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                    <title><![CDATA[Bladder Cancer]]></title>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

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                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

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                    <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:19:55 +0000</pubDate>

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                    <title><![CDATA[Bladder Cancer]]></title>

                    <url>https://www.benthamscience.com</url>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[Pinworm (<i>Enterobius Vermicularis</i>) Infestation: An Updated Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138052</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Pinworm infestation is an important public health problem worldwide, especially among children 5 to 10 years of age in developing countries with temperate climates. The problem is often overlooked because of its mild or asymptomatic clinical manifestations. </p> <p> Objectives: The purpose of this article was to familiarize pediatricians with the diagnosis and management of pinworm infestation. </p> <p> Methods: A search was conducted in August 2023 in PubMed Clinical Queries using the key terms “Enterobius vermicularis,” OR “enterobiasis,” OR “pinworm.” The search strategy included all clinical trials, observational studies, and reviews published within the past 10 years. Only papers published in the English literature were included in this review. The information retrieved from the above search was used in the compilation of the present article. </p> <p> Results: Enterobiasis is a cosmopolitan parasitosis caused by Enterobius vermicularis. It affects approximately 30% of children worldwide and up to 60% of children in some developing countries. Predisposing factors include poor socioeconomic conditions, inadequate sanitation, poor personal hygiene, and overcrowding. Children aged 5 to 14 years have shown the highest prevalence of enterobiasis.. Egg transmission is mainly by the fecal-oral route. Approximately 30 to 40% of infested patients do not show any clinical symptoms of the disease. For symptomatic patients, the most common presenting symptom is nocturnal pruritus ani. The diagnosis of E. vermicularis infection is best established by the cellophane tape test. The sensitivity of one single test is around 50%; however, the sensitivity increases to approximately 90% with tests performed on three different mornings. If a worm is visualized in the perianal area or the stool, a pathological examination of the worm will yield a definitive diagnosis. As pinworms and eggs are not usually passed in the stool, examination of the stool is not recommended. The drugs of choice for the treatment of pinworm infestation are mebendazole (100 mg), pyrantel pamoate (11 mg/kg, maximum 1 g), and albendazole (400 mg), all of the above-mentioned drugs are given in a single dose and repeated in two weeks. Mebendazole and albendazole are both adulticidal and ovicidal, whereas pyrantel pamoate is only adulticidal. Given their safety and effectiveness, mebendazole and albendazole are currently the best available drugs for the treatment of pinworm infestation. For pregnant women, pyrantel is preferred to mebendazole and albendazole. Treatment of all household members should be considered, especially if there are multiple or repeated symptomatic infections because reinfection is common even when effective medication is given. </p> <p> Conclusion: In spite of effective treatment of pinworm infestation, recurrences are common. Recurrences are likely due to repeated cycles of reinfection (particularly, autoinfection) because of the short life span of adult pinworms. Good personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, especially after bowel movements and before meals, clipping of fingernails, avoidance of finger-sucking, nail-biting, and scratching in the anogenital area, are important preventive measures. Treatment of all household members should be considered, especially if there are multiple or repeated symptomatic infections.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Case Report of Fibromyxoid Variant of Nephrogenic Adenoma of Prostatic
Urethra: Morphology Mimicking Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132838</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Nephrogenic adenoma is an uncommon, benign, tumour-like lesion within the urothelial mucosa of the urinary tract caused by reimplantation and proliferation of the renal tubular cells that have been shed by chronic irritation of the mucosa of the urinary tract. <P> Case Study: We report a case of the rare fibromyxoid variant of nephrogenic adenoma in the prostate urethra. To the best of our knowledge, only a few cases have been described in the literature. <P> Conclusion: This tumour can have variable morphological patterns with occasional worrisome features that can mimic carcinoma of the lower urinary tract.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Experimental Animal Models for Preclinical Investigation of the Bladder
Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132867</link><description><![CDATA[The current treatments for bladder cancer are unable to substantially avoid the disease's growth and recurrence, which is a serious public health problem. Researchers have explored a variety of approaches in an effort to effectively replicate the pathophysiology of human tumors using experimental tumor models. The investigation of the available models is a necessary tool in order to choose the most appropriate scheme which serves the translation of potential treatments from a primary experimental bench to the clinical settings. The most suitable murine models of bladder cancer should have excellent reproductivity, intravesical predictability, and accessibility in order to facilitate the mechanistic, chemopreventive, and therapeutic research that can be expanded into clinical trials. This article provides a complete evaluation of both in vitro and in vivo bladder cancer models, comparing their advantages and limitations in urological research.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regulating miRNAs Expression by Resveratrol: Novel Insights based on
Molecular Mechanism and Strategies for Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135470</link><description><![CDATA[Resveratrol, a polyphenolic phytoalexin found in a wide range of plants, including grapes, berries, and peanuts, is an extensively researched phytochemical with unique pharmacological capabilities and amazing potential to affect many targets in various cancers. Resveratrol's anti-cancer activities are due to its targeting of a variety of cellular and molecular mechanisms and crucial processes involved in cancer pathogenesis, such as the promotion of growth arrest, stimulation of apoptosis, suppression of cell proliferation, induction of autophagy, regulating oxidative stress and inflammation, and improving the influence of some of the other chemotherapeutic agents. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression by degrading mRNA or inhibiting translation. MiRNAs serve critical roles in a wide range of biological activities, and disruption of miRNA expression is strongly linked to cancer progression. Recent research has shown that resveratrol has anti-proliferative and/or pro-apoptotic properties via modulating the miRNA network, which leads to the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, the activation of apoptosis, or the increase of traditional cancer therapy effectiveness. As a result, employing resveratrol to target miRNAs will be a unique and potential anticancer approach. Here, we discuss the main advances in the modulation of miRNA expression by resveratrol, as well as the several miRNAs that may be influenced by resveratrol in different types of cancer and the significance of this natural drug as a promising strategy in cancer treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Detailed Review of Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms Responsible for the
Development and Aggravation of Neuropathy and Nephropathy in Diabetes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130383</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Diabetic mellitus is responsible for triggering many conditions, such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Hyperglycemia leads to the development of oxidative stress conditions, activation of pathways, and generation of metabolites, leading to complications like neuropathy and nephropathy. <P> Objective: This paper aims to discuss the mechanism of actions, pathways, and metabolites triggered due to the development of neuropathy and nephropathy post-long-haul diabetes in patients. The therapeutic targets are also highlighted, proving to be a potential cure for such conditions. <P> Methods: Research works were searched from international and national databases with keywords like “diabetes,” “diabetic nephropathy,” “NADPH,” “oxidative stress,” “PKC,” “Molecular mechanisms,” “ cellular mechanisms,” “complications of diabetes,” and “factors.” The databases searched were PubMed, Scopus, Directory of open access journals, Semantic Scholar, Core, Europe PMC, EMBASE, Nutrition, FSTA- Food Science and Technology, Merck Index, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Open, MedlinePlus, Indian citation index, World Wide Science, and Shodhganga. <P> Results: Pathways causing protein kinase C (PKC) activation, free radical injury, oxidative stress, and aggravating the conditions of neuropathy and nephropathy were discussed. In diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy, neurons and nephrons are affected to the extent that their normal physiology is disturbed, thus leading to further complications and conditions of loss of nerve sensation in diabetic neuropathy and kidney failure in diabetic nephropathy. <P> Current treatment options available for the management of diabetic neuropathy are anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and topical medications, including capsaicin. According to AAN guidelines, pregabalin is recommended as the first line of therapy, whereas other drugs currently used for treatment are gabapentin, venlafaxine, opioids, amitriptyline, and valproate. <P> Drug targets for treating diabetic neuropathy must suppress the activated polyol pathways, kinase C, hexosamine, and other pathways, which amplify neuroinflammation. Targeted therapy must focus on the reduction of oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines and suppression of neuroinflammation, NF-&#954;B, AP-1, etc. <P> Conclusion: Potential drug targets must be considered for new research on the treatment of neuropathy and nephropathy conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[SGLT2 Inhibitors and Diabetic Kidney Disease: Targeting Multiple and
Interrelated Signaling Pathways for Renal Protection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135496</link><description><![CDATA[Almost 20-40% of all patients suffering from diabetes mellitus experience chronic kidney disease, which is related to higher mortality (cardiovascular and all-cause). The implication of several pathophysiological mechanisms (hemodynamic, tubular, metabolic and inflammatory) in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease generates an urgent need to develop multitarget therapeutic strategies to face its development and progression. SGLT2 inhibitors are undoubtedly a practice-changing drug class for individuals who experience type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease. In vitro studies, exploratory research, sub-analyses of large randomized controlled trials, and investigation of several biomarkers have demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors achieved multiple beneficial activities, targeting several renal cellular and molecular pathways independent of their antihyperglycemic activity. These mainly include the reduction in intraglomerular pressure through the restoration of TGF, impacts on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, improvement of renal hypoxia, adaptive metabolic alterations in substrate use/energy expenditure, improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, and reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. This manuscript thoroughly investigates the possible mechanisms that underlie their salutary renal effects in patients with diabetes, focusing on several pathways involved and the interplay between them. It also explores their upcoming role in ameliorating the evolution of chronic kidney disease in patients with diabetes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[IMPDH2 Positively Impacts the Proliferation Potential of Hepatoblastoma Cells
by Activating JunB Signaling Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138645</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Amplification of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase II, EC 1,1,1,205 (IMPDH2) has been reported in various cancers, which results in transformation and tumorigenicity. In our current work, we have explored the oncogenic properties and the underlying pathophysiology of IMPDH2 in hepatoblastoma (HB). <P> Methods: To investigate IMPDH2 expression in HB tissues and prognostic significance in HB patients, gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) has been adopted. Immunohistochemistry has also helped to validate the protein expression of IMPDH2 in HB tissues. The effect of IMPDH2 overexpression or depletion on the proliferation of Hepatoblastoma cells in vitro has been evaluated by CCK8 assays and colony formation assays. Xenograft tumor growth of mice has been detected. Luciferase reporter assays have been conducted to determine the interaction of IMPDH2 and JunB, which was further asserted by pharmacological inhibition of JunB. <P> Results: IMPDH2 was highly expressed in HB tissues. Experimentally, the proliferation and colony formation of HuH6 cells were increased by IMPDH2 overexpression. Conversely, genetic inactivation of IMPDH2 impaired the proliferative efficiency and colony-forming rate of HepG2 cells. Besides, the luciferase reporter assay validated IMPDH2 overexpression to be associated with enhanced JunB transcriptional activity, while its activity was diminished in the case of IMPDH2 depletion. JunB inhibitor neutralized the IMPDH2-mediated increased phosphorylation of JunB. <P> Conclusion: Our findings, thus, suggest that IMPDH2 exhibits its oncogenic role in HB partially via JunB-dependent proliferation.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Enzyme-responsive Porphyrin Metal-organic Framework Nanosystem for Targeted and Enhanced Synergistic Cancer Photo-chemo Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138826</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The clinical efficiency of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in combination with chemotherapy has proven to be a promising strategy for tumor treatment, yet is restricted by the high glutathione (GSH) concentration at the tumor site and nonspecific drug targeting. </p> <p> Objective: The goal of the current research was to create a biocompatible GSH-depleting and tumor- targeting nanoparticle (denoted as DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA) for the combined photodynamic and chemo photo-chemo) therapy. </p> <p> Methods: The nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A UV-vis spectrophotometer was used to measure the drug loading efficiency (DE) and encapsulation efficiency (EE). The GSH-depleting ability was measured using Ellman's test. Confocal laser scan microscopy (CLSM) was used to assess the cellular uptake. MTT was adopted to evaluate the cytotoxicity of DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA against 4T1 cells. </p> <p> Results: The altered PCN-224 showed excellent monodispersing with a dimension of approximately 193 nm ± 2 nm in length and 79 nm ± 3 nm in width. The larger and spindle grid-like structure of PCN-224 obtains better dual-drug loading ability (DOX: 20.58% ± 2.60%, CA: 21.81% ± 1.98%) compared with other spherical PCN-224 nanoparticles. The ultimate cumulative drug release rates with hyaluronidase (HAase) were 74% ± 1% (DOX) and 45% ± 2% (CA) after 72 h. DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA showed GSH-consuming capability, which could improve the PDT effect. The drug-loaded nanoparticles could accurately target 4T1 cells through biological evaluations. Moreover, the released DOX and CA display cooperative effects on 4T1 cells <i>in vitro</i>. DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA nanoparticles showed inhibition against 4T1 cells with an IC<sub>50</sub> value of 2.71 μg mL<sup>-1</sup>. </p> <p> Conclusion: This nanosystem displays great potential for tumor-targeted enhanced (photo-chemo) therapy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Analysis of Anti-Cancer Effects in Grapefruit-based Drug Development:
A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136555</link><description><![CDATA[Cancer remains a significant global health concern, and natural compounds found in fruits and vegetables have shown potential anti-cancer effects. Grapefruit (<i>Citrus paradisi</i>) has gained attention due to its rich phytochemical composition and biological activities, including anti-cancer properties. This narrative review analyzes the literature on grapefruit-based drug development and its potential as an adjunctive or alternative therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. Grapefruit-derived compounds have been extensively studied for their anti-cancer effects, with preclinical studies showing promising outcomes in inhibiting cancer cell growth and proliferation. Compounds made from grapefruit also have anti-cancer effects. They do this in a number of ways, such as by affecting the cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, and key signalling pathways. Petrified grapefruit compounds have potential synergistic effects with conventional chemotherapy drugs, enhancing cytotoxic effects while reducing adverse side effects. They have shown promising results in overcoming drug resistance, a major obstacle in cancer treatment. However, challenges such as bioavailability, drug interactions, and variability in compound composition remain. Overall, grapefruit-derived compounds possess significant anti-cancer properties and warrant further investigation for clinical application.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeted Cancer Stem Cell Therapeutics: An Update]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138096</link><description><![CDATA[Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become a key player in the growth of tumors, the spread of cancer, and the resistance to therapeutic interventions. Targeting these elusive cell populations has the potential to fundamentally alter cancer treatment plans. CSCs, also known as tumor-initiating cells (TICs), are thought to play a role in both medication resistance and cancer recurrence. This is explained by their capacity to regenerate themselves and change into different kinds of cancer cells. Due to their higher expression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) membrane transporters, enhanced epithelial to mesenchymal (EMT) characteristics, improved immune evasion, activation of survival signaling pathways, and improved DNA repair mechanisms, CSCs exhibit extraordinary resistance to therapies. This comprehensive analysis delves into advancements in the domain of Targeted Cancer Stem Cell Therapeutics, concentrating on unraveling the distinctive traits of CSCs and the therapeutic methods devised to eliminate them.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prognostic Significance and Functional Mechanism of UTS2 in Glioblastoma Multiforme]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137703</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aim: We aimed to explore the role of urotensin 2 (UTS2) in glioblastoma (GBM). </p> <p> Background: GBM is the most malignant primary brain cancer with a poor prognosis. Previous studies have suggested that GBM vessels undergo dynamic remodeling modulated by tumor vasodilation and vasoconstriction instead of tumor angiogenesis. </p> <p> Objective: Here, we have first investigated the expression and function of UTS2, a potent vasoconstrictor, in GBM. </p> <p> Methods: The mRNA expression profiles and clinical information of GBM patients were obtained from the TCGA database. The clinical relevance of UTS2 was explored by the Mann-Whitney U test and Cox hazard regression survival test. We further explored the role of UTS2 in GBM cell proliferation, migration, and tumor immune microenvironment. Moreover, we established the in vivo mice model to validate its oncogenic effects on GBM progression. </p> <p> Results: Although we did not find significant correlations between UTS2 expression and patients’ clinical characteristics, UTS2 was identified as a valid independent prognostic indicator according to multivariate survival analysis. Knockdown of UTS2 resulted in decreased GBM cell proliferation and migration. In addition, functional enrichment analysis implied UTS2 to be involved in the regulation of the immune microenvironment. <i>In vivo</i> studies showed that UTS2 knockdown suppressed GBM xenograft growth, highlighting the tumor-promoting effects of UTS2 on GBM. </p> <p> Conclusion: Our study identified that UTS2 could predict the prognosis of GBM patients and provided evidence regarding its oncogenic effects both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Multimodal Ultrasound Observation Study on the Effect of Vitamin D on
Uterine Fibroids in Non-menopausal Women]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135748</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: It has been reported in the literature that Vitamin D can inhibit the growth of uterine fibroids, but the evaluation index is only the size of the uterine fibroids. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D on the size, hardness, and blood flow of uterine fibroids in premenopausal women by multimodal ultrasound. <p> Methods: A total of 64 pre-menopausal women with uterine fibroids complicated vitamin D deficiency were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into two groups: the vitamin D group (n=32) which received oral vitamin D (1600 IU/ day) and the control group (n=32) without vitamin D supplementation. After three months of intervention, the mean diameter of uterine fibroids, elastic strain ratio, and blood flow grade were evaluated by multimodal ultrasound, and the clinical symptoms of the two groups were evaluated by questionnaire. <p> Results: The vitamin D group reported a significant increment in the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (P &#60; 0.001). In addition, there were significant reductions in the mean diameter, and elastic strain ratio of uterine fibroids (P =.043 and P =.038, respectively), but no significant difference in the blood flow grade of uterine fibroids was observed (P =.272). Compared with the control group, the vitamin D group achieved significant relief in dysmenorrhea and frequent urination, as well as improvement in heavy menstrual bleeding. <p> Conclusion: The application of multimodal ultrasound provides a more comprehensive theoretical basis for vitamin on uterine fibroids. Vitamin D can effectively reduce the size of uterine fibroids in pre-menopausal women and relieve their symptoms. It is highly likely to be a promising, safe, effective, and inexpensive drug for uterine fibroids, which has good application value and promotion prospects.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A New Scoring System to Differentiate Bladder Cancer from Intravesical
