Ethnic Aspects of Valproic Acid P-Oxidation

The safety of the use of psychotropic drugs, widely used in neurological and psychiatric practice, is an urgent problem in personalized medicine. This narrative review demonstrated the variability in allelic frequencies of low-functioning and non-functional single nucleotide variants in genes encoding key isoenzymes of valproic acid P-oxidation in the liver across different ethnic/racial groups. The sensitivity and specificity of pharmacogenetic testing panels for predicting the rate of metabolism of valproic acid by P-oxidation can be increased by prioritizing the inclusion of the most common risk allele characteristic of a particular population (country).

Unique Features of Cardiovascular Involvement and Progression in Children with Marfan Syndrome Justify Dedicated Multidisciplinary Care

Marfan syndrome (MIM: # 154700; MFS) is an autosomal dominant disease representing the most common form of heritable connective tissue disorder. The condition presents variable multiorgan expression, typically involving a triad of cardiovascular, eye, and skeletal manifestations. Other multisystemic features are often underdiagnosed. Moreover, the disease is characterized by age related penetrance. Diagnosis and management of MFS in the adult population are well-described in literature. Few studies are focused on MFS in the pediatric population, making the clinical approach (cardiac and multiorgan) to these cases challenging both in terms of diagnosis and serial follow-up. In this review, we provide an overview of MFS manifestations in children, with extensive revision of major organ involvement (cardiovascular ocular and skeletal). We attempt to shed light on minor aspects of MFS that can have a significant progressive impact on the health of affected children. MFS is an example of a syndrome where an early personalized approach to address a dynamic, genetically determined condition can make a difference in outcome. Applying an early multidisciplinary clinical approach to MFS cases can prevent acute and chronic complications, offer tailored management, and improve the quality of life of patients.

A computational model of Alzheimer's disease at the nano, micro, and macroscales

Introduction

Mathematical models play a crucial role in investigating complex biological systems, enabling a comprehensive understanding of interactions among various components and facilitating in silico testing of intervention strategies. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by multifactorial causes and intricate interactions among biological entities, necessitating a personalized approach due to the lack of effective treatments. Therefore, mathematical models offer promise as indispensable tools in combating AD. However, existing models in this emerging field often suffer from limitations such as inadequate validation or a narrow focus on single proteins or pathways.

Methods

In this paper, we present a multiscale mathematical model that describes the progression of AD through a system of 19 ordinary differential equations. The equations describe the evolution of proteins (nanoscale), cell populations (microscale), and organ-level structures (macroscale) over a 50-year lifespan, as they relate to amyloid and tau accumulation, inflammation, and neuronal death.

Results

Distinguishing our model is a robust foundation in biological principles, ensuring improved justification for the included equations, and rigorous parameter justification derived from published experimental literature.

Conclusion

This model represents an essential initial step toward constructing a predictive framework, which holds significant potential for identifying effective therapeutic targets in the fight against AD.

Unlocking the potential of oncology biomarkers: advancements in clinical theranostics

INTRODUCTION

Cancer biomarkers have revolutionized the field of oncology by providing valuable insights into tumor changes and aiding in screening, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment prediction, and risk assessment. The emergence of "omic" technologies has enabled biomarkers to become reliable and accurate predictors of outcomes during cancer treatment.

CONTENT

In this review, we highlight the clinical utility of biomarkers in cancer identification and motivate researchers to establish a personalized/precision approach in oncology. By extending a multidisciplinary technology-based approach, biomarkers offer an alternative to traditional techniques, fulfilling the goal of cancer therapeutics to find a needle in a haystack.

SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK

We target different forms of cancer to establish a dynamic role of biomarkers in understanding the spectrum of malignancies and their biochemical and molecular characterization, emphasizing their prospective contribution to cancer screening. Biomarkers offer a promising avenue for the early detection of human cancers and the exploration of novel technologies to predict disease severity, facilitating maximum survival and minimum mortality rates. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of biomarkers in oncology and highlights their prospects in advancing cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Association of Blood Metabolomics Biomarkers with Brain Metabolites and Patient-Reported Outcomes as a New Approach in Individualized Diagnosis of Schizophrenia

Given its polygenic nature, there is a need for a personalized approach to schizophrenia. The aim of the study was to select laboratory biomarkers from blood, brain imaging, and clinical assessment, with an emphasis on patients' self-report questionnaires. Metabolomics studies of serum samples from 51 patients and 45 healthy volunteers, based on the liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS), led to the identification of 3 biochemical indicators (cortisol, glutamate, lactate) of schizophrenia. These metabolites were sequentially correlated with laboratory tests results, imaging results, and clinical assessment outcomes, including patient self-report outcomes. The hierarchical cluster analysis on the principal components (HCPC) was performed to identify the most homogeneous clinical groups. Significant correlations were noted between blood lactates and 11 clinical and 10 neuroimaging parameters. The increase in lactate and cortisol were significantly associated with a decrease in immunological parameters, especially with the level of reactive lymphocytes. The strongest correlations with the level of blood lactate and cortisol were demonstrated by brain glutamate, N-acetylaspartate and the concentrations of glutamate and glutamine, creatine and phosphocreatine in the prefrontal cortex. Metabolomics studies and the search for associations with brain parameters and self-reported outcomes may provide new diagnostic evidence to specific schizophrenia phenotypes.

Phenotype-Specific Outcome and Treatment Response in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction with Comorbid Hypertension and Diabetes: A 12-Month Multicentered Prospective Cohort Study

Despite evidence of SGLT2 inhibitors in improving cardiovascular outcomes of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), the heterogenous mechanism and characteristic multimorbidity of HFpEF require a phenotypic approach. Metabolic phenotype, one common HFpEF phenotype, has various presentations and prognoses worldwide. We aimed to identify different phenotypes of hypertensive-diabetic HFpEF, their phenotype-related outcomes, and treatment responses. The primary endpoint was time to the first event of all-cause mortality or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF). Among 233 recruited patients, 24.9% experienced primary outcomes within 12 months. A total of 3.9% was lost to follow-up. Three phenotypes were identified. Phenotype 1 (n = 126) consisted of lean, elderly females with chronic kidney disease, anemia, and concentric hypertrophy. Phenotype 2 (n = 62) included younger males with coronary artery disease. Phenotype 3 (n = 45) comprised of obese elderly with atrial fibrillation. Phenotype 1 and 2 reported higher primary outcomes than phenotype 3 (p = 0.002). Regarding treatment responses, SGLT2 inhibitor was associated with fewer primary endpoints in phenotype 1 (p = 0.003) and 2 (p = 0.001). RAAS inhibitor was associated with fewer all-cause mortality in phenotype 1 (p = 0.003). Beta blocker was associated with fewer all-cause mortality in phenotype 1 (p = 0.024) and fewer HHF in phenotype 2 (p = 0.011). Our pioneering study supports the personalized approach to optimize HFpEF management in hypertensive-diabetic patients.

Valproate-Induced Metabolic Syndrome

Valproic acid (VPA) and its salts (sodium calcium magnesium and orotic) are psychotropic drugs that are widely used in neurology and psychiatry. The long-term use of VPA increases the risk of developing adverse drug reactions (ADRs), among which metabolic syndrome (MetS) plays a special role. MetS belongs to a cluster of metabolic conditions such as abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood glucose, high serum triglycerides, and low serum high-density lipoprotein. Valproate-induced MetS (VPA-MetS) is a common ADR that needs an updated multidisciplinary approach to its prevention and diagnosis. In this review, we consider the results of studies of blood (serum and plasma) and the urinary biomarkers of VPA-MetS. These metabolic biomarkers may provide the key to the development of a new multidisciplinary personalized strategy for the prevention and diagnosis of VPA-MetS in patients with neurological diseases, psychiatric disorders, and addiction diseases.

