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The impact of a continuous care model utilizing a smartphone application on quality of life and anxiety levels among gynecologic cancer patients: a randomized controlled trial
No full textBackground: Patients diagnosed with gynecological cancers often face a range of complications that can impact their quality of life and increase their anxiety. Nursing models combined with mobile phone applications have the potential to improve outcomes for these patients. This study aimed to assess the impact of a continuous care model utilizing a smartphone application on quality of life and anxiety levels among gynecologic cancer patients. Methods: This study involved two phases: (1) mobile App development and (2) implementation of the intervention. The two-group randomized controlled trial included 70 participants with gynecological cancers referred to medical centers affiliated with Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The participants were randomized into control or intervention groups (n = 35 per group). Finally, 68 patients completed the trial. The intervention group received an 8-week intervention incorporating the continuous care model, whereas the control group received routine care (the standard support provided by nurses both during and after hospitalization). The participants completed the Spielberger state-trait anxiety and quality of life (QLQ-C30) questionnaires before, immediately after, and two months after the intervention. The data were analyzed via the chi-square test, independent samples t test, analysis of covariance, and repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: There were no significant differences in the baseline data between the two groups. However, after the intervention, the intervention group reported a significant increase in quality of life, with mean scores rising from 68.90 ± 17.50 to 73.78 ± 16.79 immediately after the intervention and to 80.61 ± 9.90 at the two-month follow-up. In contrast, the control group showed no significant improvement. Additionally, state anxiety significantly decreased in the intervention group from 51.64 ± 14.97 to 40.20 ± 11.70 at the follow-up, and trait anxiety scores in the intervention group decreased significantly from 49.91 ± 14.96 to 39.82 ± 10.28 at the follow-up, whereas the scores of the control group worsened. Conclusion: The intervention improved quality of life and reduced anxiety in patients with gynecological cancers. Given the scant attention given to mobile application-based follow-up in gynecologic cancer patients in previous studies, this approach can be incorporated into routine care to support patients, and it is recommended for nurses, health care providers, and physicians. Trial registration: The study was registered as a randomized controlled trial in the Clinical Trial Registration Center of Iran. Registration Date: 2024-02-14, Registration Number: IRCT20231107059977N1
Introduction of MYBL2 as a common regulator between AHR and RELA: Its relationship with lnc-UCC and lnc-HOTTIP in glioblastoma multiforme
No full textThis study aimed to validate the experimental gene expression level of a common gene in the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR) and RELA in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) using bioinformatics. RNAseq data was analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and LncRNAs related to the regulation of the founded gene were identified by the RNA Interactome Database. Ten healthy controls and 28 GBM patients' tissue samples were gathered, and the change in gene expression levels was measured by real-time PCR. The results showed that MYBL2 is a common regulator between the AHR and RELA, and the expression of MYBL2, lnc-UCC, and lnc-HOTTIP genes was significantly increased in the GBM group. Lnc-UCC expression showed significant positive correlations with MYBL2 and lnc-HOTTIP expression levels. Further investigation into these genes and their regulatory mechanisms is need
Experimental colitis is comorbid with social interaction deficits and anxiety‐like behaviors in mice: mechanistic intuitions into neuroinflammation and Claudin 5 expression in the hippocampus
No full textInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is accompanied by psychiatric disorders, including Schizophrenic-like manifestations. Although incompletely illustrated, intestinal mucosal membrane damage and blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetrability may have significant roles in psychiatric symptoms of IBD. This study aimed to investigate role of the Claudin-5 (CLDN5) (a regulator of the permeability of BBB) and neuroinflammatory response in the comorbid behavioral disorders in experimental colitis in mice. Acetic acid was used to induce colitis in mice. 7 days after induction of colitis, behaviors including social interaction and locomotor activity as well as anxiety-like behaviors were evaluated. Then, the colon was extracted for gross and microscopic evaluations. The expression of CLDN5, TNF-α, IL1β and IL23 was measured by RT-PCR in the colon and hippocampus. Histopathologic evaluations demonstrated mucosal, submucosal, and crypt-related damages in the colon. The negative and positive number of social interactions significantly increased in the colitis group. A considerable increase in locomotor activities (horizontal and vertical components) shown in the colitis group. Mice in colitis group spent less time in the central zone in the open field apparatus. Gene expressions of TNF-α, IL1β, and IL23 increased and CLDN5 decreased in the colitis group. The barrier function of the intestine and brain would be impaired, partially at least, following colitis (as we observed decrease in CLDN5 gene expression). Furthermore, we found that beside inflammatory response in the colon, a neuro-immune response triggered in the hippocampus following colitis. These alterations probably, mediated comorbid behavioral disorders in acetic acid-induced colitis in mice
