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Dela Rosa JGL, Catral CDM, Reyes NA, Opiso DMS, Ong EP, Ornos EDB, Santos JR, Quebral EPB, Callanta MLJ, Oliva RV, Tantengco OAG. Current status of hypertension care and management in the Philippines. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2024; 18:103008. [PMID: 38640838 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2024.103008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
AIMS In this paper, we discuss the existing data on the burden of hypertension in the Philippines and present the status of management, prevention, and control of hypertension in the country. METHODS A literature review was conducted to synthesize the status of hypertension care in the Philippines. RESULTS Hypertension continues to contribute to the country's leading causes of death. Similar to the global trend, almost half of hypertensive Filipinos are still not aware of their condition, and only 27 % have it under control. The prevalence of hypertension has steadily increased from 22 % in 1993 to 25.15 % in 2013. The 2020 Philippine Society for Hypertension clinical practice guideline defines hypertension as an office BP of 140/90 mm Hg or above following the proper standard BP measurement. During the past decade, monotherapy has been the mode of treatment in more than 80 % of Filipino patients. This could also explain why the BP control rates have been low. The most prevalent complications of hypertension in the Philippines were stroke (11.6 %), ischemic heart disease (7.7 %), chronic kidney disease (6.30 %), and hypertensive retinopathy (2.30 %). Hypertension causes economic tolls on patients, from the cost of drugs to hospitalization and complications. Hospitalization from hypertensive complications can easily wipe out the savings of middle-class families and is catastrophic for lower-income Filipinos. CONCLUSION In this review, we summarize the existing data on the burden of hypertension among Filipinos and the risk factors associated with the disease. We present the current screening tools, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention strategies for hypertension in the Philippines. Lastly, we propose solutions to meet the global targets of hypertension management and help relieve the growing burden of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Danna Mae S Opiso
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
| | - Erika P Ong
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eric David B Ornos
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jerico R Santos
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
| | - Elgin Paul B Quebral
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
| | - Maria Llaine J Callanta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
| | - Raymond V Oliva
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines; Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila, Philippines; Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines.
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Cando LFT, Quebral EPB, Ong EP, Catral CDM, Relador RJL, Velasco AJD, Alcazar RMU, Reyes NAL, Pilotin EJB, Ornos EDB, Paz-Pacheco E, Tantengco OAG. Current status of diabetes mellitus care and management in the Philippines. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2024; 18:102951. [PMID: 38382166 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2024.102951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
AIMS In this paper, we discuss the existing data on the burden of diabetes in the Philippines and present the status of management, prevention, and control of diabetes in the country. METHODS A review of literature was conducted to synthesize the status of diabetes mellitus in the Philippines. RESULTS An estimated 4.3 million Filipinos were diagnosed with diabetes, while 2.8 million remained undiagnosed in 2021. Diabetic retinopathy is a top cause of preventable blindness in Region 3, Philippines. Diabetic nephropathy contributes to 38% of renal disease cases in the Philippines. The 2021 Philippine Guidelines on Periodic Health Examination (PhEX) advocate for the utilization of fasting blood sugar (FBS) as a screening measure for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in healthy adults aged 40 years and older or in those with specified risk factors. The alternative option of hemoglobin A1c is (HbA1c) deemed appropriate but comes with a conditional recommendation due to its uneven accessibility across different regions of the country. Treatment guidelines align between the Philippines and the US. Initial medical nutrition therapy involves healthy habits, progressing to pharmacologic treatment if necessary. Financial constraints, seen in limited insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs, impede care, amplifying disease impact. The complex diabetes care, encompassing pharmacotherapy, nutrition, exercise, and monitoring, faced challenges during COVID-19 quarantines. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the paper outlines diabetes care principles-screening, diagnostics, and multidisciplinary care-alongside economic implications. Local and national initiatives are discussed to mitigate diabetes trends and reduce its burden in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Faye T Cando
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Elgin Paul B Quebral
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines; Virology Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Erika P Ong
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Ruth Joy L Relador
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | | | | | - Er Joshua B Pilotin
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eric David B Ornos
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Elizabeth Paz-Pacheco
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines; Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines.
