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17 pages, 2013 KB  
Article
Physiological and Subjective Measures Associated with Withdrawal from Intravenous Sedation in Dental Phobia: A Prospective Cohort Study
by Yukihiko Takemura, Yoshiharu Mukai, Toshiya Morozumi, Kyoko Arai, Ryo Wakita, Ayako Mizutani, Atsushi Matsumoto and Takuro Sanuki
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020614 (registering DOI) - 12 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Patients with dental phobia frequently require intravenous sedation (IVS) to undergo dental treatment; however, some can gradually discontinue IVS through repeated clinical experiences. The physiological and psychological factors influencing successful IVS withdrawal remain unclear. This study aimed to compare physiological (sAA, HR) [...] Read more.
Background: Patients with dental phobia frequently require intravenous sedation (IVS) to undergo dental treatment; however, some can gradually discontinue IVS through repeated clinical experiences. The physiological and psychological factors influencing successful IVS withdrawal remain unclear. This study aimed to compare physiological (sAA, HR) and subjective (VAS) measures between patients who discontinued IVS and those who remained dependent on IVS. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 51 patients with dental phobia treated under IVS. Participants were classified into a Non-Sedation Group (NSG; n = 25) and a Sedation-Dependent Group (SDG; n = 26) based on their ability to discontinue IVS during the course of treatment. Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA), heart rate (HR), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for fear, tension, and anxiety were assessed at predefined time points from the waiting room to venous cannulation. Treatment satisfaction and expectations for future treatment were also evaluated. Results: sAA activity was significantly higher in the SDG than in the NSG at T0 and T1 (p < 0.05), indicating higher levels of selected physiological measures during anticipatory phases; however, the difference at T2 was not significant. HR differed significantly only in the waiting room, whereas no between-group differences were observed in self-reported VAS scores for fear, tension, or anxiety at any time point, indicating a dissociation between physiological and subjective stress measures. Treatment satisfaction and expectations for future treatment were significantly higher in the SDG. Conclusions: Patients who remained dependent on IVS showed higher levels in selected physiological measures at the group level during anticipatory stages, whereas no corresponding differences were observed in self-reported subjective measures. These findings are exploratory and descriptive in nature and do not imply predictive or causal relationships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)
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25 pages, 3313 KB  
Article
Fluorite Composition Constraints on the Genesis of the Weishan REE Deposit, Luxi Terrane
by Yi-Xue Gao, Shan-Shan Li, Chuan-Peng Liu, Ming-Qian Wu, Zhen Shang, Ze-Yu Yang, Xin-Yi Wang and Kun-Feng Qiu
Minerals 2026, 16(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16010069 - 11 Jan 2026
Abstract
Fluorite, a key accessory mineral associated with rare earth element (REE) deposits, exerts a significant influence on REE migration and precipitation through complexation, adsorption, and lattice substitution within fluorine-bearing fluid systems. It therefore provides a valuable archive for constraining REE enrichment processes. The [...] Read more.
Fluorite, a key accessory mineral associated with rare earth element (REE) deposits, exerts a significant influence on REE migration and precipitation through complexation, adsorption, and lattice substitution within fluorine-bearing fluid systems. It therefore provides a valuable archive for constraining REE enrichment processes. The Weishan alkaline–carbonatite-related REE deposit, the third-largest LREE deposit in China, is formed through a multistage magmatic–hydrothermal evolution of the carbonatite system. However, limited mineralogical constraints on REE enrichment and precipitation have hindered a comprehensive understanding of its metallogenic processes and exploration potential. Here, cathodoluminescence imaging and LA-ICP-MS trace element analyses were conducted on fluorite of multiple generations from the Weishan deposit to constrain the physicochemical conditions of mobility and precipitation mechanisms of this REE deposit. Four generations of fluorite are recognized, recording progressive evolution of the ore-forming fluids. Type I fluorite, which coexists with bastnäsite and calcite, is LREE-enriched and exhibits negative Eu anomalies, indicating precipitation from high-temperature, weakly acidic, and reducing fluids. Type II fluorite occurs as overgrowths on Type I, while Type III fluorite replaces Type II fluorite, with both displaying LREE depletion and MREE-Y enrichment, consistent with cooling during continued hydrothermal evolution. Type IV fluorite, which is interstitial between calcite grains and associated with mica, is formed under low-temperature, oxidizing conditions, reflecting REE exhaustion and the terminal stage of fluorite precipitation. Systematic shifts in REE patterns among the four generations track progressive cooling of the system. The decreasing trend in La/Ho and Tb/La further suggests that these fluorites record dissolution–reprecipitation events and associated element remobilization during fluid evolution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gold–Polymetallic Deposits in Convergent Margins)
15 pages, 1720 KB  
Article
Differential Oxidative Stress Profiles in Circulating and Peritumoral Adipose Tissue Across Stages of Colorectal Cancer
by Somchai Ruangwannasak, Sittichai Khamsai, Poungrat Pakdeechote, Putcharawipa Maneesai, Parichat Prachaney, Wilaiwan Mothong and Chalerm Eurboonyanun
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020707 - 10 Jan 2026
Viewed by 101
Abstract
This study intends to assess oxidative stress markers and endogenous enzymes in plasma and peritumoral adipose tissues (PATs) obtained from normal subjects and patients with stages I-IV colorectal cancer (CRC). 63 participants were recruited, including 23 patients with colorectal cancer and 40 healthy [...] Read more.