Prostatic Protrusion in the Bladder Neck: BCa-IPP Score]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136067</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the criteria that can predict bladder cancer among the lesions that could not be differentiated from intravesical prostate protrusion (IPP) and to create a scoring system using these criteria. <P> Methods: A retrospective analysis was made of patients with an ultrasound report indicating lesions in the bladder neck, for which differentiation between bladder cancer and IPP could not be determined. A total of 174 patients diagnosed with bladder cancer (n=102) or benign prostate lesion (n=72) according to the biopsy results were enrolled in the study. Hemoglobin, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume (PV), bladder wall thickness (BWT), lesion height (LH), and the ratio of lesion width to base (LW/B) were compared between the two groups. <P> Results: ROC analysis revealed an AUC value >0.7 for all factors, and the best cut-off value was identified for each factor. In the multivariate analysis, by determining a score for each factor according to the ORs, the BCa-IPP scoring system was developed to provide a total score in the range of minimum 0 and maximum 15. In the ROC analysis, the AUC value was 0.954 (95% CI: 0.923–0.986) for the BCa-IPP score. The best cut-off value was found to be 10, with sensitivity of 0.93 and specificity of 0.85. <P> Conclusion: Using simple laboratory and ultrasound findings, the BCa-IPP scoring system was created, which was seen to have high predictive value and can be easily applied in the clinic. The BCa-IPP scoring system is a non-invasive test that can be successfully applied for the differentiation of bladder cancer from benign lesions.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI Image Characteristics and Radiomics
Characteristics Combined with Machine Learning for Assessment of Functional
Liver Reserve]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138776</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: To investigate the feasibility of image characteristics and radiomics combined with machine learning based on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI for functional liver reserve assessment in cirrhotic patients. <p> Materials and Methods 123 patients with cirrhosis were retrospectively analyzed; all our patients underwent pre-contrast MRI, triphasic (arterial phase, venous phase, equilibrium phase) Gd-EOB-DTPA dynamic enhancement and hepatobiliary phase (20 minutes delayed). The relative enhancement (RE) of the patient's liver, the liver-spleen signal ratio in the hepatobiliary phase (SI liver/ spleen), the liver-vertical muscle signal ratio in the hepatobiliary phase (SI liver/ muscle), the bile duct signal intensity contrast ratio (SIR), and the radiomics features were evaluated. The support vector machine (SVM) was used as the core of machine learning to construct the liver function classification model using image and radiomics characteristics, respectively. <p> Results: The area under the curve was the largest in SIR to identify Child-Pugh group A versus Child-Pugh group B+C in the image characteristics, AUC = 0.740, and Perc. 10% to identify Child-Pugh group A versus Child-Pugh group B+C in the radiomics characteristics, AUC = 0.9337. The efficacy of the SVM model constructed using radiomics characteristics was better, with an area under the curve of 0.918, a sensitivity of 95.45%, a specificity of 80.00%, and an accuracy of 89.19%. <p> Conclusion: The image and radiomics characteristics based on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI can reflect liver function, and the model constructed based on radiomics characteristics combined with machine learning methods can better assess functional liver reserve.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Preoperative T-staging of Colorectal Cancer by Dual-energy Computed
Tomography: A Retrospective Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136893</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Preoperative T-staging is essential for planning optimal treatment and care for colorectal cancer (CRC). <P> Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of Dual-energy CT (DECT) in preoperative T-staging of CRC. <P> Methods: The clinical data and DECT images of 37 patients with 39 CRC lesions were retrospectively analyzed. The performance of the DECT quantitative parameters in CRC T-staging was evaluated. Postoperative pathologic results were used as a gold standard. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the diagnostic efficacy of DECT parameters. P &#60; 0.05 was deemed significant. <P> Results: The overall accuracy of T-staging by DECT was 76.9%. The DECT parameters were significantly different between the T3 pericolic fat stranding, T4a pericolic fat stranding, and normal pericolic fat stranding. Arterial phase &#955;<sub>HU</sub> had the best diagnostic performance with a cut-off value of ≥0.967, resulting in a 70.6% sensitivity and a 100% specificity in differentiating between T3 and T4a stages of CRC. <P> Conclusion: DECT has high accuracy in the T-staging of CRC. Arterial phase λHU has the best diagnostic performance in differentiating between T3 and T4a stages of CRC.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Computer-aided Diagnosis Systems for Prostate Cancer: A Comprehensive
Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131994</link><description><![CDATA[The American Cancer Society (ACS) reported in their Cancer Facts and Figures 2021 that prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of death among American men, with an average age of diagnosis being 66 years. This health issue predominantly affects older men and poses a significant challenge for radiologists, urologists, and oncologists when it comes to accurately diagnosing and treating it in a timely manner. Detecting PCa with precision and on time is crucial for proper treatment planning and reducing the increasing mortality rate. This paper focuses on a computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) system, which is discussed in detail with different phases specific to PCa. Each phase of CADx is comprehensively analyzed and evaluated based on recent state-of-the-art techniques in both quantitative and qualitative aspects. This study outlines significant research gaps and findings for every phase of CADx, providing valuable insights to biomedical engineers and researchers.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chest CT Radiomics is Feasible in Evaluating Muscle Change in Diabetes
Patients]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136897</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Non-invasive imaging methods are still lacking for the evaluation of muscle changes in diabetes. <p> Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of muscle CT radiomics in evaluating muscle changes in diabetes. <p> Materials and Methods: 60 diabetics and 60 health controls (HC) were assessed with the method of muscle CT radiomics. 93 CT images of radiomics features of the pectoralis major muscle (PMM) were obtained by using the software 3D Slicer and were then compared between diabetics and HC cases. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression method was used to establish a prediction model. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the performance of the model. <p> Results: Diabetics and HC cases differed in 19 radiomics features (P&#60;0.05). By using the LASSO method, 6 features were finally selected. The AUC of the model in the discrimination of diabetics and HC were 0.92 and 0.90, respectively, for the training cohort and validation cohort. <p> Conclusion: Muscle CT radiomics is feasible in evaluating muscle changes in diabetes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[7 Tesla MRI Liver Fat Quantification in Mice: Data Quality Assessment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138463</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the robustness of proton density fat fraction (PDFF) data determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) via spatially resolved error estimation. <P> Materials and Methods: Using standard T2* relaxation time measurement protocols, <i>in-vivo</i> and <i>ex-vivo</i> MRI data with water and fat nominally in phase or out of phase relative to each other were acquired on a 7 T small animal scanner. Based on a total of 24 different echo times, PDFF maps were calculated in a magnitude-based approach. After identification of the decisive error-prone variables, pixel-wise error estimation was performed by simple propagation of uncertainty. The method was then used to evaluate PDFF data acquired for an explanted mouse liver and an <i>in vivo</i> mouse liver measurement. <P> Results: The determined error maps helped excluding measurement errors as cause of unexpected local PDFF variations in the explanted liver. For in vivo measurements, severe error maps gave rise to doubts in the acquired PDFF maps and triggered an in-depth analysis of possible causes, yielding abdominal movement or bladder filling as in vivo occurring reasons for the increased errors. <P> Conclusion: The combination of pixel-wise acquisition of PDFF data and the corresponding error maps allows for a more specific, spatially resolved evaluation of the PDFF value reliability.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Alcoholic/Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Detection with Transient
Elastography: A Detailed Review and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129723</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The liver plays a significant role in the digestive system, and disease in the liver initiates various other problems. The liver is severely affected due to alcohol use, and it initiates various chronic diseases, including Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ARLD). Alcoholic/Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD/NFLD) is a severe medical emergency, and early screening and treatment are necessary to cure the patient. The untreated AFLD/NFLD will cause various problems, including fatigue, weight loss, and discomfort in the abdomen. <P> Objective: This study aims to present a detailed review and investigation of schemes considered in medical clinics to identify the AFLD/NFLD coupled problems and present the merit of the Transient Elastography (TE) combined with Fibroscan® practice to identify liver abnormality. <P> Methods: This research aims to study the clinical significance and the accuracy of TE-supported liver illness screening. <P> Results: This work aims to collect the recent research works and clinical reports published from 2011 to 2021 from the chosen databases and provide a detailed review using the clinical information discussed in the selected articles. <P> Conclusion: The essential statistical investigation of the collected data is executed with Review Manager (RevMan®) software, and the significance of the TE is confirmed using the articles supporting a 2x2 contingency table, and each case is evaluated using a p-score and the Region of Convergence (RoC) curve for 95% confidence intervals.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Value of the Stretched Exponential and Fractional Order Calculus
Model in Discriminating Between Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Intrahepatic
Cholangiocarcinoma: An Animal Experiment of Orthotopic Xenograft Nude
Mice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130322</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: In clinical practice, Preoperative differentiation between hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is challenging but critical for treatment decisions. <p> Objective: This study investigated the discriminatory power of the stretched-exponential model and fractional-order calculus model parameters for hepatocellular carcinoma versus intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in orthotopic xenograft nude mice. <p> Methods: Prototype orthotopic xenograft models of hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma were developed using 20 nude mice divided into two groups and separately transplanted with MHCC97H and HUCCT1 cells. Readout-segmented diffusion-weighted imaging with multiple b-values (0-2000 s/mm<sup>2</sup>) was obtained using a 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. The apparent diffusion coefficient was calculated using the mono-exponential model. The distributed diffusion coefficient and intravoxel water molecular diffusion heterogeneity (α) were calculated using the stretched-exponential model. The diffusion coefficient (D), fractional-order derivative in space (&#946;), and spatial parameter (μ) were calculated using the fractional-order calculus model. The liver and tumor specimens of nude mice were immunostained after euthanasia to clarify the liver cancer type. Differences in diffusion-related parameters between the groups were evaluated using Mann-Whitney U-test and univariate logistic analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the diagnostic efficacy of each parameter. P&#60;0.05 was deemed significant. <p> Results: &#945;, D, and &#946; were significant discriminators between the groups. The area under the curve for these three variables was 0.890, 0.830, and 0.870, respectively, with cutoff values of 0.491, 0.435, and 0.782, respectively. <p> Conclusion: The stretched-exponential model parameters &#945; and the fractional-order calculus model parameters D and &#946; showed high diagnostic efficacy in discriminating intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma from hepatocellular carcinoma in orthotopic xenograft nude mouse models.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Enhanced CT Findings in a Case of Recurrent Pelvic Follicular Dendritic Cell
Sarcoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138154</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcomas (FDCS)was first found in 1986; the specificity of the disease is its rarity, with an incidence of only 0.4%, numerous doctors for its lack of understanding, the accuracy of imaging diagnosis is not great, which is easy to delay the treatment. This article summarizes several characteristic imaging manifestations of FDCS to provide imaging physicians with an understanding of the imaging properties of this rare disease. When faced with complex cases, the radiologist can consider this disease and include it in the differential diagnosis. FDCS occurs mainly in lymph nodes, mainly in the head and neck. The main symptoms are fatigue, local pain, or painless mass. The treatment method is not uniform, but scholars agree that we should strive for the opportunity of surgery as much as possible. <P> Case Presentation: This paper reported a case of FDCS with pelvic recurrence 3 years after surgery. The patient was suspected to have lymphoma by postoperative pathology in the local hospital, and it is recommended that the patient be reexamined regularly. A soft tissue mass was recently found again in the left pelvic cavity. After an enhanced CT examination, the radiologist was skeptical of the previous diagnosis of lymphoma. Subsequently, a needle biopsy was performed at Peking University Shougang Hospital. The pathological results rejected the prior diagnosis of lymphoma after consultation with additional hospitals, and the patient was diagnosed with FDCS. <P> Conclusions: The imaging manifestations of FDCS lack absolute specificity, but it also has imaging characteristics, such as large areas of necrosis in the huge mass, rough mass calcification in the mass, enhanced scan showed “fast in and slow out” mode, and there were blood vessels in the tumor. FDCS mainly occurs in lymph nodes and is easily misdiagnosed as GIST, inflammatory myoblastoma, lymphoma, etc. Radiologists should continue to collect cases of this disease and include suspected cases in the differential diagnosis in clinical work.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Differentiation of Borderline Epithelial Ovarian Tumors from Benign and
Malignant Epithelial Ovarian Tumors by MRI Scoring]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132325</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: The distinction between benign and borderline epithelial ovarian tumors is important because treatment and follow-up strategies differ. <P> Objective: We aimed to evaluate benign, borderline, and malignant epithelial ovarian tumors using MRI features and contributed to the preoperative evaluation. <P> Methods: MRIs of 81 patients (20 bilateral), including 31 benign, 27 borderline, and 23 malignant, who had pelvic imaging between 2013-2020, were evaluated retrospectively. The evaluation was made blindly to the pathology result by two radiologists with MRI scoring and features that we determined. MRI evaluation was performed with T1 TSE, T2 TSE, fat-suppressed T2 TSE, and before and after contrast T1 fat-suppressed and non-fat-suppressed TSE images. The numbers and findings obtained in scoring were evaluated by Chi-Square, ordinal logistic regression, and 2 and 3 category ROC analysis. <P> Results: The total score varied between 7 and 24. Among the three groups, a significant difference was found in terms of T1, T2 signal intensity (p <0.01), size (p = 0.055), solid area (p <0.001), septa number (p <0.05), ovarian parenchyma (p = 0.001), ascites (p <0.001), peritoneal involvement (p <0.001), laterality (p <0.001), contrast enhancement pattern (p <0.001). On the other hand, no significant difference was found in terms of wall thickness, lymph node involvement and endometrial thickness (p> 0.05). Cut-off values were found as 11.5 and 18.5 in the 3-category ROC analysis performed for the score (VUS: 0.8109). Patients with a score below 11.5 were classified as benign, those between 11.5-18.5 as borderline, and those over 18.5 as malignant. <P> Conclusion: The differentiation of borderline tumors from benign and malignant tumors by MRI scoring will contribute to the preoperative diagnosis.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Medical Image Processing based on Generative Adversarial Networks: A
Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135375</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have demonstrated superior data generation capabilities compared to other methods, making them popular for use in medical image applications. These features have intrigued researchers in the medical imaging field, resulting in a swift implementation of these techniques in various conventional and novel applications such as image reconstruction, segmentation, detection, classification, and cross-modality synthesis. A comprehensive review of recent medical imaging breakthroughs will benefit researchers interested in this field. In this review, we aimed to introduce the origin, principle, and extended forms of GANs and summarize the state-of-the-art progress of GAN-based medical image processing methods. <p> Methods: We searched the literature for studies on Google Scholar and PubMed using the keywords “Segmentation,” “Classification,” “medical image,” and “generative adversarial network.” Specifically, the initial search revealed 5423 publications after the removal of duplicated and non-accessible fulltext publications. Then, after the title and abstract screening, 680 underwent full-text screening. Finally, 121 studies were included in our final analysis after full-text screening. <p> Results: The date range of the studies covered in this review is from January 1, 2017, to the present. After a thorough screening and qualification assessment, 121 studies involving GAN-based applications in seven areas of medical images were included in the final methodological review. These areas included synthesis, classification, segmentation, conversion, reconstruction, denoising, and lesion detection. We further classified and summarized these papers into clinical applications, classification methods, and imaging modalities. <p> Conclusion: We thoroughly examined the latest research progress of GAN-based medical image augmentation. These techniques effectively alleviate the challenge of limited training samples for medical image diagnosis and treatment models. Furthermore, several critical issues associated with GANs, such as pattern collapse, instability, and lack of interpretability, require attention in future research.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Quantitative Analysis of the Impact of Different Delivery Modes on Cervical
Elasticity Based on Real-time Shear Wave Imaging Technology and Artificial
Intelligence]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136895</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Real-time shear wave elastography (SWE) has emerged as a useful imaging modality for detecting the lesion location of various diseases, including cervical diseases. <p> Objectives: In this paper, the SWE was used to quantitatively determine the tissue hardness of the internal and external orifice of the cervix (IOC & EOC) and to relatively objectively analyze the impact of different production methods on the hardness of the cervical tissue. <p> Methods: A total of 48 patients were selected, and they were divided into three groups according to different production methods: control group (16 cases), cesarean section group (16 cases), and spontaneous delivery group (16 cases). Artificial intelligence has also been incorporated into this work. A deep flexible neural tree model and a new set of FNT models were proposed to assist in classifying cervical physical data in different states. The physical data was extracted as the features, and the different states were considered as category labels. <p> Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the elasticity of the IOC and the EOC between the groups. However, the difference in the elasticity of the IOC and the EOC within each group was statistically significant. The classification results corresponded with the results of the statistical analysis. The hardness of the EOC is generally lower than that of the IOC, and there was no significant difference in hardness between the IOC and the EOC in the three groups. <p> Conclusion: There is no significant difference in the cervical elasticity hardness between different delivery modes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Impact of <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT on Survival and Management in Prostate Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138008</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: <sup>68</sup>Ga-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography-computed tomography (<sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT) has led to altered treatment plans for prostate cancer (PCa) patients. <p> Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT on overall survival (OS) and management in PCa. <p> Methods: Consecutive 100 patients who had <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT and conventional imaging (CI) were included in this retrospective study. Disease stages and treatment plans according to both CI and <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT were compared. The effect of <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT on OS was assessed. <p> Results: After <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT, the stage changed in 64 patients (64%). By the reason of <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT findings, treatment plans based on CI were changed in 73 patients (73%). According to the ROC analysis, patients with a PSA value below 8 had higher rates of change in staging (p&#60;0.0001) and treatment (p=0.034). Both a PSA below 8 (OR 8.79 95% CI (2.72-28.43), p&#60;0.001), and having a hormone-sensitive disease at the time of imaging (OR 5.6 95% CI (1.35-23.08), p=0.017) were significant independent factors predicting change in staging with <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT. The results of a phi correlation coefficient analysis showed a significant relationship between therapy and changes in staging (&#934;=0.638, p&#60;0.0001). Two-year OS was statistically different in hormone-sensitive patients with and without treatment change (95% vs 81%, p=0.006). <p> Conclusion: <sup>68</sup>Ga-PSMA PET/CT has the effect of changing the treatment in 73% of PCa patients. There is a positive correlation between the changes in staging and treatment. Survival of hormone sensitive patients has improved due to treatment changes based on PET/CT findings.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MRI Plain Scan: A Tool in the Management of Cervical Cancer during