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Virtudazo MCC, Aquino JB, Arellano RNB, Fortes RA, Kaw RC, Tantengco OAG. The role of dried blood spot tests in the detection of hepatitis B infection: A systematic review. J Viral Hepat 2024; 31:35-46. [PMID: 37789709 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B remains a public health problem worldwide despite vaccine availability. Although the existing diagnostic tools help detect the infection, logistics support and limited resources and technologies affect their usefulness and reliability in developing countries. This systematic review evaluated the performance of dried blood spots (DBS) as a collection and storage tool for diagnosing an hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. A comprehensive search using OVID, Scopus and CINAHL databases was performed to collate articles published up to April 2023 that detected Hepatitis B infections using DBS. Five reviewers independently performed identification, screening, quality assessment and data extraction. A qualitative synthesis of the included studies was conducted. Of the 402 articles, 78 met the inclusion criteria. The results show that most studies focused on populations with known HBV, HCV and/or HIV status. Approximately half (49%) of the included studies utilized the Whatman Protein Saver Card for DBS collection. The DBS samples were then predominantly stored in room temperature conditions. In line with this, storage conditions influenced the concentration and stability of the analyte from the DBS samples, affecting the accuracy of downstream diagnostic methods. ELISA methods, using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) as an HBV marker, were the most widely used diagnostic tool for detecting HBV infection in DBS samples. The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the ELISA technique highlight its potential to be used in low-resource settings. In line with this, the detection of HBsAg using an ELISA immunoassay had higher sensitivity (85.6%-100%), and specificity (95%-100%) ranges as compared to other target molecules and methods. Although this review only performed a qualitative analysis, DBS offers a promising method for collecting and storing blood samples; however, the standardization of sampling, storing conditions and diagnostic techniques is required to ensure sustainable application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jericho B Aquino
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Rose Nicole B Arellano
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Robert A Fortes
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Raphaela C Kaw
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
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Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Effects of Ureaplasma parvum infection in the exosome biogenesis-related proteins in ectocervical epithelial cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13803. [PMID: 38282606 PMCID: PMC10827354 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Ureaplasma parvum is a mycoplasma commonly associated with female reproductive pathologies, such as preterm birth and infertility. It can survive intracellularly and utilize exosomes to propagate infection and its virulence factors. This study explored the differential protein composition of exosomes derived from normal and U. parvum-infected cells. We also investigated the impact of U. parvum on exosome biogenesis in ectocervical epithelial cells. Ectocervical epithelial (ECTO) cells were infected with U. parvum, and immunocytochemical staining was performed using U. parvum-specific marker multiple banded antigen (mba) and exosome marker CD9. NanoLC-MS/MS analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed proteins in exosomes. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was performed to identify affected canonical pathways and biological functions associated with the protein cargo of exosomes. Western blot analysis of ECTO cells validated the proteomic findings in ECTO cells. U. parvum exhibited colonization of ECTO cells and colocalization with CD9-positive intraluminal vesicles. Proteomic analysis revealed decreased protein abundance and distinct protein profiles in exosomes derived from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells. Differentially expressed proteins were associated with clathrin-mediated endocytosis and various signaling pathways indicative of infection, inflammation, and cell death processes. Additionally, U. parvum infection altered proteins involved in exosome biogenesis. In ECTO cells, U. parvum infection significantly decreased clathrin, ALIX, CD9, and CD63 and significantly increased TSG101, Rab5, Rab35, and UGCG. These findings contribute to our understanding of the infection mechanism and shed light on the importance of exosome-mediated communication in the pathophysiology of diseases affecting the cervix, such as cervicitis and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Tantengco OAG, Vidal MS, Bento GFC, Menon R. Impact of bisphenol A on cell viability and inflammatory cytokine production in human cervical epithelial cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13784. [PMID: 37881122 PMCID: PMC10607601 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM An intact cervix is a barrier that prevents pathogenic bacteria from invading the uterine and amniotic cavity during pregnancy. Its disruption is associated with ascending infection and adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study analyzed the effects of bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used in plastics manufacturing, on cell death and inflammation in cervical epithelial cells. METHODS Ectocervical epithelial (ecto) and endocervical epithelial (endo) cells were treated with 100 ng/mL and 300 ng/mL of BPA for 48 h. The cells were subjected to flow cytometry using annexin V and propidium iodide to determine apoptosis and necrosis, cell cycle analysis, and ELISA to determine the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10). RESULTS Low-dose and high-dose BPA significantly increased the live ecto cell population dose-dependently. BPA did not have any noticeable effect on cell cycle progression in either cell type. BPA treatment also decreased the apoptotic ecto and endo cell population dose-dependently. Lastly, high dose BPA significantly increased IL-6 in ecto and endo cells. However, IL-8 and IL-10 were not affected by BPA treatments. CONCLUSION Chemical exposure damage to the cervix can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Our study showed that the BPA concentrations reported in pregnant subjects do not induce cervical cell toxicity . The decrease in apoptosis and increase in live cells may be a compensatory mechanism to preserve the integrity of the cervical epithelial layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Manuel S Vidal
- Division of Basic Science & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Division of Basic Science & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Alcantara JH, Ornos EDB, Tantengco OAG. Global trends, gaps, and future agenda in medulloblastoma research: a bibliometric analysis. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:3185-3194. [PMID: 37173434 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-05969-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant primary pediatric brain tumor. Over the years, an increase in published research has been observed on this topic. However, there is a lack of analysis on the characteristics and trends and the socioeconomic indicators associated with medulloblastoma research productivity and impact. METHODS The Scopus database was used to search all articles from inception to 2020. Bibliometric information was obtained from Scopus, and bibliometrics diagrams were created using VOSviewer software. Statistical analysis was performed using the GraphPad Prism software version 7. RESULTS A total of 4058 research articles on medulloblastoma research worldwide were included in this study. There has been an increase in published articles, with a steep increase observed in the last decade. The country with the most publications is the USA, with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as the most productive institution in medulloblastoma research. The articles mainly focused on molecular biology, diagnosis, treatment, prognostic factors for medulloblastoma, and research on other pediatric tumors. The number of collaborations with other countries showed the strongest positive correlation with scientific productivity. CONCLUSION This analysis showed the trend and characteristics of published articles. The results of this study emphasized the need to increase funding for research, support for researchers and physicians, and promote more collaborations with countries and institutions engaged in medulloblastoma research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome H Alcantara
- College of Medicine, University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center Inc., Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Eric David B Ornos
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines.