This study intends to assess oxidative stress markers and endogenous enzymes in plasma and peritumoral adipose tissues (PATs) obtained from normal subjects and patients with stages I-IV colorectal cancer (CRC). 63 participants were recruited, including 23 patients with colorectal cancer and 40 healthy subjects. CRC patients had increased circulating malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl concentrations, as well as reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities, compared to normal volunteers. (p < 0.05). The findings aligned with the oxidative parameters assessed in peritumoral adipose tissue. Superoxide production in PAT was dramatically higher in the CRC group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, oxidative stress markers were progressively altered in relation to CRC stages. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expression was reduced in PAT isolated from CRC compared to normal subjects and associated with CRC stages. CRC patients showed a systemic and peritumoral oxidative imbalance, along with elevated superoxide production in the PAT. The oxidative modifications worsened with the progression of CRC stage and were associated with the downregulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant cascade in peritumoral adipose tissue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
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16 pages, 683 KB  
Article
Artificial Neural Network as a Tool to Predict Severe Toxicity of Anticancer Drug Therapy in Patients with Gastric Cancer: A Retrospective Study
by Ugljesa Stanojevic, Dmitry Petrochenko, Irina Stanoevich and Ekaterina Pismennaya
Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020199 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 153
Abstract
Background. The aim of this study was to develop a predictive model of anticancer drug therapy toxicity in patients with gastric cancer. Methods. The retrospective study included 100 patients with stage II–IV gastric cancer who underwent 4 chemotherapy cycles. Initial significant toxicity factors [...] Read more.
Background. The aim of this study was to develop a predictive model of anticancer drug therapy toxicity in patients with gastric cancer. Methods. The retrospective study included 100 patients with stage II–IV gastric cancer who underwent 4 chemotherapy cycles. Initial significant toxicity factors included age, gender, height, body mass, body mass index, disease stage, skeletal muscle index (SMI), as well as plasma levels of trace elements (copper, zinc, selenium, manganese) and thyroid-stimulating hormone, cancer histology type and treatment regimen. The CTCAE v5.0 scale was employed to assess the severity of adverse events. Statistical analysis and building of mathematical neural network models were carried out in SPSS Statistics (v19.0). Results. Lower SMI values were associated with higher rates of toxicity-related complications of anticancer drug therapy (p < 0.05): leukopenia, hypoproteinemia, nausea, vomiting, cardiovascular events. Anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatic cytolysis syndrome, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and stomatitis showed a weaker correlation with SMI. An increase in TSH was associated with higher rates of thrombocytopenia, nausea and vomiting. A decrease in Cu/Zn in plasma correlated with the severity of leukopenia and diarrhea, whereas Se/Mn showed an inverse correlation with the severity of anemia. Conclusions. Sarcopenia, abnormal thyroid status and imbalances in copper, zinc, selenium and manganese in blood plasma of patients with gastric cancer may be used as predictors of increased toxicity of anticancer drug therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics)
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48 pages, 9013 KB  
Article
Generalized Design Methodology for Dual-Arm Robotic Platforms: From Conceptualization to Experimental Validation Within the MANiBOT Framework
by Mario Peñacoba-Yagüe and Jesús Enrique Sierra-García
Machines 2026, 14(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines14010074 - 7 Jan 2026
Viewed by 99
Abstract
This work proposes a general methodology for the design and experimental validation of dual-arm robotic platforms intended for intelligent manipulation tasks in real-world environments. The proposed framework formalizes the complete engineering process, from the definition of functional requirements to the structural validation of [...] Read more.
