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Search Results (2,101)

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Keywords = comparative oncology

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10 pages, 531 KiB  
Article
Impact of Depression and/or Anxiety on Mortality in Women with Gynecologic Cancers: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study
by Yung-Taek Ouh, Eun-Yeob Kim, Nam Kyeong Kim, Nak-Woo Lee and Kyung-Jin Min
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1904; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151904 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of depression and anxiety disorders on mortality in women diagnosed with gynecologic cancers, utilizing nationwide retrospective cohort data. Methods: Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database, covering women diagnosed with cervical, endometrial, [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of depression and anxiety disorders on mortality in women diagnosed with gynecologic cancers, utilizing nationwide retrospective cohort data. Methods: Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database, covering women diagnosed with cervical, endometrial, or ovarian cancers between 2007 and 2014, were analyzed. Women diagnosed with depression or anxiety disorders within one year after cancer diagnosis were identified and compared with a control group comprising patients with gynecologic cancers who did not develop either disorder during the same post-diagnosis period. Mortality was evaluated as the primary outcome. Results: Of 85,327 women analyzed, 784 (0.9%) were diagnosed with depression or anxiety disorders. Patients with depression or anxiety exhibited significantly higher mortality (38.4% vs. 29.9%; p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that depression significantly increased mortality risk (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.27–1.66), whereas anxiety alone showed no significant effect (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.74–1.27). Combined depression and anxiety showed the highest mortality risk (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.31–1.65). Conclusions: Depression and anxiety disorders are significant predictors of increased mortality in women with gynecologic cancers, emphasizing the necessity for integrated mental health assessment and interventions in oncologic care to improve both survival and quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Informatics and Big Data)
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34 pages, 1543 KiB  
Review
Treatment Strategies for Cutaneous and Oral Mucosal Side Effects of Oncological Treatment in Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
by Sanja Brnić, Bruno Špiljak, Lucija Zanze, Ema Barac, Robert Likić and Liborija Lugović-Mihić
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1901; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081901 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Cutaneous and oral mucosal adverse events (AEs) are among the most common non-hematologic toxicities observed during breast cancer treatment. These complications arise across various therapeutic modalities including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Although often underrecognized compared with systemic side effects, [...] Read more.
Cutaneous and oral mucosal adverse events (AEs) are among the most common non-hematologic toxicities observed during breast cancer treatment. These complications arise across various therapeutic modalities including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Although often underrecognized compared with systemic side effects, dermatologic and mucosal toxicities can severely impact the patients’ quality of life, leading to psychosocial distress, pain, and reduced treatment adherence. In severe cases, these toxicities may necessitate dose reductions, treatment delays, or discontinuation, thereby compromising oncologic outcomes. The growing use of precision medicine and novel targeted agents has broadened the spectrum of AEs, with some therapies linked to distinct dermatologic syndromes and mucosal complications such as mucositis, xerostomia, and lichenoid reactions. Early detection, accurate classification, and timely multidisciplinary management are essential for mitigating these effects. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge on cutaneous and oral mucosal toxicities associated with modern breast cancer therapies. Particular attention is given to clinical presentation, underlying pathophysiology, incidence, and evidence-based prevention and management strategies. We also explore emerging approaches, including nanoparticle-based delivery systems and personalized interventions, which may reduce toxicity without compromising therapeutic efficacy. By emphasizing the integration of dermatologic and mucosal care, this review aims to support clinicians in preserving treatment adherence and enhancing the overall therapeutic experience in breast cancer patients. The novelty of this review lies in its dual focus on cutaneous and oral complications across all major therapeutic classes, including recent biologic and immunotherapeutic agents, and its emphasis on multidisciplinary, patient-centered strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Biology and Oncology)
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21 pages, 6387 KiB  
Article
Carbon Dot-Enhanced Doxorubicin Liposomes: A Dual-Functional Nanoplatform for Cancer Therapy
by Corina-Lenuta Logigan, Cristian Peptu, Corneliu S. Stan, Gabriel Luta, Crina Elena Tiron, Mariana Pinteala, Aleksander Foryś, Bogdan Simionescu, Constanta Ibanescu, Adrian Tiron and Catalina A. Peptu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157535 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Liposomes (LPs) represent one of the most effective nanoscale platforms for drug delivery in cancer therapy due to their favorable pharmacokinetic and various body tissue compatibility profiles. Building on recent findings showing that carbon dots derived from N-hydroxyphthalimide (CDs-NHF) possess intrinsic antitumor activity, [...] Read more.