Pregnancy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138376</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in staging and treatment of cervical cancer in pregnancy, and to evaluate the benefit of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) during neoadjuvant chemotherapy management. <p> Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the stage of cervical cancer. The mean term of pregnancy at the time of the diagnosis was the early second trimester (range 10-27 weeks) and the median age was 33 years (range 26-40 years). The abdominal and pelvic MRI images and clinical data of these patients were reviewed. Tumor size, local tumor spread, and nodal involvement were evaluated using an MRI dataset. The treatment and follow-up imaging were analyzed as well, and the ADC was measured before and after the chemotherapy. <p> Results: 16 patients with histopathologically confirmed cervical cancer during pregnancy were retrospectively enrolled. 7 patients were diagnosed with local cervical cancer (FIGO stage IAI) and designated as early stage group, as the lesion was invisible on MRI. In this group, pregnancies were allowed to continue until cesarean delivery (CD) at 38-41 weeks. The other 9 patients presenting with local or extensive cervical cancer (FIGO stage IB2-IIA2) were designated as the advanced-stage group. The lesion could be measured and analyzed on MRI. They were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in pregnancy. Among them, 6 patients underwent TP regimen (paclitaxel 135~175 mg/m2 plus cisplatin 70~75 mg/m2), while 3 patients received TC regimen (paclitaxel 135~175 mg/m2 plus carboplatin AUC=5). NACT was performed for 1 to 2 courses before surgery. ADC demonstrated significant differences before and after chemotherapy administered during pregnancy (1.06 ± 0.12 sec/mm2 vs. 1.34 ± 0.21 sec/mm2). <p> Conclusion: MRI has been found to be helpful in staging cervical cancer in pregnancy. Patients with stage IA confirmed by MRI can choose conservative treatment and continue the pregnancy until term birth. MRI can dynamically monitor the efficacy of chemotherapy for patients with stage IB and above during pregnancy. ADC value can have a potential role in the evaluation of chemotherapy efficacy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MR Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in Evaluating Immediate HIFU Treatment
Response of Uterine Fibroids]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138807</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Nowadays, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a common surgery option for the treatment of uterine fibroids in China, the immediate response of which is clinically evaluated using Contrast Enhanced (CE) imaging. However, the injection of gadolinium with its potential adverse effect is of concern in CE and therefore, it deserves efforts to find a better imaging method without the need for contrast agent injection for this task. <p> Objective: To assess the role of Diffusion-weighted Imaging (DWI) in evaluating the immediate therapeutic response of HIFU treatment for uterine fibroids in comparison with CE. <p> Methods: 68 patients with 74 uterine fibroids receiving HIFU treatment were enrolled, and immediate treatment response was assessed using post-surgical DWI images. Semi-quantitative ordinal ablation quality grading and quantitative nonperfusion volume (NPV) measurement based on DWI and CE imaging were determined by two experienced radiologists. Agreement of ablation quality grading between DWI and CE was assessed using the weighted kappa coefficient, while intraobserver, interobserver and interprotocol agreements of NPV measurements within and between DWI and CE were evaluated using the intraclass correlation (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis. <p> Results: Grading of immediate HIFU treatment response showed a moderate agreement between DWI and CE (weighted kappa = 0.446, p &#60; 0.001). NPV measured in 65 fibroids with DWI of Grade 3~5 showed very high ICCs for the intraobserver and interobserver agreement within DWI and CE (all ICC > 0.980, p &#60; 0.001) and also for the interprotocol agreement between DWI and CE (ICC = 0.976, p &#60; 0.001). <p> Conclusion: DWI could provide satisfactory ablation quality grading, and reliable NPV quantification results to assess immediate therapeutic responses of HIFU treatment for uterine fibroids in most cases, which suggests that non-contrast enhanced DWI might be potentially used as a more costeffective and convenient method in a large proportion of patients for this task replacing CE imaging.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Assessment of Diagnostic Performance of Risk Factors Affecting Extraprostatic
Extension: Role of Zonal Level of Prostate Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134361</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: Extraprostatic extension (EPE) serves as a crucial marker of prostate cancer aggressiveness and independently predicts the likelihood of biochemical recurrence (BCR), exhibiting a strong correlation with the histologic severity of EPE. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the probability of EPE along the zonal level of the prostate by measuring tumor contact length (TCL) using multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI). <p> Patients and Methods: Records of 308 patients who had undergone radical prostatectomy (RP) were identified. Tumor levels in the prostate were categorized as apex, mid-gland, and base, after which the correlation between TCL measured using MRI and microscopic EPE on pathologic specimens was evaluated. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association among tumor origin, index tumor diameter, and TCL measured using MRI and microscopic EPE in RP specimens. <p> Results: Among the 214 patients included, 45 apical cancers (21%), 87 mid-gland cancers (41%), and 82 base cancers (38%) were observed. Pathological reports revealed that 18 (40.0%) apex, 31 (35.6%) mid-gland, and 50 (61.0%) base tumors were pT3a. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that the zonal level of the tumor, especially the base level, was an independent predictive factor for EPE (P &#60; 0.001), and the AUC value of the base tumor was 0.858. <p> Conclusion: Prostate cancers arising from the base were more likely to exhibit EPE than those arising from the mid-gland and apex of the prostate gland. Therefore, identifying the origin of the zonal level of prostate cancer may help guide treatment decisions and predict clinical prognosis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research Progress in Tumor Diagnosis Based on Raman Spectroscopy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133568</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cancer is a major disease that threatens human life and health. Raman spectroscopy can provide an effective detection method. <p> Objective: The study aimed to introduce the application of Raman spectroscopy to tumor detection. We have introduced the current mainstream Raman spectroscopy technology and related application research. <p> Methods: This article has first introduced the grim situation of malignant tumors in the world. The advantages of tumor diagnosis based on Raman spectroscopy have also been analyzed. Secondly, various Raman spectroscopy techniques applied in the medical field are introduced. Several studies on the application of Raman spectroscopy to tumors in different parts of the human body are discussed. Then the advantages of combining deep learning with Raman spectroscopy in the diagnosis of tumors are discussed. Finally, the related problems of tumor diagnosis methods based on Raman spectroscopy are pointed out. This may provide useful clues for future work. <p> Conclusion: Raman spectroscopy can be an effective method for diagnosing tumors. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy diagnosis combined with deep learning can provide more convenient and accurate detection results.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multimodal Medical Image Fusion Utilizing Two-scale Image Decomposition via
Saliency Detection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135266</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Modern medical imaging modalities used by clinicians have many applications in the diagnosis of complicated diseases. These imaging technologies reveal the internal anatomy and physiology of the body. The fundamental idea behind medical image fusion is to increase the image's global and local contrast, enhance the visual impact, and change its format so that it is better suited for computer processing or human viewing while preventing noise magnification and accomplishing excellent real-time performance. Objective: The top goal is to combine data from various modal images (CT/MRI and MR-T1/MR-T2) into a solitary image that, to the greatest degree possible, retains the key characteristics (prominent features) of the source images. <p> Methods: The clinical accuracy of medical issues is compromised because innumerable classical fusion methods struggle to conserve all the prominent features of the original images. Furthermore, complex implementation, high computation time, and more memory requirements are key problems of transform domain methods. With the purpose of solving these problems, this research suggests a fusion framework for multimodal medical images that makes use of a multi-scale edge-preserving filter and visual saliency detection. The source images are decomposed using a two-scale edge-preserving filter into base and detail layers. Base layers are combined using the addition fusion rule, while detail layers are fused using weight maps constructed using the maximum symmetric surround saliency detection algorithm. <p> Results: The resultant image constructed by the presumed method has improved objective evaluation metrics than other classical methods, as well as unhindered edge contour, more global contrast, and no ringing effect or artifacts. <p> Conclusion: The methodology offers a dominant and symbiotic arsenal of clinical symptomatic, therapeutic, and biomedical research competencies that have the prospective to considerably strengthen medical practice and biological understanding.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comparison of Colour Doppler Ultrasound and 2D Ultrasound as Promising
Prediction Methods for the Treatment effect of Patients with Advanced Cervical
Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134359</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: A number of studies have evaluated the effect of colour Doppler ultrasound in patients with cervical cancer. <p> Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of colour Doppler ultrasound and two-dimensional ultrasound of monitoring patients with cervical cancer. <p> Methods: Colour Doppler ultrasound (Experimental group) and two-dimensional ultrasound (Control group) are used to monitor cervical cancer and assess the treatment effects. PFS, CI, HR, DCR, ORR, PR, SD, PD, ROD, sensitivity, and specificity, accuracy between the two groups were collected and analyzed. <p> Results: A total of 50 patients are included in this study, and the results show that PFS (Experimental group (EG) 5.8±2.2 versus Control group (CG) 6.1±2.6), CI (EG 20% versus CG 16%), HR (EG0.31±0.18 versus CG 0.36±0.21), DCR (EG 80% versus CG 84%), ORR(EG 28% versus CG 36%), PR (EG 16% versus CG 20%), SD (EG 48% versus CG 56%), PD (EG 12% versus CG 16%) (EG 12% versus CG 16%), ROD(EG 44% versus CG 52%) between the two groups are >0.05, and the values of sensitivity (EG 75.6% versus CG 40.2%), specificity (EG 78.4% versus CG 43.3%), and accuracy(EG 80.5% versus CG 41.4%) between the two groups are<0.05. <p> Conclusion: Both Colour Doppler ultrasound and two-dimensional ultrasound are effective methods to evaluate the efficacy of concurrent chemo-radiotherapy in patients with cervical cancer.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Establishing Protocol-based Dose Metrics for Common Abdomen and Pelvis
Computed Tomography Protocols]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131993</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The majority of the existing diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) that have been established for computed tomography (CT) are based on various anatomical locations, such as the head, chest, abdomen, etc. However, DRLs are initiated to improve radiation protection by conducting a comparison of similar examinations with similar objectives. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of establishing dose baselines based on common CT protocols for patients who underwent enhanced CT abdomen and pelvis exams. <p> Methods: Dose length product total (tDLPs), volumetric CT dose index (CTDI<sub>vol</sub>), size-specific dose estimate (SSDE), effective dose (E), and scan acquisition parameters for a total of 216 adult patients, who underwent an enhanced CT abdomen and pelvis exams over a one-year period, were obtained and retrospectively analyzed. Spearman coefficient and one-way ANOVA tests were used to check significant differences between dose metrics and the different CT protocols. <p> Results: The data exhibited 9 different CT protocols to acquire an enhanced CT abdomen and pelvis exam at our institute. Out of these, 4 were found more common, i.e., CT protocols were acquired for a minimum of 10 cases. Triphasic liver demonstrated the highest mean and median tDLPs across all 4 CT protocols. Triphasic liver protocol registered the highest E followed by gastric sleeve protocol with a mean of 28.7 and 24.7 mSv, respectively. Significant differences (p < 0.0001) were found between the tDLPs of anatomical location and the CT protocol. <p> Conclusion: Evidently, wide variability exists across CT dose indices and patient dose metrics relying on anatomical-based dose baseline, i.e., DRLs. Patient dose optimizations require establishing dose baselines based on CT protocols rather than the anatomical location.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Image Quality Improvement of Low-dose Abdominal CT using Deep Learning
Image Reconstruction Compared with the Second Generation Iterative
Reconstruction]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132054</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Whether deep learning-based CT reconstruction could improve lesion conspicuity on abdominal CT when the radiation dose is reduced is controversial. <p> Objectives: To determine whether DLIR can provide better image quality and reduce radiation dose in contrast-enhanced abdominal CT compared with the second generation of adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASiR-V). <p> Aims: This study aims to determine whether deep-learning image reconstruction (DLIR) can improve image quality. <p> Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 102 patients were included, who underwent abdominal CT using a DLIR-equipped 256-row scanner and routine CT of the same protocol on the same vendor&#039;s 64-row scanner within four months. The CT data from the 256-row scanner were reconstructed into ASiR-V with three blending levels (AV30, AV60, and AV100), and DLIR images with three strength levels (DLIR-L, DLIR-M, and DLIR-H). The routine CT data were reconstructed into AV30, AV60, and AV100. The contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the liver, overall image quality, subjective noise, lesion conspicuity, and plasticity in the portal venous phase (PVP) of ASiR-V from both scanners and DLIR were compared. <p> Results: The mean effective radiation dose of PVP of the 256-row scanner was significantly lower than that of the routine CT (6.3±2.0 mSv vs. 2.4±0.6 mSv; p< 0.001). The mean CNR, image quality, subjective noise, and lesion conspicuity of ASiR-V images of the 256-row scanner were significantly lower than those of ASiR-V images at the same blending factor of routine CT, but significantly improved with DLIR algorithms. DLIR-H showed higher CNR, better image quality, and subjective noise than AV30 from routine CT, whereas plasticity was significantly better for AV30. <p> Conclusion: DLIR can be used for improving image quality and reducing radiation dose in abdominal CT, compared with ASIR-V.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Deep Learning-based Thigh Muscle Investigation Using MRI For Prosthetic
Development for Patients Undergoing Total Knee Replacement (TKR)]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139339</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: A prosthetic device is designed based on the quantitative analysis of muscle MRI which will improve the muscle control achieved with functional electrical stimulation/ guided robotic exoskeletons. Electromyography (EMG) provides muscle functionality information while MRI provides the physiological and functionality of muscles. The sensor feedbacks were used for the bionic prosthesis, but the length of muscle using image processing was not correlated . <p> Objective: To investigate and perform qualitative and quantitative assessment of thigh muscle using MRI. The objective of the work is to improve the existing VAG signal classification method to diagnose abnormality using MRI for patients undergoing Total knee replacement (TKR). <p> Methods: A deep learning method for qualitative and quantitative assessment of thigh muscle is done using MRI. In existing prosthetic devices, electrical measurements of a person’s muscles are obtained using surface or implantable electrodes. Several methods were used for the classification and diagnostic processes. The existing methods have drawbacks in feature extraction and require experts to design the system. This work combines medical image processing and orthopaedic prosthetics to develop a therapeutic method. <p> Results & Discussion: This design provides much more precise control of prosthetic limbs using the image processing technique. The hybrid CNN swarm-based method measures the muscle structure and functions. Along with the sensor readings, these details are combined for prosthetic control. The implementation was carried out in MATLAB, Sketchuppro, and Arduino IDE. <p> Conclusion: A combined swarm intelligence and deep learning method were proposed for qualitative and quantitative assessment of thigh muscle. The prosthetic device choice was done from the scanned MRI image like Humerus-T prosthetics, segmental prosthesis and arthrodesis prosthesis. The investigation was done for the Total knee replacement (TKR) approach.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Assembling High-quality Lymph Node Clinical Target Volumes for Cervical
Cancer Radiotherapy using a Deep Learning-based Approach]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134611</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aim: The study aimed to explore an approach for accurately assembling high-quality lymph node clinical target volumes (CTV) on CT images in cervical cancer radiotherapy with the encoder-decoder 3D network. <p> Methods: 216 cases of CT images treated at our center between 2017 and 2020 were included as a sample, which were divided into two cohorts, including 152 cases and 64 cases, respectively. Para-aortic lymph node, common iliac, external iliac, internal iliac, obturator, presacral, and groin nodal regions were delineated as sub-CTV manually in the cohort including 152 cases. Then, the 152 cases were randomly divided into training (96 cases), validation (36 cases), and test (20 cases) groups for the training process. Each structure was individually trained and optimized through a deep learning model. An additional 64 cases with 6 different clinical conditions were taken as examples to verify the feasibility of CTV generation based on our model. Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD) metrics were both used for quantitative evaluation. <p> Results: Comparing auto-segmentation results to ground truth, the mean DSC value/HD was 0.838/7.7mm, 0.853/4.7mm, 0.855/4.7mm, 0.844/4.7mm, 0.784/5.2mm, 0.826/4.8mm and 0.874/4.8mm for CTV_PAN, CTV_common iliac, CTV_internal iliac, CTV_external iliac, CTV_obturator, CTV_presacral, and CTV_groin, respectively. The similarity comparison results of six different clinical situations were 0.877/4.4mm, 0.879/4.6mm, 0.881/4.2mm, 0.882/4.3mm, 0.872/6.0mm, and 0.875/4.9mm for DSC value/HD, respectively. <p> Conclusion: We have developed a deep learning-based approach to segmenting lymph node sub-regions automatically and assembling high-quality CTVs according to clinical needs in cervical cancer radiotherapy. This work can increase the efficiency of the process of cervical cancer detection and treatment.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Automated Diagnosis of Bone Metastasis by Classifying Bone Scintigrams Using
