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Shukla N, Shah K, Rathore D, Soni K, Shah J, Vora H, Dave H. Androgen receptor: Structure, signaling, function and potential drug discovery biomarker in different breast cancer subtypes. Life Sci 2024; 348:122697. [PMID: 38710280 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The Androgen Receptor (AR) is emerging as an important factor in the pathogenesis of breast cancer (BC), which is the most common malignancy worldwide. >70 % of AR expression in primary and metastatic breast tumors has been observed which suggests that AR may be a new marker and a potential therapeutic target among AR-positive BC patients. Biological insight into AR-positive breast cancer reveals that AR may cross-talk with several vital signaling pathways, including key molecules and receptors. Downstream signaling of AR might also affect many clinically important pathways that are emerging as clinical targets in BC. AR exhibits different behaviors depending on the breast cancer molecular subtype. Preliminary clinical research using AR-targeted drugs, which have already been FDA-approved for prostate cancer (PC), has given promising results for AR-positive breast cancer patients. However, since AR positivity's prognostic and predictive value remains uncertain, it is difficult to identify and stratify patients who would benefit from AR-targeted therapies alone. Thus, the need of the hour is to target the androgen receptor as a monotherapy or in combination with other conventional therapies which has proven to be an effective clinical strategy for the treatment of prostate cancer patients, and these therapeutic strategies are increasingly being investigated in breast cancer. Therefore, in this manuscript, we review the role of AR in various cellular processes that promote tumorigenesis and aggressiveness, in different subtypes of breast cancer, as well as discuss ongoing efforts to target AR for the more effective treatment and prevention of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirali Shukla
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Kanisha Shah
- Division of Biological & Life Sciences, School of Arts & Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Central Campus, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009, India
| | - Deepshikha Rathore
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Kinal Soni
- Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Jigna Shah
- Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Hemangini Vora
- The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380016, India
| | - Heena Dave
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India.
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Jamshidi M, Keshavarzi F, Amini S, Laher I, Gheysarzadeh A, Davari K. Targeting androgen receptor (AR) with a synthetic peptide increases apoptosis in triple negative breast cancer and AR-expressing prostate cancer cell lines. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1922. [PMID: 37903548 PMCID: PMC10809188 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The androgen receptor (AR) has been studied as an approach to cancer therapy. AIMS We used human breast cancer-derived cells with high, low, and very low expression levels of AR, in addition to prostate cancer-derived LNCaP and DU-145 cells as a positive and negative controls to examine apoptosis caused by a synthetic peptide that targets ARs. METHODS AND RESULTS The peptide was produced to inhibit AR transactivation in breast cancer cell lines. We then measured cell viability, caspase-3 activity, and the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2. The findings indicated that the peptide (100-500 nM) in the presence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) reduced cell growth in cells with high and low expression level of AR (p < .001), but not in cells with very low levels of AR. Treatment with 100-500 nM of peptide activated caspase-3 and increased the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 in cells with high and low expression levels of AR. Also, increasing concentrations of the peptide (100-500 nM) reduced BrdU incorporation in the presence of DHT and promoted apoptosis in cells with high and low expression levels of AR (p < .001). CONCLUSION The findings indicate the peptide significantly increased apoptosis in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazdak Jamshidi
- Department of Biology, Sanandaj BranchIslamic Azad UniversitySanandajIran
| | - Fatemeh Keshavarzi
- Department of Biology, Sanandaj BranchIslamic Azad UniversitySanandajIran
| | - Sabrieh Amini
- Department of Biology, Sanandaj BranchIslamic Azad UniversitySanandajIran
| | - Ismail Laher
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and TherapeuticsThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Ali Gheysarzadeh
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryIlam University of Medical SciencesIlamIran
| | - Kambiz Davari
- Department of Biology, Sanandaj BranchIslamic Azad UniversitySanandajIran
