Neoplastic Changes Research Articles

Histomorphological scoring of murine colitis models: A practical guide for the evaluation of colitis and colitis-associated cancer

Background and aimsHistomorphology is a powerful and cost-efficient tool for evaluating inflammatory and neoplastic conditions. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a widespread condition with globally rising incidences, and a lot of research is done to better understand the pathogenesis of IBD and to identify potential therapeutic approaches. However, standardized and reproducible scores for the histomorphological evaluation of murine IBD models are lacking. Therefore, we aimed to develop an easy-to-use and reproducible score for standardized assessment of colitis and associated cancer models. MethodsIn this study, samples from three different colitis models with and without associated cancer formation were analyzed to develop a universal, robust, and reproducible score for the grading of murine colitis models using the following three parameters: 1. Extent of leucocyte infiltration, 2. Tissue damage, 3. Architectural disruption of the mucosa. ResultsA scoring system was established for different kinds of colitis models (genetically induced enterocolitis, genetically induced metabolic injury, and chemically induced colitis-associated cancer) and all stages of the disease, from mild inflammatory changes to severe inflammation with neoplastic changes as the extreme extent of IBD. The scoring scheme is easy to use, can easily be learned, and proves to have a high interrater reliability. ConclusionsWe propose a robust histological scoring system for the assessment of murine colitis and colitis-associated cancer models, giving more researchers access to conclusive and reliable histological assessment.

A Rare Case Report of Cervical Hemangiomatous Polyp.

The uterine cervix is a rare site for cavernous hemangiomas. Cervical hemangiomas are slow-growing tumors with characteristic histological findings, including dilated vessels with increased endothelial cells. Although their pathophysiology remains unclear, hormones are believed to play an important role in the development of these vascular tumors. They may be asymptomatic due to their small size, but they can cause gynecological and obstetrical complications, including abnormal uterine bleeding and impaired fertility. Due to their small size, conservative treatment is the first line of management. Hysterectomy is considered for refractory cases or for patients who are not of childbearing age. We present a case report of a 62-year-old postmenopausal female with postmenopausal bleeding and a polypoid mass hanging over the anterior cervical wall through its stalk. The surgical biopsy revealed no signs of neoplastic changes, with the only notable finding being a polypoidal lesion representing a cavernous hemangiomatous cervical polyp.

Pathohistological Findings after Bilateral Ovariectomy in Mares with Behavioral Problems

Behavioral problems in reproductively healthy mares are a challenging issue that is successfully treated with bilateral ovariectomy (BO). This laparoscopic procedure represents an alternative to conservative treatment for mares not intended for breeding and results in high owner satisfaction regarding behavioral improvement. However, a pathohistological explanation to justify surgical ovarian removal regarding animal welfare is lacking. Therefore, the objective of this study was to pathohistologically evaluate bilaterally removed, clinically unremarkable ovaries of mares with behavioral problems (bOE, n = 20) and to compare them with pathohistologically confirmed granulosa cell tumors of mares with neoplastic ovaries (GCT-uOE, n = 10). A complete data set including preliminary presentation, clinical examination, and serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and testosterone was further analyzed in both groups. Both hormones were significantly higher in GCT-uOE compared with bOE. Immunohistochemical expression of Ki-67, AMH, aromatase, epidermal growth factor receptor, calretinin, and epithelial cadherin in granulosa cells of large follicular structures in bOE did not differ from neoplastic granulosa cells in GCT-uOE. Ultrasonographically nondetectable early neoplastic changes were pathohistologically evaluated in 15% of mares and anovulatory-like follicles in 30% of mares in bOE and might be one explanation for the high success rate of BO in 85% of bOE in this study.

Human papillomavirus prevalence and genotypes in Gulf Cooperation Council countries: A scoping review 2017-2024.

