Food Habits, Lifestyle Factors, and Risk of Prostate Cancer in Central Argentina: A Case Control Study Involving Self-Motivated Health Behavior Modifications after Diagnosis

Anticancer Properties of Different Varieties of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Leaf Extracts in Human Tumor Cells: a Comparative Study

Plant polyphenols are nutraceutical components with relevant biological effects on human health. They act against development of several diseases including cancer. In this study, the methanolic extracts of four date palm Phoenix dactylifera leaves (Deglet Noor (DN), Barhee (B), Khalas (KS) and Khunezi (KZ)) collected from south Tunisia were preliminary analyzed for their effects against U87 (human glioblastoma) and MDA-MB-231 (human breast cancer) cell line development. Results showed that Barhee extract (30 μg/mL) was the most efficient to reduce the growth of both tumor cells to about 40% (p < 0.05) without inducing cytotoxicity. Significantly, KS, KZ, DN and B extracts (30 μg/mL) decreased MDA-MB-231 and U87 cell adhesion towards fibrinogen and fibronectin. Using integrin blocking antibodies, leaf extracts competitively decreased human glioblastoma cell attachment to immobilized antibodies by interfering to αvβ3 and α5β1 integrin receptors. At the same concentration, extracts decreased MDA-MB-23 and U87 cell migration performed with wound healing assay. Particularly, Barhee and Deglet Noor leaf extracts (30 μg/mL) significantly reduced U87 cell invasion by 52.92% (p < 0.01) and 74.56% (p < 0.01), respectively. Collegially, our findings revealed beneficial proprieties of four varieties of date palm leaf especially those displayed by DN and B extracts that may serve as active candidates against human glioblastoma and breast cancer progression.

Validity and Reproducibility of an Electronic Food Frequency Questionnaire in Argentinian Adults

This study aimed to validate a semiquantitative electronic food frequency questionnaire (eFFQ) in estimating the intake of a comprehensive list of nutrients and bioactive compounds among adults from six regions of Argentina using multiple 24 h dietary recall (24HR) as a reference. A total of 163 adults completed two administrations of the eFFQ and four 24HRs. The paired t-test/Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Spearman/Pearson correlations, cross-classification, weighted kappa statistics, and Bland-Altman plots were employed to determine relative validity. To determine reproducibility, intraclass correlations (ICC), cross-classification, and weighted kappa statistics were calculated. For relative validity, crude correlations ranged from 0.15 to 0.57; energy adjustment and de-attenuation slightly improved most of these correlations. In cross-classification analysis, agreements within one quintile adjacent to exact agreement (EA ± 1) ranged from 52.2% to ~74%; extreme misclassifications were < 7%. For reproducibility, the crude ICC ranged from 0.29 to 0.85, showing moderate to good correlations for most nutrients. Cross-classification analysis showed agreement levels for the EA ± 1 quintile of 70.6% to 87.7%. Weighted kappa values ranged from 0.21 to 0.62. The results show that this eFFQ is relatively valid in ranking adults according to their nutrient intake and has an acceptable reproducibility, yet it slightly overestimates the intake of most nutrients.

No association between MTHFR gene C677T/A1298C polymorphisms, serum folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine levels, and prostate cancer in an Algerian population

BACKGROUND

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an important enzyme involved in folate and homocysteine metabolism, which are necessary for DNA methylation and nucleotide synthesis. Genetic polymorphisms that reduce MTHFR activity have been linked to several diseases, including prostate cancer. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether MTHFR polymorphisms, along with serum levels of folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine, are associated with prostate cancer risk in the Algerian population.

METHODS

A total of 106 Algerian men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer and 125 healthy controls were included in this case-control study. The MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms were analyzed using PCR/RFLP and Real-Time PCR TaqMan® assays, respectively. Serum levels of folate, total homocysteine, and vitamin B12 were measured using an automatic biochemistry analyzer.

RESULTS

We found no significant differences in the genotype frequency of A1298C and C677T between prostate cancer patients and controls. Moreover, serum levels of folate, total homocysteine, and vitamin B12 were not significantly associated with prostate cancer risk (p > 0.05). However, age and family history were identified as significant risk factors (OR = 1.178, p = 0.00 and OR = 10.03, p = 0.007, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that MTHFR C677T and A1298C, as well as serum levels of folate, total homocysteine, and vitamin B12, are not associated with prostate cancer risk in the Algerian population. However, age and family history are significant risk factors. Further studies with a larger sample size are required to confirm these findings.