a Self-defined Deep Learning Model]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137537</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Patients with cancer can develop bone metastasis when a solid tumor invades the bone, which is the third most commonly affected site by metastatic cancer, after the lung and liver. The early detection of bone metastases is crucial for making appropriate treatment decisions and increasing survival rates. Deep learning, a mainstream branch of machine learning, has rapidly become an effective approach to analyzing medical images. <p> Objective: To automatically diagnose bone metastasis with bone scintigraphy, in this work, we proposed to cast the bone metastasis diagnosis problem into automated image classification by developing a deep learning-based automated classification model. <p> Methods: A self-defined convolutional neural network consisting of a feature extraction sub-network and feature classification sub-network was proposed to automatically detect lung cancer bone metastasis, with a feature extraction sub-network extracting hierarchal features from SPECT bone scintigrams and feature classification sub-network classifying high-level features into two categories (i.e., images with metastasis and without metastasis). <p> Results: Using clinical data of SPECT bone scintigrams, the proposed model was evaluated to examine its detection accuracy. The best performance was achieved if the two images (i.e., anterior and posterior scans) acquired from each patient were fused using pixel-wise addition operation on the bladder-excluded images, obtaining the best scores of 0.8038, 0.8051, 0.8039, 0.8039, 0.8036, and 0.8489 for accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, F-1 score, and AUC value, respectively. <p> Conclusion: The proposed two-class classification network can predict whether an image contains lung cancer bone metastasis with the best performance as compared to existing classical deep learning models. The high accumulation of <sup>99m</sup>Tc MDP in the urinary bladder has a negative impact on automated diagnosis of bone metastasis. It is recommended to remove the urinary bladder before automated analysis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[3D-Bioprinting and AI-empowered Anatomical Structure Designing: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139656</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The recent advancements and detailed studies in the field of 3D bioprinting have made it a promising avenue in the field of organ shortage, where many patients die awaiting transplantation. The main challenges bioprinting faces are precision during printing, vascularization, and cell proliferation. Additionally, overcoming these shortcomings requires experts from engineering, medicine, physics, etc., and if accomplished, it will significantly benefit humankind. <P> Objective: This paper covers the general roadmap of the bioprinting process, different kinds of bioinks, and available bioprinters. The paper also includes designing the anatomical structure, which is the first phase of the bioprinting process, and how AI has facilitated this entire process of 3D printing in healthcare and associated applications like medical modelling and disease modelling. <P> Methods: The process of 3D bioprinting involves meticulous structure designing of the anatomical structure under study, which forms the base of the entire bioprinting process. One of the significant applications of 3D printing in healthcare is Medical Modelling and Disease Modelling, which requires the detection of disease in anatomy and its delineation from the rest of anatomy for meticulous creation of ROI using sophisticated segmentation software(s) for the construction of 3D models of diseased anatomy and healthy anatomical surroundings. <P> Conclusion: The study concluded that bioprinting is the future of the worldwide organ transplantation crisis. Anatomical accuracy is an important aspect that must be considered while producing 3D models. The reproduction of patient-specific 3D models requires human rights and ethics approval under four principles of ethics in healthcare: autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mechanistic Insight of Innovative Biomarkers for Screening of Type II Diabetes
Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136599</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a compounded, persistent illness symbolized by an increased range of glucose levels in the blood caused by cellular resistance to insulin action, insufficient insulin production by pancreatic -cells, or both. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), the extremely widespread form of DM, is recorded for almost 85-90% of worldwide cases. T2DM is mostly common in middle-aged and older people, and its causes are multifaceted. The use of efficient and profitable solutions for DM screening is critical to ensure pre-identification and minimising patients' risk of acquiring the life-compromising illness. Identification of innovative biomarkers with test methods of DM is therefore critical in order to establish vigorous, non-invasive, pain-free, highly sensitive, and precise procedures for screening. The purpose of this review article is to mention and review all the necessary biomarkers that play a vital role in disease diagnosis and to highlight the present-day findings of the latest clinically validated and traditional biomarkers and procedures for determining them, which provide cost-efficient options for T2DM screening with early detection. It is concluded that various biomarkers, both conventional and innovative, go hand in hand to diagnose the DM of any type.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Computational Molecular Docking and <i>In-Silico</i>, ADMET Prediction Studies of
Quinoline Derivatives as EPHB4 Inhibitor]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138993</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The creation and development of novel chemical entities is made possible by numerous computer-aided drug design techniques. The ability to visualize the ligand-target interaction and forecast the important holding pocket locations and affinities of ligands to their intended macromolecules is made possible by pharmacophore-based drug design and understanding <i>in-silico</i> methodologies. <P> Objective: The aim of the current investigation was to find novel 2-chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide derivatives that target the Ephrin B4 (EPHB4) receptor to treat cancer. <P> Materials and Methods: Chem Axon Marvin Sketch 5.11.5 was used to create derivatives of 2-chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide. The physicochemical characteristics of compounds as well as their toxicity were predicted using SwissADME& the admet SAR online software’s. Molecular docking technology was used to examine the ligand-receptor interactions of 2-chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide derivatives with the target receptor (PDB- 6FNM) using a variety of software’s, including Autodock1.1.2,Procheck, ProtParam tool, Biovia Discovery Studio Visualizer v20.1.0.19295, MGL Tools 1.5.6, PyMOL, and were all included. <P> Results: All developed compounds were determined to be orally bioavailable, less toxic, and have acceptable pharmacokinetic properties according to in silico studies. In comparison to the traditional medication Erdafitnib, all new compounds displayed higher docking scores. <P> Conclusion: The increase in binding energy and the number of H-bonds created by novel derivatives with interactions at distances below 3.40A provide a helpful starting point for formulating and synthesizing compounds that are most suitable for additional research. The application of the 2- chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide moiety as a potential new cancer treatment candidate is supported by its pharmacokinetics &toxicological profile, which may aid medicinal chemists in conducting more in-depth in vitro, in vivo chemical and pharmacological studies.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MR Evaluation of an Unusual Intruder of the Bladder: A Bladder Fibroid Case
Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138791</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Mesenchymal tumours of the bladder are benign but rare occurrences and represent approximately 1% of all bladder tumours. Case Report: <P> We report a case of a large bladder leiomyoma in an asymptomatic patient. A large pelvic mass was discovered incidentally on the bedside ultrasound scan during a review at the gynecology clinic. Intra-operatively, no mass was seen in the pelvis, and cystoscopy demonstrated an intravesical mass. It was further evaluated with cystoscopy. MR imaging demonstrated typical features of a bladder leiomyoma. Subsequently, the patient underwent partial cystectomy, and the mass was removed, which was histologically proven leiomyoma. <P> Conclusion: Awareness of this rare clinical entity and identification of its typical radiological features on MR imaging can aid with accurate diagnosis and preclude unnecessary radical surgery.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Machine Learning in Magnetic Resonance Images of Glioblastoma: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137539</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The purpose of this work was to identify which Glioblastoma (GBM) problems can be handled by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques. Results, limitations, and trends through a review of the scientific literature in the last 5 years were performed. Google Scholar, PubMed, Elsevier databases, and forward and backward citations were used for searching articles applying ML techniques in GBM. The 50 most relevant papers fulfilling the selection criteria were deeply analyzed. The PRISMA statement was followed to structure our report. <p> Methods: A partial taxonomy of the GBM problems tackled with ML methods was formulated with 15 subcategories grouped into four categories: extraction of characteristics from tumoral regions, differentiation, characterization, and problems based on genetics. <p> Results: The dominant techniques in solving these problems are: Radiomics for feature extraction, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator for feature selection, Support Vector Machines and Random Forest for classification, and Convolutional Neural Networks for characterization. A noticeable trend is that the application of Deep Learning on GBM problems is growing exponentially. The main limitations of ML methods are their interpretability and generalization. <p> Conclusion: The diagnosis, treatment, and characterization of GBM have advanced with the aid of ML methods and MRI data, and this improvement is expected to continue. ML methods are effective in solving GBM-related problems with different precisions, Overall Survival being the hardest problem to solve with accuracies ranging from 57%-71%, and GBM differentiation the one with the highest accuracy ranging from 80%-97%.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Light, 3D UNet-based Architecture for fully Automatic Segmentation of
Prostate Lesions from T2-MRI Images]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131997</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been recently integrated into the pathway of diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa). However, the lack of an optimal contrast-to-noise ratio hinders automatic recognition of suspicious lesions, thus developing a solution for proper delimitation of the tumour and separating it from the healthy parenchyma are extremely important. <P> Methods: As a solution to this unmet medical need, we aimed to develop a decision support system based on artificial intelligence, which automatically segments the prostate and any suspect area from the 3D MRI images. <P> We assessed retrospective data from all patients diagnosed with PCa by MRI-US fusion prostate biopsy, who underwent prostate MRI in our department due to a clinical or biochemical suspicion of PCa (n=33). All examinations were performed using a 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner. All images were reviewed by two radiologists, who performed manual segmentation of the prostate and all lesions. A total of 145 augmented datasets were generated. The performance of our fully automated end-to-end segmentation model based on a 3D UNet architecture and trained in two learning scenarios (on 14 or 28 patient datasets) was evaluated by two loss functions. <P> Results: Our model had an accuracy of over 90% for automatic segmentation of prostate and PCa nodules, as compared to manual segmentation. We have shown low complexity networks, UNet architecture with less than five layers, as feasible and to show good performance for automatic 3D MRI image segmentation. A larger training dataset could further improve the results. <P> Conclusion: Therefore, herein, we propose a less complex network, a slim 3D UNet with superior performance, being faster than the original five-layer UNet architecture.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Correlation between Spectral CT Parameters and Ki67 Expression in
Hepatocellular Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135237</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between quantitative parameters of spectral CT and the Ki67 expression index of tumor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). <P> Methods: A total of 19 patients who underwent preoperative spectral CT dual-phase enhancement and who were diagnosed with HCC by postoperative pathology were prospectively selected. Patients with ≥10% Ki67-positive tumor cells formed a high-Ki67 group, and those with &#60;10% Ki67- positive cells formed a low-Ki67 group. The iodine concentrations (ICs) of the lesion and the descending aorta were measured during the arterial and venous phases. Relative iodine concentration (RIC) was calculated thus: RIC=IC<sub>lesion</sub>/IC<sub>descending aorta</sub>. CT values of the lesions at 40 and 70 keV were measured during the enhanced arterial and venous phases. The slope of the spectral curve (&#955;) was calculated thus: &#955; = (40 keV-70 keV) /(70-30). To compare the differences in quantitative parameters between the high- and low-Ki67 groups, either an independent samples t-test (normal distribution) or a Mann–Whitney U test (non-normal distribution) was used. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the effectiveness of spectral CT parameters in distinguishing between high-Ki67 and low-Ki67 groups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between spectral CT quantitative parameters and Ki67 expression. <P> Results: IC, RIC and λ values for the high-Ki67 group in arterial and venous phases were higher than those for the low-Ki67 group, P &#60; 0.05. IC, RIC, and &#955; values in the arterial phase were 0.83, 0.89, and 0.75, respectively; in the venous phase, the values of these three parameters were 0.76, 0.77, and 0.69, respectively. IC, RIC, and λ were positively correlated with Ki67 expression in both arterial and venous phases, with a highest correlation of 0.82 for arterial-phase RIC. <P> Conclusion: The quantitative parameters of spectral CT in HCC were correlated with Ki67 expression. This finding may make it easier for clinicians to determine whether a tumor is high or low in Ki67 before surgery.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Automatic Kidney Stone Composition Analysis Method Based on Dual-energy
CT]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134362</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background The composition of kidney stones is related to the hardness of the stones. Knowing the composition of the stones before surgery can help plan the laser power and operation time of percutaneous nephroscopic surgery. Moreover, patients can be treated with medications if the kidney stone is compounded by uric acid before treatment, which can relieve the patients of the pain of surgery. However, although the literature generally reports the kidney stone composition analysis method base on dual-energy CT images, the accuracy of these methods is not enough; they need manual delineation of the kidney stone location, and these methods cannot analyze mixed composition kidney stones. <P> Objective This study aimed to overcome the problem related to identifying kidney stone composition; we need an accurate method to analyze the composition of kidney stones. <P> Methods In this paper, we proposed the automatic kidney stone composition analysis algorithm based on a dual-energy CT image. The algorithm first segmented the kidney stone mask by deep learning model, then analyzed the composition of each stone by machine learning model. <P> Results The experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm can segment kidney stones accurately (AUC=0.96) and predict kidney stone composition accurately (mean Acc=0.86, mean Se=0.75, mean Sp=0.9, mean F1=0.75, mean AUC=0.83, MR (Exact match ratio)=0.6). <P> Conclusion The proposed method can predict the composition and location of kidney stones, which can guide its treatment. <P> Experimental results show that the weighting strategy can improve kidney stone segmentation performance. In addition, the multi-label classification model can predict kidney stone composition precisely, including the mixed composition kidney stones.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Objective Value of the Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) Map from
Ultrahigh b-value Diffusion-weighted Imaging (DWI) in 3T MRI could be a
Non-invasive Specific Biomarker for Prostate Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132980</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: This article aims to explore the ADC value of ultrahigh b-value DWI and the diagnostic cutoff point in prostate cancer. <P> Methods: A total of 78 patients were included in this study. T2 weighted imaging (T2WI), conventional diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) (1000 s/mm<sup>2</sup>), and DWI with ultrahigh b-values of 2000 s/mm<sup>2</sup> and 3000 s/mm<sup>2</sup> were performed in each patient. With reference biopsy as the gold standard, the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)s of each b-value DWI image were analyzed. According to different b-value receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the ADC diagnostic cutoff point for prostate cancer was determined. <P> Results: A total of 154 lesions were identified as prostate cancer. The ADC values for conventional DWI and ultrahigh b-value DWI with 2000 s/mm<sup>2</sup> and 3000 s/mm<sup>2</sup> were 1.097×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s (1.040-1.153), 0.809×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s (0.766-0.851) and 0.622×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s (0.591-0.652), respectively, in the peripheral zone and 1.085×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s (1.022-1.147), 0.815×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s (0.770-0.861) and 0.651×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s (0.617-0.685) in the transition zone. The area under the curve (AUC)s of the ADC values from ultrahigh b-value DWI (2000 s/mm<sup>2</sup> and 3000 s/mm<sup>2</sup>) were 0.824 and 0.852 in the peripheral zone and 0.905 for the ADC values from ultrahigh b-value DWI (3000 s/mm<sup>2</sup>) in the transition zone. In the peripheral zone, the ADC diagnostic cutoff values for prostate cancer were 0.75×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s and 0.685×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s in DWI at 2000 s/mm<sup>2</sup> and 3000 s/mm<sup>2</sup>, respectively, and the diagnosis of transition zone cancer was 0.8×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s and 0.634×10<sup>-3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s, respectively. <P> Conclusion: The ADC values from ultrahigh b-value DWI demonstrated better consistency and diagnostic efficacy in the diagnosis of prostate cancer.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Insights into the Biological Properties of Prostate Cancer Stem Cells: Implications for Cancer Progression and Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137701</link><description><![CDATA[Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second prevalent cancer in men. Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) in driving tumor initiation and metastasis of the prostate tissue. PCSCs are a rare population of cells in the prostate that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities, making them a potential therapeutic target for effective PCa treatment. Therefore, targeting PCSCs might be a novel strategy for the treatment of PCs. Research has shown that various signaling pathways, such as Notch, SHH, TGF-β, Wnt, STAT3, AKT, and EGFR, are involved in regulating PCSC proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, non-coding RNAs, such as long ncRNAs and miRNAs, have emerged as critical regulators of PCSC pathogenesis and drug resistance. Here, we highlight that targeting these pathways could offer new opportunities for the management of PCa. This review summarizes the current knowledge surrounding the essential signaling pathways implicated in PCSC tumorigenesis and invasiveness.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: A Novel Platform in the Formulation of Targeted Drug Delivery Systems]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138691</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Lipid-based formulations, such as Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), have been thoroughly studied as drug delivery platforms. NLCs are binary systems composed of both solid and liquid lipids that aim to produce a lipidic core that is less ordered. Components of NLCs particularly influence the physicochemical characteristics and efficacy of the final product. </p> <p> Morphology : They contain a solid matrix at room temperature and are thought to be superior to many other conventional lipids-based nanocarriers, such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanoemulsions, and liposomes because of their improved stability, drug loading capacity, good biocompatibility, enhanced permeability, bioavailability, extended half-life, fewer side effects, tissue- specific delivery and wide range of potential applications. </p> <p> Significance : NLCs have multiple applications in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics due to their ease of preparation, the feasibility of scale-up, non-toxic, improved targeting efficiency and potential for site-specific delivery via various routes of administration. </p> <p> Scope of Review: This review enlightens about the most recent developments of NLCs as a drug delivery system, types of NLCs, current techniques to prepare NLCs, and characterization techniques that are essential for the development of safe, effective and stable formulation. It also encompasses the potential of using NLCs for various administration routes and recent developments in pharmaceutical applications with successful outcomes. </p> <p> Conclusion: This review certainly provide great insight into formulation considerations using design experts and modification strategies for improved targeting. On the whole, NLCs are broadly explored and preferred lipid nanocarrier systems with several advantages.