Cervical cancer remains a global health challenge, claiming the lives of millions annually and having a significant impact on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary causative agent, plays a central role, with regional variations in prevalence.1 The process from HPV infection to neoplastic changes takes 5-25 years to occur, hence, knowing its prevalence in our community is vital.2. PubMed and SCOPUS were searched to identify articles related to cervical and anogenital HPV prevalence and genotypes in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) published between 2017 and 2024. A total of 19 articles were included in this review. Eight studies were from KSA, four were from Kuwait, three were from the UAE, one was from Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, and one presented data collectively from the KSA, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. The prevalence of HPV ranged between 4.7% and 77% in studies from the KSA, between 15% and 54.3% in studies from Kuwait, between 14.7% and 88% in studies from the UAE, was 8.1% and 31.3% in the two studies from Qatar, and was 17.8% and 20% in the studies from Oman and Bahrain, respectively. HPV 16 was the most prevalent high-risk genotype found in studies conducted in the KSA, UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar. In Oman, HPV 82 predominated. In Bahrain, the majority had other non-HPV 16/18/45 genotypes. In the UAE and Kuwait, HPV 11 was the predominant low-risk type, followed by HPV 6. In Qatar, HPV 81 was the most common low-risk type, followed by HPV 11. In Oman, HPV 54 was the most common low-risk type, followed by HPV 42. There are no studies with data on HPV prevalence and genotypes among women who have been vaccinated against HPV in GCC countries.

7756 Gonadectomy in Individuals with Differences of Sex Development - A Prospective I-DSD Registry Study

Abstract Disclosure: M.A. O'Connell: None. A.K. Lucas-Herald: None. J. Bryce: None. M. Chen: None. J.H. Davies: None. M. Shnorhavorian: None. N. Atapattu: None. I. Bachynska: None. N. Birkebaek: None. M. Cools: None. K. Demir: None. L. de Vries: None. H. Elsedfy: None. M.A. Fahmy: None. E. Globa: None. R. Grinspon: None. G. Guaragna-Filho: None. G. Guerra-Junior: None. D. Janus: None. Z. Kolesinska: None. I. Mazen: None. S.M. O'Connell: None. S.N. Seneviratne: None. M. Stancampiano: None. G. Verkauskas: None. S.F. Ahmed: None. O. i-DSD gonadectomy surveillance consortium: None. Introduction: Gonadectomy may be indicated in people with differences of sex development (DSD), but variation in practice is reported. This study aims to determine, through prospective surveillance, the frequency of gonadectomy and associated care pathways in individuals with DSD internationally. Methods: All I-DSD centres were invited to participate; the study commenced in December 2022. Participating centres receive a monthly email asking whether a gonadectomy has been performed in an individual with DSD. Where informed consent for inclusion in the I-DSD Registry has been obtained in a reported case, a secondary survey captures additional clinical information. Results: Of 208 centres invited, 74 have responded to monthly email surveys. Over the first 12 months of surveillance, gonadectomies were reported in 71 individuals from 34 centres in 19 countries (median [range]: 1[1, 5]); 40 centres reported no gonadectomy. Secondary survey data are available for 30/65 (46%) of reported cases to date. Twenty-four (80%) individuals are female; median (range) age at gonadectomy was 9.2 (2.1,20.0) years. All had specialist multidisciplinary team involvement prior to gonadectomy: endocrinology (97%), genetics (77%) and psychology (67%) were most frequently involved. Gonads were intra-abdominal in 25/30 (83%). Differences of gonadal development (13/30 [43%]) and Turner syndrome (8/30 [27%]) were the most frequent underlying DSD. Pre-gonadectomy investigations included: hormonal testing (28/30 [93%]), imaging (23/30 [77%] - US alone n=14; US + MRI n=7; MRI alone n=2), direct visualisation at laparoscopy (7/30 [23%]) and gonadal biopsy (2/30 [7%]). Bilateral gonadectomy was undertaken in 25/30 (83%). Mitigation of future malignancy risk in the context of gonadal insufficiency was the most common primary indication for gonadectomy (19/30, [63%]); additional indications were concerning changes on biopsy/imaging (3/30 [10%]), hormone production incongruent with sex assigned (4/30 [13%]) or gender identity (2/30 [7%]) and parental choice (2/30 [7%]). Histopathology confirmed neoplastic change in 7 individuals (23%). Gonadectomy was intentionally deferred in 8/30 (27%) individuals, most commonly to allow their involvement in decision making. Twelve individuals (40%) were 12yrs or older at gonadectomy; all were involved in the pre-operative decision-making process. Conclusions: This study offers important contemporary insights into the practice of gonadectomy in individuals with DSD internationally. Multidisciplinary care provision prior to gonadectomy is standard; however, management pathways vary, likely reflecting diversity of clinical presentations and lack of consensus regarding optimal approach. The I-DSD platform shows clear utility for performing prospective surveillance of rare procedures; such studies are essential for care quality improvement. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Automated MRI Video Analysis for Pediatric Neuro-Oncology: An Experimental Approach