This work proposes a general methodology for the design and experimental validation of dual-arm robotic platforms intended for intelligent manipulation tasks in real-world environments. The proposed framework formalizes the complete engineering process, from the definition of functional requirements to the structural validation of the final prototype, ensuring reproducibility and adaptability across different applications. The methodology is organized into five main stages: (i) requirement analysis and context characterization; (ii) conceptual architecture definition; (iii) detailed mechanical design and structural analysis; (iv) prototype construction and integration; and (v) experimental validation and iterative refinement. Each stage defines its expected deliverables, evaluation metrics, and decision criteria to support systematic design progression. The approach is demonstrated through its implementation within the European project MANiBOT, where the framework guided the development of a modular bimanual robotic platform capable of integrating collaborative manipulators and conveyor subsystems for dual-arm manipulation. Structural testing, deflection measurements, and stability analyses confirmed the robustness and safety of the resulting design. Beyond this specific case, the proposed methodology provides a replicable and extensible design reference for research and industrial teams developing modular robotic structures, supporting the standardization of engineering practices in bimanual mobile robotics. Full article
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29 pages, 1171 KB  
Article
Quality of Life of Colorectal Cancer Patients Treated with Chemotherapy
by Monika Ziętarska and Sylwia Małgorzewicz
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020191 - 7 Jan 2026
Viewed by 99
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with anorexia–cachexia syndrome, which negatively affects health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to evaluate HRQoL and functional status in CRC patients undergoing chemotherapy who were eligible for oral nutritional supplementation (ONS). Methods: In this prospective, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with anorexia–cachexia syndrome, which negatively affects health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to evaluate HRQoL and functional status in CRC patients undergoing chemotherapy who were eligible for oral nutritional supplementation (ONS). Methods: In this prospective, randomized study, 72 patients with stage II–IV CRC were enrolled (40 intervention group [IG], 32 control group [CG]). IG received ONS (2 × 125 mL/day, 600 kcal, 36 g protein) for 12 weeks, while CG received dietary counseling only. HRQoL was assessed every 4 weeks with the Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT, version 4.0). Functional status was evaluated with the Karnofsky scale. Nutritional status was assessed using the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS-2002), and body mass index (BMI), and appetite was assessed on a visual analogue scale (VAS). Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02848807. Results: Mean FAACT score did not differ significantly between groups over 12 weeks (101.0 ± 22.8, 95% CI: 94.6–107.4 vs. 105.1 ± 21.4, 95% CI: 99.1–111.1; p = 0.06). However, the observed difference corresponded to an effect size at the lower bound of the moderate range. However, minimally important difference (MID) analysis demonstrated that clinically meaningful improvement was significantly more frequent in IG than in CG for global FAACT (32% vs. 8%; p = 0.03, OR = 5.50, 95% CI: 1.10–27.62, φ = 0.29), physical well-being (32% vs. 8%; p = 0.03, OR = 5.50, 95% CI: 1.10–27.62, φ = 0.29), and emotional well-being (38% vs. 4%; p = 0.002, OR = 14.86, 95% CI: 1.79–123.36, φ = 0.40). Functional well-being and anorexia/cachexia concerns showed favorable, but nonsignificant, trends (FWB improvement: 29% vs. 8%, p = 0.05, OR = 4.79, 95% CI: 0.95–24.27, φ = 0.26; ACS deterioration: 3% vs. 20%, p = 0.07, OR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.01–1.11, φ = 0.28). HRQoL correlated positively with nutritional status, appetite, and functional performance, while Karnofsky scores remained stable in both groups. Conclusions: ONS did not significantly change the mean QoL scores at the group level but increased the proportion of patients achieving clinically meaningful improvement, particularly in the physical and emotional domains. These findings suggest that ONS may benefit selected patients who respond to nutritional interventions, underscoring the clinical relevance of individualized nutrition strategies in oncology. Full article
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13 pages, 2958 KB  
Article
Removal of Hf(IV) Ions from Zr(IV) Ions in Sulfuric Acid Solution by Solvent Extraction with PC88A
by Mingming Han, Jing Song, Hongqian Sun, Xiaoru Zhang and Tao Qi
Metals 2026, 16(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16010067 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 197
Abstract
The study aimed to remove Hf(IV) ions from Zr(IV) ions in sulfuric acid solution using PC88A, investigating the extraction and separation of high-concentration zirconium (Zr) and hafnium (Hf) in such systems. Key factors, including solution acidity and SO42− concentration, were examined. [...] Read more.