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Single-cell Technology in Stem Cell Research]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137519</link><description><![CDATA[Single-cell technology (SCT), which enables the examination of the fundamental units comprising biological organs, tissues, and cells, has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in the field of biology, with a profound impact on stem cell research. This innovative technology opens new pathways for acquiring cell-specific data and gaining insights into the molecular pathways governing organ function and biology. SCT is not only frequently used to explore rare and diverse cell types, including stem cells, but it also unveils the intricacies of cellular diversity and dynamics. This perspective, crucial for advancing stem cell research, facilitates non-invasive analyses of molecular dynamics and cellular functions over time. Despite numerous investigations into potential stem cell therapies for genetic disorders, degenerative conditions, and severe injuries, the number of approved stem cell-based treatments remains limited. This limitation is attributed to the various heterogeneities present among stem cell sources, hindering their widespread clinical utilization. Furthermore, stem cell research is intimately connected with cutting-edge technologies, such as microfluidic organoids, CRISPR technology, and cell/tissue engineering. Each strategy developed to overcome the constraints of stem cell research has the potential to significantly impact advanced stem cell therapies. Drawing on the advantages and progress achieved through SCT-based approaches, this study aims to provide an overview of the advancements and concepts associated with the utilization of SCT in stem cell research and its related fields.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Overview of the Dichotomous Role of Microbiota in Cancer Progression and Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138672</link><description><![CDATA[It is a well-known fact that cancer is considered the second leading cause of mortality across the globe. Although the human oral cavity and intestine are the natural habitat of thousands of microbes, dysbiosis results in malignancies, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma and colorectal cancer. Amongst the intestinal microbes, <i>H. pylori</i> is a deadly carcinogen. Also, causative pathogens for the development of pancreatic and colorectal cancer are found in the oral cavity, such as <i>Fusobacterium nucleatum</i> and <i>Porphyromonas gingivalis</i>. Many periodontopathic micro- organisms, like <i>Streptococcus</i> sp., Peptostreptococcus sp., Prevotella sp., Fusobacterium sp., Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Capnocytophaga gingivalis, strongly have an impact on the development of oral cancers. Three basic mechanisms are involved in pathogen-mediated cancer development, like chronic inflammation-mediated angiogenesis, inhibition of cellular apoptosis, and release of carcinogenic by-products. Microbiota has a dichotomous role to play in cancer, i.e., microbiota can be used for cancer management too. Shreds of evidence are there to support the fact that microbiota enhances the chemotherapeutic drug efficacy. This review presents the possible mechanism of the oncogenic effect of microbiota with emphasis on the oral microbiome and also attempts to explain the intricate role of microbiota in cancer management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Intravaginal Delivery of Herbal Pharmaceutical Interventions for Uncomplicated UTIs in Women]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137357</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Urinary tract infection (UTIs) is the most common infection in women affecting approximately 75% of women worldwide during their pregnancy, and in pre and postmenopausal women. Typical symptoms include urinary frequency, urgency, suprapubic discomfort, and dysuria. </p> <p> Method: An introduction to the epidemiology of UTIs and detailed herbal nanoformulation treatment approach through novel intravaginal route is intended through this narrative review. UTIs are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and they affect the quality of life of the affected patients. Multidrug-resistant bacteria and recurrent UTIs are becoming more common. Development of resistance, adverse effects of antibiotics, and other associated problems lead to establishing the research framework to find out the alternative approaches in controlling UTIs. Antibiotic- free treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infections UTIs should be used, saving drugs for severe infections. Herbal medication might be used instead of antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs, in addition to analgesics for purely symptomatic treatment. </p> <p> Conclusion: This review identifies the pathophysiology of UTI, distinguish the intravaginal route as an alternative to oral delivery route, summarizes the management of urinary tract infections and highlights the anti-uropathogenic and anti-bactericidal effects of herbal approaches to prevent or treat urinary tract infections.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Malignant and Benign Head and Neck Tumors of the Pediatric Age: A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137392</link><description><![CDATA[Malignant tumors of the head and neck are rare in children, but it is important to know these lesions and identify them early in order to have a good outcome for these patients. Benign lesions of the head and neck are much more frequent and have an excellent prognosis. For this reason, it is necessary to recognize the warning signs and symptoms and understand when to refer the patient to a reference center for the treatment of these pathologies. The clinical presentation of both benign and malignant lesions in children may be similar as usually, both categories have compressive effects. This confirms the fact that the clinical diagnosis is not sufficient and always requires instrumental investigations and biopsies. In this narrative review, we analyzed both malignant lesions such as lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, thyroid tumors, salivary gland tumors, neuroblastoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and benign ones such as cystic dermoid teratoma, hemangioma, juvenile angiofibroma and fibrosis dysplasia. Indeed, we set out to discuss the most common lesions of this site by evaluating their characteristics to highlight the differentiation of malignant tumors from benign lesions and their correct clinical-therapeutic management. A literature search was carried out in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify all narrative reviews addressing malignant and benign head and neck tumors of the pediatric age. In conclusion, the care of children affected by head and neck benign lesions and malignancy must be combined and multidisciplinary. It is essential to recognize the diseases early in order to differentiate and intervene as soon as possible for the correct clinical-therapeutic management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Neuronal Pathways in Gastrointestinal Cancers: Targets for Prevention and Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135301</link><description><![CDATA[In recent decades, the mortality and morbidity of Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer have remarkably increased, especially in younger individuals. Recent studies revealed that neuronal connections play an active part in GI tumor initiation and progression. Also, studies showed neurotransmitters and neuropeptides drive the activation of various oncogenic pathways downstream of neural receptors within cancer cells, underscoring the importance of neural signaling pathways in GI tumor malignancy. These studies show that the humoral and nervous pathways can transfer signals of tumors to the brain. But, the exact mechanism of this regulation from the brain to the gut is still unknown. In this review, we summarized the mechanism of the neuronal pathway in the regulation of promotion or suppression of GI cancer and oncogene activation, and we summarize recent findings linking the nervous system to GI tumor progression and highlight the importance of targeting neural mechanisms in GI tumor therapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Integrated Machine Learning Algorithms for Stratification of Patients with Bladder Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138342</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Bladder cancer is a prevalent malignancy globally, characterized by rising incidence and mortality rates. Stratifying bladder cancer patients into different subtypes is crucial for the effective treatment of this form of cancer. Therefore, there is a need to develop a stratification model specific to bladder cancer. </p> <p> Purpose: This study aims to establish a prognostic prediction model for bladder cancer, with the primary goal of accurately predicting prognosis and treatment outcomes. </p> <p> Methods: We collected datasets from 10 bladder cancer datasets sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, and IMvigor210 dataset. The machine learning based on feature selection algorithms were used to generate 96 models for establishing the risk score for each patient. Based on the risk score, all the patients were classified into two different risk score groups. </p> <p> Results: The two groups of bladder cancer patients exhibited significant differences in prognosis, biological functions, and drug sensitivity. Nomogram model demonstrated that the risk score had a robust predictive effect with good clinical utility. </p> <p> Conclusion: The risk score constructed in this study can be utilized to predict the prognosis, response to drug treatment, and immunotherapy of bladder cancer patients, providing assistance for personalized clinical treatment of bladder cancer.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cancer Stem Cells and Treatment of Cancer: An Update and Future Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134877</link><description><![CDATA[Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an essential role in tumour progression and metastasis. Stem cell ability of self-renewal enables it to persist over time, thereby contributing to cancer relapse or recurrence and also resistance to current therapies. Therefore, targeting CSCs emerged as a promising strategy of cancer treatment. CSCs exhibit differentiation, self-renewal, and plasticity, they contribute to formation of malignant tumours, also favors, metastasis, heterogeneity, multidrug resistance, and radiation resistance. Coventional cancer treatments predominantly target cancer cells that are not CSCs, CSCs frequently survive, eventually leading to relapse. This article focuses on the development of novel therapeutic strategies that combine conventional treatments and CSC inhibitors to eradicate cancer cells and CSCs, for the better and permanent treatment. However, the diversity of CSCs is a significant obstacle in the development of CSC-targeted therapies, necessitating extensive research for a better understanding and exploration of therapeutic approaches. Future development of CSC-targeted therapies will rely heavily on overcoming this obstacle.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mesenchymal Stem Cells Target Gastric Cancer and Deliver Epirubicin <i>via</i> Tunneling Nanotubes for Enhanced Chemotherapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136937</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: A reduced effective local concentration significantly contributes to the unsatisfactory therapeutic results of epirubicin in gastric cancer. Mesenchymal stem cells exhibit targeted chemotaxis towards solid tumors and form tunneling nanotubes with tumor cells, facilitating the delivery of various substances. This study demonstrates the novelty of mesenchymal stem cells in releasing epirubicin into gastric cancer cells through tunneling nanotubes. </p> <p> Objective: Epirubicin delivery to gastric cancer cells using mesenchymal stem cells. </p> <p> Methods: In vitro transwell migration assays, live cell tracking, and in vivo targeting assays were used to demonstrate the chemotaxis of mesenchymal stem cells towards gastric cancer. We verified the targeted chemotaxis of mesenchymal stem cells towards gastric cancer cells and the epirubicin loading ability using a high-content imaging system (Equipment type:Operetta CLS). Additionally, tunneling nanotube formation and the targeted release of epirubicin-loaded mesenchymal stem cells co-cultured with gastric cancer cells through mesenchymal stem cell-tunneling nanotubes into gastric cancer cells was observed using Operetta CLS. </p> <p> Results: Mesenchymal stem cells demonstrated targeted chemotaxis towards gastric cancer, with effective epirubicin loading and tolerance. Co-culturing induced tunneling nanotube formation between these cells. Epirubicin-loaded mesenchymal stem cells were released into gastric cancer cells through tunneling nanotubes, significantly increasing their non-viability compared to the negative control group (p &#60; 0.05). </p> <p> Conclusions: We identified a novel approach for precisely targeting epirubicin release in gastric cancer cells. Therefore, mesenchymal stem cell-tunneling nanotubes could serve as a potential tool for targeted delivery of drugs, enhancing their chemotherapeutic effects in cancer cells.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Prognostic Value and Clinical Significance of lncRNA SNHG5 Expression in Patients with Multiple Malignancies: A Bioinformatic and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138740</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (lncRNA SNHG5) has been identified as both a promising target for treatment and a predictor of prognosis in diverse types of cancer. The objective of this study was to assess whether lncRNA SNHG5 expression can be utilized as a prognostic biomarker for human cancer. </p> <p> Methods: To ensure a thorough search of the literature for relevant English studies published before July 2023, several databases were searched, including PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The study evaluated the impact of lncRNA SNHG5 on the overall survival (OS) of cancer by calculating the pooled hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). To further confirm the accuracy of the findings, the study investigated the expression profile and prognostic significance of lncRNA SNHG5 through the use of GenomicScape, OncoLnc, Kaplan-Meier plotter, and GEPIA databases. </p> <p> Results: In this study, 995 patients were examined across a total of fourteen original studies. The findings indicated that there was a significant relationship between heightened lncRNA SNHG5 expression and reduced OS, as evidenced by both univariate and multivariate analyses (HR = 1.89; 95% CI, 1.44-2.49; p &#60; 0.001; HR = 3.97; 95% CI, 1.80-8.73; p &#60; 0.001, respectively). Pooled OR analysis showed a significant association between over-expression of lncRNA SNHG5 with advanced histological grade (OR = 0.28; 95% CI, 0.11-0.71; p = 0.007), present lymph node metastasis (LNM; OR = 4.28; 95% CI, 2.47-7.43; p &#60; 0.001), and smoking history (OR = 0.27; 95% CI, 0.15-0.49; p &#60; 0.001). Bioinformatic databases confirmed that elevated SNHG5 expression was significantly linked to poor prognosis in cancer patients, including colorectal cancer (CRC), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and esophageal adenocarcinoma (ESAD), and a longer OS in patients with uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC). </p> <p> Conclusion: These results suggest that lncRNA SNHG5 may serve as an adverse prognostic biomarker in several human cancers. Further investigations are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms that link lncRNA SNHG5 to multiple malignancies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of NADPH Quinone Reductase 1 (NQO1) Polymorphism in Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancers]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138310</link><description><![CDATA[Most cancer deaths are related to gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Several environmental and genetic factors are effective in the occurrence of GI cancers, such as esophageal, stomach, colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. In addition to risk factors related to lifestyle, reactive oxygen species (ROS) also play a role in GI cancers, and an increase in the amount of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress and increase the probability of malignancies. NQO1 is part of the body's antioxidant defense system that protects cells against mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. NQO1 is responsible for reducing quinones to hydroquinone and preventing the generation of ROS by catalyzing the reaction. The existence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of NADPH Quinone Reductase 1 (NQO1), such as 609C>T NQO1, leads to a decrease in NQO1 enzyme activity. Some NQO1 polymorphisms may increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancer. So, the C609T polymorphism in the NQO1 gene has been found to be effective in causing gastrointestinal cancers. On the other hand, it is very important to know the role of biomarkers in the prognosis and management of cancer treatment. Therefore, this study investigated the role of NQO1 as a biomarker in the management of gastrointestinal cancers (prevention, diagnosis and treatment).]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Association between NADPH Oxidase 2 (NOX2) and Drug Resistance in Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138532</link><description><![CDATA[NADPH oxidase, as a major source of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), assumes an important role in the immune response and oxidative stress response of the body. NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) is the first and most representative member of the NADPH oxidase family, and its effects on the development of tumor cells are gaining more and more attention. Our previous study suggested that NCF4 polymorphism in p40phox, a key subunit of NOX2, affected the outcome of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients treated with rituximab. It hypothesized that NOX2-mediated ROS could enhance the cytotoxic effects of some anti-tumor drugs in favor of patients with tumors. Several reviews have summarized the role of NOX2 and its congeners-mediated ROS in anti-tumor therapy, but few studies focused on the relationship between the expression of NOX2 and anti-tumor drug resistance. In this article, we systematically introduced the NOX family, represented by NOX2, and a classification of the latest inhibitors and agonists of NOX2. It will help researchers to have a more rational and objective understanding of the dual role of NOX2 in tumor drug resistance and is expected to provide new ideas for oncology treatment and overcoming drug resistance in cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Review of Nephrotoxins and Their Mechanism of Nephrotoxicity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138053</link><description><![CDATA[The harmful impact of substances on renal function is known as nephrotoxicity and the substance that shows a harmful impact is called nephrotoxins. Nephrotoxins can be classified into various categories like drugs as nephrotoxins, plant-origin nephrotoxins, environmental toxins, dietary supplements as nephrotoxins, mycotoxins, pesticides and some infection-causing agents to act as nephrotoxins. Drugs like cisplatin and aminoglycosides, plants like lemongrass and licorice, pesticides like alachlor and atrazine, environmental toxins like heavy metals, halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons and aromatic halides, mycotoxins like citrinin are the examples of nephrotoxins. The various mechanisms by which they can cause nephrotoxicity are inflammation, tubular cell necrosis (drug-induced), hemolysis, vasoconstriction (plant-induced), oxidative stress, enhanced permeability, encephalopathy (environmental toxins), cysts formation, nephrolithiasis (by dietary supplements), tubular epithelial degeneration, vascular congestion (pesticides induced) endothelial cell damage, hypertrophy of tubular cell, increased vascular permeability (infection agents induced), etc. The abstract provides an overview of the basic groups of nephrotoxins as well as specific examples and their individual modes of action. It also emphasises the great diversity of substances and mechanisms that can contribute to nephrotoxicity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Inclusive Exploration of Harmonizing and Alternative Treatments for
Hypothyroidism]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136364</link><description><![CDATA[A clinical syndrome known as hypothyroidism occurs due to a shortage of thyroid hormone as a result of decreased production, abnormal distribution, or no action of thyroid hormones. The most typical clinical symptoms included are dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, painful-prolonged periods, infertility, balance problems, slow speech, bradycardia, hypothermia, fatigue, anxiety & depression, joint pain, and indigestion. Basically, age, gender, the severity of the ailment, and a few other factors affect the various signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. The limitations of allopathic modalities necessitate the investigation of alternative treatment options. Future healthcare initiatives for the poor world will increasingly depend on CAM approaches to these concerns because lifestyle, diet, obesity, lack of exercise, and stress are significant contributing factors to the development of hypothyroidism. This review's objective is to provide information on herbs as well as complementary and alternative medications which are grouped into five major domains: Biologically Based therapies, Manipulative body-based therapies, Mind body-based therapies, and the whole Medical system. These have traditionally been used to treat thyroid dysfunction. The distribution of diseases in emerging nations is altering as a result of globalization. Hence the existing and potential roles of CAM techniques in the general practice of medicine are illustrated in these approaches. Scientists are being compelled to consider traditional herbal medical treatments and CAM therapy in order to combat adverse medication occurrences, high treatment costs, and compliance problems thus described in this review paper.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pharmacological Potential of Sulindac and Its Active Metabolite: A
