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Byline: Ahmad. Ameri, Ainaz. Sourati, Behnaz. Behzadi, Mansour. Lesan, Farzad. Taghizadeh-Hesary Background: The efficacy of chemotherapy in locally advanced, recurrent, and metastatic salivary gland carcinomas (LA-R/M SGCs) is still undefined. [...]

Simple Summary: This research aims to explore the role of the TSGA10 protein in cancer development, specifically in how it might influence the growth and spread of cancer cells. Scientists are particularly interested in TSGA10 because it is found in both normal reproductive tissues and cancer cells, yet seems to slow down cancer progression. The key question is why cancer cells would produce a protein that could hinder their own survival. To investigate this, the authors propose several hypotheses about how TSGA10 might be involved in carcinogenesis. They will analyze both published and unpublished studies and data to understand how TSGA10 functions at different stages of cancer. By uncovering these mechanisms, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that use TSGA10 to combat cancer more effectively, offering fresh insights and potential breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Cancer-specific antigens have been a significant area of focus in cancer treatment since their discovery in the mid-twentieth century. Cancer germline antigens are a class of antigens specifically overexpressed in germline tissues and cancer cells. Among these, TSGA10 (testis-specific gene antigen 10) is of great interest because of its crucial impact on cancer progression. Early studies explored TSGA10 expression in a variety of cancer types. More recent studies revealed that TSGA10 can suppress tumor progression by blocking cancer cell metabolism, angiogenesis, and metastasis. An open question regarding the TSGA10 is why cancer cells must express a protein that prevents their progression. To answer this question, we conducted a comprehensive review to engage the TSGA10 in the context of the current understanding of "malignant transformation". This review demonstrated that TSGA10 expression level in cancer cells depends on the cancer stage across malignant transformation. In addition, we evaluated how TSGA10 expression can prevent the "cancer hallmarks". Given this information, TSGA10 can be of great interest in developing effective targeted anti-cancer therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and Background. This study aims to explore alternative diagnostic methods to assess thyroid function in patients unable to undergo blood tests for thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH) and thyroxine (T4), such as individuals with trypanophobia, severe medical conditions, or coagulopathy. Considering the impact of thyroid dysfunction on mitochondrial metabolism and the essential role of proper mitochondrial function in ciliary motility, we postulate that assessing nasal ciliary function could serve as a surrogate diagnostic approach for thyroid dysfunction. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed on individuals with no history of thyroid diseases. The primary endpoint was the diagnostic value of the nasal mucociliary (NMC) test using Iranica Picris (Asteraceae) aqueous extract in differentiating hypo- or hyperthyroidism cases from euthyroid cases. Results. 232 individuals were recruited (71% females, 86% euthyroid). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed a good diagnostic value for the NMC test in differentiating overt hypothyroidism (area under the ROC curve [AUROC] = 0.82, p = 0.004) and its fair value in diagnosing subclinical hyperthyroidism (AUROC = 0.78, p = 0.01) from the euthyroid condition. The NMC test had a significant positive correlation with TSH (r = 0.47, p < 0.001) and a significant negative correlation with T4 (r = −0.32, p < 0.001). The NMC rate was significantly different in distinct thyroid function groups (p < 0.001). Compared with euthyroid cases, the post-hoc analysis showed that the NMC test is significantly higher in overt hypothyroidism (15.06 vs. 21.07 min, p = 0.003) and significantly lower in subclinical hyperthyroidism (15.05 vs. 10.9 min, p = 0.02). Conclusions. The Iranica Picris-based NMC test might serve as a diagnostic method to distinguish overt hypothyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer fairly leads to xerostomia, profoundly affecting their quality of life. With limited effective preventive and therapeutic methods, attention has turned to exploring alternatives. This article outlines how intraglandular injection of mitochondria-boosting agents can serve as a potential strategy to reduce salivary acinar damage. This method can contribute to the thoughtful development of study protocols or medications to reduce radiation-induced salivary glands damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article explores the dynamic field of radiopharmaceuticals, where innovative developments arise from combining radioisotopes and pharmaceuticals, opening up exciting therapeutic possibilities. The in-depth exploration covers targeted drug delivery, delving into