The study aimed to remove Hf(IV) ions from Zr(IV) ions in sulfuric acid solution using PC88A, investigating the extraction and separation of high-concentration zirconium (Zr) and hafnium (Hf) in such systems. Key factors, including solution acidity and SO42− concentration, were examined. Results showed that acidity affected the size of Zr/Hf ion clusters, and PC88A exhibits a higher extraction preference for Hf(IV) over Zr(IV), achieving a separation factor (βHf/Zr) of 4.56 at 4 mol/L H+. Adding SO42− reduced its separation efficiency for Zr and Hf. Combined with slope analysis and FT-IR spectroscopy, Hf extraction by PC88A followed cation-exchange and solvation mechanisms, with 3 PC88A dimers consumed per Hf ion. Stripping experiments demonstrated that 1 mol/L sulfuric acid selectively stripped Zr from the loaded organic phase. Extraction and stripping equilibrium curves were constructed, confirming that 3 stages of Hf(IV) extraction from the solution and 4 stages of Zr(IV) stripping from the loaded organic phase are needed: 3 theoretical stages (O/A = 1) enabled complete Hf extraction, while 4 stages (A/O = 3:1) achieved full Zr stripping. This work provides a basis for efficient Zr-Hf separation using PC88A. Full article
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13 pages, 805 KB  
Article
Short- and Middle-Term Nephroprotective and Cardioprotective Effects of Pentoxifylline in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Oliva Mejía-Rodríguez, Marcela Ávila-Díaz, Carmen Prado-Uribe, María Eugenia Galván-Plata, Helios Vega Gómez, Cleto Álvarez-Aguilar, Miguel Angel Cuevas-Budhart and Ramón Paniagua
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14010026 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 122
Abstract
Background/Objectives. Pentoxifylline (PTF) is an effective treatment to delay the progress of Diabetic Nephropathy; it also has beneficial effects on heart failure, two closely related clinical conditions. However, the simultaneous Nephroprotective and Cardioprotective effects of PTF have not been appropriately analyzed. The [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives. Pentoxifylline (PTF) is an effective treatment to delay the progress of Diabetic Nephropathy; it also has beneficial effects on heart failure, two closely related clinical conditions. However, the simultaneous Nephroprotective and Cardioprotective effects of PTF have not been appropriately analyzed. The objective of this study was to analyze if both effects occur together in Diabetic patients. Material and Methods. A Randomized Controlled Trial was performed to compare Placebo (P-G) vs. PTF (400 mg/8 h) (PTF-G) in patients with CKD stages III–IV (KDIGO) due to Diabetic Nephropathy. Creatinine-Cystatin C-based Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFRCysCCr) and Microalbuminuria were evaluated at baseline, six, and twelve months. Echocardiographic assessment of heart morphology and function was performed. Results. Ninety-three patients were available for the final analysis, 52 in the PTF group and 41 in the P group. There were no differences in clinical and biochemical parameters between groups at baseline. At 6 months, microalbuminuria changed 27.96 ± 43.06 in P-G and −30.27 ± 41.48 mg/24 h in PTF-G (p < 0.001), eGFRCysCCr changed −1.55 ± 7.10 in P-G and 1.40 ± 7.28 mL/min/1.73 m2 in PTF-G (p = 0.083), and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) changed 10.86 ± 16.40 in P-G and −2.71 ± 19.52 g/m2 in PTF-G (p = 0.001). At 12 months, microalbuminuria changed 24.10 ± 43.28 in P-G and −43.18 ± 52.13 mg/24 h in PTF-G (p < 0.001), eGFRCysCCr changed −6.55 ± 10.18 in P-G and 0.98 ± 8.17 mL/min/1.73 m2 in PTF-G (p = 0.008), and LVMI changed 20.79 ± 20.06 in P-G and −0.82 ± 25.95 g/m2 in PTF-G (p = 0.028). No significant adverse events occurred in any group. Conclusions. Pentoxifylline is a safe and effective treatment with combined Nephroprotective and Cardioprotective effects in advanced diabetic nephropathy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nephrology and Urology)
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15 pages, 728 KB  
Article
The Fibrinogen-to-Albumin Ratio in Endometriosis: A Step Toward Personalized Non-Invasive Diagnostics
by Lejla Samson, Theresa Mally, Chiara Paternostro, Alfie Bill, Lorenz Kuessel and Christine Bekos
J. Pers. Med. 2026, 16(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm16010020 - 4 Jan 2026