Association between nut consumption and prostate cancer risk in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies

AIMS

Data on the association between nut consumption and prostate cancer risk are conflicting. Therefore, this systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis aimed to summarize available findings from observational studies on the associations of nut intake with risk of total, advanced, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancers.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We searched the online databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science as well as Google Scholar using appropriate keywords to identify eligible articles up to September 2022. In total, 11 articles with a total sample size of 287,786 participants and 32,213 cases of prostate cancer were included in the current systematic review and meta-analysis. By comparing the highest and lowest intake of total nuts, pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for total, advanced, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancers were 0.94 (95% CI: 0.85-1.04, P = 0.22), 1.10 (95% CI: 0.98-1.24, P = 0.12), 0.97 (95% CI: 0.85-1.11, P = 0.69), 0.97 (95% CI: 0.79-1.18, P = 0.73), respectively, which indicated non-significant inverse associations for total, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancers and a non-significant positive association for advanced prostate cancer. In the dose-response analyses, we found no evidence of a linear or non-linear association between total nut intake and prostate cancer risk. Data on other types of nuts, including walnut, tree nuts, peanut, and peanut butter, were not sufficient for performing a meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

We found no significant association between nut intake and risk of total, advanced, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancer. Further studies are required to confirm our findings.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION CODE

CRD42022347094.

ETHICAL APPROVAL

Not required.

Protective effects of Yerba mate (IIex paraguariensis) on prostate cancer development

OBJECTIVES

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common adenocarcinoma in men >50 y of age. It has a long latency period, which provides time for preventive strategies like incorporating healthy eating habits. Yerba mate (YM) intake has been associated with numerous health benefits. Since YM is one of the most popular infusions in Argentina, the of this study was to examine the influence of YM on PCa development.

METHODS

We carried out an in vivo model of PCa through subcutaneous inoculation of transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate-C1 cells in C57BL/6 mice. Subsequently, the animals were divided into two groups: mate (25 mg/mL of YM in drinking water, n = 15), and control (only drinking water, n = 15). We also developed an in vitro model to study the direct effects of YM on three human PCa cell lines: lymph node carcinoma of the prostate (LNCaP), PC-3, and DU-145.

RESULTS

Our in vivo model showed that YM intake slightly reduced body weight, increased the latency of tumor appearance (P <0.01), and diminished the tumor volume (P <0.05) compared with the control group. In agreement, the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and nuclear estrogen receptor α were lower in the tumors of the mate animals (P <0.05). In vitro, YM decreased the viability, proliferation, and adhesion of the three tumor cell lines (P < 0.001) and retarded the migration of LNCaP (P <0.05) and DU-145 (P <0.005), without modifying the migration of PC-3 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

YM showed anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo and were more effective on the androgen-sensitive cell line (LNCaP).

Systematic review of sleep and sleep disorders among prostate cancer patients and caregivers: a call to action for using validated sleep assessments during prostate cancer care

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

To examine the impact of prostate cancer (PCa) on sleep health for patients and caregivers. We hypothesized that sleep disturbances and poor sleep quality would be prevalent among patients with PCa and their caregivers.

PATIENTS/METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines. To be eligible for this systematic review, studies had to include: (1) patients diagnosed with PCa and/or their caregivers; and (2) objective or subjective data on sleep. 2431 articles were identified from the search. After duplicates were removed, 1577 abstracts were screened for eligibility, and 315 underwent full-text review.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Overall, 83 articles met inclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis. The majority of papers included patients with PCa (98%), who varied widely in their treatment stage. Only 3 studies reported on sleep among caregivers of patients with PCa. Most studies were designed to address a different issue and examined sleep as a secondary endpoint. Commonly used instruments included the Insomnia Severity Index and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaires (EORTC-QLQ). Overall, patients with PCa reported a variety of sleep issues, including insomnia and general sleep difficulties. Both physical and psychological barriers to sleep are reported in this population. There was common use of hypnotic medications, yet few studies of behavioral interventions to improve sleep for patients with PCa or their caregivers. Many different sleep issues are reported by patients with PCa and caregivers with diverse sleep measurement methods and surveys. Future research may develop consensus on validated sleep assessment tools for use in PCa clinical care and research to promote facilitate comparison of sleep across PCa treatment stages. Also, future research is needed on behavioral interventions to improve sleep among this population.

A systematic review of disease related stigmatization in patients living with prostate cancer

Background

Prostate cancer has been shown to be susceptible to significant stigmatisation, because to a large extent it is concealable, it has potentially embarrassing sexual symptoms and has significant impact on the psychosocial functioning.

Methods

This review included studies that focused on qualitative and/or quantitative data, where the study outcome was prostate cancer and included a measure of stigmatization. Electronic databases (CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, PROSPERO, and the Joanna Briggs Institute) and one database for grey literature Opengrey.eu, were screened. We used thematic analysis, with narrative synthesis to analyse these data. We assessed risk of bias in the included studies using the RoBANS.