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Witt BL, Tollefsbol TO. Molecular, Cellular, and Technical Aspects of Breast Cancer Cell Lines as a Foundational Tool in Cancer Research. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2311. [PMID: 38137912 PMCID: PMC10744609 DOI: 10.3390/life13122311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer comprises about 30% of all new female cancers each year and is the most common malignant cancer in women in the United States. Breast cancer cell lines have been harnessed for many years as a foundation for in vitro analytic studies to understand the use of cancer prevention and therapy. There has yet to be a compilation of works to analyze the pitfalls, novel discoveries, and essential techniques for breast cancer cell line studies in a scientific context. In this article, we review the history of breast cancer cell lines and their origins, as well as analyze the molecular pathways that pharmaceutical drugs apply to breast cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Controversies regarding the origins of certain breast cancer cell lines, the benefits of utilizing Patient-Derived Xenograft (PDX) versus Cell-Derived Xenograft (CDX), and 2D versus 3D cell culturing techniques will be analyzed. Novel outcomes from epigenetic discovery with dietary compound usage are also discussed. This review is intended to create a foundational tool that will aid investigators when choosing a breast cancer cell line to use in multiple expanding areas such as epigenetic discovery, xenograft experimentation, and cancer prevention, among other areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany L. Witt
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 902 14th Street, Birmingham, AL 35228, USA;
| | - Trygve O. Tollefsbol
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 902 14th Street, Birmingham, AL 35228, USA;
- Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1530 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1802 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Nutrition Obesity Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1675 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1825 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- University Wide Microbiome Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 845 19th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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4
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Pîrlog CF, Costache R, Paroșanu AI, Slavu CO, Olaru M, Popa AM, Iaciu C, Niță I, Moțatu P, Cotan HT, Oprița AV, Costache D, Manolescu LSC, Nițipir C. Restricted Mean Survival Time-Can It Be a New Tool in Assessing the Survival of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors? Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111892. [PMID: 37296744 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer (LC) is the first and most lethal cancer in the world; identifying new methods to treat it, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), is needed. ICIs treatment is very effective, but it comes bundled with a series of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Restricted mean survival time (RMST) is an alternative tool for assessing the patients' survival when the proportional hazard assumption (PH) fails. METHODS We included in this analytical cross-sectional observational survey patients with metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), treated for at least 6 months with ICIs in the first- and second-line settings. Using RMST, we estimated the overall survival (OS) of patients by dividing them into two groups. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to determine the impact of the prognostic factors on OS. RESULTS Seventy-nine patients were included (68.4% men, mean age 63.8), and 34/79 (43%) presented irAEs. The OS RMST of the entire group was 30.91 months, with a survival median of 22 months. Thirty-two out of seventy-nine (40.5%) died before we ended our study. The OS RMST and death percentage favored the patients who presented irAEs (long-rank test, p = 0.036). The OS RMST of patients with irAEs was 35.7 months, with a number of deaths of 12/34 (35.29%), while the OS RMST of the patients without irAEs was 17 months, with a number of deaths of 20/45 (44.44%). The OS RMST by the line of treatment favored the first line of treatment. In this group, the presence of irAEs significantly impacted the survival of these patients (p = 0.0083). Moreover, patients that experienced low-grade irAEs had a better OS RMST. This result has to be cautiously regarded because of the small number of patients stratified according to the grades of irAEs. The prognostic factors for the survival were: the presence of irAEs, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status and the number of organs affected by metastasis. The risk of dying was 2.13 times higher for patients without irAEs than for the patients who presented irAEs, (CI) 95% of 1.03 to 4.39. Moreover, by increasing the ECOG performance status by one point, the risk of death increased by 2.28 times, with a CI 95% of 1.46 to 3.58, while the involvement of more metastatic organs was associated with a 1.60 times increase in the death risk, with a CI 95% of 1.09 to 2.36. Age and the type of tumor were not predictive for this analysis. CONCLUSIONS The RMST is a new tool that helps researchers to better address the survival in studies with ICIs treatment where the PH fails, and the long-rank test is less efficient due to the existence of the long-term responses and delayed treatment effects. Patients with irAEs have a better prognosis than those without irAEs in the first-line settings. The ECOG performance status and the number of organs affected by metastasis must be considered when selecting patients for ICIs treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina-Florina Pîrlog
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Costache
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Ioana Paroșanu
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Orlov Slavu
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Olaru
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Popa
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Iaciu
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Irina Niță
- Department of Medical Oncology, Monza Oncology Hospital, 013821 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Pompilia Moțatu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Municipal Hospital Ploiesti, 100409 Ploiesti, Romania