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting up to 10–15% of women of reproductive age and is frequently associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Non-invasive biomarkers remain insufficient for accurate diagnosis, often necessitating laparoscopic confirmation. The fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR), a composite marker [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting up to 10–15% of women of reproductive age and is frequently associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Non-invasive biomarkers remain insufficient for accurate diagnosis, often necessitating laparoscopic confirmation. The fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR), a composite marker of systemic inflammation, has been proposed in both oncological and cardiovascular disease but has not yet been evaluated in endometriosis. Methods: We conducted a retrospective monocentric study including 390 women who underwent laparoscopy between January 2015 and December 2021 at the Medical University of Vienna. Of these, 218 had histologically confirmed endometriosis and 172 had benign ovarian cysts. Preoperative laboratory data was collected, and FAR was calculated. Group comparisons were performed using the Mann–Whitney U test. ANOVA was used to compare FAR across revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) stages, and Spearman’s rank correlation assessed associations with disease severity. Subgroup analyses were performed for adenomyosis and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). Results: FAR was significantly higher in women with endometriosis than in controls (median 0.0679, IQR 0.0588–0.0778 vs. 0.0641, IQR 0.0559–0.716; p = 0.0035). Across rASRM stages I–IV, FAR values were comparable (means 0.0691–0.0709) and did not differ significantly (p = 0.822, ANOVA). Spearman’s correlation confirmed no significant association with disease stage (ρ = 0.085, p = 0.24). In exploratory analyses, women with adenomyosis (n = 35) showed a non-significant trend toward a higher median FAR compared to those without adenomyosis (0.0707 vs. 0.0669; p = 0.073, one-sided). No difference in FAR was observed between women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE; n = 144) and those without (0.0680 vs. 0.0672; p = 0.389, one-sided). Conclusions: Although FAR alone cannot replace surgical confirmation, the difference observed between the groups may reflect the systemic inflammatory aspect of endometriosis and should be investigated further in future studies. Given its accessibility and cost-effectiveness, FAR may support the development of non-invasive, personalized diagnostic approaches when combined with other clinical and molecular markers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Medicine in Endometriosis)
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21 pages, 1595 KB  
Article
Evaluation of the Cellsway Microfluidic CTC Enrichment and Identification Platform for CTC Detection in Metastatic NSCLC
by Ebru Özgür, Ayça Çırçır, Begüm Şen Doğan, Şebnem Şahin, Gizem Karayalçın, Mehmet Alper Demir, Başak Erkek, Enes Demirtaş, Özge Zorlu, Furkan Ceylan, Haluk Külah, Nuri Karadurmuş, Mehmet Ali Nahit Şendur and Saadettin Kılıçkap
Biosensors 2026, 16(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios16010034 - 2 Jan 2026
Viewed by 345
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for the majority of cases. Standard tissue biopsies are invasive and unsuitable for repeated monitoring. Liquid biopsy technologies, particularly circulating tumor cell (CTC) analysis, offer a minimally [...] Read more.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for the majority of cases. Standard tissue biopsies are invasive and unsuitable for repeated monitoring. Liquid biopsy technologies, particularly circulating tumor cell (CTC) analysis, offer a minimally invasive alternative for real-time disease tracking. To address the need for efficient and reproducible CTC isolation, we developed the Cellsway microfluidic CTC enrichment and identification platform, which employs inertial hydrodynamics in a spiral-shaped microfluidic channel comprising hydrofoil-shaped pillars to enable high-throughput, label-free enrichment of CTCs while preserving cell integrity, followed by an optimized CTC identification assay. Analytical performance assessed through spiking experiments using NSCLC cell lines demonstrated recovery rates of 91.9% for H1975 cells and 78.3% for A549 cells. Clinical validation was performed on blood samples from 51 stage IV NSCLC patients. A 7.5 mL volume of peripheral blood was processed with the SwayBox platform, and enriched CTCs were identified through an optimized multiplex immunofluorescence protocol. CTCs were detected in 47% of NSCLC patients, with counts ranging from 0 to 72 cells per 7.5 mL of blood. At a cutoff of 1 CTC per 7.5 mL, the assay achieved a specificity of 95%. Patient-derived CTCs exhibited smaller mean diameters compared to cultured NSCLC cell lines, yet were effectively enriched through hydro-dynamic tuning. These findings demonstrate that the Cellsway platform enables efficient and re-producible CTC isolation with high specificity, supporting its potential utility for clinical monitoring and precision oncology in NSCLC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nano- and Micro-Technologies in Biosensors)