Results

In total, 18 studies met review inclusion criteria, incorporating a total of 2295 participants. All studies recruited participants with prostate cancer, however four studies recruited participants with other cancers such as breast cancer and lung cancer. Of the 18 studies, 11 studies evaluated perceived or felt stigma; four studies evaluated internalised or self-stigma; three studies evaluated more than one stigma domain.

Discussion

We found that patients living with prostate cancer encounter stigmatisation that relate to perception, internalisation, and discrimination experiences. We also identified several significant gaps related to the understanding of prostate cancer stigmatization, which provides an opportunity for future research to address these important public health issues.

Registration

This systematic review protocol is registered with PROSPERO, the international prospective register of systematic reviews in health and social care. Registration number: CRD42020177312.

Physiological Effects of Green-Colored Food-Derived Bioactive Compounds on Cancer

Green-colored foods, such as broccoli, sprouts, soybean, and green leafy vegetables are considered one of the representative healthy foods for containing various functional ingredients that can combat chronic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Herein, we reviewed the anti-cancer activities and the underlying mechanisms of some important bioactive compounds, such as sulforaphane, catechins, chlorophyll, isoflavone, indole dervatives, and lutein, present in green-colored foods. In vivo and clinical studies suggest that sulforaphane, a sulfur-containing compound found in cruciferous vegetables, can ameliorate prostate and breast cancer symptoms by arresting cell-cycle progression and modulating Ki67 and HDAC expression. A green tea compound, known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), has shown remarkable anti-cancer effects against prostate cancer and lung adenocarcinoma in human trials through its antioxidative defense and immunomodulatory functions. Chlorophyll, a natural pigment found in all green plants, can regulate multiple cancer-related genes, including cyclin D1, CYP1A, CYP1B1, and p53. Epidemiological studies indicate that chlorophyll can substantially reduce aflatoxin level and can mitigate colon cancer in human subjects. Remarkably, the consumption of soy isoflavone has been found to be associated with the lower incidence and mortality of breast and prostate cancers in East Asia and in Canada. In vivo and in vitro data point out that isoflavone has modulatory effects on estrogen and androgen signaling pathways and the expression of MAPK, NfκB, Bcl-2, and PI3K/AKT in different cancer models. Other green food bioactive compounds, such as indole derivatives and lutein, also exhibited suppressing effects in rodent models of lung, liver, stomach, cervical, and prostate cancers. In addition, some micronutrients, such as folate, riboflavin, retinoic acid, and vitamin D3 present in green foods, also showed potential cancer suppressing effects. Taken together, these data suggest potential chemopreventive functions of the bioactive compounds from green-colored foods. This paper could be beneficial for further research on the anti-carcinogenic effects of green-colored food-derived compounds, in order to develop green chemotherapeutics for cancers.

Development and Usability Study of an Open-Access Interviewer-Administered Automated 24-h Dietary Recall Tool in Argentina: MAR24

Background: Latin American countries show a fast-growing rate of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and diet is a critical risk factor that must be properly assessed. Automated dietary assessment tools to collect 24-h dietary recalls (24HR) are lacking in Argentina.

Objective: This study aimed to develop an open-access automated tool (MAR24) for collecting 24HR using a multiple pass method and a database containing foods and recipes commonly consumed in Argentina.

Methods: MAR24 was developed based on data from 1,285 24HR provided by male and female participants aged 18 to 68 years from the six Argentinian geographical regions. The main structure and interface of the tool were designed using Visual Basic for Applications programming language in Excel Microsoft Office 365, integrating the five steps of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Automated Multiple-Pass Method (AMPM) for the application of 24HR in Spanish. The tool underwent alpha testing and expert assessment to address structural and usability issues. Critical feedback and face validation from researchers and experienced dietitians, and repeated testing to collect 24HR were used to adjust and improve the tool.

Results: A total of 968 food items and 100 standard Argentinian recipes were added to its database. MAR24 allows the estimation of the nutrient profile of dietary intake. The analytic food composition includes energy and 50 nutrients including water, macronutrients, total dietary fiber, total sugar, 10 minerals, 19 vitamins, eight fatty acids, cholesterol, ethyl alcohol, caffeine, and theobromine. MAR24 includes a user manual and technical manual to guide users to apply changes (e.g., add foods or recipes, or change food designation according to local terms) to fit different research and clinical applications.

Conclusions: MAR24 is the first tool that uses the AMPM methodology for 24HR applications in Argentina. The tool may be used in clinical practice and clinical trials for monitoring purposes, and in validation of food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) for nutritional epidemiology studies addressing dietary-associated risk factors for NCDs.