Therapeutic and Toxic Effects of Valproic Acid Metabolites

Valproic acid (VPA) and its salts are psychotropic drugs that are widely used in neurological diseases (epilepsy, neuropathic pain, migraine, etc.) and psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder, addiction diseases, etc.). In addition, the indications for the appointment of valproate have been expanding in recent years in connection with the study of new mechanisms of action of therapeutic and toxic metabolites of VPA in the human body. Thus, VPA is considered a component of disease-modifying therapy for multiple tumors, neurodegenerative diseases (Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, Duchenne progressive dystrophy, etc.), and human immunodeficiency syndrome. The metabolism of VPA is complex and continues to be studied. Known pathways of VPA metabolism include: β-oxidation in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (acetylation); oxidation with the participation of cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes (P-oxidation); and glucuronidation. The complex metabolism of VPA explains the diversity of its active and inactive metabolites, which have therapeutic, neutral, or toxic effects. It is known that some active metabolites of VPA may have a stronger clinical effect than VPA itself. These reasons explain the relevance of this narrative review, which summarizes the results of studies of blood (serum, plasma) and urinary metabolites of VPA from the standpoint of the pharmacogenomics and pharmacometabolomics. In addition, a new personalized approach to assessing the cumulative risk of developing VPA-induced adverse reactions is presented and ways for their correction are proposed depending on the patient's pharmacogenetic profile and the level of therapeutic and toxic VPA metabolites in the human body fluids (blood, urine).

[Modern aspects influencing the management of patients with papillary thyroid cancer]

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common malignant tumor of the endocrine glands and accounts to 3% of the total structure of oncological morbidity. Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common histological variant of thyroid malignancies. It accounts for about 85% of all cases of thyroid cancer. Despite good postoperative results and excellent survival compared to many other malignancies, tumor metastases to the paratracheal lymph nodes are quite common. This review of the literature considers the current personalized approach to patients with papillary thyroid cancer and current aspects influencing the management of patients with PTC.

Personalized Approach in Eradication of Helicobacter pylori Infection

The increase in antibiotic resistance to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is associated with a decrease in the effectiveness of eradication therapy. Although some success has been achieved by adjusting therapeutic regimens according to local data on resistance to certain antibiotics, a new approach is needed to ensure a better therapeutic response. Tailored therapy, based on sensitivity tests to antibiotics, is increasingly proving to be a superior therapeutic option, even as a first-line therapy. Moreover, the recently published Maastricht VI guidelines emphasize utilizing a susceptibility-guided strategy in respect to antibiotic stewardship as the first choice for eradication therapy. In addition, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology is becoming a standard tool in the diagnosis of H. pylori infections through non-invasive testing, which further optimizes the eradication process. We provide a review regarding the current position of the individualized approach in eradication therapy and its future prospects. Based on novel understandings, the personalized approach is an effective strategy to increase the successful eradication of H. pylori infections.

Development of the Breast Cancer Survivors Symptom Checklist for Use in Follow-Up Multidisciplinary Appointments

Background

Breast cancer survivors are primarily followed up to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and complications and to detect recurrences. Many breast cancer survivors may experience prolonged adverse physical and psychological effects, which should also be addressed at follow-ups. The objective of this study was to develop a brief symptom assessment tool for breast cancer survivors to be used as a guideline for the survivors and all health care professionals conducting the routine follow-up. The second objective was to describe the women's individual experiences with follow-ups.

Methods

A literature review, a focus group of 6 healthcare professionals using a nominal group technique process, and the experience and feedback via qualitative interviews with 16 breast cancer survivors was used to develop the Breast Cancer Survivors Symptom Assessment Checklist (BCS-SC).

Results

The BCS-SC consists of a set of 13 symptoms/burdens and one question. On a scale from 0 (no symptom) to 10 (worst imaginable), survivors indicated the extent to which they experience each symptom. All survivors perceived the annual follow-ups as important, but none prepared for them. Eight of the 16 survivors reported that they had 2 or more of the symptoms/burdens listed in the BCS-SC. However, only one of the survivors had mentioned her symptom to the doctor at follow-up.

Conclusion

The BCS-SC is a comprehensive assessment tool for symptoms/burdens that are common among breast cancer survivors and can aid efforts to optimize their follow-up. Furthermore, the BCS-SC allows for a more patient-initiated and focused consultation, leading to more patient-centered quality care.