Comprehensive Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135555</link><description><![CDATA[In this review, we describe and discuss the pharmaceutical aspects, pharmacokinetic profile, and preclinical and clinical studies of sulindac and its active metabolite and emphasise their potential activity not only in anti-inflammation strategies but also as chemoprevention drug candidates. Though they are widely validated through in vitro and in vivo models, to date, no efforts have been made to compile in a single review on their pharmacologically potential, pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles. Key databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar, among others, were probed for a systematic search using keywords to retrieve relevant publications. An exhaustive electronic survey of the related literature on the pharmacologically potential activity and the pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiles of sulindac resulted in around 200 articles (1975 and 2023) being included. The studies conducted on sulindac sulphide and sulindac sulfone metabolites reported a varied range of biological effects deployed in this review. The review concluded that there is scope for repurposing sulindac using computer-aided drug design and biological study to find out possible new targets for strengthening the potency and selectivity of the metabolites.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Organoids Research for Colorectal Cancer: Promising Approach for
Precision Medicine, their Applications and Future Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134712</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Organoids are three-dimensional (3D) constructs designed to emulate the complexity and functionality of organs in the body. Organoids have recently been used as powerful instruments for modeling and investigating several diseases, including colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is caused by altering colonic epithelial cells, which produce adenomas and carcinomas. </p> <p> Objective: The objective of present study was to investigate impact of organoids on colorectal cancer and their therapeutic outcome in cancer research. Organoids can be grown from stem cells in vitro, which closely resemble the structure and function of the organ they are derived from. They have been used in a variety of research applications, including disease modeling, drug screening, and personalized medicine. Organoids have allowed researchers to understand better the mechanisms underlying colorectal cancer initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy. </p> <p> Methods: The literature review was surveyed, and keywords related to cancer management, organoids, modelling, personized medicine, 3D structures were screened for colorectal cancer management were screened in SCI-hub, SCOPUS, WOS, and ABC Journals. </p> <p> Results: The findings of studies suggested that organoids derived from patient tumors can recapitulate the histopathology and genetic alterations of the original tumor, making them a valuable tool for personalized medicine. </p> <p> Conclusion: Organoids have been used to develop high-throughput drug screening assays and investigate the tumor microenvironment's contribution to colorectal cancer progression. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the use of organoids to study colorectal cancer and discuss their potential applications in the clinic.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Angiogenesis and Pancreatic Cancer: Novel Approaches to Overcome
Treatment Resistance]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138224</link><description><![CDATA[Pancreatic cancer (PCa) is acknowledged as a significant contributor to global cancer- related mortality and is widely recognized as one of the most challenging malignant diseases to treat. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which is the most common type of PCa, is highly aggressive and is mostly incurable. The poor prognosis of this neoplasm is exacerbated by the prevalence of angiogenic molecules, which contribute to stromal stiffness and immune escape. PDAC overexpresses various proangiogenic proteins, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, and the levels of these molecules correlate with poor prognosis and treatment resistance. Moreover, VEGF-targeting anti-angiogenesis treatments are associated with the onset of resistance due to the development of hypoxia, which in turn induces the production of angiogenic molecules. Furthermore, excessive angiogenesis is one of the hallmarks of the second most common form of PCa, namely, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). In this review, the role of angiogenesis regulators in promoting disease progression in PCa, and the impact of these molecules on resistance to gemcitabine and various therapies against PCa are discussed. Finally, the use of anti-angiogenic agents in combination with chemotherapy and other targeted therapeutic molecules is discussed as a novel solution to overcome current treatment limitations in PCa.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neuronatin Promotes the Progression of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer by
Activating the NF-&#954;B Signaling]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138189</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background and Objectives: Understanding the regulatory mechanisms involving neuronatin (<i>NNAT</i>) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an ongoing challenge. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of <i>NNAT</i> knockdown on NSCLC by employing both in vitro and in vivo approaches. </p> <p> Methods: To investigate the role of <i>NNAT</i>, its expression was silenced in NSCLC cell lines A549 and H226. Subsequently, various parameters, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis, were assessed. Additionally, cell-derived xenograft models were established to evaluate the effect of <i>NNAT</i> knockdown on tumor growth. The expression of key molecules, including cyclin D1, B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), p65, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2, and nerve growth factor (NGF) were examined both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. Nerve fiber density within tumor tissues was analyzed using silver staining. </p> <p> Results: Upon <i>NNAT</i> knockdown, a remarkable reduction in NSCLC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration was observed, accompanied by elevated levels of apoptosis. Furthermore, the expression of cyclin D1, Bcl-2, MMP2, and phosphorylated p65 (p-p65) showed significant downregulation. <i>In vivo</i>, <i>NNAT</i> knockdown led to substantial inhibition of tumor growth and a concurrent decrease in cyclinD1, Bcl-2, MMP2, and p-p65 expression within tumor tissues. Importantly, <i>NNAT</i> knockdown also led to a decrease in nerve fiber density and downregulation of NGF expression within the xenograft tumor tissues. </p> <p> Conclusion: Collectively, these findings suggest that neuronatin plays a pivotal role in driving NSCLC progression, potentially through the activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B signaling cascade. Additionally, neuronatin may contribute to the modulation of tumor microenvironment innervation in NSCLC. Targeting neuronatin inhibition emerges as a promising strategy for potential anti-NSCLC therapeutic intervention.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases as Two Sides of Chronic Inflammation
and the Method of Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138112</link><description><![CDATA[Chronic inflammation is associated with a prolonged increase in various inflammatory factors. According to clinical data, it can be linked with both cancer and autoimmune diseases in the same patients. This raises the critical question of how chronic inflammation relates to seemingly opposing diseases - tumors, in which there is immunosuppression, and autoimmune diseases, in which there is over-activation of the immune system. In this review, we consider chronic inflammation as a prerequisite for both immune suppression and an increased likelihood of autoimmune damage. We also discuss potential disease-modifying therapies targeting chronic inflammation, which can be helpful for both cancer and autoimmunity. On the one hand, pro-inflammatory factors persisting in the areas of chronic inflammation stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory factors due to a negative feedback loop, eliciting immune suppression. On the other hand, chronic inflammation can bring the baseline immunity closer to the threshold level required for triggering an autoimmune response using the bystander activation of immune cells. Focusing on the role of chronic inflammation in cancer and autoimmune diseases may open prospects for more intensive drug discovery for chronic inflammation.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Clinical Significance of HHLA2 as a Novel Therapeutic Target for
Colorectal Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138193</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a high-indence malignance of the digestive system with a high mortality rate in the world. </p> <p> Aims: The results are desired to provide an important theoretical basis for discovering new therapeutic targets for CRC. </p> <p> Objectives: The expression of human endogenous retrovirus-H-long terminal repeat association protein 2 (HHLA2) in human CRC was detected to explore its correlationship with clinicopathological features and prognosis of patients and its potential in treating CRC. </p> <p> Methods: Western blot was employed to detect HHLA2 expression in fresh tissues obtained from 6 CRC patients' excisions, including cancer, paracancer, and normal issues. Immunohistochemical staining was employed to determine HHLA2 expression in paraffin-embedded specimens of 139 patients with colorectal cancer, and its relationship with the clinicopathological profiles and survival was analyzed. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting HHLA2 was used to transfect CRC cells to silent HHLA2. MTT, plate colony formation, cell scratch, and Transwell assay were conducted to observe the proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells. </p> <p> Results: HHLA2 protein was expressed in human colorectal cancer tissues, paracancer tissues and normal tissues, which was significantly upregulated in cancer tissues (P < 0.01). HHLA2 expression level in CRC tissues showed a close correlationship with the invasion depth of the tumor (P = 0.000), metastasis of regional lymph nodes (P = 0.018), clinical stage (P = 0.010), and patient survival (P = 0.011). Correlation with gender (P = 0.873), age (P = 0.864), location of the tumor (P = 0.768), degree of tumor differentiation (P = 0.569) and distant metastasis (P = 0.494) exhibited no significance. The survival time of CRC patients with high and low HHLA2 expression groups was 43.231 months and 55.649 months, respectively, with a statistical difference between the two groups (P = 0.001). Silencing HHLA2 inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells significantly. </p> <p> Conclusion: HHLA2 is overexpressed in CRC tissues which is associated with poor prognosis of patients. HHLA2 might be recognized as a new candidate for adjuvant diagnosis and prognosis of CRC, as well as a promised new target for immunotherapy of CRC.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research Progress of PD 1/PD L1 Inhibitors in the Treatment of
Urological Tumors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138293</link><description><![CDATA[Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) offer significant advantages for the treatment of urologic tumors, enhancing the immune function of anti-tumor T cells by inhibiting PD-1 and PDL1 binding. They have been shown to be well tolerated and remarkably effective in clinical practice, offering hope to many patients who are not well treated with conventional drugs. Clinical trials in recent years have shown that anti-PD-1 and PD-L1 antibodies have good efficacy and safety in the treatment of urologic tumors. These antibodies can be applied to a variety of urologic tumors, such as bladder cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer. They have been approved for the first-line treatment or as an option for follow-up therapy. By blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway, ICIs can release immune functions that are suppressed by tumor cells and enhance T-cell killing, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. This therapeutic approach has achieved encouraging efficacy and improved survival for many patients. Although ICIs have shown remarkable results in the treatment of urologic tumors, some problems remain, such as drug resistance and adverse effects in some patients. Therefore, further studies remain important to optimize treatment strategies and improve clinical response in patients. In conclusion, PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway blockers have important research advances for the treatment of urologic tumors. Their emergence brings new hope for patients who have poor outcomes with traditional drug therapy and provides new options for immunotherapy of urologic tumors. The purpose of this article is to review the research progress of PD-1 and PD-L1 signaling pathway blockers in urologic tumors in recent years.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Druggability of Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell-derived Exosomes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139348</link><description><![CDATA[Exosomes secreted by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC-Exos) are advantageous candidate sources for novel acellular therapy. Despite the current standards of good manufacturing practice (GMP), the deficiency of suitable quality-control methods and the difficulties in large-scale preparation largely restrict the development of therapeutic products and their clinical applications worldwide. Herein, we mainly focus on three dominating issues commonly encountered in exosomal GMP, including issues upstream of the cell culture process, downstream of the purification process, exosomes quality control, and the drug properties of exosomes and their druggability from a corporate perspective. Collectively, in this review article, we put forward the issues of preparing clinical exosome drugs for the treatment of diverse diseases and provide new references for the clinical application of GMP-grade MSC-Exos.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[<i>Spinacia Oleracea</i>: Exploring the Therapeutic Potential in Persian
Medicine and Modern Pharmacology]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138545</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Spinach is a widely cultivated dark leafy vegetable highly regarded for its medicinal properties in traditional Persian medicine. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other bioactive compounds, and this review aims to explore the historical applications of spinach in Persian medicine and juxtapose them with current scientific evidence. Despite its historical significance, there remains a need to comprehensively evaluate and integrate traditional knowledge with modern research on the therapeutic benefits of spinach. </p> <p> Methods: To achieve this, a comprehensive search was conducted in Persian medicine references and scientific databases to gather information on the traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of spinach. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were meticulously categorized, and relevant data were analyzed to draw insightful comparisons. </p> <p> Results: Persian medicine describes spinach as a nutrient-rich, laxative, and fast-digesting agent with therapeutic effects on inflammation, lung diseases, back pain, sore throats, jaundice, urinary disorders, joint pain, eye inflammation, insomnia, dementia, and more. Modern studies have substantially corroborated these traditional uses, revealing that spinach possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, blood sugar-lowering, lipid-lowering, anti-obesity, neurological, ocular, and musculoskeletal effects. </p> <p> Conclusion: Spinach exhibits a wide range of beneficial effects on various health conditions. Its widespread availability, low cost, and exceptional nutritional richness position it as a promising candidate for further investigation. Future studies should explore the clinical effectiveness of spinach in various diseases, while taking into consideration the principles emphasized in Persian medicine to guide research and inform therapeutic strategies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Probiotics as an Adjunct Approach to the Prevention and Treatment of
Colon Cancer: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137549</link><description><![CDATA[One out of every six people in the world is suffering from cancer disease. The major causes of cancer are high consumption of tobacco, high body mass index, and alcoholic beverages with low intake of a healthy diet and limited physical activity. Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity worldwide. In the past few years, probiotics have drawn a lot of interest as potential preventive and therapeutic anticancer agents. This literature review addressed both human and animal research that has explored the association between probiotics and colon cancer. Probiotic administration has remarkable potential for the prevention and treatment of colon cancer through various mechanisms such as inhibiting the growth of cancer cells via apoptosis, improving immune activity, restoring gut microbiota, improving intestinal barrier properties, synthesizing anticarcinogenic compounds, and degrading carcinogenic compounds. Therefore, probiotics emerge as an adjunct therapy, holding the potential to significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effect of HPV Oncoprotein on Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism in
Tumor Cells]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137997</link><description><![CDATA[High-risk HPV infection accounts for 99.7% of cervical cancer, over 90% of anal cancer, 50% of head and neck cancers, 40% of vulvar cancer, and some cases of vaginal and penile cancer, contributing to approximately 5% of cancers worldwide. The development of cancer is a complex, multi-step process characterized by dysregulation of signaling pathways and alterations in metabolic pathways. Extensive research has demonstrated that metabolic reprogramming plays a key role in the progression of various cancers, such as cervical, head and neck, bladder, and prostate cancers, providing the material and energy foundation for rapid proliferation and migration of cancer cells. Metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells allows for the rapid generation of ATP, aiding in meeting the high energy demands of HPV-related cancer cell proliferation. The interaction between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its associated cancers has become a recent focus of investigation. The impact of HPV on cellular metabolism has emerged as an emerging research topic. A significant body of research has shown that HPV influences relevant metabolic signaling pathways, leading to cellular metabolic alterations. Exploring the underlying mechanisms may facilitate the discovery of biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment of HPV-associated diseases. In this review, we introduced the molecular structure of HPV and its replication process, discussed the diseases associated with HPV infection, described the energy metabolism of normal cells, highlighted the metabolic features of tumor cells, and provided an overview of recent advances in potential therapeutic targets that act on cellular metabolism. We discussed the potential mechanisms underlying these changes. This article aims to elucidate the role of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in reshaping cellular metabolism and the application of metabolic changes in the research of related diseases. Targeting cancer metabolism may serve as an effective strategy to support traditional cancer treatments, as metabolic reprogramming is crucial for malignant transformation in cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Novel Association of <i>RAD54L</i> Mutation with Müllerian Clear Cell
Carcinoma of the Male Urethra: New Insights Regarding the Molecular
Mechanisms of a Rare Tumour]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137898</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Müllerian clear cell carcinoma of the male urethra is similar to that of the female genital tract in terms of morphology and immunohistochemical expression but is rarely observed in clinical practice. <p> </p> Case Presentation: Here, we report the case of a 65-year-old man diagnosed with Müllerian clear cell carcinoma who harboured a mutation in <i>RAD54L</i>. This patient was diagnosed by electrocautery and ultimately underwent prostatectomy. After a six-month follow-up period, no signs of recurrence or additional malignancy were found. Based on our analysis of the available literature, it appears that Müllerian clear cell carcinoma with <i>RAD54L</i> mutation has not been reported until now. <p> </p> Conclusion: This case enhances our knowledge of the molecular biology of Müllerian clear cell carcinoma of the male urethra, which will help clinicians select optimal treatment options for this rare cancer in patients with specific driver mutations.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Bile Acids in Pancreatic Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137979</link><description><![CDATA[Bile acids are well known to promote the digestion and absorption of fat, and at the same time, they play an important role in lipid and glucose metabolism. More studies have found that bile acids such as ursodeoxycholic acid also have anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating effects. Bile acids have been extensively studied in biliary and intestinal tumors but less in pancreatic cancer. Patients with pancreatic cancer, especially pancreatic head cancer, are often accompanied by biliary obstruction and elevated bile acids caused by tumors. Elevated total bile acid levels in pancreatic cancer patients usually have a poor prognosis. There has been controversy over whether elevated bile acids are harmful or beneficial to pancreatic cancer. Still, there is no doubt that bile acids are important for the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer. This article summarizes the research on bile acid as a biomarker and regulation of the occurrence, development and chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer, hoping to provide some inspiration for future research.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Risk Factors Associated with Cervical Cancer: A Matched Case-control
Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133275</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: One of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer is to identify the risk factors for the disease. <P> Objective: The purpose of this research was to determine the risk factors for cervical cancer in women in Iran. <P> Methods: This was a matched case-control study. 105 participants (35 patients with cervical cancer and 70 healthy women) were selected from the registered patients and women attending a women’s specialized hospital in Hamadan, Iran. One case was matched to 2 controls by age (±3 years). Demographic and clinical data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Conditional multivariate logistic regression model and STATA 11 software were used for data analysis. <P> Results: The mean age of women in the case and control group were 58.02(12.32) and 58.11(12.25) years (p = 0.486), respectively. Patients had lower education levels (p = 0.037), lower economic status (p˂0.001), and lower spouse education levels (p = 0.009). The results showed OCP users were 8.79 times more likely to develop cervical cancer than women who do not use OCP (p = 0.007), and the probability of cervical cancer in women increased by 8.33 times (<0.001) with decreasing each level of socio-economic status. <P> Conclusion: The results of the present study showed low economic status, and a history of using oral contraceptive pills are risk factors for cervical cancer.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multiomics Analysis of Disulfidptosis Patterns and Integrated