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Bento GFC, Richardson L, da Silva MG, Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Modeling an ascending infection by Ureaplasma parvum and its cell signaling and inflammatory response at the feto-maternal interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13770. [PMID: 37766409 PMCID: PMC10571092 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Ascending bacterial infection is associated with ∼ 40% of spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), and Ureaplasma spp. is one of the most common bacteria isolated from the amniotic fluid. Developing novel in vitro models that mimic in vivo uterine physiology is essential to study microbial pathogenesis. We utilized the feto-maternal interface organ-on-chip (FMi-OOC) device and determined the propagation of Ureaplasma parvum, and its impact on cell signaling and inflammation. METHOD OF STUDY FMi-OOC is a microphysiologic device mimicking fetal membrane/decidua interconnected through microchannels. The impact of resident decidual CD45+ leukocytes was also determined by incorporating them into the decidual chamber in different combinations with U. parvum. We tested the propagation of live U. parvum from the decidual to the amniochorion membranes (immunocytochemistry and quantitative PCR), determined its impact on cytotoxicity (LDH assay), cell signaling (JESSTM Western Blot), cellular transition (immunostaining for vimentin and cytokeratin), and inflammation (cytokine bead array). RESULTS U. parvum transversed the chorion and reached the amnion epithelium after 72 hours but did not induce cell signaling kinases (p38MAPK and JNK) activation, or cellular transition (epithelial-mesenchymal), regardless of the presence of immune cells. The inflammatory response was limited to the choriodecidual interface and did not promote inflammation in the amnion layer. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that U. parvum is poorly immunogenic and does not produce massive inflammatory changes at the feto-maternal interface. We speculate that the presence of U. parvum may still compromise the feto-maternal interface making it susceptible to other pathogenic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | | | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, United States of America
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Menon R, Khanipov K, Radnaa E, Ganguly E, Bento GFC, Urrabaz-Garza R, Kammala AK, Yaklic J, Pyles R, Golovko G, Tantengco OAG. Amplification of microbial DNA from bacterial extracellular vesicles from human placenta. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1213234. [PMID: 37520380 PMCID: PMC10374210 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1213234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The placenta is essential for fetal growth and survival and maintaining a successful pregnancy. The sterility of the placenta has been challenged recently; however, the presence of a placental microbiome has been controversial. We tested the hypothesis that the bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) from Gram-negative bacteria as an alternate source of microbial DNA, regardless of the existence of a microbial community in the placenta. Methods Placentae from the term, not in labor Cesareans deliveries, were used for this study, and placental specimens were sampled randomly from the fetal side. We developed a protocol for the isolation of BEVs from human tissues and this is the first study to isolate the BEVs from human tissue and characterize them. Results The median size of BEVs was 130-140 nm, and the mean concentration was 1.8-5.5 × 1010 BEVs/g of the wet placenta. BEVs are spherical and contain LPS and ompA. Western blots further confirmed ompA but not human EVs markers ALIX confirming the purity of preparations. Taxonomic abundance profiles showed BEV sequence reads above the levels of the negative controls (all reagent controls). In contrast, the sequence reads in the same placenta were substantially low, indicating nothing beyond contamination (low biomass). Alpha-diversity showed the number of detected genera was significantly higher in the BEVs than placenta, suggesting BEVs as a likely source of microbial DNA. Beta-diversity further showed significant overlap in the microbiome between BEV and the placenta, confirming that BEVs in the placenta are likely a source of microbial DNA in the placenta. Uptake studies localized BEVs in maternal (decidual) and placental cells (cytotrophoblast), confirming their ability to enter these cells. Lastly, BEVs significantly increased inflammatory cytokine production in THP-1 macrophages in a high-dose group but not in the placental or decidual cells. Conclusion We conclude that the BEVs are normal constituents during pregnancy and likely reach the placenta through hematogenous spread from maternal body sites that harbor microbiome. Their presence may result in a low-grade localized inflammation to prime an antigen response in the placenta; however, insufficient to cause a fetal inflammatory response and adverse pregnancy events. This study suggests that BEVs can confound placental microbiome studies, but their low biomass in the placenta is unlikely to have any immunologic impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Kamil Khanipov
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Esha Ganguly
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Rheanna Urrabaz-Garza
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Jerome Yaklic
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Richard Pyles
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - George Golovko
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
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Magtalas MC, Balbin PT, Cruz EC, Clemente RF, Buan AKG, Garcia JP, Lee KY, Tantengco OAG. Ethnomedicinal plants used for the prevention and treatment of anemia in the Philippines: a systematic review. Trop Med Health 2023; 51:27. [PMID: 37170350 PMCID: PMC10176884 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00515-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medicinal plants are still used in developing countries, including the Philippines, to treat common diseases in the community. Anemia is a common disease encountered in the community. It is characterized by a lower-than-normal level of red blood cell count. This systematic review identified the medicinal plants used for anemia treatment in the Philippines. METHODS The study was conducted based on the PRISMA flow diagram, starting with a data search on electronic databases. The collected studies were screened based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The necessary information was extracted from the eligible research papers, and the studies' quality was assessed through a developed quality assessment tool. RESULTS A total of 20 ethnobotanical studies on medicinal plants used for anemia treatment were obtained from different provinces within the 12 regions of the Philippines. Most ethnobotanical studies were conducted in Region X (Northern Mindanao), CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region), and Region XIII (CARAGA), Philippines. The most common plant family is Convovulaceae, with nine records (21.95%), followed by Cucurbitaceae, with six records (14.63%), and Moringaceae, with five records (12.2%). The most common plant part used was the leaves. Others involved mixing different plant parts, with fruits and leaves being the most common combination. The most common route of administration utilized was drinking the decoction, followed by eating the plant. Most medicinal plants used to treat anemia in the Philippines had records of toxicologic (four species, 15.38%) or teratogenic (one species, 3.85%) properties. Eight plant species were reported as nontoxic (30.77%). In addition, ten plant species (38.46%) had no data on toxicity or teratogenicity. CONCLUSION There were only 20 ethnobotanical studies that documented the use of plants in treating anemia in the Philippines. This study listed several medicinal plants used in treating anemia in the Philippines. However, pharmacological and toxicological studies are still needed to determine their safety and efficacy in treating anemia in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariel C Magtalas