Maternal ancestry and hematological cancer risk: case-control study in an Argentinean population

Aim: We investigated the role of maternal ancestry in neoplastic hematological malignancies (HMs) risk in a population from Central Argentina. Materials & methods: We analyzed 125 cases with HMs and 310 controls from a public hospital, and a set of 202 colorectal, breast, lung, and hematologic cancer patients from a private hospital. Results: A decreased risk for HMs was associated with the Native American haplogroup B2 (odds ratio = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.25-0.92; p = 0.02). The sub-Saharan African parahaplogroup L was associated with higher susceptibility for disease (odds ratio = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.04-9.31; p = 0.043). Although the mean ancestral proportions in the total studied population was as published (61.7% Native American, 34.6% European and 3.7% African), an unequal distribution was observed between hospitals. Conclusion: We confirmed the tri-hybrid nature of the Argentinean population, with proportions varying within the country. Our finding supports the notion that associated haplogroup is population and cancer specific.

Anti-androgenic effect of astaxanthin in LNCaP cells is mediated through the aryl hydrocarbon-androgen receptors cross talk

The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-androgenic effects of astaxanthin (AST) on human prostatic cancer cell growth, and its impact on androgen receptor (AR) signaling using prostate cancer (PCa) cell line LNCaP. LNCaP cells were treated with AST alone and in combination with CH223191 and flutamide (Flu) in the presence and absence of testosterone. MTT assay, cellular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production, mRNA levels of CYP1A1, PSA, Kallikrein-Related Peptidase 2 (KLK2), Transmembrane Serine Protease 2 (TMPRSS2), and AR genes were measured as endpoints. The expression of CYP1A1, PSA, KLK2, TMPRSS2, and AR mRNA levels was decreased which results in reducing the production of PSA and DHT in the presence of testosterone. Our data clearly demonstrate that AST has a potential ability to suppress the human prostate LNCaP cells growth at high concentrations. AST was able to repress the testosterone-induced transcription of AR-target genes. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Astaxanthin is a natural compound with the most potent antioxidant activity among other antioxidants. In the current study, ASX suppressed the LNCaP cells at high concentrations. Furthermore, AST inhibited testosterone-induced transcriptional activation of androgen-related genes. AST induced the expression of CYP1A1, which is able to metabolize the steroid hormones. It seems that AST can act as AhR exogenous ligand by induction of CYP1A1, which results in testosterone metabolism and consequent suppression of AR genes. So that, AST could prevent the growth of testosterone-dependent PCa cells, downregulate downstream genes in testosterone pathways, and enhance the metabolism of testosterone via AhR pathway. Collectively, AST could be considered as a potential candidate for the treatment of PCa.

Omega-3 Eicosapentaenoic Acid Reduces Prostate Tumor Vascularity

The impact of omega (ω)-3 fatty acids on prostate cancer is controversial in epidemiological studies but experimental studies suggest a protective effect. However, little is known about the mechanism of action. Here, we studied the effects of purified fatty acid molecules on prostate tumor progression using the TRAMP-C2 syngeneic immunocompetent mouse model. Compared with ω-6 or ω-9-supplemented animals, we observed that late-stage prostate tumor growth was reduced with a monoacylglyceride (MAG)-conjugated form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation, whereas docosahexanenoic acid (DHA) caused an early reduction. MAG-EPA significantly decreased tumor blood vessel diameter (P < 0.001). RNA sequencing analysis revealed that MAG-EPA downregulated angiogenesis- and vascular-related pathways in tumors. We also observed this tissue vascular phenotype in a clinical trial testing MAG-EPA versus a high oleic sunflower oil placebo. Using anti-CD31 IHC, we observed that MAG-EPA reduced blood vessel diameter in prostate tumor tissue (P = 0.03) but not in normal adjacent tissue. Finally, testing autocrine and paracrine effects in an avascular tumor spheroid growth assay, both exogenous MAG-EPA and endogenous ω3 reduced VEGF secretion and in vitro endothelial cell tube formation and blocked tumor spheroid growth, suggesting that ω3 molecules can directly hinder prostate cancer cell growth. Altogether, our results suggest that fatty acids regulate prostate cancer growth and that a tumor-specific microenvironment is required for the anti-vascular effect of MAG-EPA in patients with prostate cancer. IMPLICATIONS: Increasing the amount of ingested EPA omega-3 subtype for patients with prostate cancer might help to reduce prostate tumor progression by reducing tumor vascularization.