A simple sore can lead to limb amputation; metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the sole in a 22-year-old man
No full textIntroduction and importance: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a cancerous tumor that can develop when normal keratinocytes undergo a transformation into invasive cancer cells, typically due to genetic mutations that affect cell growth and differentiation. SCC is frequently found on sun-exposed areas of the skin like the face, ears, neck, and hands, but it is unusual to see it develop on the soles of the feet. Case report: This case is about a 22-year-old man who came in with a persistent sore on the bottom of his left foot. The patient mentioned sustaining a small injury to his foot about two weeks before seeking medical help, which started off as a minor wound but deteriorated over time. Ultimately, the diagnosis revealed squamous cell carcinoma that had spread to the lungs and lymph nodes. Discussion: This case highlights the importance of considering the possibility of malignancy in non-healing wounds, even in young patients without known risk factors. The initial presentation of a simple sore that progressed to metastatic SCC underscores the challenges in diagnosing and managing skin cancers in atypical presentations. Conclusion: This case highlights cancer's aggressiveness and atypical youth presentations, stressing early detection, aggressive treatment, and comprehensive patient support. Continued research is crucial for enhancing disease management
Effect of Anzerut (Astragalus fasciculifolius) on Spatial Memory Impairment and Its Potential Antioxidant Effects in a Rat Model of Multiple Sclerosis
No full textIntroduction: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease in which the myelin sheaths of nerve cells are damaged in the brain and spinal cord. Cognitive changes, including memory impairment, are common in MS patients, and there is still no definitive treatment available. Plants of the genus Astragalus from the legume family contain more than 900 species of annual and perennial herbaceous plants in Iran, most of which are endemic to the region. Recent studies have shown that the Astragalus has antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anticonvulsant effects. Anzerut is a species on which limited studies have been conducted. Considering the various biological effects of the Astragalus genus, we aimed to investigate the impact of Anzerut on spatial memory impairment in a rat model of MS. Methods and Materials: In the present study, 42 male rats weighing between 230-280 g were randomly divided into six groups of seven rats each. Ethidium bromide was used to induce MS. Then, doses of 150, 450, and 800 mg/kg of Anzerut extract were administered intraperitoneally for 14 days. Behavioral testing using the Morris water maze, hippocampal malondialdehyde (MDA) level measurement, and total antioxidant capacity were evaluated. Finally, one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test will be used to compare the data. Results: The injection of ethidium bromide caused a significant decrease in the time spent (p = 0.01) and distance traveled (p = 0.001) in the target quadrant on the test day compared to the control group. Treatment with Anzerut at a dose of 150 mg/kg for 14 days significantly increased the time spent and distance traveled (p = 0.05) in the target quadrant on the test day compared to the MS group. Additionally, the injection of ethidium bromide resulted in a significant increase in hippocampal MDA level and a decrease in the total antioxidant capacity of the hippocampus. Conclusion and Discussion: The injection of ethidium bromide into the CA1 region of the hippocampus induces MS, while the administration of Anzerut extract improves learning and memory in the experimental MS model. This effect appears to be mediated through antioxidant pathways in the brain
Effects of melatonin on the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling genes in hypoxic Leydig cells
No full textLeydig cells play a crucial role in male reproductive physiology, and their dysfunction is often associated with male infertility. Hypoxia negatively affects the structure and function of Leydig cells. This study aimed to investigate the impact of melatonin on the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (Jnk), P38, and extra-cellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (Erk1/2) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways in TM3 mouse Leydig cells under hypoxia induced by cobalt (II) chloride (CoCl2). The TM3 cell line was utilized as a subject of research, and 100 μM CoCl2 was employed to induce hypoxia. Following the addition of 10.00 ng mL-1 melatonin, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were conducted to assess the gene expression and protein level of Jnk, p38, and Erk1/2, while enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure testosterone secretion. The results showed that melatonin significantly increased testosterone production in the CoCl2 + melatonin group compared to the CoCl2-treated group. Furthermore, melatonin elevated both the protein level and mRNA expression of Erk1/2, Jnk, and p38 genes in the CoCl2 + melatonin group compared to the CoCl2 group. In conclusion, melatonin activated the Jnk, p38, and Erk1/2 MAPK signaling pathways and enhanced testosterone production in the presence of CoCl2 in TM3 cells