| | - Horia Teodor Cotan
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Vlad Oprița
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, "Saint Nicholas" Hospital Pitești, 110124 Pitesti, Romania
| | - Daniel Costache
- Third Department, Discipline Dermatology II, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Loredana Sabina Cornelia Manolescu
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Virology, Institute of Virology "Stefan S. Nicolau", 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cornelia Nițipir
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
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Membrillo-Pillpe NJ, Zeladita-Huaman JA, Jauregui-Soriano K, Zegarra-Chapoñan R, Franco-Chalco E, Samillan-Yncio G. Association between the Nursing Practice Environment and Safety Perception with Patient Safety Culture during COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105909. [PMID: 37239635 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In this study, we aimed to identify the relationship between nursing practice environments (NPEs) and safety perceptions with patient safety culture (PSC) during COVID-19. DESIGN We conducted a quantitative, non-experimental, correlational, and cross-sectional study. We interviewed 211 nurses from Peru using two scales: PES-NWI and HSOPSC. We used the Shapiro-Wilk test and Spearman's coefficient and estimated two regression models. RESULTS NPE was reported as favorable by 45.5% of the participants, and PSC was reported as neutral by 61.1%. Safety perception, the workplace, and NPE predict PSC. All NPE factors were correlated with PSC. However, safety perception, support of nurses subscale, the nurse manager's ability, and leadership were predictors of PSC. CONCLUSION To promote a safe work culture, health institutions should foster leadership that prioritizes safety, strengthens managers' abilities, encourages interprofessional collaboration, and considers nurses' feedback for constant improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jhon Alex Zeladita-Huaman
- Academic Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15001, Peru
| | | | | | | | - Gabriela Samillan-Yncio
- Academic Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15001, Peru
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Mierzejewska L, Sikorska-Podyma K, Szejnfeld M, Wdowicka M, Modrzewski B, Lechowska E. The Role of Greenery in Stress Reduction among City Residents during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105832. [PMID: 37239559 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Cities, as places of social interactions and human relationships, face new challenges, problems, and threats, which are sources of stress for residents. An additional cause of stress in recent years has been the COVID-19 pandemic; it was urban dwellers who were most exposed to the virus and most affected by it. Chronic stress has led to the serious erosion of physical health and psychophysical well-being among urban dwellers, and so there is a need to seek new solutions in terms of building the resilience of cities and their residents to stress. This study aims to verify the hypothesis that greenery reduced the level of stress among urban dwellers during the pandemic. The verification of this hypothesis was achieved based on a literature analysis and the results of geo-questionnaire studies conducted involving 651 residents of Poznan-among the largest of Polish cities, where the share of green areas in the spatial structure is more than 30%. According to the analysis, the interviewees experienced above-average stress levels that went up during the pandemic, and the source was not so much the virus but the restrictions imposed. Green areas and outdoor activities helped in reducing this stress (being surrounded by and looking at greenery, garden work, or plant cultivation). Residents perceive a post-pandemic city as one that is more green, in which priority is given to unmanaged green areas. It has also been pointed out that a response to the reported need for urban re-construction towards stress resilience may be a biophilic city.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Mierzejewska
- Department of Spatial Planning and Urban Design, Faculty of Human Geography and Planning, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-712 Poznań, Poland
| | - Kamila Sikorska-Podyma
- Department of Spatial Planning and Urban Design, Faculty of Human Geography and Planning, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-712 Poznań, Poland
| | - Marta Szejnfeld
- Department of Spatial Planning and Urban Design, Faculty of Human Geography and Planning, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-712 Poznań, Poland
| | - Magdalena Wdowicka
- Department of Spatial Planning and Urban Design, Faculty of Human Geography and Planning, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-712 Poznań, Poland
| | - Bogusz Modrzewski
- Department of Spatial Planning and Urban Design, Faculty of Human Geography and Planning, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-712 Poznań, Poland
| | - Ewa Lechowska
- Faculty of Economics and Sociology, University of Lodz, 90-136 Łódź, Poland
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7