Association of Prostate Cancer with Nuts, Seeds, Alcohol and Processed Meats: A Worldwide Population-Based Study

There are conflicting data with regards to the link between diet and the prostate cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the association of dietary factors with incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer worldwide. We conducted an ecological study including 170 countries, whose data on incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer, dietary factors, and potentially confounding factors were available and collected in May 2020. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used. Consumption of nuts and seeds was inversely associated with incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer (β -0.7, P < 0.001; β -2.1, P < 0.001; β -0.1, P = 0.02; respectively). Intake of alcohol was associated with increased incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer (β 1.8, P < 0.001; β 4.5, P < 0.001; β 0.4, P < 0.001; respectively). Consumption of processed meats was also associated with increased incidence and prevalence rates of prostate cancer (β 0.6, P = 0.003; β 2.8, P = 0.001; respectively). These data suggest that consumption of nuts and seeds have a protective effect against prostate carcinogenesis, progression, and metastasis, while alcohol and processed meat increase these risks.

Effect of metformin on the risk of prostate cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes by considering different confounding factors: a meta-analysis of observational studies

Preclinical studies have suggested the antitumorigenic properties of metformin on prostate cancer; results from epidemiological studies remain contradictory. We aim to investigate the evidence of metformin and the risk of prostate cancer. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for eligible studies. Meta-analyses were carried out using the most fully adjusted hazard ratios and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Eighteen cohort studies and six case-control studies representing 2 009 504 male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were identified. The pooled HR of prostate cancer for metformin therapy was 0.97 (0.84-1.12) in case-control studies and 0.94 (0.79-1.12) in cohort studies, respectively. In cohort studies, we found that there was a modest association in studies with samples from Europe, but not in studies with samples from North America, Asia, and Oceania. In addition, metformin showed a slightly protective effect compared with sulfonylurea, but not insulin and other comparators. Meta-regression analyses found that obesity and prostate-specific antigen adjustment in statistical models may be the sources of heterogeneity. However, there were no significant differences in subgroups stratified by time-related biases, analytical approaches, types of risk estimates, study quality, publication year, and whether adjusted for smoking, alcohol abuse, hemoglobin A1c, diabetes duration, and other confounding factors. Our study showed that metformin therapy was not associated with the risk of prostate cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, exploratory analyses suggest that metformin use may be protective in a certain subgroup of patients.

Physical activity in relation to risk of prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers among men, yet little is known about its modifiable risk and protective factors. This study aims to quantitatively summarize observational studies relating physical activity (PA) to PCa incidence and mortality.

Materials and methods

Published articles pertaining to PA and PCa incidence and mortality were retrieved in July 2017 using the Medline and EMBASE databases. The literature review yielded 48 cohort studies and 24 case-control studies with a total of 151 748 PCa cases. The mean age of the study participants at baseline was 61 years.

Results

In random-effects models, comparing the highest versus the lowest level of overall PA showed a summary relative risk (RR) estimate for total PCa incidence close to the null [RR = 0.99, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.94-1.04]. The corresponding RRs for advanced and non-advanced PCa were 0.92 (95% CI = 0.80-1.06) and 0.95 (95% CI = 0.85-1.07), respectively. We noted a statistically significant inverse association between long-term occupational activity and total PCa (RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.71-0.98, n studies = 13), although that finding became statistically non-significant when individual studies were removed from the analysis. When evaluated by cancer subtype, an inverse association with long-term occupational activity was noted for non-advanced/non-aggressive PCa (RR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.37-0.71, n studies = 2) and regular recreational activity was inversely related to advanced/aggressive PCa (RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.60-0.95, n studies = 2), although these observations are based on a low number of studies. Moreover, PA after diagnosis was related to reduced risk of PCa mortality among survivors of PCa (summary RR based on four studies = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.55-0.85).

Conclusions

Whether PA protects against PCa remains elusive. Further investigation taking into account the complex clinical and pathologic nature of PCa is needed to clarify the PA and PCa incidence relation. Moreover, future studies are needed to confirm whether PA after diagnosis reduces risk of PCa mortality.

Association between tumor necrosis factor-alpha gene rs1800629 (-308G/A) and rs361525 (-238G > A) polymorphisms and prostate cancer risk in an Iranian cohort

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) as the first men's common cancer in the world and the third cancer in Iranian men is a heterogeneous disorder which sometimes several biopsies are needed for its diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of current study is finding new biomarkers in order to diagnose of PCa at the earliest possible stage. Hence, the relationship between rs1800629 and rs361525 polymorphisms of TNF-α gene with PCa was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Blood DNA samples were collected from 100 patients with PCa, 110 with BPH, and 110 controls. Collected samples were examined using PCR-RFLP and Tetra-ARMS-PCR techniques to detect the desired polymorphisms.