Machine Learning to Predict Immunotherapy Response in Lung
Adenocarcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140043</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Recent studies have unveiled disulfidptosis as a phenomenon intimately associated with cellular damage, heralding new avenues for exploring tumor cell dynamics. We aimed to explore the impact of disulfide cell death on the tumor immune microenvironment and immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). <p> Methods: We initially utilized pan-cancer transcriptomics to explore the expression, prognosis, and mutation status of genes related to disulfidptosis. Using the LUAD multi- -omics cohorts in the TCGA database, we explore the molecular characteristics of subtypes related to disulfidptosis. Employing various machine learning algorithms, we construct a robust prognostic model to predict immune therapy responses and explore the model's impact on the tumor microenvironment through single-cell transcriptome data. Finally, the biological functions of genes related to the prognostic model are verified through laboratory experiments. <p> Results: Genes related to disulfidptosis exhibit high expression and significant prognostic value in various cancers, including LUAD. Two disulfidptosis subtypes with distinct prognoses and molecular characteristics have been identified, leading to the development of a robust DSRS prognostic model, where a lower risk score correlates with a higher response rate to immunotherapy and a better patient prognosis. NAPSA, a critical gene in the risk model, was found to inhibit the proliferation and migration of LUAD cells. <p> Conclusion: Our research introduces an innovative prognostic risk model predicated upon disulfidptosis genes for patients afflicted with Lung Adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This model proficiently forecasts the survival rates and therapeutic outcomes for LUAD patients, thereby delineating the high-risk population with distinctive immune cell infiltration and a state of immunosuppression. Furthermore, NAPSA can inhibit the proliferation and invasion capabilities of LUAD cells, thereby identifying new molecules for clinical targeted therapy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cisplatin-Based Combination Therapy for Enhanced Cancer Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139635</link><description><![CDATA[Cisplatin, a primary chemotherapeutic drug, is of great value in the realm of tumor treatment. However, its clinical efficacy is strictly hindered by issues, such as drug resistance, relapse, poor prognosis, and toxicity to normal tissue. Cisplatin-based combination therapy has garnered increasing attention in both preclinical and clinical cancer research for its ability to overcome resistance, reduce toxicity, and enhance anticancer effects. This review examines three primary co-administration strategies of cisplatin-based drug combinations and their respective advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, seven types of combination therapies involving cisplatin are discussed, focusing on their main therapeutic effects, mechanisms in preclinical research, and clinical applications. This review also discusses future prospects and challenges, aiming to offer guidance for the development of optimal cisplatin-based combination therapy regimens for improved cancer treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Galectin-3 and Severity of Liver Fibrosis in Metabolic
Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140223</link><description><![CDATA[Metabolic dysfunction-associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver and hepatic steatosis, which can progress to critical conditions, including Metabolic dysfunction-associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), liver fibrosis, hepatic cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Galectin-3, a member of the galectin family of proteins, has been involved in cascades that are responsible for the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis in MAFLD. This review summarizes the present understanding of the role of galectin-3 in the severity of MAFLD and its associated liver fibrosis. The article assesses the underlying role of galectin-3-mediated fibrogenesis, including the triggering of hepatic stellate cells, the regulation of extracellular degradation, and the modulation of immune reactions and responses. It also highlights the assessments of the potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications of galectin-3 in liver fibrosis during MAFLD. Overall, this review provides insights into the multifaceted interaction between galectin-3 and liver fibrosis in MAFLD, which could lead to the development of novel strategies for diagnosis and treatment of this prevalent liver disease.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Loaded with Oncolytic
<i>Coxsackievirus A21</i> on Mouse Models of Colorectal Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137799</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cancer is a major cause of death worldwide. Colorectal cancer is the second most common type. Additional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be recommended. Developing new techniques is vital due to drug resistance and a lack of targeted therapies. <p> Objective: In this study, the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) loaded with oncolytic <i>Coxsackievirus A21</i> (CVA21) on a mouse model of CRC were investigated. <p> Methods: The therapeutic potency of MSCs loaded with oncolytic CVA21 were evaluated in an experimental mouse model of colorectal cancer which received an injection CT26 cells per mouse subcutaneously. Splenocyte proliferation index, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, nitric oxide (NO) production assessment, and cytokine assay (IFN-&#947;, IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-&#946;) in the splenocyte supernatant were all used to evaluate the impact of MSCs loaded with CVA21. <p> Results: The results of this study showed that the treatment of a mouse model of colorectal cancer with MSCs loaded with oncolytic CVA21 could significantly suppress the tumor growth, which was accompanied by stimulation of splenocytes proliferation index, an increase of NO and LDH. Also, MSCs loaded with oncolytic CVA21 increased the secretion of IFN-γ and decreased the secretion of IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-&#946;. <p> Conclusion: The results of the current study suggest that MSCs loaded with oncolytic CVA21 therapy for the CRC mouse model may have some potential advantages. On the other hand, the results of the study showed that, in addition to activating the acquired immune system, the use of MSCs loaded with oncolytic CVA21 also stimulates the innate immune system by increasing level of nitric oxide.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Novel Oncogenic Role of Disulfidptosis-related Gene SLC7A11 in
Anti-tumor Immunotherapy Response to Human Cancers]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138240</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The protein Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 11 (SLC7A11) plays a pivotal role in cellular redox homeostasis by suppressing disulfidptosis, which restricts tumor growth. Yet, its relevance in prognosis, immunity, and cancer treatment efficacy is not well understood. <p> Methods: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the expression of SLC7A11 across 33 cancer types, employing datasets from public databases. Methods, such as Cox regression and survival analyses assessed its prognostic significance, while functional enrichment explored the biological processes tied to SLC7A11. The association between SLC7A11 expression, immune cell infiltration, and immune-related gene expression was also scrutinized. <p> Results: Notably, SLC7A11 expression was more pronounced in cancerous compared to normal samples and correlated with higher tumor grades. Increased SLC7A11 expression was linked to poor outcomes, particularly in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). This protein's expression also showcased significant relationships with diverse molecular and immune subtypes. <p> Additionally, a prognostic nomogram was devised, integrating SLC7A11 expression and clinical variables. High SLC7A11 levels corresponded with cell growth and senescence pathways in various cancers and with lipid and cholesterol metabolism in LIHC. Furthermore, potential therapeutic compounds for LIHC with high SLC7A11 were identified. Real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blot were conducted to explore the expression of SLC7A11 in tumor tissues and cancer cell lines. <p> Conclusion: In summation, this study emphasizes the prognostic and immunological importance of SLC7A11, spotlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in LIHC.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Elucidating the Role of Pro-renin Receptors in Pancreatic Ductal
Adenocarcinoma Progression: A Novel Therapeutic Target in Cancer
Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137872</link><description><![CDATA[Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignancy with a very poor prognosis. The 5- year survival in these patients is very low, and most patients develop drug resistance to current therapies, so additional studies are needed to identify the potential role of new drug targets for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Recent investigations have been performed regarding the roles of pro-renin receptors (PRR) in the initiation and development of cancers. PRR is a component of the local renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Local tissue RAS has been known in diverse organ systems, including the pancreas. Various investigations have implicated that PRRs are associated with the upregulation of various signaling pathways, like the renin-angiotensin system pathway, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and the Wnt-signaling pathways, to contribute to pathological conditions, including cancer. In this review, we presented an overview of the role of PRR in the progression of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of CYPs and Transporters in the Biotransformation and Transport of
the Anti-hepatitis C Antiviral Agents Asunaprevir, Daclatasvir, and
Beclabuvir: Impact of Liver Disease, Race and Drug-drug Interactions on
Safety and Efficacy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138909</link><description><![CDATA[Asunaprevir, daclatasvir, and beclabuvir are direct-acting antiviral agents used in the treatment of patients infected with hepatitis C genotype 1b. This article reviews the biotransformation and disposition of these drugs in relation to the safety and efficacy of therapy. CYP3A4 and 3A5 catalyze the oxidative biotransformation of the drugs, while P-glycoprotein mediates their efflux from tissues. Asunaprevir is also a substrate for the influx transporters OATP1B1 and OATP2B1 and the efflux transporter MRP2, while beclabuvir is also a substrate for the efflux transporter BCRP. Liver disease decreases the expression of CYPs and transporters that mediate drug metabolism and disposition. Serum asunaprevir concentrations, but not those of daclatasvir or beclabuvir, are increased in patients with severe liver disease, which may produce toxicity. Pharmacogenomic variation in CYPs and transporters also has the potential to disrupt therapy with asunaprevir, daclatasvir and beclabuvir; some variants are more prevalent in certain racial groups. Pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions, especially where asunaprevir, daclatasvir, and beclabuvir are victim drugs, are mediated by coadministered rifampicin, ketoconazole and ritonavir, and are attributable to inhibition and/or induction of CYPs and transporters. Conversely, there is also evidence that asunaprevir, daclatasvir and beclabuvir are perpetrators of drug interactions with coadministered rosuvastatin and dextromethorphan. Together, liver disease, pharmacogenomic variation and drug-drug interactions may disrupt therapy with asunaprevir, daclatasvir and beclabuvir due to the impaired function of important CYPs and transporters.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Patent Selections]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140393</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Puerarin in Inhibiting Bladder
Urothelial Carcinoma Cell Proliferation and Migration]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134357</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Bladder urothelial carcinoma (BUC) ranks second in the incidence of urogenital system tumors, and the treatment of BUC needs to be improved. Puerarin, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been shown to have various effects such as anti-cancer effects, the promotion of angiogenesis, and anti-inflammation. This study investigates the effects of puerarin on BUC and its molecular mechanisms. <P> Methods: Through GeneChip experiments, we obtained differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and analyzed these DEGs using the Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis (IPA®), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) pathway enrichment analyses. The Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK8) assay was used to verify the inhibitory effect of puerarin on the proliferation of BUC T24 cells. String combined with Cytoscape® was used to create the Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network, and the MCC algorithm in cytoHubba plugin was used to screen key genes. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA®) was used to verify the correlation between key genes and cell proliferation. <P> Results: A total of 1617 DEGs were obtained by GeneChip. Based on the DEGs, the IPA® and pathway enrichment analysis showed they were mainly enriched in cancer cell proliferation and migration. CCK8 experiments proved that puerarin inhibited the proliferation of BUC T24 cells, and its IC50 at 48 hours was 218μmol/L. Through PPI and related algorithms, 7 key genes were obtained: ITGA1, LAMA3, LAMB3, LAMA4, PAK2, DMD, and UTRN. GSEA showed that these key genes were highly correlated with BUC cell proliferation. Survival curves showed that ITGA1 upregulation was associated with poor prognosis of BUC patients. <P> Conclusion: Our findings support the potential antitumor activity of puerarin in BUC. To the best of our knowledge, bioinformatics investigation suggests that puerarin demonstrates anticancer mechanisms via the upregulation of ITGA1, LAMA3 and 4, LAMB3, PAK2, DMD, and UTRN, all of which are involved in the proliferation and migration of bladder urothelial cancer cells.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Novel Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) Immunoassay for the Quantitation
of Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) PYX-106 in Human Serum]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139390</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: PYX-106 is a novel monoclonal antibody (mAb), targeting the sialic acidbinding immunoglobulin-like lectin 15 (Siglec-15) in the Tumor Microenvironment (TME). Precise measurement of PYX-106 is essential for the thorough assessment of PYX-106 pharmacokinetics in clinical investigations. <p> Methods: A novel Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) immunoassay for the quantitation of PYX- 106 in human serum was developed and validated. Biotinylated anti-PYX-106 antibody Bio-A1A1 was employed as the capture antibody, and ruthenylated anti-PYX-106 antibody Ru-A3G10 was utilized as the detection antibody in the ECL immunoassay on Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) platform. <p> Results: This assay was fully validated in terms of selectivity, accuracy, precision, hook effect, stability, etc., with a dynamic range from 50.0 to 2,500 ng/mL in human serum under the 2018 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance and the 2022 U.S. FDA ICH M10 guidance. <p> Conclusion: PYX-106 bioanalytical assay validation was reported for the first time in a biological matrix, and this assay has been successfully applied to support a clinical trial PYX-106-101.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ramifications of m6A Modification on ncRNAs in Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139672</link><description><![CDATA[N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an RNA modification wherein the N6-position of adenosine is methylated. It is one of the most prevalent internal modifications of RNA and regulates various aspects of RNA metabolism. M6A is deposited by m6A methyltransferases, removed by m6A demethylases, and recognized by reader proteins, which modulate splicing, export, translation, and stability of the modified mRNA. Recent evidence suggests that various classes of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and long con-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), are also targeted by this modification. Depending on the ncRNA species, m6A may affect the processing, stability, or localization of these molecules. The m6Amodified ncRNAs are implicated in a number of diseases, including cancer. In this review, the author summarizes the role of m<sup>6</sup>A modification in the regulation and functions of ncRNAs in tumor development. Moreover, the potential applications in cancer prognosis and therapeutics are discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Colorectal Cancer Stem Cell Biomarkers: Biological Traits and Prognostic
Insights]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139716</link><description><![CDATA[Due to self-renewal, differentiation, and limitless proliferation properties, Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) increase the probability of tumor development. These cells are identified by using CSC markers, which are highly expressed proteins on the cell surface of CSCs. Recently, the therapeutic application of CSCs as novel biomarkers improved both the prognosis and diagnosis outcome of colorectal Cancer. In the present review, we focused on a specific panel of colorectal CSC markers, including LGR5, ALDH, CD166, CD133, and CD44, which offers a targeted and comprehensive analysis of their functions. The selection criteria for these markers cancer were based on their established significance in Colorectal Cancer (CRC) pathogenesis and clinical outcomes, providing novel insights into the CSC biology of CRC. Through this approach, we aim to elevate understanding and stimulate further research for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in CRC.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Microwave Assisted Groebke-Blackburn-Bienayme Multicomponent Reaction to Synthesis of Imidazo[1,2-<i>a</i>]pyridine-furan Hybrids as Possible Therapeutic Option for Leukemia, Colon Cancer and Prostate Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139341</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aims: Microwave assisted Groebke-Blackburn-Bienayme multicomponent reaction to synthesis imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-furan hybrids as anticancer agents. <p> Background: Microwave synthesis has emerged as a potent tool for the more economical and environmental friendly synthesis of organic compounds, such as derivatives of imidazo[1,2- a]pyridine. Compared to traditional synthesis, microwave radiation causes molecules to be excited and distributes thermal energy evenly in a shorter amount of time. <p> Objective: The primary objective of the work presented in this article was to prepare imidazo[1,2- a]pyridine-furan hybrids via Groebke-Blackburn-Bienayme multicomponent reaction using PEG 400 in microwave irradiation as green approach. Characterized it and evaluated their anticancer activities. <p> Methods: In a sealed microwave glass vial, 5-methylfuran-2-carbaldehyde 1, 2-aminoazines 2ag, isocyanides 3a-c in presence of 20mol% acetic acid were dissolved in PEG 400 (polyethylene glycol 400) reaction solvent. The glass vial was sealed and irradiate in microwave with stirring at temperature of 75°C for 10 min. This method is an efficient alternative approach to synthesizing imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-furan hybrids via Groebke-Blackburn-Bienayme multicomponent reaction. <p> Results: We have successfully synthesised the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-furan hybrids via Groebke-Blackburn-Bienayme multicomponent reaction using PEG 400 in microwave irradiation as green approach. The structures of the compounds were confirmed through various spectroscopic techniques and evaluated their anticancer activities. <p> Conclusion: The reported protocol is advantageous over conventional methods of imidazo[1,2- a]pyridine derivatives. The time required for the reaction is much less as compared to the usual requirements of reflux. Compound 4e, 4f, 4n and 4o shows the most increased activity against cell line RPMI-8226, HCT-116 and PC-3 of Leukemia, Colon cancer and Prostate cancer respectively. By using the potential of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-furan based compounds via sustainable green approach, more effective and accurate cancer treatments can be designed in future.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Chemoprotective Potentials of Alpha-lipoic Acid against