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Caministeanu F, Manolescu LSC, Malița MA, Perieanu VȘ, Marcov EC, Babiuc I, Ionescu C, Pîrvu CF, Costea RC, Voinescu I, Burlibasa L, Prasacu I, Burlibasa M. Ageing People Living with HIV/AIDS, PLWHA; More Dental Challenges; the Romanian Dental Professional's Point of View. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051096. [PMID: 37240741 DOI: 10.3390/life13051096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Romania, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) were first acknowledged in 1989. Getting older with HIV/AIDS is now possible due to antiretroviral treatment, but it can bring dental problems due to HIV itself or to the reluctance of dental professionals to treat dental problems. Our study aims to assess the attitudes, knowledge, and practices of Romanian dental professionals regarding aging PLWHA. METHODS An analytical cross-sectional observational survey based on a self-administered questionnaire was conducted for Romanian dental professionals from October 2022 to January 2023. RESULTS The responders' group profile was as follows: a mean age of 39.09 ± 0.36 years (limit: 19-75), a majority of 991 (90.01%) from urban dental offices, and 364 (33.06%) with more than twenty years' experience. A total of 517 (46.95%) responders had an unprofessional attitude and declared that, if possible, they would avoid taking part in performing dental treatments for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). There were 89 (8.08%) dental professionals that refused to work with PLWHA. Only 363 (32.97%) had worked with one previously. The dental professionals in rural areas refused PLWHA more frequently: 20% (N = 22) of rural dental professionals vs. 6.76% (N = 67) of urban dental professionals refused to work with PLWHA (OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.16-.56). The logistic regression applied for the 1101 responders revealed after stepwise selection that the most influential factor for their refusal to work with PLWHA in our study group was being previously exposed to HIV during dental practice (OR = 14.45; 95% CI: 8.55- 24.42; p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS Dental educators and health care planners should promote the knowledge of prophylaxis and positive attitudes towards the treatment of PLWHA. Successful resolution of these concerns is time consuming and expensive but necessary if dentists are to satisfy their professional obligations to HIV/AIDS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florentina Caministeanu
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Loredana Sabina Cornelia Manolescu
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mădălina Adriana Malița
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Viorel Ștefan Perieanu
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Cristina Marcov
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 0102210 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iuliana Babiuc
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Camelia Ionescu
- Department of Dental Prostheses, Faculty of Dentistry, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 0102210 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Florentina Pîrvu
- Department Scientific Research Methodology-Ergonomics, Faculty of Dentistry, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 0102210 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Radu Catalin Costea
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Voinescu
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Liliana Burlibasa
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Irina Prasacu
- Department of Fundamental Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Burlibasa
- Department of Dental Technology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Beer and Microbiota: Pathways for a Positive and Healthy Interaction. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15040844. [PMID: 36839202 PMCID: PMC9966200 DOI: 10.3390/nu15040844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Beer is one of the most consumed drinks worldwide. It contains numerous categories of antioxidants, phenolic products, traces of group B vitamins, minerals (selenium, silicon, potassium), soluble fibers and microorganisms. Low or moderate beer consumption, with or without alcohol, showed positive effects on health by stimulating the development of a healthy microbiota. In the present review we focused on four components responsible with interaction with gut microbiota: microorganisms, polyphenols, fiber and melanoidins, their presence in usual beers and on perspectives of development of fortified beers with enhanced effects on gut microbiota. Though microorganisms rarely escape pasteurization of beer, there are new unpasteurized types that might bring strains with probiotic effects. The polyphenols from beer are active on the gut microbiota stimulating its development, with consequent local anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Their degradation products have prebiotic action and may combat intestinal dysbiosis. Beer contains dietary fiber such as non-starchy, non-digestible carbohydrates (β-glucans, arabinoxylans, mannose, fructose polymers, etc.) that relate with gut microbiota through fermentation, serving as a nutrient substrate. Another type of substances that are often considered close to fiber because they have an extremely low digestibility, melanoidins (melanosaccharides), give beer antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Though there are not many research studies in this area, the conclusion of this review is that beer seems a good candidate for a future functional food and that there are many pathways by which its ingredients can influence in a positive manner the human gut microbiota. Of course, there are many technological hinderances to overcome. However, designing functional beers fortified with fiber, antioxidants and probiotics, with a very low or no alcoholic content, will counteract the negative perception of beer consumption, will nullify the negative effects of alcohol, while simultaneously exerting a positive action on the gut microbiota.