Over the past year, there has been a significant rise in interest in the application of open-source artificial intelligence models (OSAIM) in the field of medicine. An increasing number of studies focus on evaluating the capabilities of these models in image analysis, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This study aimed to investigate whether two of the most popular open-source AI models, namely ChatGPT 4o and Gemini Pro, can analyze MRI video sequences with single-phase contrast in sagittal and frontal projections, depicting a posterior fossa tumor corresponding to a medulloblastoma in a child. The study utilized video files from single-phase contrast-enhanced head MRI in two planes (frontal and sagittal) of a child diagnosed with a posterior fossa tumor, type medulloblastoma, confirmed by histopathological examination. Each model was separately provided with the video file, first in the sagittal plane, analyzing three different sets of commands from the most general to the most specific. The same procedure was applied to the video file in the frontal plane. The Gemini Pro model did not conduct a detailed analysis of the pathological change but correctly identified the content of the video file, indicating it was a brain MRI, and suggested that a specialist in the field should perform the evaluation. Conversely, ChatGPT 4o conducted image analysis but failed to recognize that the content was MRI. The attempts to detect the lesion were random and varied depending on the plane. These models could not accurately identify the video content or indicate the area of the neoplastic change, even after applying detailed queries. The results suggest that despite their widespread use in various fields, these models require further improvements and specialized training to effectively support medical diagnostics.

Applications of Amniotic Membrane in Ophthalmology – New Perspectives in the Treatment of Eye Diseases

Amniotic membrane, a natural protective barrier surrounding the fetus, possesses unique biological properties, making it a promising tool in regenerative medicine. It contains pluripotent cells, collagen, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and growth factors. This article aims to present the current state of knowledge regarding the potential applications of amniotic membrane in ophthalmology, as well as the benefits and challenges associated with this promising therapy. Amniotic membrane, used in the form of a graft or extract, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, accelerates tissue healing, and regenerates corneal epithelium. In ophthalmology, amniotic membrane is used in the treatment of corneal ulcers, limbal stem cell deficiency, burns, strabismus, glaucoma, and neoplastic changes. It can also be used in the reconstruction of the ocular surface and in vitreoretinal surgery. Studies demonstrate its effectiveness in improving symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Additionally, new methods of combining amniotic membrane with the ocular surface are being introduced. Amniotic membrane is also used as a carrier in stem cell culture. The development of technology and research on amniotic membrane lead to the discovery of new applications and the improvement of surgical techniques, opening up prospects for even broader utilization of its potential in the future.

Endoscopic Surveillance after (Procto)Colectomy with Gastrointestinal Reconstruction in Patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)-Principles, Goals and Practical Aspects Based on 12 Years of Observation.

