Journals
2026 EN
Maselli del Giudice Alessandro · Sicolo Alessandra · Annarelli Alessandro Mario
+2 more
Key Points Biologic therapies not only improve the inflammatory profile of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) but also appear to enhance patients’ psychological well‐being. Depression, anxiety, and stress levels significantly decrease after treatment with Dupilumab or Mepolizumab, suggesting a possible link between disease control and psychological improvement. This pilot study supports the integration of psychological assessment into the management of chronic airway diseases.
Journals
2026 EN
Santambrogio Alessia · Metrick Michael A. · Xu Peifeng
+6 more
Abstract INTRODUCTION Tauopathies are a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders defined by abnormal aggregation of tau protein. Although cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) has uncovered disease‐specific tau structures, translating these insights into diagnostic tools remains difficult. METHODS We developed a heparin‐free, salt‐modulated real‐time quaking‐induced conversion (RT‐QuIC) assay using K12 and K11 tau substrates, targeting aggregation‐prone regions. This current method improves on previous methodology by minimising the number of required substrates by modulating reaction salt content in order to differentiate yet‐undistinguished tauopathy strains. Thioflavin T fluorescence kinetics and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy were used to classify tau aggregates from human brain homogenates. RESULTS This method differentiated eight tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease, Pick disease, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), argyrophilic grain disease (AGD), frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism associated with chromosome 17 with N279K mutation (FTDP‐17 N279K), and globular glial tauopathies types II and III. Subclassification of 4R tauopathies was achieved by modulating salt conditions and analyzing aggregation profiles. FTIR confirmed preservation of conformational differences. DISCUSSION This salt‐modulated, heparin‐free RT‐QuIC platform enables sensitive tauopathy classification based on strain‐specific kinetics and structure. It offers a practical tool for diagnostic development, mechanistic studies, and therapeutic screening.
Journals
2026 EN
Yan Shijun · Sahoo Anis · Zerenner Tanja
+5 more
Objective Assess the performance of serum phosphorylated tau 217 (p‐tau217) and neurofilament light chain (NfL) in predicting risk of cognitive impairment or phenoconversion to dementia in individuals with iRBD. Methods We measured serum p‐tau217 and NfL levels by electrochemiluminescence across 4 polysomnographically confirmed iRBD cohorts (n = 300), including individuals who phenoconverted to Parkinson's disease (PD) (n = 51), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) (n = 22), and multiple system atrophy (MSA) (n = 5). Results Serum p‐tau217 levels were increased in individuals with iRBD and cognitive impairment (CI) on testing defined as Montreal Cognitive Assessment <26 or subthreshold parkinsonism. p‐Tau217 differentiated individuals with iRBD who developed PD with CI (PD‐CI) or DLB from PD phenoconverters with normal cognition (area under curve [AUC] = 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.70–0.93) and from iRBD non‐phenoconverters with normal cognition (AUC = 0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.77–0.89). NfL levels did not correlate with cognitive or motor scores and marginally improved p‐tau217 performance (AUC = 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.78–0.92), but were notably elevated in iRBD individuals who phenoconverted to MSA. Individuals with p‐tau217 in the top quartile were 8 times more likely to phenoconvert to PD‐CI or DLB compared to the bottom quartile (hazard ratio = 8.30; 95% confidence interval, 2.49–27.65). Interpretation Serum p‐tau217, but not NfL, is a useful biomarker of cognitive impairment in iRBD that could be integrated into a multimodal prognostic indicator when stratifying risk of phenoconversion. ANN NEUROL 2026;99:912–921
Journals
2026 EN
Theile Jannik · Guerrini Michele · Kumar Surender
+1 more
ABSTRACT Intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) in donor‐acceptor (D‐A) oligomers is a fundamental mechanism for organic optoelectronics. However, symmetric D‐A‐D and A‐D‐A architectures are characterized by delocalized frontier molecular orbital (FMOs), which prevent efficient photoinduced charge separation. While asymmetric structures and halogen functionalization have been proposed as effective strategies to overcome these limitations, systematic guidelines for the rational design of efficient D‐A architectures are currently missing. To fill this gap, we present a comprehensive first‐principles investigation based on (time‐dependent) density functional theory of 22 dithieno[3,2‐b:2',3'‐d]pyrrole‐based oligomers, exploring the combined effect of architectural asymmetry and fluorination. Our analysis reveals the critical role of the functionalization: donor fluorination generally increases the bandgap, while acceptor fluorination maximizes the charge imbalance and promotes topological confinement and spatial segregation of the FMOs onto distinct molecular segments. The optical properties are critically influenced by the electronic characteristics, suggesting asymmetric, acceptor‐fluorinated oligomers as the best platforms for ICT, thanks to their strong charge‐transfer excitations possessing large oscillator strengths in the visible region. This work establishes clear, rational design rules for conjugated D‐A oligomers, demonstrating that the synergistic combination of structural asymmetry and site‐specific halogenation is essential for robust, directional ICT, paving the way for high‐performance organic semiconductors.