RESULTS

The frequency of rs1800629 genotypes in smokers was significantly different from non-smokers with PCa (p= 0.001). Logistic regression analysis results showed that GA heterozygotes in comparison to GG homozygotes had higher risk of developing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer. However, no significant correlation was considered between the risk of PCa and the TNF-α gene polymorphisms (rs1800629 and rs361525).

CONCLUSIONS

Although, the achieved results of this investigation demonstrated that the two examined genetic variants do not seem to be suitable markers for early diagnosis of prostate cancer in this pilot study; however increased risk for the disease is shown in GA heterozygotes and smokers which is indicative of some epigenetic factors influence on prostate cancer etiology.

Heterogeneity in risk factors for ductal and lobular breast carcinomas: A case-control study

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) of the breast are the most common histological subtypes of breast cancer. However, the associations and heterogeneity between histological subtypes and their risk factors are not well established. This study aimed to investigate risk factors for IDC and ILC. This case-control study included 1,009 incident breast cancer cases and 1,009 hospital controls, frequency-matched by age. Data were obtained from the patients' medical files and an interview administered via a questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression was used and odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The heterogeneity of the associations was assessed using the Wald test. Family history of breast cancer was associated with IDC (OR 2.64, 95% CI: 1.97-3.55) but not ILC (OR 0.81, 95% CI: 0.42-1.57; p for heterogeneity <0.001). Conversely, a history of miscarriage was associated with ILC (OR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.17-2.51) but not IDC (OR 1.18, 95% CI: 0.95-1.46; p for heterogeneity = 0.04). Similarly, type 2 diabetes was associated with ILC but not IDC (p for heterogeneity = 0.02). Age at first delivery and breastfeeding were significantly associated with IDC but not ILC, though p values for heterogeneity did not reach the significance level. Deliberate weight loss and age at menarche were significantly associated with ILC but not IDC (p for heterogeneity ≥0.27). Smoking, history of benign breast disease and BMI were associated with both subtypes. The present study supports the hypothesis that IDC and ILC are etiologically distinct tumours.

Cytostatic and Anti-tumor Potential of Ajwa Date Pulp against Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells

Ajwa dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are used by traditional therapeutic practitioners for several health benefits but most remain to be scientifically validated. In this study, we evaluated the apoptosis-inducing effect of ethanolic extract of Ajwa date pulp (ADP) on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) HepG2 cells. High performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed the presence of polysaccharide β-D-glucan in ADP extract. Treated HCC cells revealed morphological characteristics of apoptosis under phase contrast microscopy. MTT assay demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) dose- and time-dependent inhibition of HCC cell growth. HCC cells were found to be in late apoptotic stage on treatment with higher doses of ADP extract as depicted by acridine orange/ethidium bromide and Annexin V-FITC/PI double stain. Importantly, ADP extract increased the reactive oxygen species level and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential in treated HCC cells. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that ADP extract induced elevation of S and G2/M phases of cell cycle. Moreover, ADP extract induced apoptosis in HCC cells independent of tumor suppressor genes viz. CHEK2, ATM and TP53. Interestingly, ADP extract did not display any significant effect on normal cell line Vero. This study provides validation that ADP extract can be considered as a safe and natural potential drug candidate against human liver cancer.

Applying the Taguchi Method to the Optimization of Anticancer Activity of Bacterial Alginate-CuO Bionanocomposite

AIM:

In recent decades, despite various types of cancer inflicting many people worldwide, the existing therapies are not satisfactory and have many side effects. The present study was conducted to optimise the synthesis of novel alginate-CuO nanocomposite with utmost anticancer activity.

METHODS:

In this study, 9 nanocomposites were designed using Taguchi method and three factors including copper oxide nanoparticles, alginate biopolymer and stirring times were assessed at three different levels. The anticancer activity of the synthesised nanocomposites was evaluated on the MCF-7 cell line using the MTT method. Using the Qulitek-4 software, we determined the optimum conditions for the synthesis of alginate-CuO nanocomposite with the highest anticancer activity.

RESULTS:

The results indicated that all three factors (copper oxide, alginate and stirring time) were effective on the anticancer activity of the alginate-CuO nanocomposite. Also, the nanocomposite produced under the conditions of experiment 9 (8 mg/ml of copper oxide, 2 mg/ml of alginate and 60 min of stirring time) provided the highest growth inhibition rate as 75.63% against cancer cells.

CONCLUSION:

The synthesised alginate-copper oxide nanocomposites in this study showed a significant anticancer effect. Therefore, the synthesised nanocomposite under optimal conditions can be used in the design of new anticancer drugs.