(1) Background: Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a hereditary condition characterized by the development of numerous adenomas in the large intestine, often necessitating colectomy due to an elevated risk of colorectal cancer. Despite surgical intervention, adenomas frequently recur, underscoring the importance of ongoing surveillance. This study evaluates the outcomes of a 12-year endoscopic follow-up after colectomy and gastrointestinal reconstruction for FAP. (2) Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 41 FAP patients who underwent at least one postoperative endoscopic examination. Assessments of the pouch or rectum were performed every 12-18 months following ileorectal anastomosis and every 18-24 months after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Follow-up biopsies were assessed using the adopted Spigelman classification. (3) Results: Postoperative pathology revealed invasive colorectal cancer in three patients. Abdominoperineal resection was performed in two cases due to secondary invasive carcinoma, and one T1 tumor was radically removed with ESD. One patient underwent radical pouch excision following a nodal pelvic recurrence of rectal cancer. Over a 12-year observation period, the mean Spigelman score increased by 2 points, and the proportion of patients with low-grade polypoid lesions decreased. The quantity or size of polyps increased in 24 patients, decreased in 8 patients, and remained stable in 9 patients. In four patients, granular, laterally spreading tumors were discovered in the rectal stump. (4) Conclusions: Regular endoscopic surveillance in FAP patients facilitates early identification of neoplastic and inflammatory changes. The downstaging potential highlights the effectiveness of early interventions. While the Spigelman classification assessed polyps well, it did not predict cancer occurrence. A notable number of patients had invasive cancer at the time of surgery, underscoring the importance of early surgical qualification, which is particularly crucial for identifying upstaging or secondary cancer.

The possibilities of predicting the individual risk of cervical cancer in women of reproductive age using mathematical modeling

Background. Cervical cancer (CC) refers to cancer of visual localization and in women of reproductive age remains one of the most common oncological diseases. The carcinogenesis of CC is caused by the persistence of highly oncogenic types of human papillomavirus (HPV), the level of carcinogenicity of which is the highest based on the criteria of the International Agency for Research on Cancer. However, cervical carcinogenesis does not occur in all cases of persistence of highly oncogenic types of HPV. This, in turn, determines the need for a thorough search, study and analysis of possible cofactors that can lead to neoplastic changes in the cervix.Aim. To develop a model for predicting the individual risk of CC in women of reproductive age, taking into account clinical, anamnestic, laboratory and histological data.Materials and methods. The material for the study was retrospective examination data from 251 patients of reproductive age who were treated at the Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Technologies of the National Medical Research Center “Medical and Rehabilitation Center”, Ministry of Health of Russia in the period 2015–2022. Results. Highly oncogenic HPV types were significantly more common in the group of patients with verified СС who took combined oral contraceptives (COC), compared with patients who did not take COC (p = 0.035). Multifactorial analysis allowed us to determine that long-term use of СОС for a total of more than 7 years is associated with a tendency to increase the risk of developing СС (hazard ratio 1.68; 95 % confidence interval 1.1–2.5; p = 0.010). According to the results of statistical calculation, the values of regression coefficients were obtained and the tendency to increase the risk of developing CC was predicted in the presence of such factors as: HPV type 16 persistence, body mass index, and the duration of COC intake in years.Conclusion. Thus, taking into account all possible risk factors for CC, the negative effect of cofactors, namely increased body mass index and prolonged intake of COC, on the course of HPV as the leading etiological factor of breast cancer, will allow us to identify groups at increased risk of developing CC, form an individual algorithm for monitoring and examination throughout the entire period of taking COC, as well as conduct individual cancer prevention by limiting the duration of taking COC.

Assessment of Conjunctival Surface Changes in Post COVID Patients by Impression Cytology