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17 pages, 681 KB  
Article
Inflammatory–Molecular Clusters as Predictors of Immunotherapy Response in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
by Vlad Vornicu, Alina-Gabriela Negru, Razvan Constantin Vonica, Andrei Alexandru Cosma, Mihaela Maria Pasca-Fenesan and Anca Maria Cimpean
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(1), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15010349 - 2 Jan 2026
Viewed by 230
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Immunotherapy has improved outcomes for selected patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), yet the predictive value of individual biomarkers such as PD-L1 remains limited. Systemic inflammatory indices derived from routine blood tests may complement molecular and immunohistochemical features, offering a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Immunotherapy has improved outcomes for selected patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), yet the predictive value of individual biomarkers such as PD-L1 remains limited. Systemic inflammatory indices derived from routine blood tests may complement molecular and immunohistochemical features, offering a broader view of host–tumor immunobiology. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 298 patients with stage IIIB–IV NSCLC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) at a tertiary oncology center between 2022 and 2024. Baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and systemic immune–inflammation index (SII) were collected alongside PD-L1 expression and molecular alterations (EGFR, KRAS, ALK, TP53). Patients were stratified into inflammatory–molecular clusters integrating these parameters. Associations with objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier and multivariate Cox analyses. Results: Four distinct inflammatory–molecular clusters demonstrated significantly different outcomes (p < 0.001). Patients with low NLR and high PD-L1 expression (Cluster A) showed the highest ORR (41%), longest median PFS (13.0 months), and OS (22.5 months). The EGFR/ALK-driven, inflammation-dominant cluster (Cluster C) exhibited poor response (ORR 7%) and shortest survival (PFS 4.3 months). High NLR (HR 2.12), PD-L1 < 1% (HR 1.91), and EGFR mutation (HR 2.36) independently predicted shorter PFS. A combined model incorporating NLR, PD-L1, and molecular status outperformed individual biomarkers (AUC 0.82). Conclusions: Integrating systemic inflammatory indices with PD-L1 expression and molecular alterations identifies clinically meaningful NSCLC subgroups with distinct immunotherapy outcomes. This multidimensional approach improves prediction of ICI response and may enhance real-world patient stratification, particularly in settings with limited access to extended molecular profiling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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13 pages, 766 KB  
Article
Development of a Prognostic Nomogram in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Based on KELIM: A Retrospective Study at TuDu Hospital, Vietnam
by Hoang T. Pham, Tuan M. Vo, Le N. N. Phan and Hien T. Nguyen
Diagnostics 2026, 16(1), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16010151 - 2 Jan 2026
Viewed by 194
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) constitutes the predominant form of ovarian malignancies. The primary goal of this study was to determine predictors of patient survival and construct a nomogram for survival prediction in individuals diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer. Methods: A retrospective cohort [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) constitutes the predominant form of ovarian malignancies. The primary goal of this study was to determine predictors of patient survival and construct a nomogram for survival prediction in individuals diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer. Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis was performed, including 418 patients who received treatment for epithelial ovarian cancer at Tu Du Hospital from January 2015 to December 2019. The median follow-up time was 77.1 months (range: 5.7–121.6 months). Survival analyses were conducted using the log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. A nomogram was developed, incorporating KELIM and other statistically significant variables. Results: The median follow-up time was 77.1 months. The observed cumulative mortality rates were 1.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.7–3.2), 10.4% (95% CI: 7.8–13.8), and 16.5% (95% CI: 13.2–20.6) at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Factors demonstrating a significant correlation with survival included KELIM < 1 (HR = 1.78 [95% CI: 1.16–2.72]), pre-treatment CA-125 levels ≥ 35 U/mL (HR = 2.47 [95% CI: 1.10–5.55]), FIGO stages III-IV (HR = 2.40 [95% CI: 1.36–4.21]), and the presence of residual tumor tissue following surgical intervention (HR = 3.14 [95% CI: 1.75–5.65]). Conclusions: Prognosis is significantly influenced by KELIM, pre-treatment CA-125, tumor stage, and residual tumor post-surgery. The nomogram developed here offers a tool to assist in personalized prognostic assessments of Vietnamese EOC patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Progress in Gynecologic Oncology)