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Preda M, Tănase BC, Zob DL, Gheorghe AS, Lungulescu CV, Dumitrescu EA, Stănculeanu DL, Manolescu LSC, Popescu O, Ibraim E, Mahler B. The Bidirectional Relationship between Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Lung Cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1282. [PMID: 36674038 PMCID: PMC9859200 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer and pulmonary tuberculosis are two significant public health problems that continue to take millions of lives each year. They may have similar symptoms and, in some cases, are diagnosed simultaneously or may have a causal relationship. In tuberculosis disease, the chronic inflammation, different produced molecules, genomic changes, and fibrosis are believed to be important factors that may promote carcinogenesis. As a reverse reaction, the development of carcinogenesis and the treatment may induce the reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection. Moreover, the recently used checkpoint inhibitors are a debatable subject since they help treat lung cancer but may lead to the reactivation of pulmonary tuberculosis and checkpoint-induced pneumonitis. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an effective intervention in post-tuberculosis patients and lung cancer patients and should be recommended to improve outcomes in these pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mădălina Preda
- Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, 050159 Bucharest, Romania
- Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology Discipline, Department of Fundamental Sciences, Faculty of Midwives and Nursing, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Cosmin Tănase
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu” Bucharest, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Luminița Zob
- Department of Medical Oncology II, Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu” Bucharest, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adelina Silvana Gheorghe
- Department of Oncology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology I, Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu” Bucharest, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Elena Adriana Dumitrescu
- Department of Oncology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana Lucia Stănculeanu
- Department of Oncology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology I, Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu” Bucharest, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Loredana Sabina Cornelia Manolescu
- Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology Discipline, Department of Fundamental Sciences, Faculty of Midwives and Nursing, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Virology, Institute of Virology “Stefan S. Nicolau”, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Oana Popescu
- Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, 050159 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elmira Ibraim
- Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, 050159 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Beatrice Mahler
- Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, 050159 Bucharest, Romania
- Pneumo-Phthisiology II Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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Cumulative Antibiogram: A Rapid Method to Hinder Transmission of Resistant Bacteria to Oral Cavity of Newborn Babies. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010080. [PMID: 36671281 PMCID: PMC9854765 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A rapid bacterial diagnostic is needed more and more in the treatment of patients, because of the emergence of antibiotic resistance. The cumulative antibiogram, an annual report that monitors antimicrobial resistance trends in health care facilities, may provide a profile of empirical therapy useful in diverse emergency situations, such as transmission of resistant bacteria to oral cavity of newborn babies. We aimed to draw a profile of antibiotic resistance encountered. METHODS We assessed the antibiotic resistance (ABR) profile in childbearing women and newborn babies in Ploiesti Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital by the disk diffusion method characterizing the multidrug-resistant organisms after isolation and identification by phenotypic tests. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E), Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin resistant Group B Streptococcus (VR-GBS) were detected. RESULTS The prevalence of antibiotic resistance was 11.32% (53/468), while the prevalence of the ESBL-E, MRSA, VRE and VR-GBS strains was 8.34% (39/468). Within the bacteria isolated from fifty-three childbearing women, the prevalence of ESBL-E, MRSA, VRE and VR-GBS was 22.64% (12/53), 32.08% (17/53), 11.32% (6/53) and 7.55% (4/53). In the whole studied group, the prevalence was 2.56% (12/468), 3.63% (17/468), 1.28% (6/468) and 0.86% (4/468). Resistant bacteria were detected at birth in the oral cavity of the newborn babies in all cases. Maternal and neonatal isolates shared similar characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Cumulative antibiogram is useful in case of empiric treatment needed in diverse emergencies, such as transmission of resistant bacteria to oral cavity of newborn babies.