- Biology Department, College of Science, Bulacan State University, Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
| | - Patrick Tracy Balbin
- Biology Department, College of Science, Bulacan State University, Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
| | - Elljhay C Cruz
- Biology Department, College of Science, Bulacan State University, Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
| | - Richard F Clemente
- Biology Department, College of Science, Bulacan State University, Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
| | - Ara Karizza G Buan
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jervy P Garcia
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Eastern Visayas Medical Center, Tacloban City, Philippines
| | - Ka Yiu Lee
- Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden.
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines.
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10
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Vista FES, Tantengco OAG, Dispo MD, Opiso DMS, Badua CLDC, Gerardo JPZ, Perez JRM, Baldo KAT, Chao DY, Dalmacio LMM. Trends in ELISA-Based Flavivirus IgG Serosurveys: A Systematic Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8040224. [PMID: 37104349 PMCID: PMC10143827 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8040224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Flaviviruses include virus species that are major public health threats worldwide. To determine the immunity landscape of these viruses, seroprevalence studies are often performed using IgG ELISA, which is a simple and rapid alternative to the virus neutralization test. In this review, we aim to describe the trends in flavivirus IgG ELISA-based serosurveys. A systematic literature review using six databases was performed to collate cohort and cross-sectional studies performed on the general population. A total of 204 studies were included in this review. The results show that most studies were performed on dengue virus (DENV), whereas Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) was the least studied. For geographic distribution, serosurveys followed known disease prevalence. Temporally, the number of serosurveys increased after outbreaks and epidemics except for JEV, for which studies were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns. Commercial kits were more commonly used than in-house assays for DENV, West Nile Virus (WNV), and Zika virus (ZIKV). Overall, most studies employed an indirect ELISA format, and the choice of antigens varied per virus. This review shows that flavivirus epidemiology is related to the regional and temporal distribution of serosurveys. It also highlights that endemicity, cross-reactivities, and kit availabilities affect assay choice in serosurveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Ericka S Vista
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila 0922, Philippines
| | - Micah D Dispo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Danna Mae S Opiso
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Christian Luke D C Badua
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - John Patrick Z Gerardo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Juan Raphael M Perez
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Karol Ann T Baldo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Day-Yu Chao
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Leslie Michelle M Dalmacio
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
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11
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Solidum JGN, Ceriales JA, Ong EP, Ornos EDB, Relador RJL, Quebral EPB, Lapeña JFF, Tantengco OAG, Lee KY. Nanomedicine and nanoparticle-based delivery systems in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Maxillofac Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 45:15. [PMID: 36995508 PMCID: PMC10060935 DOI: 10.1186/s40902-023-00383-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nanotechnology and nanomedicine are rising novel fields in plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS). The use of nanomaterials often goes with regenerative medicine. Due to their nanoscale, these materials stimulate repair at the cellular and molecular levels. Nanomaterials may be placed as components of nanocomposite polymers allowing enhancement of overall biochemical and biomechanical properties with improved scaffold properties, cellular attachment, and tissue regeneration. They may also be formulated as nanoparticle-based delivery systems for controlled release of signal factors or antimicrobials, for example. However, more studies on nanoparticle-based delivery systems still need to be done in this field. Nanomaterials are also used as frameworks for nerves, tendons, and other soft tissues. MAIN BODY In this mini-review, we focus on nanoparticle-based delivery systems and nanoparticles targeting cells for response and regeneration in PRS. Specifically, we investigate their roles in various tissue regeneration, skin and wound healing, and infection control. Cell surface-targeted, controlled-release, and inorganic nanoparticle formulations with inherent biological properties have enabled enhanced wound healing, tumor visualization/imaging, tissue viability, and decreased infection, and graft/transplantation rejection through immunosuppression. CONCLUSIONS Nanomedicine is also now being applied with electronics, theranostics, and advanced bioengineering technologies. Overall, it is a promising field that can improve patient clinical outcomes in PRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jea Giezl N Solidum
- MD-PhD (Molecular Medicine) Program, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Jeremy A Ceriales
- MD-PhD (Molecular Medicine) Program, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Erika P Ong
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Eric David B Ornos
- MD-PhD (Molecular Medicine) Program, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Ruth Joy L Relador
- MD-PhD (Molecular Medicine) Program, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Elgin Paul B Quebral
- MD-PhD (Molecular Medicine) Program, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Jose Florencio F Lapeña
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Craniomaxillofacial Plastic and Restorative Surgery, College of Medicine - Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000, Philippines.