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17 pages, 1263 KB  
Article
Improving Prognostic Stratification in Gastric Cancer: The Role of Lymph Node Staging Systems
by Tudor Razvan Grigorie, Cosmin Verdea, Teodora Delia Chiriac, Iulia Magdalena Gramaticu, Andreea Iliesiu, George Andrei Popescu, Mihai Popescu and Sorin Tiberiu Alexandrescu
Medicina 2026, 62(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62010085 - 31 Dec 2025
Viewed by 436
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification system is the standard for staging gastric cancer and predicting survival. However, its accuracy can be compromised by insufficient lymph node (LN) dissection during surgery or inadequate pathologic examination. Alternative staging systems, such as the [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification system is the standard for staging gastric cancer and predicting survival. However, its accuracy can be compromised by insufficient lymph node (LN) dissection during surgery or inadequate pathologic examination. Alternative staging systems, such as the lymph node ratio (LNR) and log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS), may provide better prognostic value when LN examination is suboptimal. Because the current N staging system was not able to accurately stratify patients relative to their survival outcomes in our series, this study assessed the prognostic impact of LNR and LODDS on overall survival (OS) of patients who underwent radical gastrectomy for cancer. Materials and Methods: Between March 2005 and June 2025, the authors performed gastrectomy for gastric carcinoma in 114 patients. Out of these patients, 39 were excluded (19 had stage IV, while 20 underwent palliative gastrectomy with D1 lymphadenectomy). Thus, the study cohort included 75 patients who underwent curative gastrectomy, with 4 (5.3%) of them dying postoperatively. Potential prognostic factors associated with OS (including age, sex, tumor location, T stage, N stage, TNM stage, LNR, and LODDS) were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Because the recurrence data were missing in 41 patients, the disease-free survival (DFS) analysis would not be meaningful. Results: The OS analysis was based on the 71 patients surviving postoperatively. Because successive N stage groups could not accurately stratify patients according to their OS, we used X-tile software version 3.6.1 to identify two cut-offs (both for LNR and LODDS) that were able to stratify patients in three subgroups with significantly distinct survival outcomes. Multivariate analysis found that both LODDS and LNR systems were independent prognostic factors for OS. Conclusions: LNR and LODDS provide more detailed insights into lymph node status and have demonstrated potential for enhancing prognostic accuracy compared to N staging, even in patients who underwent curative gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy. Although LNR and LODDS are usually useful in patients who underwent suboptimal lymphadenectomy, the current study demonstrated that these systems could improve prognostic stratification even in patients with more than 15 retrieved LNs. However, due to the small sample size, the current observations and proposed cut-offs of LNR and LODDS have to be validated in larger studies including such patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Surgery)
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11 pages, 483 KB  
Article
Failure to Achieve 70% of Recommended Protein Intake at One Year Predicts 13-Fold Higher Mortality After Gastrectomy
by Jou-Huai Lin, Shao-Ciao Luo, Li-Chun Liu, Ya-Ling Wang, Chiann-Yi Hsu and Pin-Kuei Fu
Nutrients 2026, 18(1), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18010120 - 30 Dec 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
Background and Aims: Gastric cancer remains a major health burden in East Asia. Gastrectomy is a primary treatment, yet postoperative malnutrition—particularly inadequate protein intake—adversely affects outcomes. This study assessed the association between achieving ≥70% of the recommended protein intake one year after gastrectomy [...] Read more.