Liposomes (LPs) represent one of the most effective nanoscale platforms for drug delivery in cancer therapy due to their favorable pharmacokinetic and various body tissue compatibility profiles. Building on recent findings showing that carbon dots derived from N-hydroxyphthalimide (CDs-NHF) possess intrinsic antitumor activity, herein, we investigate the possibility of preparing complex nano-platforms composed of LPs encapsulating CDs-NHF and/or doxorubicin (DOX) for breast and lung cancer. Various LP formulations were prepared and characterized using Cryo-TEM and Cryo-SEM for morphological analysis, while zeta potential and fluorescence assessments confirmed their stability and optical properties. Cellular effects were evaluated through immunofluorescence microscopy and proliferation assays. LPs-CDs-NHF significantly reduced cancer cell viability at lower concentrations compared to free CDs-NHF, and this effect was further amplified when combined with doxorubicin. Mechanistically, the liposomal formulations downregulated key signaling molecules including pAKT, pmTOR, and pERK, indicating the disruption of cancer-related pathways. These findings suggest that LPs containing CDs-NHF, either alone or in combination with DOX, exhibit synergistic antitumor activity and hold strong promise as multifunctional nanocarriers for future oncological applications. Full article
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13 pages, 491 KiB  
Article
Optimizing One-Sample Tests for Proportions in Single- and Two-Stage Oncology Trials
by Alan David Hutson
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2570; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152570 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Phase II oncology trials often rely on single-arm designs to test H0:π=π0 versus Ha:π>π0, especially when randomized trials are infeasible due to cost or disease rarity. Traditional approaches, such [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Phase II oncology trials often rely on single-arm designs to test H0:π=π0 versus Ha:π>π0, especially when randomized trials are infeasible due to cost or disease rarity. Traditional approaches, such as the exact binomial test and Simon’s two-stage design, tend to be conservative, with actual Type I error rates falling below the nominal α due to the discreteness of the underlying binomial distribution. This study aims to develop a more efficient and flexible method that maintains accurate Type I error control in such settings. Methods: We propose a convolution-based method that combines the binomial distribution with a simulated normal variable to construct an unbiased estimator of π. This method is designed to precisely control the Type I error rate while enabling more efficient trial designs. We derive its theoretical properties and assess its performance against traditional exact tests in both one-stage and two-stage trial designs. Results: The proposed method results in more efficient designs with reduced sample sizes compared to standard approaches, without compromising the control of Type I error rates. We introduce a new two-stage design incorporating interim futility analysis and compare it with Simon’s design. Simulations and real-world examples demonstrate that the proposed approach can significantly lower trial cost and duration. Conclusions: This convolution-based approach offers a flexible and efficient alternative to traditional methods for early-phase oncology trial design. It addresses the conservativeness of existing designs and provides practical benefits in terms of resource use and study timelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biostatistics in Cancer Research)
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18 pages, 6395 KiB  
Article
Intermittent and Adaptive Control Strategies for Chaos Suppression in a Cancer Model
by Rugilė Jonuškaitė and Inga Telksnienė
Math. Comput. Appl. 2025, 30(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/mca30040081 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 57
Abstract
The chaotic dynamics observed in mathematical models of cancer can correspond to the unpredictable tumor growth and treatment responses seen in clinical settings. Suppressing this chaos is a significant challenge in theoretical oncology. This paper investigates and compares four distinct control strategies designed [...] Read more.