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, 1004, Philippines.
| | - Ka Yiu Lee
- Swedish Winter Sports Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden.
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12
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Tantengco OAG, Ornos EDB. Trends in health insurance and antenatal care coverage in the Philippines. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023; 45:e146-e147. [PMID: 35695686 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdac068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric David B Ornos
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
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13
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Falcon RMG, Alcazar RMU, Mondragon AV, Penserga EG, Tantengco OAG. Rheumatoid arthritis and the risk of preterm birth. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 89:e13661. [PMID: 36450344 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, many diseases are correlated with different adverse outcomes. In turn, pregnancy affects the body, leading to increased disease susceptibility. This interplay between diseased states and pregnancy outcomes is illustrated in the effect of the chronic autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and the adverse outcome, preterm birth (PTB). RA is a systemic disorder characterized by inflammation of the joints and other body organs. Joint pain and swelling are the most prominent manifestations of RA during pregnancy. However, the exact role of RA on PTB among pregnant women has yet to be established. This review highlighted the immunologic mechanisms involved in PTB in pregnant patients with RA. The immune cell population in pregnant women with RA exhibited higher activity of macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, helper T (Th) 1 cells, and Vδ1 cells, but lower activity of CD4 + CD25high T regulatory (CD24 + CD25high Treg ), Th2, and Vδ2 cells. Increased pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ and decreased anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-12 and IL-10 are also exhibited by pregnant patients with RA. This review also discussed factors that may predict the risk of PTB in RA. These include disease activity and severity of RA, laboratory parameters (cytokines and immune cell population), and sociodemographic factors such as ethnicity, smoking, alcohol intake, and the level of education. Current findings on the underlying immunological mechanisms of RA can help identify possible strategies to prevent PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alric V Mondragon
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ester G Penserga
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Career Incentive Program, Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute, Taguig, Philippines
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14
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Punzalan FER, Aherrera JAM, de Paz-Silava SLM, Mondragon AV, Malundo AFG, Tan JJE, Tantengco OAG, Quebral EPB, Uy MNAR, Lintao RCV, Dela Rosa JGL, Mercado MEP, Avenilla KC, Poblete JB, Albay AB, David-Wang AS, Alejandria MM. Utility of laboratory and immune biomarkers in predicting disease progression and mortality among patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 disease at a Philippine tertiary hospital. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1123497. [PMID: 36926338 PMCID: PMC10011458 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1123497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study was performed to determine the clinical biomarkers and cytokines that may be associated with disease progression and in-hospital mortality in a cohort of hospitalized patients with RT-PCR confirmed moderate to severe COVID-19 infection from October 2020 to September 2021, during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic before the advent of vaccination. Patients and methods Clinical profile was obtained from the medical records. Laboratory parameters (complete blood count [CBC], albumin, LDH, CRP, ferritin, D-dimer, and procalcitonin) and serum concentrations of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18, IFN-γ, IP-10, TNF-α) were measured on Days 0-3, 4-10, 11-14 and beyond Day 14 from the onset of illness. Regression analysis was done to determine the association of the clinical laboratory biomarkers and cytokines with the primary outcomes of disease progression and mortality. ROC curves were generated to determine the predictive performance of the cytokines. Results We included 400 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection, 69% had severe to critical COVID-19 on admission. Disease progression occurred in 139 (35%) patients, while 18% of the total cohort died (73 out of 400). High D-dimer >1 µg/mL (RR 3.5 95%CI 1.83-6.69), elevated LDH >359.5 U/L (RR 1.85 95%CI 1.05-3.25), lymphopenia (RR 1.91 95%CI 1.14-3.19), and hypoalbuminemia (RR 2.67, 95%CI 1.05-6.78) were significantly associated with disease progression. High D-dimer (RR 3.95, 95%CI 1.62-9.61) and high LDH (RR 5.43, 95%CI 2.39-12.37) were also significantly associated with increased risk of in-hospital mortality. Nonsurvivors had significantly higher IP-10 levels at 0 to 3, 4 to 10, and 11 to 14 days from illness onset (p<0.01), IL-6 levels at 0 to 3 days of illness (p=0.03) and IL-18 levels at days 11-14 of illness (p<0.001) compared to survivors. IP-10 had the best predictive performance for disease progression at days 0-3 (AUC 0.81, 95%CI: 0.68-0.95), followed by IL-6 at 11-14 days of illness (AUC 0.67, 95%CI: 0.61-0.73). IP-10 predicted mortality at 11-14 days of illness (AUC 0.77, 95%CI: 0.70-0.84), and IL-6 beyond 14 days of illness (AUC 0.75, 95%CI: 0.68-0.82). Conclusion Elevated D-dimer, elevated LDH, lymphopenia and hypoalbuminemia are prognostic markers of disease progression. High IP-10 and IL-6 within the 14 days of illness herald disease progression. Additionally, elevated D-dimer and LDH, high IP-10, IL-6 and IL-18 were also associated with mortality. Timely utilization of these biomarkers can guide clinical monitoring and management decisions for COVID-19 patients in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Eduardo R Punzalan
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jaime Alfonso M Aherrera
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Alric V Mondragon
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Anna Flor G Malundo
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Joanne Jennifer E Tan