passive targeting through enhanced permeability and retention, as well as active targeting using ligand-receptor strategies. The article also discusses stimulus-responsive release systems, which orchestrate controlled release, enhancing precision and therapeutic effectiveness. A significant focus is placed on the crucial role of radiopharmaceuticals in medical imaging and theranostics, highlighting their contribution to diagnostic accuracy and image-guided curative interventions. The review emphasizes safety considerations and strategies for mitigating side effects, providing valuable insights into addressing challenges and achieving precise drug delivery. Looking ahead, the article discusses nanoparticle formulations as cutting-edge innovations in next-generation radiopharmaceuticals, showcasing their potential applications. Real-world examples are presented through case studies, including the use of radiolabelled antibodies for solid tumors, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy for neuroendocrine tumors, and the intricate management of bone metastases. The concluding perspective envisions the future trajectory of radiopharmaceuticals, anticipating a harmonious integration of precision medicine and artificial intelligence. This vision foresees an era where therapeutic precision aligns seamlessly with scientific advancements, ushering in a new epoch marked by the fusion of therapeutic resonance and visionary progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiotherapy is a mainstay of cancer treatment. The clinical response to radiotherapy is heterogeneous, from a complete response to early progression. Recent studies have explored the importance of patient characteristics in response to radiotherapy. In this editorial, we invite contributions for a BMC Cancer collection of articles titled 'Advances in personalized radiotherapy' towards the improvement of treatment response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative disorders occur through progressive loss of function or structure of neurons, with loss of sensation and cognition values. The lack of successful therapeutic approaches to solve neurologic disorders causes physical disability and paralysis and has a significant socioeconomic impact on patients. In recent years, nanocarriers and stem cells have attracted tremendous attention as a reliable approach to treating neurodegenerative disorders. In this regard, nanoparticle‐based labeling combined with imaging technologies has enabled researchers to survey transplanted stem cells and fully understand their fate by monitoring their survival, migration, and differentiation. For the practical implementation of stem cell therapies in the clinical setting, it is necessary to accurately label and follow stem cells after administration. Several approaches to labeling and tracking stem cells using nanotechnology have been proposed as potential treatment strategies for neurological diseases. Considering the limitations of intravenous or direct stem cell administration, intranasal delivery of nanoparticle‐labeled stem cells in neurological disorders is a new method of delivering stem cells to the central nervous system (CNS). This review describes the challenges and limitations of stem cell‐based nanotechnology methods for labeling/tracking, intranasal delivery of cells, and cell fate regulation as theragnostic labeling. This article is categorized under:Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer treatment is still a global health challenge. Nowadays, chemotherapy is widely applied for treating cancer and reducing its burden. However, its application might be in accordance with various adverse effects by exposing the healthy tissues and multidrug resistance (MDR), leading to disease relapse or metastasis. In addition, due to tumor heterogeneity and the varied pharmacokinetic features of prescribed drugs, combination therapy has only shown modestly improved results in MDR malignancies. Nanotechnology has been explored as a potential tool for cancer treatment, due to the efficiency of nanoparticles to function as a vehicle for drug delivery. Methods: With this viewpoint, functionalized nanosystems have been investigated as a potential strategy to overcome drug resistance. Results: This approach aims to improve the efficacy of anticancer medicines while decreasing their associated side effects through a range of mechanisms, such as bypassing drug efflux, controlling drug release, and disrupting metabolism. This review discusses the MDR mechanisms contributing to therapeutic failure, the most cutting‐edge approaches used in nanomedicine to create and assess nanocarriers, and designed nanomedicine to counteract MDR with emphasis on recent developments, their potential, and limitations. Conclusions: Studies have shown that nanoparticle‐mediated drug delivery confers distinct benefits over traditional pharmaceuticals, including improved biocompatibility, stability, permeability, retention effect, and targeting capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cancer cells are dependent on normal cells for their survival and