The chaotic dynamics observed in mathematical models of cancer can correspond to the unpredictable tumor growth and treatment responses seen in clinical settings. Suppressing this chaos is a significant challenge in theoretical oncology. This paper investigates and compares four distinct control strategies designed to stabilize a chaotic three-dimensional tumor-immune interaction model. The objective is to steer the system from its chaotic attractor to a target unstable periodic orbit, representing a transition to a more regular and predictable dynamic. The strategies, all based on the external force control paradigm, include continuous control, a simple state-dependent intermittent control, an improved intermittent control with a minimum activation duration to suppress chattering, and an adaptive intermittent control with a time-varying feedback gain. The performance of each strategy is quantitatively evaluated based on tracking accuracy and the required control effort. Full article
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13 pages, 849 KiB  
Article
Morphofunctional Profile Focusing on Strength and Ultrasound of the Upper Limbs in Female Breast Cancer Survivors: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study Between Groups with and Without Lymphoedema and Between Ipsilateral and Contralateral Limbs
by Ana Rafaela Cardozo Da Silva, Juliana Netto Maia, Vanessa Maria Da Silva Alves Gomes, Naiany Tenório, Juliana Fernandes de Souza Barbosa, Ana Claudia Souza da Silva, Vanessa Patrícia Soares de Sousa, Leila Maria Alvares Barbosa, Armèle de Fátima Dornelas de Andrade and Diego Dantas
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1884; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081884 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 229
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is the most common neoplasm in women. Despite effective treatments, sequelae such as decreased muscle strength, upper limb dysfunction, and tissue changes are common, highlighting the need for functional assessments during rehabilitation. This study analysed the morphofunctional profile of [...] Read more.
Background: Breast cancer is the most common neoplasm in women. Despite effective treatments, sequelae such as decreased muscle strength, upper limb dysfunction, and tissue changes are common, highlighting the need for functional assessments during rehabilitation. This study analysed the morphofunctional profile of the upper limbs in breast cancer survivors, comparing muscle strength and ultrasound findings between groups with and without lymphoedema, as well as between ipsilateral and contralateral limbs. Methods: This cross-sectional study included female breast cancer survivors treated at an oncology physical therapy clinic. Muscle strength was measured using dynamometry (handgrip and arm flexor strength), and ultrasound assessed the thickness of the dermal–epidermal complex (DEC), subcutaneous tissue (SUB), and muscle (MT). Results: The upper limbs of 41 women were evaluated. No significant differences were observed between those with and without breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL). When comparing the ipsilateral and contralateral limbs, significant reductions were observed in arm flexor strength (p < 0.001; 95% CI: −9.77 to −2.50), handgrip strength (p < 0.001; 95% CI: −4.10 to −1.22), and tissue thickness, with increased DEC thickness on the forearm (0.20 mm; p = 0.022) and arm flexors (0.25 mm; p < 0.001) of the ipsilateral limb. Conclusion: Significant differences in muscle strength and tissue structure between ipsilateral and contralateral limbs may reflect surgical and local pathophysiological effects. A trend toward reduced values for these parameters was also noted in limbs with BCRL, reinforcing the importance of future research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and guide more effective therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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19 pages, 909 KiB  
Article
Impact of Preoperative Yttrium-90 Transarterial Radioembolization on Patients Undergoing Right or Extended Right Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by Andrea P. Fontana, Nadia Russolillo, Ludovica Maurino, Andrea Marengo, Amedeo Calvo, Andrea Ricotti, Serena Langella, Roberto Lo Tesoriere and Alessandro Ferrero
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2556; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152556 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Preoperative strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) requiring major hepatectomy remain controversial, particularly in “borderline resectable” cases. This study aimed to evaluate the oncological benefit and perioperative safety of Yttrium-90 transarterial radioembolization (TARE) in patients undergoing right or extended right [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Preoperative strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) requiring major hepatectomy remain controversial, particularly in “borderline resectable” cases. This study aimed to evaluate the oncological benefit and perioperative safety of Yttrium-90 transarterial