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Mary Nadine Alessandra R Uy
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ryan C V Lintao
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Maria Elizabeth P Mercado
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Jonnel B Poblete
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Albert B Albay
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Aileen S David-Wang
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Marissa M Alejandria
- Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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15
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Velayo CL, Reforma KN, Sicam RVG, Diwa MH, Sy ADR, Tantengco OAG. Improving diagnostic strategies for ovarian cancer in Filipino women using ultrasound imaging and a multivariate index assay. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 81:102253. [PMID: 36179631 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical performance and overall utility of imaging and biomarker assays in discriminating between benign and malignant ovarian masses in a Filipino population. METHODS This is a prospective cohort study among Filipino women undergoing assessment for an ovarian mass in a tertiary center. All included patients underwent a physical examination before level III specialist ultrasonographic and Doppler evaluation, multivariate index assay (MIA2G), and surgery for an adnexal mass. Ovarian tumors were classified as high-risk for malignancy based on the International Ovarian Tumour Analysis (IOTA) - Logistic Regression 2 (LR2) score. The ovarian imaging and biomarker results were correlated with the reference standard: histological findings. RESULTS Among the 379 women with adnexal masses enrolled in this study, 291 were evaluable with ultrasound imaging, biomarker assays, and histopathological results. The risk of malignancy was higher for women classified as high-risk based on IOTA-LR2 (≥10%). The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy for the prediction of malignancy were 81.2%, 81%, and 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77-0.86) for IOTA-LR2; 77.5%, 66.7%, and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.67-0.77) for CA-125; and 91.3%, 41.2%, and 0.66 (95% CI: 0.62-0.71) for MIA2G. A combination of IOTA-LR2 and MIA2G significantly influenced the diagnostic performance and the result. When MIA2G was combined with IOTA-LR2 in parallel, the sensitivity (94.2%) and NPV (87.7%) increased, but the specificity (37.3%) decreased. When combined with IOTA-LR2 in series, there were fewer false positives, which resulted in improved specificity (85%). CONCLUSION This study determined the utility of ovarian imaging and a second-generation multivariate index assay in predicting the risk of ovarian malignancy. IOTA-LR2 and MIA2G were useful in classifying patients with a high risk for ovarian malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa L Velayo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines.
| | - Kareen N Reforma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
| | - Renee Vina G Sicam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
| | - Michele H Diwa
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Alvin Duke R Sy
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Philippines
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16
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Ornos EDB, Tantengco OAG, Abad CLR. Global Online Interest in HIV/AIDS care Services in the time of COVID-19: A Google Trends Analysis. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1998-2004. [PMID: 36441409 PMCID: PMC9707175 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03933-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic has compounded the challenge of HIV/AIDS elimination, creating difficulties in accessing HIV care services such as early testing and treatment. This paper characterized the global online interest in HIV care services-related search terms before and during the pandemic. Global online search interest for HIV was measured using the Google Trends™ database. Spearman's rank-order correlation correlated country-specific characteristics and HIV prevalence data with the search volume index (SVI). We found a significant decrease in the global online search interest for HIV/AIDS care services-related search terms during the Covid-19 pandemic. The top countries with the highest online interest for "HIV/AIDS" search terms were Zambia, Eswatini, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe. In addition, search volume indices for HIV correlated positively with HIV prevalence and negatively with GDP, GDP per capita, and the number of physicians. This result highlights that resource-poor countries with a high prevalence of HIV have a high online interest in HIV/AIDS. Therefore, there is a need to improve internet access, the quality of HIV-related health information, and online health literacy to improve health-seeking behavior, especially in areas with a high disease burden. Overall, our study shows that the infodemiologic approach through Google Trends™ can be used to assess the online interest of the public toward HIV infection and related healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric David B. Ornos
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Cybele Lara R. Abad
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
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17
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Cando LFT, Perias GAS, Tantengco OAG, Dispo MD, Ceriales JA, Girasol MJG, Leonardo LR, Tabios IKB. The Global Prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum, and S. haematobium in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:354. [PMID: 36355896 PMCID: PMC9693339 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease affecting 40 million women of childbearing age worldwide. Its global disease prevalence among pregnant women is still unknown. This meta-analysis determined the pooled prevalence of schistosomiasis among pregnant women globally. Additionally, this study also determined the pooled prevalence based on infection intensity based on eggs per gram. Observational studies on the prevalence of schistosomiasis among pregnant patients were obtained from Medline, Scopus, and CINAHL from January 2001 until August 2020. A review of titles and abstracts was done independently by six reviewers. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies. A total of 27 studies were included in the meta-analysis and meta-regression. The pooled prevalence of S. haematobium was 13.44 (CI: 8.90-19.80) per 100 observations, while the pooled prevalence of S. mansoni was 12.18 (CI: 4.47-29.12) per 100 observations. The prevalence of S. japonicum infection in one study was 53.54 (CI: 43.23-63.62) per 100 observations. Our results showed a prevailing health problem of schistosomiasis during pregnancy in various countries worldwide. This strengthens the need to conduct more schistosomiasis research, prevention, and control programs in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Faye T. Cando