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SARS-CoV-2 Infection Anxiety, Knowledge and Attitudes in University Degree Pregnant Women from Romania-A Cross-Sectional Observational Survey in the First Two Pandemic Years. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 11:vaccines11010035. [PMID: 36679880 PMCID: PMC9864279 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic had a high economic cost, morbidity, and death toll. Due to high rates of mortality and morbidity from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), pregnant women were at particular risk during this pandemic. We designed and conducted a cross-sectional observational survey in Romanian pregnant women to evaluate the outcome of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic along with the preventive measures taken by authorities. We applied a 43-item questionnaire. We included 147 women over 18 years old from Romania who were pregnant or gave birth between March 2020 and March 2022. All pregnancies were monitored, most of them by a gynecologist, and only 23% faced rescheduled pregnancy visits. The majority (84%) were screened through the TORCH panel, 95.91% felt anxious because of the pandemic, 87% followed SARS-CoV2 preventive recommendations, and 82% were not infected with the coronavirus. Additionally, 80% were vaccinated against COVID-19. They felt the consequences of the pandemic through anxiety, and their level of anxiety influenced their vaccination decisions, the TORCH testing and the method of giving birth despite the level of education. Fortunately, their pregnancies were monitored properly, and there were no consequences noticed for fetuses at birth.
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Manolescu LSC, Zugravu C, Zaharia CN, Dumitrescu AI, Prasacu I, Radu MC, Letiția GD, Nita I, Cristache CM, Gales LN. Barriers and Facilitators of Romanian HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10101722. [PMID: 36298587 PMCID: PMC9611461 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10101722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many countries had initial success with HPV vaccination campaigns worldwide. The HPV vaccine coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic dropped consistently. The aim of our research is to assess the barriers and facilitators of the current Romanian HPV vaccination campaign. METHODS An analytical cross-sectional observational survey was conducted in the Romanian general population; a self-administered questionnaire was used. RESULTS 1122 responders were interviewed; 666 (59.36%) were parents, and 67 (5.97%) HPV vaccinated themselves. A multinominal logistic regression carried out in the parents' category showed that women with university studies and informed from medical sources have greater chances to HPV vaccinate. Reticence regarding vaccination comes from the high cost of the vaccine and a lack of information. Only 118 (10.51%) vaccinated against HPV. From the logistic regression analysis, gender (ORa 0.461 = 95% CI: (0.196; 1.083)), geographic area of residence (ORa = 0.517; 95% CI: (0.331; 0.807)), and the inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the National Vaccination Program (ORa = 2.4; 95% CI: (1.361; 4.235)) were the factors found most associated with HPV vaccination. CONCLUSIONS In the general population, the inclusion of HPV vaccination in the National Vaccination Program would be the most important facilitator of HPV vaccination in Romania. In parents that did not vaccinate their children, one important barrier to HPV vaccination was the high cost of the HPV vaccine and the lack of proper information. The acceptability of HPV vaccination in Romania is low; therefore, public health educational programs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Sabina Cornelia Manolescu
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Virology, Institute of Virology “Stefan S. Nicolau”, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-723-699-253
| | - Corina Zugravu
- Department of Fundamental Sciences, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Carol Davila, 37 Dionisie Lupu St., 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- National Center for Monitoring the Community Risks, Institute of Public Health, 1-3 Doctor Leonte Anastasievici St., 050463 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Anca Irina Dumitrescu
- Department of Fundamental Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Irina Prasacu
- Department of Fundamental Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Corina Radu
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Birth, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, 100409 Ploiesti, Romania
| | | | - Irina Nita
- Medical Oncology Department, Monza Oncology Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Corina Marilena Cristache
- Department of Dental Techniques, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing (FMAM), “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Eroilor Sanitari Blvd., 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Laurentia Nicoleta Gales
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu” Bucharest, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Pantelimon I, Gales LN, Anghel RM, Gruia MI, Nita I, Matei CV, Bodea D, Stancu AM, Pirvu E, Radu MC, Dumitrescu AI, Manolescu LSC. Aspects Regarding the Influence of Obesity on the Molecular Characteristics of Breast Tumors. Cureus 2022; 14:e26952. [PMID: 35989732 PMCID: PMC9381069 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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COVID-19 Parental Vaccine Hesitancy in Romania: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10040493. [PMID: 35455243 PMCID: PMC9024952 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10040493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 vaccination started in Romania in December 2020. Child vaccination started in 2021 with children aged 12–15 years in August. For children aged 5–11 years, vaccination started in January 2022. The aim of our study was to describe COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in Romanian children and vaccine acceptability in the general population. As parental consent is required for child vaccination in Romania, these aspects have a significant association. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted in October and November 2021 during the peak of the 4th COVID-19 wave. Results: After validation, 1645 participants formed the main study group: median age 35 years, 72.83% women, and 35.44% from the medical domain. In total, 1311 (79.70%) participants were vaccinated against COVID-19 and 188 (11.42%) had vaccinated their 12–18-year-old children against COVID-19. Parents’ level of education, geographic area of residence, and COVID-19 vaccination status were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccination. The hesitancy factors of child vaccination included the novelty of COVID-19 vaccines (62, 47.32%), fear of adverse reactions (32, 24.42%), and anti-vaccinism in general (29, 22.13%). In the studied group, only 188 (11.42%) participants recommended vaccination of 5–11-year-old children. Vaccine acceptability was higher in the general population (1311, 79.70%) than in the medical domain (326 out of 583, 55.91%). General vaccine hesitancy was based mainly on beliefs regarding inefficiency (131, 39.22%) and fears about the side effects of the vaccine (76, 22.75%). Conclusions: Overall, the acceptability of COVD-19 vaccines in the Romanian population was influenced by the level of education, area of residence, and being a COVID-19-vaccinated parent. Public health intervention programs are essential.