Abstract Background The conjunctiva is a transparent, clear, thin membrane that covers part of the eye’s front surface and the inner surface of the eyelids. It is divided into three regions: the palpebral or tarsal conjunctiva, the bulbar or ocular conjunctiva, and the conjunctival fornices. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19), named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was first identified in December 2019 after a series of acute atypical lung disease cases occurred in Wuhan, China. Aim of the Work The aim of the our study is assessment of the inflammatory and neoplastic changes that happened on the ocular surface especially the conjunctiva according to Nelson staging system in post-COVID-19 patients and evaluated by impression cytology. Patients and Methods This study was conducted on a selected sample of patients attending the Ophthalmology outpatient clinic of Ain Shams University Hospitals in Cairo, specimens of impression cytology were stained and examined in the Pathology department of Ain Shams University. Results In the present study, comparison between cases and controls groups as regards epithelial cells showed that in cases group there was normal, small, round cells in 19(59.4%) cases, slightly larger, more polygonal cell in 11(34.4%), and Larger, polygonal cells in 2(6.3%), and in controls group, there was normal, small, round cells in 25(78.1%) cases, slightly larger, more polygonal cell in 7(21.9%), there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups as regards epithelial cells (p > 0.05). Furthermore, As regards N/C ratio where in cases group the ratio was 1:2 in 19(59.4%) cases, 1:3 in 11(34.4%), and 1:4-1:5 in 2(6.3%), and in controls group, it was 1:2 in 25(78.1%) cases, 1:3 in 7(21.9%), there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups as regards N/C ratio. In the current study, as regards Keratinization where 6(18.8%) cases had mild keratinization in cases group in comparison to 2(6.3%) cases in controls group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups as regards Keratinization (p > 0.05). Moreover, we found that there was no dysplasia in both cases and controls groups. The comparison between cases and controls groups as regard Goblet cells where in cases group the goblet cells was stage 0 in 17(53.1%) cases, others was stage 1 in 13(40.6%), and the cells was stage 2 in 2(6.3%), and in controls group, there was stage 0 cells in 22(68.8%) cases, stage 1 in 10(31.3%), there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups as regard goblet cells density. Conclusion There is non significant inflammatory or neoplastic changes that have been occurred in conjunctival surface in post-COVID-19 patients. Except for lymphocytes infiltration.

The Aberrant Expression of Biomarkers and Risk Prediction for Neoplastic Changes in Barrett's Esophagus-Dysplasia.

Background: Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a pre-neoplastic condition associated with an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). The accurate diagnosis of BE and grading of dysplasia can help to optimize the management of patients with BE. However, BE may be missed and the accurate grading of dysplasia based on a routine histology has a considerable intra- and interobserver variability. Thus, well-defined biomarker testing remains indispensable. The aim of our study was to identify routinely applicable and relatively specific biomarkers for an accurate diagnosis of BE, as well as determining biomarkers to predict the risk of progression in BE-dysplasia. Methods: Retrospectively, we performed immunohistochemistry to test mucin 2(MUC2), trefoil factor 3 (TFF3), p53, p16, cyclin D1, Ki-67, beta-catenin, and minichromosome maintenance (MCM2) in biopsies. Prospectively, to identify chromosomal alterations, we conducted fluorescent in situ hybridization testing on fresh brush samples collected at the time of endoscopy surveillance. Results: We discovered that MUC2 and TFF3 are specific markers for the diagnosis of BE. Aberrant expression, including the loss and strong overexpression of p53, Ki-67, p16, beta-catenin, cyclin D1, and MCM2, was significantly associated with low-grade dysplasia (LGD), high-grade dysplasia (HGD), and EAC histology, with a relatively high risk of neoplastic changes. Furthermore, the aberrant expressions of p53 and p16 in BE-indefinite dysplasia (IND) progressor cohorts predicted the risk of progression. Conclusions: Assessing the biomarkers would be a suitable adjunct to accurate BE histology diagnoses and improve the accuracy of BE-dysplasia grading, thus reducing interobserver variability, particularly of LGD and risk prediction.

Florid follicular lymphoid hyperplasia of the palate: review of the literature and report of an illustrative case.