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | | | | | - Micah D. Dispo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Jeremy A. Ceriales
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Mark John G. Girasol
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Lydia R. Leonardo
- Office of Research Coordination, University of the East, Manila 1008, Philippines
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Manila 1101, Philippines
| | - Ian Kim B. Tabios
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Manila 1101, Philippines
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
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18
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Vidal MS, Lintao RCV, Severino MEL, Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Spontaneous preterm birth: Involvement of multiple feto-maternal tissues and organ systems, differing mechanisms, and pathways. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1015622. [PMID: 36313741 PMCID: PMC9606232 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1015622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Survivors of preterm birth struggle with multitudes of disabilities due to improper in utero programming of various tissues and organ systems contributing to adult-onset diseases at a very early stage of their lives. Therefore, the persistent rates of low birth weight (birth weight < 2,500 grams), as well as rates of neonatal and maternal morbidities and mortalities, need to be addressed. Active research throughout the years has provided us with multiple theories regarding the risk factors, initiators, biomarkers, and clinical manifestations of spontaneous preterm birth. Fetal organs, like the placenta and fetal membranes, and maternal tissues and organs, like the decidua, myometrium, and cervix, have all been shown to uniquely respond to specific exogenous or endogenous risk factors. These uniquely contribute to dynamic changes at the molecular and cellular levels to effect preterm labor pathways leading to delivery. Multiple intervention targets in these different tissues and organs have been successfully tested in preclinical trials to reduce the individual impacts on promoting preterm birth. However, these preclinical trial data have not been effectively translated into developing biomarkers of high-risk individuals for an early diagnosis of the disease. This becomes more evident when examining the current global rate of preterm birth, which remains staggeringly high despite years of research. We postulate that studying each tissue and organ in silos, as how the majority of research has been conducted in the past years, is unlikely to address the network interaction between various systems leading to a synchronized activity during either term or preterm labor and delivery. To address current limitations, this review proposes an integrated approach to studying various tissues and organs involved in the maintenance of normal pregnancy, promotion of normal parturition, and more importantly, contributions towards preterm birth. We also stress the need for biological models that allows for concomitant observation and analysis of interactions, rather than focusing on these tissues and organ in silos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel S. Vidal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ryan C. V. Lintao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Mary Elise L. Severino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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19
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Cando LFT, Dispo MD, Tantengco OAG. Salivary Progesterone as a Biomarker for Predicting Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13628. [PMID: 36222312 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Several biomarkers have been studied to predict spontaneous preterm birth, including salivary progesterone. However, due to limited studies, the utility of this biomarker remains controversial. This study synthesized the available literature and determined the role of salivary progesterone as a potential biomarker for preterm birth. METHOD OF STUDY All studies reporting the levels of salivary progesterone among pregnant women with reported birth outcomes were obtained from Ovid Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to January 10, 2022. A review of titles and abstracts was done independently by three reviewers. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was performed in R v.4.1.3 using the 'meta' package. RESULTS Five studies involving 861 pregnant patients from Egypt, India, Iraq, and the US were included in this meta-analysis. The random-effects model showed that salivary progesterone levels after the 28th week of gestation were significantly different between patients with term and preterm birth (SMD: 1.99; 95% CI: 0.44-3.54) with a high degree of heterogeneity (I2 = 96%, p < 0.001). Based on the results of this meta-analysis, women with term birth had higher levels of salivary progesterone after the 28th week of gestation than those with preterm birth. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the study results suggest that low salivary progesterone levels after the 28th week of gestation are significantly associated with preterm birth. This study also highlights the use of saliva samples for monitoring sex steroid hormones throughout pregnancy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Faye T Cando
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Micah D Dispo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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Ceriales JA, Cando LFT, Callanta MLJ, Tantengco OAG. Gaps and challenges in the management of atrial fibrillation in the Philippines. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 82:104586. [PMID: 36148085 PMCID: PMC9486434 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A Ceriales