Predictive Value of Basal Serum Progesterone for Successful IVF in Endometriosis Patients: The Need for a Personalized Approach

The data regarding the role of progesterone (P4) in reproductive events of endometriosis patients are limited. This prospective study aimed to examine the predictive value of basal P4 serum levels for successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) in patients with primary infertility and endometriosis. The study included 73 patients divided according to endometriosis treatment (surgery vs. control—no treatment). The general data, basal hormonal status, and pregnancy rates were determined for every patient. Clinical pregnancy was achieved in 40.3% of patients, and more often in patients treated for endometriosis before IVF. The regression analysis showed that higher basal P4 serum levels were associated with achieving pregnancy through IVF. When regression was adjusted for the patient and IVF characteristics, higher basal P4 serum levels were associated with pregnancy achievement in both groups of women, along with the basal serum levels of FSH, LH, and AMH; EFI score; and stimulation protocol. The ROC analysis showed that the basal P4 serum level for successful IVF should be ≥0.7ng/mL. The basal P4 serum level cut-off for IVF success in endometriosis patients was determined for the first time. Constructed models for IVF success prediction emphasize the importance of determining the basal P4 serum levels for the personalized treatment of endometriosis-related infertility.

The HOPE Asia network 2022 up-date consensus statement on morning hypertension management

Morning hypertension is an important clinical target in the management of hypertension for perfect 24-h blood pressure (BP) control. Morning hypertension is generally categorized into two types: "morning surge" type and "sustained nocturnal and morning hypertension" type. The "morning surge" type is characterized by an exaggerated morning blood pressure surge (MBPS), and the "sustained nocturnal and morning hypertension" type with continuous hypertension from nighttime to morning (non-dipper/riser type). They can be detected by home and ambulatory blood pressure measurements (HBPM and ABPM). These two forms of morning hypertension both increase the risk of cardiovascular and renal diseases, but may occur via different pathogenic mechanisms and are associated with different conditions. Morning hypertension should be treated to achieve a morning BP level of < 135/85 mmHg, regardless of the office BP. The second target morning BP levels is < 125/75 mmHg for high-risk patients with morning hypertension and concomitant diseases. Morning hypertension is more frequently found in Asians, than in Westerners. Thus, the management of morning hypertension is especially important in Asia. The detection of morning hypertension and the individual home BP-guided treatment approach targeting morning BP in combination with ABPM, and the optimal treatment of morning hypertension would reduce cardiovascular events in Asia.

Patterns of Recurrent Disease in Cervical Cancer

Uterine cervical cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Patients with cervical cancer are at a high risk of pelvic recurrence or distant metastases within the first few years after primary treatment. However, no definitive agreement exists on the best post-treatment surveillance in these patients. Imaging may represent an accurate method of detecting relapse early, right when salvage treatment could be effective. In patients with recurrent cervical cancer, the correct interpretation of imaging may support the surgeon in the proper selection of patients prior to surgery to assess the feasibility of radical surgical procedure, or may help the clinician plan the most adaptive curative therapy. MRI can accurately define the extension of local recurrence and adjacent organ invasion; CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT may depict extra-pelvic distant metastases. This review illustrates different patterns of recurrent cervical cancer and how imaging, especially MRI, accurately contributes towards the diagnosis of local recurrence and the assessment of the extent of disease in patients with previous cervical cancer. Normal post-therapy pelvic appearance and possible pitfalls related to tissue changes for prior treatments will be also illustrated.

Cardiomyopathies in Children and Systemic Disorders When Is It Useful to Look beyond the Heart?