Cisplatin-induced Ototoxicity: A Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131664</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Purpose: Ototoxicity is one of the major adverse effects of cisplatin therapy which restrict its clinical application. Alpha-lipoic acid administration may mitigate cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. In the present study, we reviewed the protective potentials of alpha-lipoic acid against the cisplatin-mediated ototoxic adverse effects. <p> Methods: Based on the PRISMA guideline, we performed a systematic search for the identification of all relevant studies in various electronic databases up to June 2022. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the obtained articles (n=59) were screened and 13 eligible articles were finally included in the present study. <p> Results: The findings of <i>in-vitro</i> experiments showed that cisplatin treatment significantly reduced the auditory cell viability in comparison with the control group; nevertheless, the alpha-lipoic acid co-administration protected the cells against the reduction of cell viability induced by cisplatin treatment. Moreover, the <i>in-vivo</i> results of the auditory brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) tests revealed a decrease in DPOAE and an increase in ABR threshold of cisplatin-injected animals; however, it was shown that alpha-lipoic acid co-treatment had an opposite pattern on the evaluated parameters. Other findings demonstrated that cisplatin treatment could significantly induce the biochemical and histopathological alterations in inner ear cells/tissue; in contrast, alpha-lipoic acid co-treatment ameliorated the cisplatin-mediated biochemical and histological changes. <p> Conclusion: The findings of audiometry, biochemical parameters, and histological evaluation showed that alpha-lipoic acid co-administration alleviates the cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. The protective role of alpha-lipoic acid against the cisplatin-induced ototoxicity can be due to different mechanisms of anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory activities, and regulation of cell cycle progression.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Updates on Oncogenic Signaling of Aurora Kinases in
Chemosensitive, Chemoresistant Cancers: Novel Medicinal Chemistry
Approaches for Targeting Aurora Kinases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131437</link><description><![CDATA[The Aurora Kinase family (AKI) is composed of serine-threonine protein kinases involved in the modulation of the cell cycle and mitosis. These kinases are required for regulating the adherence of hereditary-related data. Members of this family can be categorized into aurora kinase A (Ark-A), aurora kinase B (Ark-B), and aurora kinase C (Ark-C), consisting of highly conserved threonine protein kinases. These kinases can modulate cell processes such as spindle assembly, checkpoint pathway, and cytokinesis during cell division. The main aim of this review is to explore recent updates on the oncogenic signaling of aurora kinases in chemosensitive/chemoresistant cancers and to explore the various medicinal chemistry approaches to target these kinases. We searched Pubmed, Scopus, NLM, Pubchem, and Relemed to obtain information pertinent to the updated signaling role of aurora kinases and medicinal chemistry approaches and discussed the recently updated roles of each aurora kinases and their downstream signaling cascades in the progression of several chemosensitive/chemoresistant cancers; subsequently, we discussed the natural products (scoulerine, Corynoline, Hesperidin Jadomycin-B, fisetin), and synthetic, medicinal chemistry molecules as aurora kinase inhibitors (AKIs). Several natural products' efficacy was explained as AKIs in chemosensitization and chemoresistant cancers. For instance, novel triazole molecules have been used against gastric cancer, whereas cyanopyridines are used against colorectal cancer and trifluoroacetate derivatives could be used for esophageal cancer. Furthermore, quinolone hydrazine derivatives can be used to target breast cancer and cervical cancer. In contrast, the indole derivatives can be preferred to target oral cancer whereas thiosemicarbazone-indole could be used against prostate cancer, as reported in an earlier investigation against cancerous cells. Moreover, these chemical derivatives can be examined as AKIs through preclinical studies. In addition, the synthesis of novel AKIs through these medicinal chemistry substrates in the laboratory using <i>in silico</i> and synthetic routes could be beneficial to develop prospective novel AKIs to target chemoresistant cancers. This study is beneficial to oncologists, chemists, and medicinal chemists to explore novel chemical moiety synthesis to target specifically the peptide sequences of aurora kinases in several chemoresistant cancer cell types.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Genetic Factors and MicroRNAs in the Development of Gallbladder
Cancer: The Prospective Clinical Targets]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139406</link><description><![CDATA[Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an uncommon condition in which malignant (cancer) cells are detected in gallbladder tissue. Cancer is often triggered when normal cells turn malignant and begin to spread. Cancer can also be caused by genetic anomalies that result in uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor development. MicroRNAs (also known as miRNAs or miRs) are a group of small, endogenous, non-coding RNAs of 19-23 nucleotides in length, which play a key role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. These miRNAs serve as negative gene regulators by supervising target genes and regulating biological processes, including cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Cancer development and progression relate to aberrant miRNA expression. This review demonstrated the implication of various genetic factors and microRNAs in developing and regulating GBC. This suggests the potential of genes and RNAs as the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets in gallbladder cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Quinolone Derivatives as Anticancer Agents: Importance in Medicinal Chemistry]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139643</link><description><![CDATA[Quinolone is a heterocyclic compound containing carbonyl at the C-2 or C-4 positions with nitrogen at the C-1 position. The scaffold was first identified for its antibacterial properties, and the derivatives were known to possess many pharmacological activities, including anticancer. In this review, the quinolin-2(H)-one and quinolin-4(H)-one derivatives were identified to inhibit several various proteins and enzymes involved in cancer cell growth, such as topoisomerase, microtubules, protein kinases, phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) and histone deacetylase (HDAC). Hybrids of quinolone with curcumin or chalcone, 2-phenylpyrroloquinolin-4-one and 4-quinolone derivatives have demonstrated strong potency against cancer cell lines. Additionally, quinolones have been explored as inhibitors of protein kinases, including EGFR and VEGFR. Therefore, this review aims to consolidate the medicinal chemistry of quinolone derivatives in the pipeline and discuss their similarities in terms of their pharmacokinetic profiles and potential target sites to provide an understanding of the structural requirements of anticancer quinolones.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Progress on Central Cholinergic Receptors as Therapeutic
Targets for Alzheimer's Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139353</link><description><![CDATA[Acetylcholine (ACh) is ubiquitously present in the nervous system and has been involved in the regulation of various brain functions. By modulating synaptic transmission and promoting synaptic plasticity, particularly in the hippocampus and cortex, ACh plays a pivotal role in the regulation of learning and memory. These procognitive actions of ACh are mediated by the neuronal muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors. The impairment of cholinergic transmission leads to cognitive decline associated with aging and dementia. Therefore, the cholinergic system has been of prime focus when concerned with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia. In AD, the extensive destruction of cholinergic neurons occurs by amyloid-β plaques and tau protein-rich neurofibrillary tangles. Amyloid-&#946; also blocks cholinergic receptors and obstructs neuronal signaling. This makes the central cholinergic system an important target for the development of drugs for AD. In fact, centrally acting cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil and rivastigmine are approved for the treatment of AD, although the outcome is not satisfactory. Therefore, identification of specific subtypes of cholinergic receptors involved in the pathogenesis of AD is essential to develop future drugs. Also, the identification of endogenous rescue mechanisms to the cholinergic system can pave the way for new drug development. In this article, we discussed the neuroanatomy of the central cholinergic system. Further, various subtypes of muscarinic and nicotinic receptors involved in the cognition and pathophysiology of AD are described in detail. The article also reviewed primary neurotransmitters that regulate cognitive processes by modulating basal forebrain cholinergic projection neurons.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Skin Microbial Composition and Genetic Mutation Analysis in Precision
Medicine for Epidermolysis Bullosa]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139482</link><description><![CDATA[Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is an inherited skin disease representing a spectrum of rare genetic disorders. These conditions share the common trait that causes fragile skin, resulting in the development of blisters and erosions. The inheritance follows an autosomal pattern, and the array of clinical presentations leads to significant physical suffering, considerable morbidity, and mortality. Despite EB having no cure, effectively managing EB remains an exceptional challenge due to its rarity and complexity, occasionally casting a profound impact on the lives of affected individuals. Considering that EB management requires a multidisciplinary approach, this sometimes worsens the condition of patients with EB due to inappropriate handling. Thus, more appropriate and precise treatment management of EB is essentially needed. Advanced technology in medicine and health comes into the bioinformatics era. Including treatment for skin diseases, omics-based approaches aim to evaluate and handle better disease management and treatment. In this work, we review several approaches regarding the implementation of omics-based technology, including genetics, pathogenic mutation, skin microbiomics, and metagenomics analysis for EB. In addition, we highlight recent updates on the potential of metagenomics analysis in precision medicine for EB.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Tetrandrine for Targeting Therapy Resistance in Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138963</link><description><![CDATA[During the last five decades, there has been tremendous development in our understanding of cancer biology and the development of new and novel therapeutics to target cancer. However, despite these advances, cancer remains the second leading cause of death across the globe. Most cancer deaths are attributed to the development of resistance to current therapies. There is an urgent and unmet need to address cancer therapy resistance. Tetrandrine, a bis-benzyl iso-quinoline, has shown a promising role as an anti-cancer agent. Recent work from our laboratory and others suggests that tetrandrine and its derivatives could be an excellent adjuvant to the current arsenal of anti-cancer drugs. Herein, we provide an overview of resistance mechanisms to current therapeutics and review the existing literature on the anti-cancer effects of tetrandrine and its potential use for overcoming therapy resistance in cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Identification of Prognostic Markers and Potential Therapeutic Targets
using Gene Expression Profiling and Simulation Studies in Pancreatic
Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134515</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a 5-year relative survival rate of less than 10% making it one of the most fatal cancers. A lack of early measures of prognosis, challenges in molecular targeted therapy, ineffective adjuvant chemotherapy, and strong resistance to chemotherapy cumulatively make pancreatic cancer challenging to manage. <p> Objective: The present study aims to enhance understanding of the disease mechanism and its progression by identifying prognostic biomarkers, potential drug targets, and candidate drugs that can be used for therapy in pancreatic cancer. <p> Methods: Gene expression profiles from the GEO database were analyzed to identify reliable prognostic markers and potential drug targets. The disease's molecular mechanism and biological pathways were studied by investigating gene ontologies, KEGG pathways, and survival analysis to understand the strong prognostic power of key DEGs. FDA-approved anti-cancer drugs were screened through cell line databases, and docking studies were performed to identify drugs with high affinity for ARNTL2 and PIK3C2A. Molecular dynamic simulations of drug targets ARNTL2 and PIK3C2A in their native state and complex with nilotinib were carried out for 100 ns to validate their therapeutic potential in PDAC. <p> Results: Differentially expressed genes that are crucial regulators, including SUN1, PSMG3, PIK3C2A, SCRN1, and TRIAP1, were identified. Nilotinib as a candidate drug was screened using sensitivity analysis on CCLE and GDSC pancreatic cancer cell lines. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed the underlying mechanism of the binding of nilotinib with ARNTL2 and PIK3C2A and the dynamic perturbations. It validated nilotinib as a promising drug for pancreatic cancer. <p> Conclusion: This study accounts for prognostic markers, drug targets, and repurposed anti-cancer drugs to highlight their usefulness for translational research on developing novel therapies. Our results revealed potential and prospective clinical applications in drug targets ARNTL2, EGFR, and PI3KC2A for pancreatic cancer therapy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ebselen: A Review on its Synthesis, Derivatives, Anticancer Efficacy and
Utility in Combating SARS-COV-2]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134518</link><description><![CDATA[Ebselen is a selenoorganic chiral compound with antioxidant properties comparable to glutathione peroxidase. It is also known as 2-phenyl-1,2-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one. In studies examining its numerous pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, and anti- Alzheimer’s, ebselen has demonstrated promising results. This review's primary objective was to emphasize the numerous synthesis pathways of ebselen and their efficacy in fighting cancer. The data were collected from multiple sources, including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Publons. The starting reagents for the synthesis of ebselen are 2-aminobenzoic acid and N-phenyl benzamide. It was discovered that ebselen has the ability to initiate apoptosis in malignant cells and prevent the formation of new cancer cells by scavenging free radicals. In addition, ebselen increases tumor cell susceptibility to apoptosis by inhibiting TNF-α mediated NF-kB activation. Ebselen can inhibit both doxorubicin and daunorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Allopurinol and ebselen administered orally can be used to suppress renal ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Due to excessive administration, diclofenac can induce malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract, which ebselen can effectively suppress. Recent research has demonstrated ebselen to inhibit viral function by binding to cysteinecontaining catalytic domains of various viral proteases. It was discovered that ebselen could inhibit the catalytic dyad function of M<sup>pro</sup> by forming an irreversible covalent bond between Se and Cys145, thereby altering protease function and inhibiting SARS-CoV-2. Ebselen may also inhibit the activation of endosomal NADPH oxidase of vascular endothelial cells, which is believed to be required for thrombotic complications in COVID-19. In this review, we have included various studies conducted on the anticancer effect of ebselen as well as its inhibition of SARS-CoV-2.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Hypoxia-inducible Factor-1 in Bladder Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133049</link><description><![CDATA[Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide and poses a significant hazard to human health. During the development of BC, hypoxia plays a crucial role. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a key transcription factor for hypoxic adaptation, which regulates the transcription of various genes, including inflammation, angiogenesis, and glycolytic metabolism. Recent studies have shown the precise role of HIF in various biological behaviors of BC. More importantly, a new antitumor medication targeting HIF-2 has been used to treat renal cancer. However, therapies targeting HIF-1 in BC have not yet been developed. In this review, we discussed how HIF-1 is expressed and affects the growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis of BC. At the same time, we investigated several HIF-1 inhibitors that provide new perspectives for targeting HIF-1.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Emodin in the Treatment of Bladder Cancer Based on
Network Pharmacology and Experimental Verification]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139269</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background and Purpose: Emodin, a compound derived from rhubarb and various traditional Chinese medicines, exhibits a range of pharmacological actions, including antiinflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Nevertheless, its pharmacological impact on bladder cancer (BLCA) and the underlying mechanism are still unclear. This research aimed to analyze the pharmacological mechanisms of Emodin against BLCA using network pharmacology analysis and experimental verification. <P> Methods: Initially, network pharmacology was employed to identify core targets and associated pathways affected by Emodin in bladder cancer. Subsequently, the expression of key targets in normal bladder tissues and BLCA tissues was assessed by searching the GEPIA and HPA databases. The binding energy between Emodin and key targets was predicted using molecular docking. Furthermore, <i>in vitro</i> experiments were carried out to confirm the predictions made with network pharmacology. <P> Results: Our analysis identified 148 common genes targeted by Emodin and BLCA, with the top ten target genes including <i>TP53, HSP90AA1, EGFR, MYC, CASP3, CDK1, PTPN11, EGF, ESR1</i>, and <i>TNF</i>. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses indicated a significant correlation between Emodin and the PI3KAKT pathway in the context of BLCA. Molecular docking investigations revealed a strong affinity between Emodin and critical target proteins. <i>In vitro</i> experiments demonstrated that Emodin inhibits T24 proliferation, migration, and invasion while inducing cell apoptosis. The findings also indicated that Emodin reduces both PI3K and AKT protein and mRNA expression, suggesting that Emodin may mitigate BLCA by modulating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. <P> Conclusion: This study integrates network pharmacology with <i>in vitro</i> experimentation to elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying the action of Emodin against BLCA. The results of this research enhance our understanding of the pharmacological mechanisms by which Emodin may be employed in treating BLCA.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Celastrol Elicits Antitumor Effects through Inducing Immunogenic Cell Death
and Downregulating PD-L1 in ccRCC]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139566</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Targeting immunogenic cell death (ICD) is considered a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer. However, the commonly identified ICD inducers promote the expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) in tumor cells, thus aiding them to evade the recognition and killing by the immune system. Therefore, the finding of novel ICD inducers to avoid enhanced PD-L1 expression is of vital significance for cancer therapy. Celastrol (CeT), a triterpene isolated from <i>Tripterygium wilfordii</i> Hook. F induces various forms of cell death to exert anti-cancer effects, which may make celastrol an attractive candidate as an inducer of ICD. <p> Methods: In the present study, bioinformatics analysis was combined with experimental validation to explore the underlying mechanism by which CeT induces ICD and regulates PD-L1 expression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). <p> Results: The results showed that EGFR, IKBKB, PRKCQ and MAPK1 were the crucial targets for CeT-induced ICD, and only MAPK1 was an independent prognostic factor for the overall survival (OS) of ccRCC patients. In addition, CeT triggered autophagy and up-regulated the expressions of HMGB1 and CRT to induce ICD in 786-O cells <i>in vitro</i>. Importantly, CeT can down-regulate PD-L1 expression through activating autophagy. At the molecular level, CeT suppressed PD-L1 via the inhibition of MAPK1 expression. Immunologically, the core target of celastrol, MAPK1, was tightly correlated with CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells in ccRCC. <p> Conclusion: These findings indicate that CeT not only induces ICD but also suppresses PD-L1 by down-regulating MAPK1 expression, which will provide an attractive strategy for ccRCC immunotherapy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[TRIP13 Activates Glycolysis to Promote Cell Stemness and
Strengthen Doxorubicin Resistance of Colorectal Cancer Cells]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138450</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Chemotherapy resistance is one of the main causes of clinical chemotherapy failure. Current cancer research explores the drug resistance mechanism and new therapeutic targets. This work aims to elucidate the mechanism of thyroid hormone receptor interactor 13 (TRIP13) affecting doxorubicin (DOX) resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). <p> Methods: Bioinformatics analyses were employed to clarify TRIP13 expression in CRC tissues and predict the correlation of the TRIP13 enrichment pathway with glycolysis-related genes and stemness index mRNAsi. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were adopted to analyze the expression of TRIP13 and glycolysis- related genes. Cell Counting Kit-8 was utilized to determine the cell viability and IC<sub>50</sub> value. Western blot was employed to measure the expression of stemness-related factors. Cell function assays were performed to detect cells' sphere-forming ability and glycolysis level. Animal models were constructed to determine the effects of TRIP13 expression on CRC tumor growth. <p> Results: TRIP13 was significantly overexpressed in CRC, concentrated in the glycolysis signaling pathway, and positively correlated with stemness index mRNAsi. High expression of TRIP13 facilitated DOX resistance in CRC. Further mechanistic studies revealed that overexpression of TRIP13 could promote cell stemness through glycolysis, which was also confirmed in animal experiments. <p> Conclusion: TRIP13 was highly expressed in CRC, which enhanced the DOX resistance of CRC cells by activating glycolysis to promote cell stemness. These findings offer new insights into the pathogenesis of DOX resistance in CRC and suggest that TRIP13 may be a new target for reversing DOX resistance in CRC.</p>]]></description> </item></channel></rss>