radioembolization (TARE) in patients undergoing right or extended right hepatectomy for HCC. Material and Methods: All consecutive patients who underwent right or extended right hepatectomy for HCC at a single tertiary center between January 2013 and December 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were grouped based on whether they received preoperative TARE or underwent upfront resection. Outcomes analyzed included perioperative morbidity and long-term oncological endpoints. Results: A total of 39 patients were included, of whom 18 received preoperative TARE and 21 underwent upfront surgery. Patients in the TARE group showed significantly greater tumor necrosis at pathology (70% vs. 10%, p = 0.002) and more frequent extended resections. Five-year cancer-specific survival (80.4% vs. 33.5%, p = 0.011), recurrence-free survival (33.8% vs. 14.0%, p = 0.047), and curative-intent disease-free survival (69.3% vs. 18.9%, p = 0.0037) were significantly higher in the TARE group. Overall survival showed a favorable trend. Intraoperative outcomes, postoperative morbidity, and 90-day mortality were comparable between groups. Conclusions: Preoperative TARE is a safe and effective neoadjuvant strategy in selected patients with HCC undergoing major hepatectomy. It may enhance long-term oncological outcomes without increasing surgical risk, supporting its potential role in the management of borderline resectable HCC. Full article
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30 pages, 4515 KiB  
Article
Implant-Supported Oral Rehabilitation in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A 20-Year Single-Center Study (2005–2024)
by Manuel Tousidonis, Santiago Ochandiano, Carlos Navarro-Cuellar, Carlos Navarro-Vila, Javier López de Atalaya, Cristina Maza, Ana María Lopez Lopez, Ignacio Navarro-Cuellar, Alba García Sevilla, Gema Arenas de Frutos, Raul Antunez-Conde, Paloma Planells del Pozo and Jose Ignacio Salmeron
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5435; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155435 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 224
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Oral cancer resection often leads to maxillofacial defects and dentition loss, compromising patients’ quality of life. Implant-supported prosthetic rehabilitation offers a reliable solution to restore function, though factors such as bone reconstruction, radiotherapy, and timing of implant placement (immediate vs. delayed) may [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Oral cancer resection often leads to maxillofacial defects and dentition loss, compromising patients’ quality of life. Implant-supported prosthetic rehabilitation offers a reliable solution to restore function, though factors such as bone reconstruction, radiotherapy, and timing of implant placement (immediate vs. delayed) may influence outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate long-term implant survival and rehabilitation timelines in oncologic patients, comparing two cohorts (2005–2014 and 2015–2024) to assess the impact of evolving clinical practices. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón (Madrid, Spain), including 304 patients who underwent ablative oral cancer surgery and subsequent implant-based rehabilitation between 2005 and 2024. Data on demographics, oncologic treatment, reconstruction, implant timing, and prosthetic rehabilitation were collected. Outcomes were compared using Kaplan–Meier analysis and appropriate statistical tests between the 2005–2014 (n = 122) and 2015–2024 (n = 182) cohorts. Results: A total of 2341 Ticare Implants® were placed, supporting 281 prostheses. Implant placement during primary surgery increased from 41% to 71% (p < 0.001). The median time from surgery to prosthesis significantly decreased from 24 to 15 months (p < 0.001). Five-year implant survival was 95% in the early cohort versus 97% in the later cohort. Implant survival was comparable between irradiated and non-irradiated patients (~94–96%). Fixed prostheses became more frequent (92% vs. 79%, p = 0.002). Conclusions: Implant-supported rehabilitation in oncologic patients is highly feasible and durable, with improved timelines and functional outcomes associated with early implant placement and modern digital planning strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress in Osseointegrated Oral Implants)
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12 pages, 1346 KiB  
Article
A Language Vision Model Approach for Automated Tumor Contouring in Radiation Oncology
by Yi Luo, Hamed Hooshangnejad, Xue Feng, Gaofeng Huang, Xiaojian Chen, Rui Zhang, Quan Chen, Wil Ngwa and Kai Ding
Bioengineering 2025, 12(8), 835; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12080835 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 177
Abstract
Background: Lung cancer ranks as the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The complexity of tumor delineation, crucial for radiation therapy, requires expertise often unavailable in resource-limited settings. Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly with advancements in deep learning (DL) and natural language processing (NLP), [...] Read more.