The aim of this report was to review oral follicular lymphoid hyperplasia, with emphasis on palatal lesions. A comprehensive search was performed on PubMed for case reports and case series of palatal follicular lymphoid hyperplasia published in the English language literature. Relevant data from collated articles was sought, including patient demographics, clinical manifestations, imaging modalities and findings, comorbidities, etiopathogenesis, lesional management, and lesional outcome. A new palatal case has also been provided to illustrate several features of this lesion. In total, 32 cases were assembled to establish clinicopathologic correlations, representing the largest aggregation of published cases. Most of the affected patients were at least 60 years old and with a decisive female predilection. The majority of lesions were ≤ 3 cm, appearing as normal color, purple-red or red, and varied from soft to firm. Notably, 32% of palatal follicular lymphoid hyperplasias were associated with denture wear, and lesional recurrence was recorded in 16% of cases. To date, none of the reported cases of palatal follicular lymphoid hyperplasia has undergone malignant transformation. Palatal follicular lymphoid hyperplasias often arise as a reactive process. Critical histopathologic and histochemical assessments are necessary to establish benignity. Postoperatively, clinicians should follow patients for at least 5 years for recurrence and remain vigilant for neoplastic change as several published accounts of non-oral follicular lymphoid hyperplasias have undergone malignant transformation, usually to lymphoma.

Utilizing reflectance confocal microscopy for surveillance of neoplastic changes in penile lichen sclerosus: A report of two cases

Utilizing reflectance confocal microscopy for surveillance of neoplastic changes in penile lichen sclerosus: A report of two cases

Lack of causative mutation in the AMH and AMHR2 genes in a cat (38,XY) with persistent Mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS).

A 1-year-old European shorthair male cat with a normally developed penis was subjected to genetic, endocrinological and histological studies due to unilateral cryptorchidism. The blood testosterone level was typical for males, while the level of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) was very low. Surgical removal of internal reproductive organs was followed by a histological study, which revealed inactive testicles with neoplastic changes and derivatives of Mullerian ducts. Cytogenetic analysis showed a normal XY sex chromosome complement and molecular analysis confirmed the presence of Y-linked genes (SRY and ZFY). Although the level of AMH was low, two normal copies of the AMH gene were found using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Analysis of the coding sequences of two candidate genes (AMH and AMHR2) for persistent Mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS) in the affected cat and in control male cats (n = 24) was performed using the Sanger sequencing method. In the affected cat, homozygosity was found for three novel missense variants in Exon 1 (one SNP) and Exon 5 (two SNPs) of AMH, but the same homozygous genotypes were also observed in one and two control cats, respectively, whose sex development was not examined. Three known synonymous variants with homozygous status were found in AMHR2. We conclude that the DNA variants identified in AMH and AMHR2 are not responsible for PMDS in the affected cat.

Inhibition Effects of Acetylsalicylic Acid with Nitric Oxide (NO-ASA) on Neoplastic Changes in the Exocrine Pancreas Acinar Cells of the Azaserine Injected Rats.

Atypical acinar cell foci (AACF) seen in pancreatic cancer are fatal and have been studied with some causative agents. However, for the first time, the effect of acetylsalicylic acid with nitric oxide (NO-ASA) on AACF was examined in this study. Although NO-ASA has very successful inhibitory effects against some types of cancer, it has not been investigated whether they can exert their inhibition effects on AACFs. For experimental purposes, 21 14-day-old male Wistar albino rats were used. Azaserine (30 mg/kg) was dissolved in 0.9% NaCl solution and injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) into 14 rats, except for the Control group (Cont) rats, for three weeks. Rats that were injected with azaserine once a week for three weeks and those that did not receive treatment were divided into experimental groups. 15 days after the end of the azaserine injection protocol, NO-ASA was applied to azaserine with NO-ASA (Az+NO-ASA) group rats three consecutive times with an interval of 15 days by gavage. At the end of the 5-month period, pancreatic tissue was dissected and weighed. Pancreas preparations prepared from histological sections were examined for AACF burden and analyzed via a video image analyzer. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) non-parametric statistical analyses were performed to test whether there was a difference between the averages of the experimental and Control groups. AACF burden in both groups injected with azaserine was found to be statistically significant in all categories compared to that of the Control group (p < 0.05). The average Calculated Estimated average AACF volume (mm3) values, the Calculated estimated average AACF diameter (μm), the Estimated average number of AACF per unit volume, AACF rate as a % of Calculated Organ Volume were higher in the AzCont group rats than in the Az+NO-ASA group, when compared, and there was an important level statistical difference between the groups (p < 0.05). It was determined that for all parameters AACFs load in Az+NO-ASA group rats were significantly reduced compared to that of AzCont group rats (p < 0.05). We observed that, as a result of the NO-ASA application, the experimental AACF focus ratio created by azaserine injection was significantly inhibited. The inhibitory effect of AACFs in Az+NO-ASA group rats may have resulted from the significant and independent chemopreventive and/or chemotherapeutic activity of NO-ASA against exocrine pancreatic AACF foci.