Development of a hydrogel-based three-dimensional (3D) glioblastoma cell lines culture as a model system for CD73 inhibitor response study
No full textBackground: Despite the development of various therapeutic approaches over the past decades, the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains a major challenge. The extracellular adenosine-generating enzyme, CD73, is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of GBM, and targeting CD73 may represent a novel approach to treat this cancer. In this study, three-dimensional culture systems based on three hydrogel compositions were characterized and an optimal type was selected to simulate the GBM microenvironment. In addition, the effect of a CD73 inhibitor on GBM cell aggregates and spheroids was investigated as a potential therapeutic approach for this disease. Methods: Rheology measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and cell proliferation assays were performed to analyze the synthesized hydrogel and select an optimal formulation. The viability of tumor cells in the optimal hydrogel was examined histologically and by confocal microscopy. In addition, the sensitivity of the tumor cells to the CD73 inhibitor was investigated using a cell proliferation assay and real-time PCR. Results: The data showed that the hydrogel containing 5 wt% gelatin and 5 wt% sodium alginate had better rheological properties and higher cell viability. Therefore, it could provide a more suitable environment for GBM cells and better mimic the natural microenvironment. GBM cells treated with CD73 inhibitors significantly decreased the proliferation rate and expression of VEGF and HIF1-α in the optimal hydrogel. Conclusion: Our current research demonstrates the great potential of CD73 inhibitor for clinical translation of cancer studies by analyzing the behavior and function of 3D tumor cells, and thus for more effective treatment protocols for GBM
mRNA cancer vaccines from bench to bedside: a new era in cancer immunotherapy
No full textHarnessing the power of the immune system to target cancer cells is one of the most appealing approaches for cancer therapy. Among these immunotherapies, messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) cancer vaccines are worthy of consideration, as they have demonstrated promising results in clinical trials. These vaccines have proven to be safe and well-tolerated. They can be easily mass-produced in a relatively short time and induce a systemic immune response effective against both the primary tumor and metastases. Transcripts encoding immunomodulatory molecules can also be incorporated into the mRNA, enhancing its efficacy. On the other hand, there are some challenges associated with their application, including mRNA instability, insufficient uptake by immune cells, and intrinsic immunogenicity, which can block mRNA translation. Many innovations have been suggested to overcome these obstacles, including structural modification (such as 5’ cap modification), optimizing delivery vehicles (especially dendritic cells (DCs) and nanoparticles), and using antigens that can enhance immunogenicity by circumventing tolerance mechanisms. A popular approach is to combine mRNA cancer vaccines with traditional and novel cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). They are most efficacious when combined with other therapies like ICBs. There is still a long way to go before these vaccines enter the standard of care for cancer patients, but with the incredible pace of development in this field, their clinical application will soon be witnessed. This review highlights the recent advances and challenges of mRNA cancer vaccines. Finally, some of the most prominent clinical applications of these vaccines will be reviewed
Association of viral infection with bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textBACKGROUND: Bladder cancer (BC) is the tenth most common cancer with the highest mortality rate. Since the etiological role of viral infection in the development of BC is less known, the aim of the present study was to examine the pooled prevalence and possible relationship between viral infection and BC. METHODS: A systematic search of major online databases was conducted to investigate relevant studies. We estimated the pooled odds ratio (OR), 95 % confidence interval (CI), and heterogeneity for all studies by using meta-analysis and forest plots. All data were analyzed using Stata Software v.14.1. RESULTS: We analyzed 87 articles (97 datasets), which included 59 case-control and 38 cross-sectional designs. The pooled prevalence of viral infection among BC patients was 17.59 % (95 % CI: 13.09-22.55 %; I2 = 96.34 %). Our subgroup analysis indicated that the pooled prevalence of human herpesvirus (HHV), papillomavirus (HPV), polyomavirus, and adenovirus was 33.67 %, 15.18 %, 7.46 %, and 30.14 %, respectively. We detected a significant relationship between viral infection and BC [summary OR 2.34 (95 % CI 1.56-3.51; I2 = 58.0 %)]. CONCLUSIONS: This possible association was exhibited for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and HPV. Our finding indicated that HPV and EBV infections with significant associations with BC can be considered as possible risk factors for BC. Although the specific molecular mechanism of the role of viruses in the development of BC has not been identified, persistent viral infection, oncogenic protein expression, apoptosis inhibition, cell cycle promotion, and disruption of signaling pathways in bladder tissue are possible pathways for the role of viruses in the development of B