Background: Lung cancer ranks as the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The complexity of tumor delineation, crucial for radiation therapy, requires expertise often unavailable in resource-limited settings. Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly with advancements in deep learning (DL) and natural language processing (NLP), offers potential solutions yet is challenged by high false positive rates. Purpose: The Oncology Contouring Copilot (OCC) system is developed to leverage oncologist expertise for precise tumor contouring using textual descriptions, aiming to increase the efficiency of oncological workflows by combining the strengths of AI with human oversight. Methods: Our OCC system initially identifies nodule candidates from CT scans. Employing Language Vision Models (LVMs) like GPT-4V, OCC then effectively reduces false positives with clinical descriptive texts, merging textual and visual data to automate tumor delineation, designed to elevate the quality of oncology care by incorporating knowledge from experienced domain experts. Results: The deployment of the OCC system resulted in a 35.0% reduction in the false discovery rate, a 72.4% decrease in false positives per scan, and an F1-score of 0.652 across our dataset for unbiased evaluation. Conclusions: OCC represents a significant advance in oncology care, particularly through the use of the latest LVMs, improving contouring results by (1) streamlining oncology treatment workflows by optimizing tumor delineation and reducing manual processes; (2) offering a scalable and intuitive framework to reduce false positives in radiotherapy planning using LVMs; (3) introducing novel medical language vision prompt techniques to minimize LVM hallucinations with ablation study; and (4) conducting a comparative analysis of LVMs, highlighting their potential in addressing medical language vision challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Imaging Techniques in Radiotherapy)
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18 pages, 4279 KiB  
Article
Chemophotothermal Combined Therapy with 5-Fluorouracil and Branched Gold Nanoshell Hyperthermia Induced a Reduction in Tumor Size in a Xenograft Colon Cancer Model
by Sarah Eliuth Ochoa-Hugo, Karla Valdivia-Aviña, Yanet Karina Gutiérrez-Mercado, Alejandro Arturo Canales-Aguirre, Verónica Chaparro-Huerta, Adriana Aguilar-Lemarroy, Luis Felipe Jave-Suárez, Mario Eduardo Cano-González, Antonio Topete, Andrea Molina-Pineda and Rodolfo Hernández-Gutiérrez
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080988 (registering DOI) - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The heterogeneity of cancer disease and the frequent ineffectiveness and resistance observed with currently available treatments highlight the importance of developing new antitumor therapies. The properties of gold nanoparticles, such as their photon-energy heating, are attractive for oncology therapy; this can [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The heterogeneity of cancer disease and the frequent ineffectiveness and resistance observed with currently available treatments highlight the importance of developing new antitumor therapies. The properties of gold nanoparticles, such as their photon-energy heating, are attractive for oncology therapy; this can be effective and localized. The combination of chemotherapy and hyperthermia is promising. Our aim was to evaluate the combination therapy of photon hyperthermia with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: This study evaluated the antitumor efficacy of a combined chemo-photothermal therapy using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and branched gold nanoshells (BGNSs) in a colorectal cancer model. BGNSs were synthesized via a seed-mediated method and characterized by electron microscopy and UV–vis spectroscopy, revealing an average diameter of 126.3 nm and a plasmon resonance peak at 800 nm, suitable for near-infrared (NIR) photothermal applications. In vitro assays using SW620-GFP colon cancer cells demonstrated a ≥90% reduction in cell viability after 24 h of combined treatment with 5-FU and BGNS under NIR irradiation. In vivo, xenograft-bearing nude mice received weekly intratumoral administrations of the combined therapy for four weeks. The group treated with 5-FU + BGNS + NIR exhibited a final tumor volume of 0.4 mm3 on day 28, compared to 1010 mm3 in the control group, corresponding to a tumor growth inhibition (TGI) of 100.74% (p < 0.001), which indicates not only complete inhibition of tumor growth but also regression below the initial tumor volume. Thermographic imaging confirmed that localized hyperthermia reached 45 ± 0.5 °C at the tumor site. Results: These findings suggest that the combination of 5-FU and BGNS-mediated hyperthermia may offer a promising strategy for enhancing therapeutic outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer while potentially minimizing systemic toxicity. Conclusions: This study highlights the potential of integrating nanotechnology with conventional chemotherapy for more effective and targeted cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanotechnology for Combination Therapy and Diagnosis)
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12 pages, 643 KiB  
Article
Minimally Invasive Total Versus Partial Thymectomy for Early-Stage Thymoma
by Alexander Pohlman, Bilal Odeh, Irene Helenowski, Julia M. Coughlin, Wissam Raad, James Lubawski and Zaid M. Abdelsattar
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2518; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152518 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 240
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Total thymectomy is currently the gold standard operation for treating thymoma. However, recent studies have suggested the potential health consequences of thymus removal in adults, including possible increased autoimmune disease and all-cause mortality. In this context, we assess oncologic outcomes following [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Total thymectomy is currently the gold standard operation for treating thymoma. However, recent studies have suggested the potential health consequences of thymus removal in adults, including possible increased autoimmune disease and all-cause mortality. In this context, we assess oncologic outcomes following total vs. partial thymectomy for early-stage thymoma. Methods: We identified patients diagnosed with WHO types A–B3 thymoma between 2010–2021 from a national hospital-based dataset. We excluded patients with stage II or higher disease, open resections and perioperative chemo-/radiation therapy. We stratified patients into total and partial thymectomy cohorts. We used propensity score matching to minimize confounding, Kaplan–Meier analysis to estimate survival, and Cox proportional hazards to identify associations. Results: Of 1598 patients with early-stage thymoma, 495 (31.0%) underwent partial and 1103 (69.0%) total thymectomy. Patients undergoing partial thymectomy were similar in sex (female 53.7% vs. 53.4%; p = 0.914), race (white 74.5% vs. 74.0%; p = 0.921), comorbidities (0 in 77.0% vs. 75.5%; p = 0.742), and tumor size (48.7 mm vs. 50.4 mm; p = 0.455) compared to total thymectomy. There were no differences in 30-day (0.8% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.747) or 90-day mortality (0.8% vs. 0.8%, p > 0.999), which persisted after matching. Moreover, 10-year survival was similar in both unmatched (p = 0.471) and matched cohorts (p = 0.828). Partial thymectomy was not independently associated with survival (aHR = 1.00, p = 0.976). Conclusions: In patients with early-stage thymoma, partial and total thymectomy were associated with similar short- and long-term outcomes. In light of recent attention to the role of the thymus gland, the results add important insights to shared decision-making discussions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Lung Cancer Surgical Treatment and Prognosis)
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9 pages, 1462 KiB  
Brief Report
Using Audit to Improve End-of-Life Care in a Tertiary Cancer Centre
by Conor D. Moloney, Hailey K. Carroll, Elaine Cunningham, Daniel Nuzum, Mairead Lyons, Richard M. Bambury, Dearbhaile C. Collins, Roisín M. Connolly, Paula O'Donovan, Renelyn Sumugat, Shahid Iqbal, Sinead A. Noonan, Derek G. Power, Aoife C. Lowney, Seamus O’Reilly and Mary Jane O'Leary
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(8), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32080430 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 289
Abstract
High-quality end-of-life care (EoLC) is a critical yet often underemphasised component of oncology care. Several shortcomings in the delivery of EoLC for oncology patients in our centre during the COVID-19 pandemic were identified in our initial 2021 audit. In 2022, we introduced a [...] Read more.