Journals
2026 EN
Abbà Margherita · Cancellario Tommaso · Fenoglio Stefano
+3 more
ABSTRACT The Mediterranean basin is a hotspot of freshwater endemisms and restricted‐range species, which are among the most threatened worldwide. The Adriatic brook lamprey Lampetra zanandreai is a non‐parasitic, freshwater‐resident lamprey whose core distribution lies in the Po River basin (Northern Italy). This species is highly sensitive to anthropogenic pressures: it has historically been threatened by river alterations, and climate change is now emerging as an additional threat. In this study, we compiled and updated the distribution of L. zanandreai and applied species distribution models to project its current and future potential distribution under different climate models for 2050. We further performed a river network‐level analysis to assess the relevance of human stressors and the effectiveness of the EU Natura 2000 network in representing highly suitable areas. Our outcomes indicate a substantial range contraction coupled with an upward altitudinal shift. Areas of overlap between the current and future suitable areas highlight potential climatic and environmental refuges, although limited and fragmented. Highly suitable riverine cells largely overlap with cells under a higher human footprint, showing how the species is caught between multiple pressures that exacerbate its vulnerability. In addition, protected areas perform poorly in covering both current occurrences and predicted suitable habitats. These findings provide crucial insights to support conservation planning, suggesting potential areas for the protection, management and monitoring of this threatened species. The long‐term persistence of L. zanandreai requires urgent mitigation of human pressures, particularly through the restoration of river connectivity to facilitate population exchange and access to future refuges.
Journals
2026 EN
Hadro Dominika · Calandra Davide · Fijalkowska Justyna
+2 more
ABSTRACT This study examines how European automotive companies disclose circular economy (CE) information in light of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) E5. Using a mixed‐methods, data‐driven approach that combines keyword analysis and latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic modelling on 53 corporate sustainability reports, the research identifies the main CE disclosure themes and evaluates their alignment with ESRS E5 requirements. Results reveal a strong dominance of symbolic communication, focused on compliance rhetoric and waste management, over substantive disclosures that reflect genuine engagement with circular strategies such as reuse, remanufacturing or regeneration. The findings expose the sector's limited preparedness for the new EU sustainability reporting framework and highlight a persistent reliance on linear production models. The study offers empirical evidence on the symbolic–substantive dichotomy in CE reporting and provides actionable insights for policymakers, regulators and firms aiming to strengthen substantive sustainability disclosure.
Journals
2026 EN
Borsati Anita · Toniolo Linda · Adamoli Gloria
+9 more
ABSTRACT Introduction Evidence on structured exercise during systemic treatment for patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer is still limited, and detailed feasibility data in real‐world clinical settings remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and preliminary efficacy of a 12‐week exercise intervention in this population. Methods In this prospective single‐arm trial, 20 patients undergoing chemotherapy participated in a supervised exercise program comprising aerobic and resistance training, delivered twice weekly for 12 weeks. Participants could choose between supervised gym‐based or home‐based sessions. Primary outcomes included recruitment, retention, attendance, adherence, tolerance, and safety. Secondary outcomes were changes in physical fitness and patient‐reported outcomes. Descriptive statistics and paired t ‐tests or Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests were used for analyses. Exploratory subgroup analyses were conducted by tumor stage and exercise delivery mode. Results The recruitment rate was 80%, with a 43% dropout rate primarily due to disease progression or treatment‐related toxicities. Median session attendance was 79%, and adherence to prescribed exercise volume reached 77%. Only three non‐serious adverse events were reported. Significant improvements were observed in grip strength ( p = 0.049), total weekly physical activity ( p = 0.024), and time spent in moderate‐intensity activity ( p < 0.001). Emotional ( p = 0.022) and social functioning ( p = 0.048) significantly improved, while appetite loss decreased ( p = 0.010). Subgroup analyses suggested greater benefits in patients with stage IV disease and those in the home‐based group. Conclusions Exercise during chemotherapy appears feasible and safe for patients with advanced/metastatic pancreatic cancer, and it may help maintain physical fitness, enhance emotional and social well‐being, and alleviate appetite loss. However, different strategies are required to reduce the dropout rate.
Journals
2026 EN
Ulmer Keely K. · Sargent Michele D. · Cina Kristin R.