Background and Aims: Gastric cancer remains a major health burden in East Asia. Gastrectomy is a primary treatment, yet postoperative malnutrition—particularly inadequate protein intake—adversely affects outcomes. This study assessed the association between achieving ≥70% of the recommended protein intake one year after gastrectomy and three-year survival. Methods: In this prospective, single-center, observational study, 69 patients with newly diagnosed gastric cancer who underwent gastrectomy between January 2021 and August 2023 were enrolled. Four patients who died within one year postoperatively were excluded, leaving 65 patients for analysis. Protein intake achievement rate (PIAR) at 12 months was calculated based on a recommended intake of 1.2 g/kg/day, and patients were stratified as PIAR ≥ 70% or <70%. Overall survival was analyzed using time-to-event methods, with a median follow-up of 2.1 years. Results: Among the 65 patients (median age 62 years, IQR 56–68; 56.9% male), 75.4% underwent subtotal gastrectomy. At 12 months, 7 patients (10.8%) failed to achieve a PIAR ≥ 70%. Compared with patients achieving adequate protein intake, those with inadequate intake more frequently underwent total gastrectomy (71.4% vs. 19.0%, p = 0.008) and had advanced-stage disease (Stage III–IV: 85.7% vs. 39.7%, p = 0.039). Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated significantly lower survival in the inadequate protein group, with a hazard ratio of 13.02 (95% CI 2.53–66.93); the wide confidence interval reflects the small number of patients with inadequate intake (n = 7). Conclusions: Failure to achieve ≥70% of recommended protein intake one year after gastrectomy is a strong independent predictor of mortality, associated with a 13-fold higher risk of death. Nutritional monitoring and early intervention are crucial, particularly for patients with total gastrectomy or advanced disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Nutrition for Cancer Survivors)
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15 pages, 1007 KB  
Article
Shifting Survival Horizons in Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A Conditional Survival Perspective
by Aydan Farzaliyeva, Huseyin Akilli, Ozden Altundag, Esra Kuscu and Nejat Ozgul
Curr. Oncol. 2026, 33(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol33010017 - 29 Dec 2025
Viewed by 196
Abstract
Advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is defined by biological heterogeneity and poor outcomes, and traditional survival metrics fail to reflect the evolving nature of prognosis as patients survive longer. This study aimed to evaluate conditional survival (CS) in advanced EOC using both overall [...] Read more.
Advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is defined by biological heterogeneity and poor outcomes, and traditional survival metrics fail to reflect the evolving nature of prognosis as patients survive longer. This study aimed to evaluate conditional survival (CS) in advanced EOC using both overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) metrics to provide a dynamic understanding of long-term outcomes. We retrospectively analyzed 808 patients with FIGO stage III–IV EOC who underwent surgery at Baskent University Ankara Hospital between 2004 and 2024. CS estimates were calculated for additional 1- and 5-year intervals among patients who had already survived 6 months, 1, 3, or 5 years after surgery. Median OS and PFS were 4.37 and 1.70 years, respectively. Peritoneal dissemination and platinum resistance were independent predictors of poor survival. Approximately 11% of patients achieved survival beyond ten years. The 1-year CS-OS increased from 87% at 6 months to 95% at 5 years, while the 5-year CS-OS rose from 49% to 66%; corresponding CS-PFS values increased from 89% to 95% and from 44% to 62%. Conditional survival analysis underscores that prognosis in advanced ovarian cancer is not static but continually improves with time survived and sustained disease control. These insights redefine long-term outcomes and provide a modern foundation for individualized patient counseling and survivorship planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)
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