High-quality end-of-life care (EoLC) is a critical yet often underemphasised component of oncology care. Several shortcomings in the delivery of EoLC for oncology patients in our centre during the COVID-19 pandemic were identified in our initial 2021 audit. In 2022, we introduced a care of dying patients proforma, an EoLC quality checklist, targeted education and training for staff, and an expanded end-of-life (EoL) committee. This re-audit aimed to review how these changes impacted on the care received by patients in a tertiary cancer centre. A second retrospective re-audit of patients who died between 11 July 2022 and 30 April 2023 was performed to assess quality of EoLC using the Oxford Quality indicators. A total of 72 deaths occurred over the audit period. Quality of EoLC improved significantly when compared to the initial audit (χ2 (3, n = 138) = 9.75, p = 0.021). Exploration of patients’ wishes was documented in 48.8% and referral to pastoral care was documented in 68.3%, from 24.2% and 10.6%, respectively. The proportion of patients receiving poor EoLC reduced from 21.2% to 8.3%. Our study demonstrates the benefits of simple interventions, the importance of re-audit, and the role of ongoing interdisciplinary commitment to improving EoLC for our patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Palliative and Supportive Care)
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27 pages, 2602 KiB  
Article
Folate-Modified Albumin-Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Theranostics: Engineering and In Vitro PDT Treatment of Breast Cancer Cell Lines
by Anna V. Bychkova, Maria G. Gorobets, Anna V. Toroptseva, Alina A. Markova, Minh Tuan Nguyen, Yulia L. Volodina, Margarita A. Gradova, Madina I. Abdullina, Oksana A. Mayorova, Valery V. Kasparov, Vadim S. Pokrovsky, Anton V. Kolotaev and Derenik S. Khachatryan
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080982 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 334
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), human serum albumin (HSA) and folic acid (FA) are prospective components for hybrid nanosystems for various biomedical applications. The magnetic nanosystems FA-HSA@IONPs (FAMs) containing IONPs, HSA, and FA residue are engineered in the study. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), human serum albumin (HSA) and folic acid (FA) are prospective components for hybrid nanosystems for various biomedical applications. The magnetic nanosystems FA-HSA@IONPs (FAMs) containing IONPs, HSA, and FA residue are engineered in the study. Methods: Composition, stability and integrity of the coating, and peroxidase-like activity of FAMs are characterized using UV/Vis spectrophotometry (colorimetric test using o-phenylenediamine (OPD), Bradford protein assay, etc.), spectrofluorimetry, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electron magnetic resonance (EMR). The selectivity of the FAMs accumulation in cancer cells is analyzed using flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results: FAMs (dN~55 nm by DLS) as a drug delivery platform have been administered to cancer cells (human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines) in vitro. Methylene blue, as a model photosensitizer, has been non-covalently bound to FAMs. An increase in photoinduced cytotoxicity has been found upon excitation of the photosensitizer bound to the coating of FAMs compared to the single photosensitizer at equivalent concentrations. The suitability of the nanosystems for photodynamic therapy has been confirmed. Conclusions: FAMs are able to effectively enter cells with increased folate receptor expression and thus allow antitumor photosensitizers to be delivered to cells without any loss of their in vitro photodynamic efficiency. Therapeutic and diagnostic applications of FAMs in oncology are discussed. Full article
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20 pages, 1859 KiB  
Systematic Review
From Evidence to Practice: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Supervised Exercise on Fatigue in Breast and Prostate Cancer Survivors
by Arturo Cano-Uceda, Pablo García-Fernández, Blanca Peuyadé-Rueda, Ana María Cañuelo-Marquez, Cristian Solís-Mencía, Carmen Lucio-Allende, Luis De Sousa-De Sousa and José Luis Maté-Muñoz
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8399; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158399 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
Background: Breast and prostate cancer represent a significant global public health burden. Among the adverse effects of oncological treatments, fatigue is one of the most prevalent, persistent, and disabling symptoms. Therapeutic exercise has been shown to be effective for its management, with [...] Read more.