The Prevalence of Cervical Neoplastic Changes Among Sudanese Community Without Settled Screening Program

Background: While cervical cancer is decreasing in most countries that have undertaken long-term screening programs, the incidence is increasing in developing nations with low resources. As a result, the current study sought to investigate the incidence of cervical neoplastic alterations in the Sudanese community in the absence of a formal screening program. Methodology: This is a descriptive longitudinal study conducted at the Obst. &amp; Gyn. hospital in El-Obeid, North Kordofan State, Sudan, from January 2021 to December 2022. This screening involved around 120 volunteers. Results: In this study, 14% of participants had neoplastic alterations. Positive cases were highest in the 31-35 age group (29.4%), followed by 36-40 and ≤25 age groups (23.5%). The majority of positive cases (58.8%) were from metropolitan areas. The risk of neoplastic alterations is connected with urban residency; RR (95%CI) = 2.558 (1.050-6.235), P-value &amp;lt; 0.03. Approximately 11.1% of illiterate participants had neoplastic alterations, as did approximately 25% of those with a basic degree of education. The risk associated with a basic education level is 2.2750 (95% CI) (0.9550 to 5.4197), P = 0.0635. Conclusion: Cervical neoplastic alterations are common in northern Kordofan, yet there are few screening programs. Cervical neoplastic alterations are substantially higher in the metropolitan population.

Computer-Aided Diagnosis for Leaving Colorectal Polyps In Situ : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) allows prediction of polyp histology during colonoscopy, which may reduce unnecessary removal of nonneoplastic polyps. However, the potential benefits and harms of CADx are still unclear. To quantify the benefit and harm of using CADx in colonoscopy for the optical diagnosis of small (≤5-mm) rectosigmoid polyps. Medline, Embase, and Scopus were searched for articles published before 22 December 2023. Histologically verified diagnostic accuracy studies that evaluated the real-time performance of physicians in predicting neoplastic change of small rectosigmoid polyps without or with CADx assistance during colonoscopy. The clinical benefit and harm were estimated on the basis of accuracy values of the endoscopist before and after CADx assistance. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) framework. The outcome measure for benefit was the proportion of polyps predicted to be nonneoplastic that would avoid removal with the use of CADx. The outcome measure for harm was the proportion of neoplastic polyps that would be not resected and left in situ due to an incorrect diagnosis with the use of CADx. Histology served as the reference standard for both outcomes. Ten studies, including 3620 patients with 4103 small rectosigmoid polyps, were analyzed. The studies that assessed the performance of CADx alone (9 studies; 3237 polyps) showed a sensitivity of 87.3% (95% CI, 79.2% to 92.5%) and specificity of 88.9% (CI, 81.7% to 93.5%) in predicting neoplastic change. In the studies that compared histology prediction performance before versus after CADx assistance (4 studies; 2503 polyps), there was no difference in the proportion of polyps predicted to be nonneoplastic that would avoid removal (55.4% vs. 58.4%; risk ratio [RR], 1.06 [CI, 0.96 to 1.17]; moderate-certainty evidence) or in the proportion of neoplastic polyps that would be erroneously left in situ (8.2% vs. 7.5%; RR, 0.95 [CI, 0.69 to 1.33]; moderate-certainty evidence). The application of optical diagnosis was only simulated, potentially altering the decision-making process of the operator. Computer-aided diagnosis provided no incremental benefit or harm in the management of small rectosigmoid polyps during colonoscopy. European Commission. (PROSPERO: CRD42023402197).