Cardiomyopathy (CMP) is a rare disease in the pediatric population, with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. The genetic etiology of CMPs in children is extremely heterogenous. These two factors play a major role in the difficulties of establishing standard diagnostic and therapeutic protocols. Isolated CMP in children is a frequent finding, mainly caused by sarcomeric gene variants with a detection rate that can reach up to 50% of analyzed cohorts. Complex multisystemic forms of pediatric CMP are even more heterogenous. Few studies in literature take into consideration this topic as the main core since it represents a rarity (systemic CMP) within a rarity (pediatric population CMP). Identifying etiology in this cohort is essential for understanding prognosis, risk stratification, eligibility to heart transplantation and/or mechanical-assisted procedures, preventing multiorgan complications, and relatives' recurrence risk calculation. The previous points represent a cornerstone in patients' empowerment and personalized medical care approach. The aim of this work is to propose a new approach for an algorithm in the setting of the diagnostic framework of systemic pediatric CMP. On the other hand, during the literature review, we noticed a relatively common etiologic pattern in some forms of complex/multisystem CMP. In other words, certain syndromes such as Danon, Vici, Alström, Barth, and Myhre syndrome share a common pathway of directly or indirectly defective "autophagy" process, which appears to be a possible initiating/triggering factor for CMPs. This conjoint aspect could be important for possible prognostic/therapeutic implications in this category of patients. However, multicentric studies detailed functional and experimental models are needed prior to deriving conclusions.

A Systematic Review of Collective Evidences Investigating the Effect of Diabetes Monitoring Systems and Their Application in Health Care

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes monitoring systems (DMS) are a possible approach for regular control of glucose levels in patients with Type 1 or 2 diabetes in order to improve therapeutic outcomes or to identify and modify inappropriate patient behaviors in a timely manner. Despite the significant number of studies observing the DMS, no collective evidence is available about the effect of all devices.

GOAL

To review and consolidate evidences from multiple systematic reviews on the diabetes monitoring systems and the outcomes achieved.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Internet-based search in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane was performed to identify all studies relevant to the research question. The data regarding type of intervention, type of diabetes mellitus, type of study, change in clinical parameter(s), or another relevant outcome were extracted and summarized.

RESULTS

Thirty-three out of 1,495 initially identified studies, involving more than 44,100 patients with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes for real-time or retrospective Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGMS), Sensor Augmented Pump Therapy (SAPT), Self-monitoring Blood Glucose (SMBG), Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM), Closed-loop systems and telemonitoring, were included. Most of the studies observed small nominal effectiveness of DMS. In total 11 systematic reviews and 15 meta-analyses, with most focusing on patients with Type 1 diabetes (10 and 6, respectively), reported a reduction in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels from 0.17 to 0.70% after use of DMS.

CONCLUSION

Current systematic review of already published systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggests that no statistically significant difference exists between the values of HbA1c as a result of application of any type of DMS. The changes in HbA1c values, number and frequency of hypoglycemic episodes, and time in glucose range are the most valuable for assessing the appropriateness and effectiveness of DMS. Future more comprehensive studies assessing the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and comparative effectiveness of DMS are needed to stratify them for the most suitable diabetes patients' subgroups.

The "Stages Towards Completion Model": what helps and hinders children with overweight or obesity and their parents to be guided towards, adhere to and complete a group lifestyle intervention

Purpose: Lifestyle interventions can be effective in the management of overweight and obesity in children. However, ineffective guidance towards interventions and high attrition rates affect health impacts and cost effectiveness. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the factors influencing participation, in particular guidance towards, adherence to and completion of an intervention.

Methods: A narrative literature review was performed to identify factors related to participation, leading to the development of the “Stages towards Completion Model”. Semi-structured interviews (n = 33) and three focus group discussions (n = 25) were performed with children and parents who completed two different group lifestyle interventions, as well as with their coaches.

Results: The main barrier to participating in a lifestyle intervention was the complex daily reality of the participants. The main facilitator to overcome these barriers was a personal approach by all professionals involved.

Conclusions: Participation in a lifestyle intervention is not influenced by one specific factor, but by the interplay of facilitators and barriers. A promising way to stimulate participation and thereby increase the effectiveness of interventions would be an understanding of and respect for the complex circumstances of participants and to personalize guidance towards and execution of interventions.

