fistulas in Advanced Rectosigmoid Junction Tumor with Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation and Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Chuang Wen-Yu , Lo Cheng-Hsiang , Cheng Yi-Chiao , Chang Wei-Chou
Published: March 2024

This case report describes a successful treatment of rare double malignant fistulas in an advanced rectosigmoid junction tumor using neoadjuvant chemoradiation and surgery. An 81-year-old woman presented with poor appetite, abdominal fullness, dizziness, and bloody stool. She was diagnosed with an advanced rectosigmoid junction tumor with double malignant fistulas (ceco-sigmoid and ileo-sigmoid fistulas). The patient received neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy followed by surgical resection of the tumor and the fistulas. The patient’s postoperative recovery was uneventful. Her pathological examination showed a partial pathological response to the neoadjuvant therapy. The patient had no evidence of local recurrence or distant metastasis at her 1-year follow-up. This case demonstrates the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex cases and suggests that neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy combined with surgery may be an effective treatment for advanced rectosigmoid junction tumors with double malignant fistulas.