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Radu MC, Manolescu LS, Chivu R, Zaharia C, Boeru C, Pop-Tudose ME, Necsulescu A, Otelea M. Pregnancy in Teenage Romanian Mothers. Cureus 2022; 14:e21540. [PMID: 35223313 PMCID: PMC8864497 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Radu MC, Boeru C, Pop-Tudose ME, Necsulescu A, Dumitrescu A, Iancu CF, Nita I, Limbau AM, Zaharia C. Human Papillomavirus Infection at the Time of Delivery. Cureus 2021; 13:e15364. [PMID: 34094788 PMCID: PMC8167920 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.15364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most encountered viral etiologies of genital infections that are transmitted through the sexual route in sexually active females. In the genital area, condylomata acuminate warts and the Buschke-Loewenstein tumor (giant condyloma acuminatum) are described. These lesions are associated with benign HPV6 and HPV 11 types. Condylomata acuminate may appear as exophytic growth similar to a cauliflower and is usually asymptomatic. The Buschke-Loewenstein tumor appears as ulcerated cauliflower-like lesions, often associated with fistulas and abscesses. They present exophytic and endophytic growth, local invasion, and high recurrence rates. This type of lesion may be associated with malignant HPV types. Here we present the case of a 34-year-old year pregnant woman who presented herself at the emergency room in labor with no previous medical evaluation during the pregnancy. The local examination revealed normal pubic hair, vulvar hyperpigmentation, and tonic and continent anal sphincter. At the vulvar level, a bulky cauliflower-like formation appeared. All routine investigations were normal. Immunological tests revealed the presence of antibodies anti-HPV immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG). Treponema pallidum hemagglutination (TPHA) and HIV tests were negative. Samples collected from the genital lesions tested positive for both 6 and 11 DNA/HPV. The patient was diagnosed with condylomata acuminate and C-section was indicated as the methodology of birth so HPV infection of the newborn was avoided. We believe that HPV infection during pregnancy must be documented and treated when detected in order to avoid transmitting it to the newborn baby in a manner similar to TORCH testing. In pregnant women and women that want to conceive, in order to avoid transmission of infectious diseases from the mother to the newborn baby, TORCH testing is recommended. TORCH represents an acronym that includes: toxoplasmosis, other infectious diseases, rubella, cytomegalovirus infection, and herpes simplex infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela C Radu
- Birth Block, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Ploiesti, ROU
| | - Calin Boeru
- Birth Block, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Ploiesti, ROU
| | | | - Andrei Necsulescu
- Emergency Room, Central Military Emergency Universitary Hospital "Dr. Carol Davila", Bucharest, ROU
| | - Anca Dumitrescu
- Physics and Pharmauceutical Informatics Discipline, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, ROU
| | - Claudia F Iancu
- Nursing, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, ROU
| | - Irina Nita
- Oncology, Elias Universitary Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, ROU
| | | | - Corneliu Zaharia
- Biophysics Laboratory, Stefan S Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, ROU
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