Healthy Vegan Lifestyle Habits among Argentinian Vegetarians and Non-Vegetarians

Although current research has contributed to the promotion of whole-food plant-based diets, few studies have examined healthy vegan dietary and lifestyle factors, especially in South America. Therefore, we aimed at investigating the adherence to healthy vegan lifestyle habits among Argentinian vegetarians and omnivorous, using a recently developed vegetarian lifestyle index adapted to the vegan dietary pattern. Also, accessibility of vegetarian foods, and the proportion of household income spent on food were assessed in a cross-sectional approach with 1454 participants. The population was comprised of females (84.9%), singles (55.0%), young-adults (mean age 32.1, standard deviation (SD) = 13.6), employed (50.8%), with high educational levels (50.4%), and low prevalence of both tobacco smoking (7.0%) and frequent alcohol consumption (7.6%). The mean score of adherence to healthy vegan lifestyle habits was 6.64 (SD = 1.72), with higher scores indicating better adherence. Non-vegetarians (5.75; 95% confidence interval (CI), 5.61–5.89) had a significantly lower adjusted mean score compared to semi-(6.32; 95% CI, 6.17–6.47), pesco-(6.99; 95% CI, 6.59–7.39), lacto-ovo-vegetarians (7.10; 95% CI, 6.96–7.24), as well as vegans (8.59; 95% CI, 8.35–8.83). The mean proportion of household income spent on food was significantly lower among vegans compared with other dietary patterns. The whole population that was studied showed a low consumption of whole grains, legumes, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Although vegans showed a better diet and lifestyle pattern there is a need to improve eating and lifestyle habits to address risk factors for non-communicable diseases in Argentina.

Long-Term Dietary Intake of Chia Seed Is Associated with Increased Bone Mineral Content and Improved Hepatic and Intestinal Morphology in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) provide an unusually high content of α-linolenic acid with several potential health benefits, but few studies have examined the long-term intake of n-3 fatty acid-rich plant foods such as chia. In this work, we investigated some of the effects of a diet containing 10% chia seeds versus a conventional isocaloric diet for 10 and 13 months on body measurements, musculoskeletal system, the liver, and the intestines of 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats assigned into two groups. The n-6/n-3 ratios for the control and chia diets were 7.46 and 1.07, respectively. For the first 10 months of the diet, the body parameters and weights were similar, but at 13 months, the bone mineral content (BMC) of the chia-fed rats was significantly higher than that of the controls whether in total or proximal areas of the left tibia. Also, significant positive correlations were found between the age of the chia group and the bone mineral density, BMC, weight of the musculoskeletal system, final body weight, and skin weight. Liver and intestinal examinations showed improved morphology associated with lower lipid deposit in hepatocytes and increased intestinal muscle layers and crypt size in the chia group. This study provides new data suggesting the potential benefits associated with the long-term intake of chia seeds.

Latest Evidence on the Impact of Smoking, Sports, and Sexual Activity as Modifiable Lifestyle Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer Incidence, Recurrence, and Progression: A Systematic Review of the Literature by the European Association of Urology Section of Oncological Urology (ESOU)

CONTEXT

Smoking, sexual activity, and physical activity (PA) are discussed as modifiable lifestyle factors associated with prostate cancer (PCa) development and progression.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the available evidence concerning the association of smoking, sexual activity, and sports and exercise on PCa risk, treatment outcome, progression, and cancer-specific mortality.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic review of studies published between 2007 and 2017 using MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement criteria was conducted.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

While data concerning the impact of smoking on PCa development remain conflicting, there is robust evidence that smoking is associated with aggressive tumor features and worse cancer-related outcome, which seems to be maintained for 10 yr after smoking cessation. Less convincing and limited evidence exists for the association of sexual activity with PCa risk. The findings related to PA and PCa support the inference that exercise might be a useful factor in the prevention of PCa and tumor progression, while it is not finally proved under which specific conditions PA might be protective against disease development.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking is associated with aggressive tumor features and worse cancer-related prognosis; as this negative impact seems to be maintained for 10yr after smoking cessation, urologists should advise men to quit smoking latest at PCa diagnosis to improve their prognosis. As several studies indicate a positive impact of exercise on tumor development, progression, and treatment outcome, it is certainly reasonable to advocate an active lifestyle. Least convincing evidence is available for the interaction of sexual activity and PCa, and well-conducted and longitudinal studies are clearly necessary to evaluate whether the suggested associations between PCa risk and sexual behavior are real or spurious.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this systematic review, we looked at the impact of smoking, sexual activity, and sports and exercise on prostate cancer risk and outcome after treatment. While the evidence for sexual activity is not overall clear, we found that smoking might lead to more aggressive cancers and result in worse treatment outcome. Physical activity might prevent prostate cancer and improve cancer-related outcomes as well. Hence, it is certainly reasonable to advocate an active lifestyle and advise men to quit smoking.