Background: Breast and prostate cancer represent a significant global public health burden. Among the adverse effects of oncological treatments, fatigue is one of the most prevalent, persistent, and disabling symptoms. Therapeutic exercise has been shown to be effective for its management, with supervision identified as a key factor that may enhance adherence, safety, and intensity control. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of supervised exercise programs versus usual care on cancer-related fatigue in patients with breast or prostate cancer. Methods: A systematic search (September–December 2024) was conducted in six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, PEDro, Scielo), selecting RCTs from the past 10 years in English or Spanish. Studies compared supervised exercise with unsupervised exercise or usual care in stage I–III breast or prostate cancer patients within five years post-treatment. Methodological quality was assessed with the PEDro scale and risk of bias with Cochrane’s RoB 2.0. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled effect sizes (ES, 95% CI), with heterogeneity (I2), sensitivity, subgroup, and publication bias analyses. Results: A total of 25 interventions from 19 randomized controlled trials involving over 2200 participants were included. Supervised exercise significantly reduced cancer-related fatigue compared to usual care (effect size = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.22–0.47; p < 0.001; I2 = 56%). Sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of the findings. Subgroup analyses revealed greater effects in combined exercise programs, in men, and in patients with prostate cancer. No evidence of publication bias was observed. While 73.7% of studies were rated as having good methodological quality, the risk of bias was often unclear or high. Conclusions: Supervised therapeutic exercise programs are effective and safe for reducing fatigue in breast and prostate cancer survivors. These interventions should be incorporated into comprehensive care plans, with individualization based on patients’ clinical and demographic characteristics. Further research is needed to identify the most effective and sustainable strategies for different patient subgroups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Exercise-Based Rehabilitation)
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19 pages, 3117 KiB  
Article
Feasibility and Accuracy of a Dual-Function AR-Guided System for PSI Positioning and Osteotomy Execution in Pelvic Tumour Surgery: A Cadaveric Study
by Tanya Fernández-Fernández, Javier Orozco-Martínez, Carla de Gregorio-Bermejo, Elena Aguilera-Jiménez, Amaia Iribar-Zabala, Lydia Mediavilla-Santos, Javier Pascau, Mónica García-Sevilla, Rubén Pérez-Mañanes and José Antonio Calvo-Haro
Bioengineering 2025, 12(8), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12080810 - 28 Jul 2025
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Abstract
Objectives: Pelvic tumor resections demand high surgical precision to ensure clear margins while preserving function. Although patient-specific instruments (PSIs) improve osteotomy accuracy, positioning errors remain a limitation. This study evaluates the feasibility, accuracy, and usability of a novel dual-function augmented reality (AR) [...] Read more.
Objectives: Pelvic tumor resections demand high surgical precision to ensure clear margins while preserving function. Although patient-specific instruments (PSIs) improve osteotomy accuracy, positioning errors remain a limitation. This study evaluates the feasibility, accuracy, and usability of a novel dual-function augmented reality (AR) system for intraoperative guidance in PSI positioning and osteotomy execution using a head-mounted display (HMD). The system provides dual-function support by assisting both PSI placement and osteotomy execution. Methods: Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric hemipelves underwent AR-assisted internal hemipelvectomy, using customized 3D-printed PSIs and a new in-house AR software integrated into an HMD. Angular and translational deviations between planned and executed osteotomies were measured using postoperative CT analysis. Absolute angular errors were computed from plane normals; translational deviation was assessed as maximum error at the osteotomy corner point in both sagittal (pitch) and coronal (roll) planes. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Bland–Altman plots were used to assess intra-workflow cumulative error. Results: The mean absolute angular deviation was 5.11 ± 1.43°, with 86.66% of osteotomies within acceptable thresholds. Maximum pitch and roll deviations were 4.53 ± 1.32 mm and 2.79 ± 0.72 mm, respectively, with 93.33% and 100% of osteotomies meeting translational accuracy criteria. Wilcoxon analysis showed significantly lower angular error when comparing final executed planes to intermediate AR-displayed planes (p < 0.05), supporting improved PSI positioning accuracy with AR guidance. Surgeons rated the system highly (mean satisfaction ≥ 4.0) for usability and clinical utility. Conclusions: This cadaveric study confirms the feasibility and precision of an HMD-based AR system for PSI-guided pelvic osteotomies. The system demonstrated strong accuracy and high surgeon acceptance, highlighting its potential for clinical adoption in complex oncologic procedures. Full article
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