Facilitated Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy in Clinical Practice: A Two Center, Long-Term Retrospective Observation in Adults With Primary Immunodeficiencies

Facilitated subcutaneous immunoglobulin (fSCIG) replacement therapy is the latest method of IgG administration; however, real-life data are limited. We retrospectively analyzed the everyday experience of fSCIG administration, particularly, the method used to switch from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) to fSCIG and the dosing modifications required. Of the 39 adult patients with primary immunodeficiency (PID) who received fSCIG, 34 remained on the therapy at the end of the study. The median observation time was 18 (range, 3–24) months. Two patients were IgG-treatment-naïve; 23 had previously received IVIG and 14 had received SCIG. In 25 cases, a non-ramp-up dosing mode was used to switch to fSCIG (including two half-monthly doses given biweekly in 14 cases, and full monthly doses given in 11 cases), a ramp-up mode was used in six cases; other methods were used in eight cases. The median IgG trough level at baseline was 7.9 g/L (n = 38), 7.9 g/L (n = 32) at Month 6, 9.0 g/L (n = 30) at Month 12, 8.6 g/L (n = 22) at Month 18, and 9.0 g/L (n = 11) at Month 24. No serious bacterial infections or hospitalizations due to PID complications occurred. At the end of the study, 24 patients (71%) received fSCIG every 4 weeks, six (18%) received fSCIG every 3 weeks, and four (12%) received fSCIG biweekly. In conclusion, our study provides real-life evidence of clinical efficacy of personalized fSCIG treatment when switching from prior immunoglobulin replacement using various switching modes and dosing frequencies.

[Ventral hernias and extracellular matrix of connective tissue]

Ventral hernia is still one of the most common reason for scheduled and emergency surgery. The review is designed to reveal relationships between metabolism in extracellular matrix of connective tissue and pathogenesis of ventral hernias. These data will be valuable to develop a personalized approach to the treatment of these patients.

[State support to elderly citizens: which geriatric needs modern Russia? (Part 2).]

The publication continues to consider the cause-subsequent relationships of low efficiency of the state policy in the field of prolonging the period of active longevity altogether with unsystematic approaches to the formation and implementation of state programs. In the context of the analysis of the reasons for the insufficient effectiveness of existing state programs in the field of improving social support for senior citizens, geriatrics is positioned as an integral part of gerontology - an area of applied research that provides solutions to medical, social, psychological and other problems that arise among citizens of elderly. In particular, these problems are associated with the psychophysiological, socio-economic, educational, cultural and legal status of this category of citizens. Geriatric care and its status as a basic component of comprehensive medical and social assistance to senior citizens are formalized. The influence of gerontology and geriatrics in the process of providing systemic support for improving the quality of life of senior citizens, which is one of the priorities of Russian state policy, is substantiated. The motivation is the need to amend existing laws and regulations governing the provision of state support to senior citizens, systematic processing of existing government programs in this area, based on the use of a scientific approach to solving the problem of adapting the state to the aging processes of society.

Nutrition - facts and myths

Taking responsibility for your life, among other factors, means also considering what to eat and which nutrition pattern to follow. Everyone needs to think about what they put on the plate and which ingredients should be avoided. Food, as such, will never be a drug or medication, like a painkilling tablet relieving pain in a short amount of time, for example. However, proper nutrition is our ally in the prevention of diseases, maintaining balance in our body and our mind. By following the main principles of a healthy diet, the physiological homeostasis can be managed, as well as faster recovery from disease achieved. This review is aimed at summarizing basic principles of nutrition recommendations and at empowering stakeholders (pharmacists, medical biochemists, physicians) to be able to communicate to their patients and customers healthy and sustainable nutrition choices through the personalized advice.

[Personalized approach for direct oral anticoagulant prescription: from theory to practice]

Data on possibilities of personalized approach for direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) choice in patients with atrial fibrillation are presented in the article. We also review clinical and fundamental studies and future perspectives on pharmacogenetic and pharmacokinetic tests to predict the efficacy and safety of DOAC.

Upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma and its variants: transition from morphology to personalized molecular characterization in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy

INTRODUCTION

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) accounts for 5% of urothelial carcinomas (UCs), the estimated annual incidence being 1-2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The aim of this review was to summarize the main morphologic features of UTUC as well as the current status and future role of its molecular characterization in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. Areas covered: Several studies on the UTUCs have shown the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic significance of standard pathological features, such as tumor stage, grade, and lymph node metastasis. Investigations have also identified novel factors, in particular, variant histologies, and molecular biomarkers. Based on these, predictive tools have been developed. Expert commentary: The morphology of the UTUC has been considered to be the same as that of Bladder Urothelial carcinoma (BUC). Molecular characterization studies, including genomics, have shown changes in UTUC occurring at differing frequencies in comparison with BUC, the former with unique molecular subtypes and different responses to treatment.

[The place of mirabegron in clinical practice]

Currently, a wide range of different drugs is available for te management of overactive bladder. This creates problems when it comes to drug selection and personalized care for each patient. Mirabegron is the only 3-adrenomimetic agent for the treatment of urinary disorders, which, after careful long-term multi-center randomized trials, has been approved for use in Europe and North America. Mirabegron has proven to be very effective in patients who had previously received anticholinergic drugs and discontinued them because of the insufficient therapeutic effect or pronounced adverse reactions. However, the question of using Mirabegron as a first-line treatment for overactive bladder and the existing limitations in its administration in clinical urology practice remains open.

Methods for nutrition monitoring in cancer patients: a cognitive perspective

In the present medical context, the evaluation and the monitoring of factors other than mere physical symptoms are an urgent demand. In particular, the issue of quality of life (QoL) has become a relevant target in the treatment of cancer. However, the approach towards these aspects is not well standardized and the actual applications in a concrete setting are fragmented, left to personal or local initiative. If this is true for QoL in general, it is particularly relevant in the specific field of nutrition. Indeed, though the growing awareness of a correlation between chronic diseases and dietary habits has led to an increased interest in nutrition, both before and after cancer, very little is still known about the methods that measure this important variable of the QoL. Indeed, good nutrition may have a relevant impact on QoL, positively affecting both the physical and psychological well-being. Targeting this issue implies using proper instruments to both monitor and educate the patients. Hence, we argue that it is vital for oncologists to be able to individuate the best tool available in a specified context, so as to achieve an important goal with little effort, also adopting standardized strategies proved to be efficacious. In this framework, we briefly reviewed the tools more frequently reported in the scientific literature. We suggest that through a cognitive approach, it is possible to achieve important clinical targets, initially by understanding the patients' needs, values, and psychosocial factors involved in nutritional behaviour and food-related decisions, in order to develop a personalized approach. Hence, this is the only way to support concrete actions for promoting healthier diets, thus preventing recurrences, monitoring chronic conditions, and supporting a good QoL.

Influence of personalized therapeutic approach on quality of life and psychiatric comorbidity in patients with advanced colonic cancer requiring palliative care

Personalized medical care has been consistently proven in literature as contributing to the maintenance of psychological balance and quality of life in patients suffering from chronic conditions. However, limited research has investigated the role of personalized approach in improving these parameters in patients with advanced incurable diseases. The scope of this paper was to investigate the possible impact of personalized care condition in advanced colon cancer patients, requiring palliative care. 60 patients (32 M, 28 F) (mean age 64.6) suffering from this disease were randomly assigned to a standard or to a personalized care condition. The latest implied (a) frequent (at least 2 monthly) meetings with the doctor, (b) possibility to be involved in treatment decisions, (c) more information given about diagnosis and prognosis and (d) psychological support provided to the patient and his/her family members, to deal better with daily problems and needs. The design of the study was prospective and consisted of two successive evaluations of quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire) and anxiety and depression (HAD test). Cancer patients pertaining to the personalized treatment approach had both superior quality of life scores (p < 0.05) and lower anxiety (p < 0,01) and depression (p < 0.05) than the control group. A more detailed analysis showed significant differences of vitality and social functioning for subjects pertaining to the study group (p < 0.05), as well as a lower ratio between latent and manifest anxiety (p < 0,01). These results argue in favor of the benefits of a personalized treatment approach for patients with advanced incurable diseases.