Spectrum of health condition in methyl isocyanate (MIC)-exposed survivors measured after 30 years of disaster

Health effects of methyl isocyanate (MIC) exposure were mostly reported on the one-time acute exposure in Bhopal population. Epidemiological survey conducted by the Indian apex body of health research has been reported as Technical Reports, which were lacking in peer review by the expert epidemiologic scientists. The present pilot survey was aimed to measure the health effects 30 years post disaster in MIC-exposed survivors. Questionnaire-based survey has captured every health complaint in 168 individuals and grouped as systemic functions for interpreting the long-term effects of MIC. Key health parameters, including reproductive outcome and respiratory/orthopedic/general morbidity, were prevalent among the severely exposed population compared to control and moderately exposed groups. The collective incidence of diabetes, hypertension, and cancer also was prevalent in the severely exposed group. Ophthalmic morbidity was almost similar in the three groups, rather with higher incidence in the control group, though not statistically significant. Among all health parameters, reproductive, ophthalmic, and respiratory effects were prevalent over others. Although the incidence of health problems has been declined among the survivors, long-term effect is apparent as scars of one-time acute exposure might trigger sequel of long-term effects. Additionally, acquisition of genetic rearrangements, survival of T cell sub-populations, variable latency of chemical effect on DNA nucleosides, nutritional status, occupational exposure, living environment, lifestyle, and overall gene-environment interaction might perturb individual immunity and favor onset of long-term illness in a scenario of background exposure to MIC. However, the exercise should be continued on a larger sample size for drawing a conclusive result on long-term MIC effect on survivors' health.

Association of SNPs/haplotypes in promoter of TNF A and IL-10 gene together with life style factors in prostate cancer progression in Indian population

OBJECTIVE

Levels of proinflammatory (TNF A) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines play a key role in the progression of inflammation as well as cancer disease. We were investigating the potential association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)/haplotypes in proinflammatory (TNF A) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines locus with the development of PCa in Indian population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We had genotyped 235 BPH/PCa samples (130 BPH and 105 cancer) along with 115 control samples for proinflammatory (TNF A -238G/A and -308G/A) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10 -1082A/G, -819C/T and -592C/A) cytokines SNPs in the gene promoter region using ARMS-PCR method.

RESULTS

Allelic frequencies of TNF A and IL-10 SNPs were found to be significantly associated with the risk of prostate cancer and BPH when compared to controls (p = 0.05). Further haplotypic analysis showed that two haplotypes of TNF A (AG and AA) and IL-10 gene (CCG and CTG) were serving as risk haplotypes for prostate cancer development. IL-10 risk haplotypes were found to be positively associated with aggressiveness of prostate cancer. We also noticed successively increasing percentage of TNF A and IL-10 risk haplotypes with life style habits like smoking (10 and 26%) and alcohol consuming (9 and 27%).

CONCLUSIONS

According to our data, TNF A -238G>A and IL-10 -1082A>G, -819C>T and -592C>A may be associated with the development of prostate cancer and BPH. We could also notice higher frequency of TNF A and IL-10 risk haplotypes in smoker and alcohol user. Interestingly, IL-10 risk haplotype was positively associated with aggressiveness of tumor. This information can be used for the early diagnosis of disease and to improve tissue-specific treatment's efficacy which will be moving ultimately towards the discovery of personalized therapy.

Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity in a Primary Care Context of Central Argentina: A Web-Based Interactive and Cross-Sectional Study

Global health agencies estimate an increase of chronic diseases in South America. Nevertheless, few studies have investigated chronic diseases and their risk factors in the perspective of multimorbidity. This research aimed to identify these aspects in a primary health care setting of central Argentina. The Pan America version of the STEP wise approach surveillance (STEPS) instrument of the World Health Organization was applied to 1044 participants, 365 men and 679 women, with a mean age of 43 years. High prevalence of overweight (33.5%), obesity (35.2%), central obesity (54%), dyslipidemia (43.5%), metabolic syndrome (21.1%), low intake of fruit and vegetables (91.8%), low levels of physical activity (71.5%), risky alcohol consumption (28%), and smoking (22.5%) were detected. Hypertension and diabetes were the most prevalent chronic conditions and the total prevalence of multimorbidity was 33.1%, with 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 chronic conditions found in 19.9%, 9.1%, 2.6%, 1.1% and 0.4% of the population, respectively. Multimorbidity affected 6.4% of the young, 31.7% of the adults, and 60.6% of the elderly, and was more prevalent among women, and in participants with lower levels of education. Having multimorbidity was significantly associated with obesity, central obesity, and higher concentrations of total blood cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. A website was made available to the participants in order to share the experimental results and health-promoting information.