functionality because they can use nanoscale tubes to steal the mitochondria from immune cells. It also highlights the significance of mitochondria in the biology of cancer cells as the key organelles for cellular metabolism and energy generation. Recent research has shown that mitochondria are critical for cancer cell survival in the hostile tumor microenvironments, immune system evasion, acquisition of more aggressive characteristics, and treatment resistance. This article discusses the role of mitochondrial metabolism in cancer biology, customized cancer therapy, and how it affects cancer resistance to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation. For instance, by scavenging the produced reactive oxygen species, functioning mitochondria might enhance cancer resistance to radiation. According to this hypothesis, targeting mitochondria may improve oncological results. The tumors can respond completely to anticancer therapies or even experience malignant progression while receiving them. As a result, individualized cancer treatment is essential. Up until now, genetic analysis has been the foundation for customized cancer treatment. There is evidence that cancers with a high mitochondrial concentration are more difficult to cure. Evaluation of mitochondrial metabolism before therapy may supplement genetic data and enhance the personalization of oncological interventions. Energy is needed by cancer cells to stay alive and communicate with their surroundings. The primary organelles for cellular metabolism and energy synthesis are mitochondria. Researchers recently proved that cancer cells can steal immune cells' mitochondria using nanoscale tubes. This finding demonstrates the dependence of cancer cells on normal cells for their living and function. It also denotes the importance of mitochondria in cancer cells' biology. Emerging evidence has demonstrated how mitochondria are essential for cancer cells to survive in the harsh tumor microenvironments, evade the immune system, obtain more aggressive features, and resist treatments. For instance, functional mitochondria can improve cancer resistance against radiotherapy by scavenging the released reactive oxygen species. Therefore, targeting mitochondria can potentially enhance oncological outcomes, according to this notion. The tumors' responses to anticancer treatments vary, ranging from a complete response to even cancer progression during treatment. Therefore, personalized cancer treatment is of crucial importance. So far, personalized cancer treatment has been based on genomic analysis. Evidence shows that tumors with high mitochondrial content are more resistant to treatment. This paper illustrates how mitochondrial metabolism can participate in cancer resistance to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. Pretreatment evaluation of mitochondrial metabolism can provide additional information to genomic analysis and can help to improve personalized oncological treatments. This article outlines the importance of mitochondrial metabolism in cancer biology and personalized treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Radiotherapy is a mainstay of cancer treatment. Clinical studies revealed a heterogenous response to radiotherapy, from a complete response to even disease progression. To that end, finding the relative prognostic factors of disease outcomes and predictive factors of treatment efficacy and toxicity is essential. It has been demonstrated that radiation response depends on DNA damage response, cell cycle phase, oxygen concentration, and growth rate. Emerging evidence suggests that altered mitochondrial metabolism is associated with radioresistance. Methods: This article provides a comprehensive evaluation of the role of mitochondria in radiotherapy efficacy and toxicity. In addition, it demonstrates how mitochondria might be involved in the famous 6Rs of radiobiology. Results: In terms of this idea, decreasing the mitochondrial metabolism of cancer cells may increase radiation response, and enhancing the mitochondrial metabolism of normal cells may reduce radiation toxicity. Enhancing the normal cells (including immune cells) mitochondrial metabolism can potentially improve the tumor response by enhancing immune reactivation. Future studies are invited to examine the impacts of mitochondrial metabolism on radiation efficacy and toxicity. Improving radiotherapy response with diminishing cancer cells' mitochondrial metabolism, and reducing radiotherapy toxicity with enhancing normal cells' mitochondrial metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via virus-laden aerosols in enclosed spaces poses a significant concern. Elevators, commonly utilized enclosed spaces in modern tall buildings, present a challenge as the impact of varying heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems on virus transmission within these cabins remains unclear. In this study, we employ computational modeling to examine aerosol transmission within an elevator cabin outfitted with diverse HVAC systems. Using a transport equation, we model aerosol concentration and assess infection risk