Continuous TNF-α exposure in mammary epithelial cells promotes cancer phenotype acquisition via EGFR/TNFR2 activation.

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), an abundant inflammatory cytokine in the tumor microenvironment (TME), is linked to breast cancer growth and metastasis. In this study, we established MCF10A cell lines incubated with TNF-α to investigate the effects of continuous TNF-α exposure on the phenotypic change of normal mammary epithelial cells. The established MCF10A-LE cell line, through long-term exposure to TNF-α, displayed cancer-like features, including increased proliferation, migration, and sustained survival signaling even in the absence of TNF-α stimulation. Unlike the short-term exposed cell line MCF10A-SE, MCF10A-LE exhibited elevated levels of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and subsequent TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2), and silencing of EGFR or TNFR2 suppressed the cancer-like phenotype of MCF10A-LE. Notably, we demonstrated that the elevated levels of NAD(P)H oxidase 4 (NOX4) and the resulting increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) were associated with EGFR/TNFR2 elevation in MCF10A-LE. Furthermore, mammosphere-forming capacity and the expression of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers increased in MCF10A-LE. Silencing of EGFR reversed these effects, indicating the acquisition of CSC-like properties via EGFR signaling. In conclusion, our results reveal that continuous TNF-α exposure activates the EGFR/TNFR2 signaling pathway via the NOX4/ROS axis, promoting neoplastic changes in mammary epithelial cells within the inflammatory TME.

Oat Beta-Glucan as a Metabolic Regulator in Early Stage of Colorectal Cancer-A Model Study on Azoxymethane-Treated Rats.

Factors that reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer include biologically active substances. In our previous research, we demonstrated the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant effects of oat beta-glucans in gastrointestinal disease models. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an 8-week consumption of a diet supplemented with low-molar-mass oat beta-glucan in two doses on the antioxidant potential, inflammatory parameters, and colonic metabolomic profile in azoxymethane(AOM)-induced early-stage colorectal cancer in the large intestine wall of rats. The results showed a statistically significant effect of AOM leading to the development of neoplastic changes in the colon. Consumption of beta-glucans induced changes in colonic antioxidant potential parameters, including an increase in total antioxidant status, a decrease in the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and a reduction in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentration. In addition, beta-glucans decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory interleukins (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-12) and C-reactive protein (CRP) while increasing the concentration of IL-10. Metabolomic studies confirmed the efficacy of oat beta-glucans in the AOM-induced early-stage colon cancer model by increasing the levels of metabolites involved in metabolic pathways, such as amino acids, purine, biotin, and folate. In conclusion, these results suggest a wide range of mechanisms involved in altering colonic metabolism during the early stage of carcinogenesis and a strong influence of low-molar-mass oat beta-glucan, administered as dietary supplement, in modulating these mechanisms.

LncRNA Biomarkers of Glioblastoma Multiforme.

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA molecules of 200 nucleotides or more in length that are not translated into proteins. Their expression is tissue-specific, with the vast majority involved in the regulation of cellular processes and functions. Many human diseases, including cancer, have been shown to be associated with deregulated lncRNAs, rendering them potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for differential diagnosis. The expression of lncRNAs in the nervous system varies in different cell types, implicated in mechanisms of neurons and glia, with effects on the development and functioning of the brain. Reports have also shown a link between changes in lncRNA molecules and the etiopathogenesis of brain neoplasia, including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). GBM is an aggressive variant of brain cancer with an unfavourable prognosis and a median survival of 14-16 months. It is considered a brain-specific disease with the highly invasive malignant cells spreading throughout the neural tissue, impeding the complete resection, and leading to post-surgery recurrences, which are the prime cause of mortality. The early diagnosis of GBM could improve the treatment and extend survival, with the lncRNA profiling of biological fluids promising the detection of neoplastic changes at their initial stages and more effective therapeutic interventions. This review presents a systematic overview of GBM-associated deregulation of lncRNAs with a focus on lncRNA fingerprints in patients' blood.