+4 more
ABSTRACT Introduction Fewer than 50% of Native American (NA) women screen for both cervical and colorectal (CRC) cancer. We aim to explore the perspectives of NAs around cervical and colorectal cancer home‐based self‐screening options. Methods The NA community provided review and approval for this cross‐sectional survey on cancers in general, and specifically on cervical and colorectal cancer screening. We invited screen‐eligible Native American women, aged 45–65 years, who attended the Lakota Nation Invitational tournament in December 2023, to complete the survey. Results One hundred women, with a mean age of 54.1 (SD 6.3), completed the survey. Respondents reported visiting their doctor once a year, rarely (10%), with 66% experiencing a poor experience accessing healthcare—only 16% self‐reported screening for both cervical and colorectal cancers within the last 5 years. If the participant could screen for both cervical and CRC cancer at home, 83.0% said they would be willing to do both, compared to 9% who would do neither at home. The doctor's recommendation for how to screen for cervical and CRC cancer was the most important factor in screening decision‐making. The other two very important reasons were how easy or convenient the screening is, how comfortable I am with the screening process/what happens to me during the test. Conclusions With the recommendation of their doctors, and convenience and comfort being important, Native American women are enthusiastic to participate in home‐based cervical and colorectal cancer screening. While the home‐based CRC screening has been available for many years, with minimal effect on screening uptake, the advent of self‐sampling for primary HPV testing for cervical cancer appears to create interest for both tests at home. These options may increase both cancer screening rates and access to care in this underserved population.
Journals
2026 EN
Oliva Stefania · Martello Marina · Saraci Elona
+35 more
ABSTRACT Background The level of measurable residual disease (MRD) is one of the most important features correlating depths of response and long‐term outcomes in multiple myeloma (MM) and MRD evaluation is currently the gold standard tool for assessing treatment response. Nevertheless, reproducibility across laboratories is a major concern, as discrepancies among results make comparability impractical. Aims: herein, we report preliminary results from the “Italian MM‐MRD network” project. Patients & Methods MRD in bone marrow (BM) samples have been measured from newly diagnosed MM patients using next‐generation flow‐cytometry (NGF) or next‐generation sequencing (NGS) approaches in different laboratories. Results The NGF workgroup (7 laboratories) implemented the Euro‐Flow Standard‐Operating‐Protocol to reach minimum 1 × 10 −5 sensitivity. The inter‐operator retrospective study (Stage 1) showed high inter‐center concordance in monoclonal plasma cells detection (ICC = 0.90, p < 0.001), whereas moderate concordance was observed in the inter‐laboratory correlation (Stage 2) in in‐vivo samples (ICC = 0.63, p < 0.001), reaching a median limit‐of‐detection (LOD) and limit‐of‐quantification (LOQ) of 8 × 10−6 and 2 × 10 −5 , respectively. Greater variability was also observed in the analysis of other BM cell populations. The NGS workgroup (4 laboratories) employed a targeted amplicon‐based approach to detect clonotypic IGH/IGK gene rearrangements in diagnostic samples, subsequently used to track MRD in mock samples. The experimental design was divided into three quality‐control (QC) rounds, focused on finding a shared strategy for clonotype identification (QC1: 100% concordance among centers), or quantifying MRD in mock samples (concordance: 81% [QC2]; 91% [QC3]). The 10 −5 ‐sensitivity level was successfully reached in most of tested dilutions (QC2: 19/20 = 95%; QC3: 19/23 = 83%). Conclusion Overall, this pilot study provided preliminary data for MRD harmonization across Italian centers, paving the way for an expanded network, aiming at reducing variability, improving comparability, and enabling broader use of MRD‐monitoring in clinical practice.
Journals
2026 EN
Petrelli Fausto · Antista Maria · Ghidini Antonio
+9 more
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Microsatellite instability (MSI), programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression, and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) positivity are emerging biomarkers in gastric cancer prognosis and treatment selection, particularly in immunotherapy. This review evaluates their prognostic significance through a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Methods Relevant studies from PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (January 2010 to December 2024) were analyzed. Studies included assessing MSI, PD‐L1, and EBV status in gastric cancer using immunohistochemistry, PCR, or in situ hybridization, and reported outcomes such as overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), or progression‐free survival. Data extraction adhered to PRISMA guidelines, and pooled analyses were conducted using a random‐effects model (DerSimonian‐Laird method). Heterogeneity was assessed using I 2 statistics and Cochran's Q test. Results A total of 25 studies involving 6494 patients were reviewed. In localized gastric cancer, MSI‐high status was associated with significantly improved DFS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.23–0.75; p = 0.004) but showed no significant impact on OS (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.48–1.28; p = 0.33) compared to microsatellite stable/PD‐L1‐negative tumors. EBV‐positive/PD‐L1‐positive cancers demonstrated a prognosis similar to EBV‐negative/PD‐L1‐negative cases (OS: HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.81–1.45; p = 0.59). Conclusions In metastatic disease, MSI and EBV status were not associated with significant prognostic effects. MSI and EBV status have minimal prognostic value in gastric cancer, particularly for OS, but are essential for selecting candidates for immune checkpoint inhibitors. Standardizing biomarker evaluation is critical to enhancing their clinical relevance.