distribution across passengers' breathing zones. We calculate the particle removal efficiency for each HVAC design and introduce a suppression effect criterion to evaluate the effectiveness of the HVAC systems. Our findings reveal that mixing ventilation, featuring both inlet and outlet at the ceiling, proves most efficient in reducing particle spread, achieving a maximum removal efficiency of 79.40% during the exposure time. Conversely, the stratum ventilation model attains a mere removal efficiency of 3.97%. These results underscore the importance of careful HVAC system selection in mitigating the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission within elevator cabins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a genetic condition marked by the development of multiple benign tumors in the nervous system. The most common tumors associated with NF2 are bilateral vestibular schwannoma, meningioma, and ependymoma. The clinical manifestations of NF2 depend on the site of involvement. Vestibular schwannoma can present with hearing loss, dizziness, and tinnitus, while spinal tumor leads to debilitating pain, muscle weakness, or paresthesias. Clinical diagnosis of NF2 is based on the Manchester criteria, which have been updated in the last decade. NF2 is caused by loss-of-function mutations in the NF2 gene on chromosome 22, leading the merlin protein to malfunction. Over half of NF2 patients have de novo mutations, and half of this group are mosaic. NF2 can be managed by surgery, stereotactic radiosurgery, monoclonal antibody bevacizumab, and close observation. However, the nature of multiple tumors and the necessity of multiple surgeries over the lifetime, inoperable tumors like meningiomatosis with infiltration of the sinus or in the area of the lower cranial nerves, the complications caused by the operation, the malignancies induced by radiotherapy, and inefficiency of cytotoxic chemotherapy due to the benign nature of NF-related tumors have led a march toward exploring targeted therapies. Recent advances in genetics and molecular biology have allowed identifying and targeting of underlying pathways in the pathogenesis of NF2. In this review, we explain the clinicopathological characteristics of NF2, its genetic and molecular background, and the current knowledge and challenges of implementing genetics to develop efficient therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of the Cancer Aging Research Group (CARG) in Iranian patients as a representative of the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region population. This prospective longitudinal study involved patients 65 years and older starting a new cytotoxic chemotherapy regimen. We did general (including Karnofsky performance status, KPS) and CARG-based assessments before chemotherapy. Chemotherapy toxicities were recorded during chemotherapy courses. The predictive values of CARG and KPS were evaluated using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). Chemotherapy toxicities were sub-analyzed per hematologic and nonhematologic types. Chemotherapy-related toxicity was reported in 23.6 % of patients. The corresponding area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) was 0.56 (95 %CI, 0.40–0.69) for total toxicity, 0.67 (95 % CI, 0.48–0.78) for hematologic toxicity, and 0.39 (95 %CI, 0.21–0.66) for nonhematologic toxicity. CARG model had an acceptable ability to predict hematologic toxicities; however, its efficacy for total and nonhematologic toxicities was limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerosols carrying the virus inside enclosed spaces is an important mode of transmission for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as supported by growing evidence. Urban subways are one of the most frequented enclosed spaces. The subway is a utilitarian and low-cost transit system in modern society. However, studies are yet to demonstrate patterns of viral transmission in subway heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. To fill this gap, we performed a computational investigation of the airflow (and associated aerosol transmission) in an urban subway cabin equipped with an HVAC system. We employed a transport equation for aerosol concentration, which was added to the basic buoyant solver to resolve the aerosol transmission inside the subway cabin. This was achieved by considering the thermal, turbulent, and induced ventilation flow effects. Using the probability of encountering aerosols on sampling surfaces crossing the passenger breathing zones, we detected the highest infection risk zones inside the urban subway under different settings. We proposed a novel HVAC system that can impede aerosol spread, both vertically and horizontally, inside the cabin. In the conventional model, the maximum probability of encountering aerosols from the breathing of infected individuals near the fresh-air ducts was equal to 51.2%. This decreased to 3.5% in the proposed HVAC model. Overall, using the proposed HVAC system for urban subways led to a decrease in the mean value of the probability of encountering the aerosol by approximately 84% compared with that of the conventional system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare the acute radiation-induced bowel and bladder toxicities of two hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) regimens in localised prostate cancer (PCa). Materials and methods: This trial consists of patients with histologically confirmed stage T1-T3aN0M0 PCa, a prostate-specific antigen concentration of 40 ng/mL or lower, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–2. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to 56 Gy in 16 fractions over 4 weeks (arm A) or 70·2 Gy in 26 fractions over 5 weeks (arm B). Acute bowel and bladder toxicities were assessed using Radiation Therapy Oncology Group criteria. Results: Between June 2018 and December 2019, 40 patients were randomly assigned to treatment with 4-week (n = 20) and 5-week HFRT (n = 20). In the third month after completion of radiotherapy, the cumulative incidence of acute bowel and bladder toxicities of arms A and B was 20 versus 5% and 70 versus 85%, respectively. The cumulative incidence of grade 2 or worse bowel and bladder toxicities of the 5-week regimen was non-inferior to 4-week HFRT [bowel toxicity: 5% (arm A) versus 5% (arm B), bladder toxicity: 50% (arm A) versus 60% (arm B), p = 0·52). Findings: The 5-week regimen of HFRT is non-inferior to 4-week HFRT in terms of acute bowel and bladder toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complications of anti-cancer therapies can lead to inadequate nutrient intake, indigestion and deficiency of nutrients. The present study aims to better understand the nutritional challenges of hospitalized patients with cancer. Methods: The participants were patients referred to the oncology ward of the hospital who were selected by the maximum diversity sampling of patients with various cancers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data and continued until data saturation with 20 participants. Inductive content analysis was applied to interpret data using MAXQDA 2018 software. Results: The views of hospitalized patients with cancer regarding the nutritional complications were explored in four main themes, including "Inefficiency in patient food management”, “The need for care and support of the treatment team”, “Problems due to the consequences of the disease”, “Patients' strategies in conditions of dissatisfaction with the hospital food environment”. The sub-themes included "Dissatisfaction with the hospital food environment”, “Neglect of patients' specific conditions”, “Problem with the characteristics of hospital food”, “Uncertainty of the responsible person/people”, “Lack of continuous communication between the treatment team and patients”, “Patients’ need to consult with the treatment team”, “Patients’ concerns”, “Disease side-effects”, “Chemotherapy side effect”, and “Dissatisfaction of food and environment". Conclusion: It is necessary to obtain a comprehensive understanding of patients' needs by a treatment team, including physicians, nurses, and nutritionists by establishing appropriate communication with the patients and nutrition education from the time of diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like living organisms, cancer cells require energy to survive and interact with their environment. Mitochondria are the main organelles for energy production and cellular metabolism. Recently, investigators demonstrated that cancer cells can hijack mitochondria from immune cells. This behavior sheds light on a pivotal piece in the cancer puzzle, the dependence on the normal cells. This article illustrates the benefits of new functional mitochondria for cancer cells that urge them to hijack mitochondria. It describes how functional mitochondria help cancer cells' survival in the harsh tumor microenvironment, immune evasion, progression, and treatment resistance. Recent evidence has put forward the pivotal role of mitochondria in the metabolism of cancer stem cells (CSCs), the tumor components responsible for cancer recurrence and metastasis. This theory highlights the mitochondria in cancer biology and explains how targeting mitochondria may improve oncological outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 in a large cohort of new cancer patients referred to an oncology clinic in the north of Iran. During the 20-month COVID-19 pandemic, new cancer patients were followed-up. Demographic, pathologic, and clinical variables were collected for each patient. COVID-19 was confirmed based on a positive polymerase chain reaction test. Analyses were performed using the STATA version 14.0 at a significance level of 0.05. In this study, 1294 new cancer patients were followed for 24 months (mean age: 58.7 years [range 10–95]). During the study period, COVID-19 was diagnosed in 9.4% of the patients with hospitalization rate of 3.4%, an ICU admission rate of 0.7%, and COVID-19 mortality rate of 4.9%. Hematological malignancies (ORU= 2.6, CI95% 1.28–5.34), receiving palliative treatments (ORA=3.03, CI95% 1.6–5.45) and receiving radiotherapy (ORA=2.07, 1.17–3.65) were the most common predictive factors of COVID infection in cancer patients. Also, the COVID mortality was higher in brain cancer patients (p = 0.07), metastatic disease (p = 0.01) and patients receiving palliative treatments (p = 0.02). In patients suffering from cancer, COVID-19 infection can be predicted by cancer type, palliative care, and radiotherapy in cancer patients. Furthermore, brain cancers, metastasis, and palliative care were all associated with COVID-19-related mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In newly diagnosed glioblastoma, radiation with concurrent and adjuvant (six cycles) temozolomide (TMZ) is the established standard of postsurgical care. However, the benefit of extending adjuvant TMZ therapy beyond six cycles has remained unknown. Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase up to October 1, 2021. The search keywords were "glioblastoma," "adjuvant chemotherapy," and their synonyms. The data of randomized clinical trials were extracted and included in this meta-analysis if they had reported patients' median overall survival (OS) or median progression-free survival (PFS). The standard and extended chemotherapy regimens were considered as adjuvant TMZ up to six cycles and beyond six cycles (up to a total of 12 cycles), respectively. The median OS and median PFS were pooled and compared. Results: Four studies consisting of 882 patients (461 patients for the standard chemotherapy group and 421 patients for the extended chemotherapy group) were included in this meta-analysis. The extended TMZ regimen was associated with a nonsignificant improvement in PFS [12.0 months (95% CI 9.0 to 15.0) vs. 10.0 months (95% CI 7.0 to 12.0), P = 0.27] without corresponding improvement in OS [23.0 months (95% CI 19.0 to 27.0) and 24.0 months (95% CI 20.0 to 28.0), P = 0.73]. Conclusions: In newly diagnosed glioblastoma, continuing adjuvant TMZ beyond six cycles did not shown an increase neither in PFS nor OS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Denosumab, a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets cytokine receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL), is a potentially viable option in resistant aneurysmal bone cysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common degenerative joint disease, is associated with severe functional limitation and impairment of quality of life. Numerous reports have documented the clinical efficacy of low-dose radiotherapy (LD-RT) in the management of various inflammatory disorders, including OA. In this paper, we assessed the clinical literature involving the use of LD-RT in the treatment of OA, its dose-response features, possible underlying mechanistic features, and optimal therapeutic dose range. We carried out a systematic review based on the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statements and evaluated articles meeting the inclusion criteria for this review. A total of 361 articles were identified from databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Science Direct out of which 224 articles were duplicates and were discarded. Of the remaining 137 articles, 74 articles were un-related, 27 articles were review articles, eight were conference abstracts, three were letters, two were editorials, two were notes, and one was a book chapter. Finally, 20 articles met all the inclusion criteria and were included in this systematic review. Several single-arm retrospective/prospective studies showed advantages for LD-RT in the management of OA in terms of pain relief, improvement of mobility and function, and showed minimal side effects. Mechanistic considerations involve positive subcellular effects mediated by the activation of a nuclear factor erythroid 2-related transcription factor (Nrf2) mediated antioxidant response. Further research on both the short- and long-term effects of LD-RT on OA and other inflammatory disorders is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a global concern for the susceptibility of patients with cancer to the adverse effects of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Nevertheless, there is a signal of potentially increased vulnerability of patients with cancer to more COVID-19-induced mortality, this notion needs to be further evaluated in various societies with different cancer epidemiology and practice. Objectives: To investigate the outcomes of cancer patients admitted due to COVID-19 and compare them with data of COVID-19 infected patients without a history of cancer. Methods: In this case-control study, the medical records of patients with cancer (Ca+ patients)whoinfected with COVID-19 were evaluated and compared with patients without a medical history of cancer (Ca- patients). Clinical data were collected from 19 February 2020 to 17 May 2020. The extracted data were classified into demographics, underlying medical conditions, clinical manifestations, imaging and laboratory findings, and clinical outcomes. Results: A total of 24 Ca+ patients were compared with 44 Ca- patients in terms of clinical manifestations and outcomes of COVID-19. The Ca- patients significantly developed more dry cough (75.0% vs 29.2%, P = 0.01) and fever (72.7% vs 45.8%, P = 0.02). Findings of the chest CT scan was comparable between groups, except for pleural effusion and lymphadenopathy that exclusively reported in Ca+ patients. (3% and 4%, respectively). At the end of observation, 13 (19.1%) patients died from COVID-19. This rate was significantly higher in Ca+ patients (41.7 vs 6.8%, P = 001). Likewise, Ca+ patients experienced more mechanical ventilation (25.0 vs 4.7%, P = 0.01). However, the rate of ICU admission was comparable between groups (P = 0.29). Conclusions: The patients with cancer had a higher rate of mechanical ventilation and COVID-19-induced mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased consumption of nonrenewable energy sources may lead to more air pollution, resulting in negative health impacts in a society. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between fossil fuel energy consumption and health issues using generalized method of moments estimation technique for data from 18 Asian countries (both low- and middle-income) over the period 1991–2018. The findings demonstrate that fossil fuel energy consumption increases the risk of lung and respiratory diseases. In addition, the results demonstrate the significant effect of CO2 emissions and fossil fuel consumption on undernourishment and death rates. Furthermore, we find that increases in the gross domestic product per capita and healthcare expenditure may help reduce undernourishment and death ratio. The conclusion recommends that diversification of energy in low- and middle-income countries from too much reliance on fossil fuels to more renewable energy sources can improve energy insecurity, at the same time reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize the negative impacts on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jet fans are increasingly preferred over traditional ducted systems as a means of ventilating pollutants in large environments such as underground car parks. The spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)—which causes the novel coronavirus disease—through the jet fans in underground car parks has been considered a matter of key concern. A quantitative understanding of the propagation of respiratory droplets/particles/aerosols containing the virus is important. However, to date, studies have yet to demonstrate viral (e.g., SARS-CoV-2) transmission in underground car parks equipped with jet fans. In this paper, numerical simulation has been performed to assess the effects of jet fans on the spreading of viruses inside underground car parks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide a step-by-step approach to chemotherapy (CTx) in the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) era. The COVID-19 pandemic is the current global issue resulting in vast health implications. Amid the COVID-19 era, special attention must be paid to at-risk groups, including patients with cancer. To our knowledge, there is a paucity of data on the decision for CTx during the pandemic. We herein provide practical recommendations on the CTx of cancer patients over the pandemic based on our experience in an educational hospital. The decision on CTx should be considered to be individualized based on clinical findings. We hope that our experience provides a practical guide for clinical oncologists to deliver more effective cancer care over the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women. In line with the survival improvement of patients with cancer, the issue of treatment-induced toxicities becomes more important. Objectives: This study aimed at evaluating acute radiation-induced cardiac damage. Methods: Between 2016 and 2019, women with histologically-confirmed early-stage left-sided breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS) without prior chemotherapy, who were candidates for adjuvant whole breast radiotherapy, entered the study. The radiation-induced cardiotoxicity was assessed, using a rise in high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hscTnI) over the radiotherapy. Likewise, the association between the percentage of heart receiving at least 25Gy (V25Gy) and the rise in hscTnI was evaluated as the secondary endpoint. Results: A total of 22 women were included in this study. Mean - standard deviation (SD) hscTnI for the whole study population was 12 ± 2 ng/L before and 15 ± 2 ng/L after radiotherapy. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) V25Gy was 8.05% (6.95% - 8.95%). The difference between hscTnI levels before and after radiotherapy was significant (P = 0.001). There was no correlation between V25Gy and the rise in hscTnI (P = 0.18). Conclusions: hscTnI is a sensitive marker to detect early radiation-induced cardiotoxicity. There is no association between V25Gy and the rise in hscTnI over radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Today, the rapid outbreak of COVID-19 is the leading health issue. Patients with cancer are at high risk for the development of morbidities of COVID-19. Hence, oncology centers need to provide organ-based recommendations for optimal management of cancer in the COVID-19 era. Methods: In this article, we have provided the recommendations on management of locally advanced rectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic based on our experience in Shohada-e Tajrish Hospital, Iran. Results: We recommend that patients with locally advanced rectal cancer should be managed in an individualized manner in combination with local conditions related to COVID-19. Conclusion: Our recommendation may provide a guide for oncology centers of developing countries for better management of locally advanced rectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer (pCa) is the most frequently diagnosed visceral cancer among men. The main role of radical prostatectomy and external-beam radiation therapy (EBRT) in the management of patients with localized pCa has been established. Objectives: This study aims at comparing the clinical outcomes of hypofractionated versus conventional EBRT in the definitive management of patients with localized pCa. Methods: From 2013 to 2019, a consecutive series of patients with localized pCa was treated with conventional (74 Gy at 2 Gy fractions) or hypofractionated (70.2 Gy at 2.7 Gy fractions) radiotherapy schedules, using 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), respectively. The impact of the fractionation schedule on biochemical or clinical relapse-free survival (bc-RFS) and overall survival (OS) was assessed. Results: The median follow-up was 42 months (range: 8 - 81 months). Among 170 patients, 81 were treated with conventional and 89 with the hypofractionated schedule. The patient characteristics between groups were comparable. The mean bc-RFS of patients in conventional and hypofractionated groups was 34.9 and 35.4 months, respectively (confidence interval (CI) 95%: 34.5 - 35.7, P = 0.25). Accordingly, the mean OS of patients in conventional and hypofractionated groups was 34.6 and 38.6 months, respectively (CI 95%: 37.3 - 38.6, P = 0.04). The sub-analysis showed that the OS benefit of hypofractionated schedule was limited to intermediate- and high-risk groups with a trend toward significance (CI 95%: 0.02 - 1.46, P = 0.054). Conclusions: Hypofractionation had OS benefit over the conventional schedule for definitive radiotherapy of localized pCa. This benefit was limited to patients with intermediate- and high-risk pCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Based on the literature review, the available information regarding late toxicities after intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is limited to a few countries. Objectives: This study provides an opportunity to evaluate the delayed toxicities among Iranian patients with NPC that underwent IMRT. Methods: Between February 2016 and September 2018, 32 patients were treated with IMRT for NPC at Shohada-e Tajrish Hospital. The majority of them were in the advanced clinical stage and all received platinum-based induction and/or concurrent chemotherapy. Our typical prescription dose was 70.2 Gy to the gross tumor volume (GTV) in 2 Gy per fraction. Uninvolved regional lymph nodes received 59.4Gy. Considering theminimumfollow-up time of 6 months, we aimed mainly at evaluating the rate of delayed toxicities, including xerostomia, hearing loss, and eyeball damages. Toxicities were categorized based on either RTOG/EORTC or LENT/SOMA criteria. Results: The median follow-up time was 12 months (6 - 32 months). The occurrence rates of grade ≥ 2 xerostomia, grade ≥ 2 hearing loss, optic neuropathy, and retinopathy were 28%, 10%, 4%, and 7%, respectively. Based on the dose-volume histogram analysis, averages of mean doses to the parotid glands, submandibular glands, oral cavity, and cochlea were 32.3 Gy, 58.9 Gy, 41.8 Gy, and 44.9 Gy, respectively. Conclusions: Our experience of using IMRT in the treatment of NPC revealed equivalent toxicities (except for hearing loss) in comparison with high-experienced centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the role of immunotherapy in the management of Esophagogastric cancers (EGCs) and highlights standard-of-care guidelines and areas of controversy. Topics include the limited established immunotherapy, the need for predictive biomarkers, and the importance of mitochondrial biology in response to anti-PD-1 agents.

Introduction: Post-irradiation mammary stromal sarcoma (MSS) is a rare condition, and it is worth learning new knowledge from each case. Case Presentation: We present the case report of a 59-year-old female with a medical history of breast cancer, who presented with an axillary mass on the same side. The patient was further evaluated and finally diagnosed with MSS with chondroid differentiation. Thereafter, she underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy to facilitate the surgical resection of the tumor. However, she experienced local progression and lung metastasis during chemotherapy. Conclusions: MSS with chondroid differentiation was resistant to the standard chemotherapy regimens of sarcoma. Radiotherapy is a potential choice in the case of chemoresistant MSS. Further trials may reveal this notion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]