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Leslie Faye T Cando
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Maria Llaine J Callanta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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Tantengco OAG, Richardson LS, Radnaa E, Kammala AK, Kim S, Medina PMB, Han A, Menon R. Modeling ascending Ureaplasma parvum infection through the female reproductive tract using vagina-cervix-decidua-organ-on-a-chip and feto-maternal interface-organ-on-a-chip. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22551. [PMID: 36106554 PMCID: PMC9500016 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200872r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Genital mycoplasmas can break the cervical barrier and cause intraamniotic infection and preterm birth. This study developed a six-chamber vagina-cervix-decidua-organ-on-a-chip (VCD-OOC) that recapitulates the female reproductive tract during pregnancy with culture chambers populated by vaginal epithelial cells, cervical epithelial and stromal cells, and decidual cells. Cells cultured in VCD-OOC were characterized by morphology and immunostaining for cell-specific markers. We transferred the media from the decidual cell chamber of the VCD-OOC to decidual cell chamber in feto-maternal interface organ-on-a-chip (FMi-OOC), which contains the fetal membrane layers. An ascending Ureaplasma parvum infection was created in VCD-OOC. U. parvum was monitored for 48 h post-infection with their cytotoxicity (LDH assay) and inflammatory effects (multiplex cytokine assay) in the cells tested. An ascending U. parvum infection model of PTB was developed using CD-1 mice. The cell morphology and expression of cell-specific markers in the VCD-OOC mimicked those seen in lower genital tract tissues. U. parvum reached the cervical epithelial cells and decidua within 48 h and did not cause cell death in VCD-OOC or FMi-OOC cells. U. parvum infection promoted minimal inflammation, while the combination of U. parvum and LPS promoted massive inflammation in the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC cells. In the animal model, U. parvum vaginal inoculation of low-dose U. parvum did not result in PTB, and even a high dose had only some effects on PTB (20%). However, intra-amniotic injection of U. parvum resulted in 67% PTB. We report the colonization of U. parvum in various cell types; however, inconsistent, and low-grade inflammation across multiple cell types suggests poor immunogenicity induced by U. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Paul Mark B. Medina
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Apostol-Nicodemus L, Tabios IKB, Limpoco AGO, Domingo GDP, Tantengco OAG. Psychosocial Distress among Family Members of COVID-19 Patients Admitted to Hospital and Isolation Facilities in the Philippines: A Prospective Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11175236. [PMID: 36079167 PMCID: PMC9457412 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11175236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study determined the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on families of adult COVID-19 patients in isolation facilities in Metro Manila, Philippines. This prospective cohort study was conducted in COVID-19 healthcare facilities. Data collection was undertaken 2 weeks and 8 weeks after discharge. Logistic regression was performed to determine the socioeconomic and clinical factors influencing anxiety, depression, and family function. Based on HADS-P, 43.2% of the participants had anxiety symptoms, and 16.2% had depression symptoms 2 weeks after the discharge of their relative with COVID-19 infection. The prevalence of anxiety and depression significantly decreased to 24.3% and 5.4%, respectively, 8 weeks after discharge. The percentage of participants with a perceived moderate family dysfunction was 9.5% in the 2nd week and 6.8% in the 8th week post discharge. Participants with perceived severe family dysfunction increased from none to 4.1%. The most inadequate family resources for the participants were economic, medical, and educational resources. Patient anxiety (p = 0.010) and perceived inadequate family resources (p = 0.032) were associated with anxiety symptoms among family members. Patient anxiety (p = 0.013) and low educational attainment (p = 0.002) were associated with anxiety symptoms among family members 8 weeks after discharge. On the other hand, patient depression (p = 0.013) was a factor related to depressive symptoms among family members 2 weeks after discharge. This study provided an in-depth understanding of the mental health status of family members caring for relatives with COVID-19 infection. This can be used to guide healthcare professionals caring for COVID-19 patients and their family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilanie Apostol-Nicodemus
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of the Philippines—Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila 1000, Philippines
- Correspondence: (L.A.-N.); (I.K.B.T.)
| | - Ian Kim B. Tabios
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
- Correspondence: (L.A.-N.); (I.K.B.T.)
| | - Anna Guia O. Limpoco
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of the Philippines—Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila 1000, Philippines
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Uy MNAR, Tantengco OAG. Landscape, barriers, and facilitators of scientific productivity in schizophrenia research in Southeast Asia: A bibliometric analysis. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 81:104330. [PMID: 36147134 PMCID: PMC9486613 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schizophrenia research has significantly grown in the past years. However, there is no comprehensive evaluation of schizophrenia research publications from Southeast Asia (SEA). Thus, this study determined the characteristics and trends of published articles about schizophrenia in SEA through a bibliometric analysis. Methods A database search on schizophrenia research in SEA countries was performed using the Scopus databases from 1973 to 2021. Bibliometric information was obtained from Scopus, and network visualization was conducted using VOSviewer software. Results There were 1068 articles on schizophrenia from SEA from 1973 until 2021. Schizophrenia research outputs from SEA started to increase from 2000 onwards. Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand were the most productive countries in schizophrenia research and had the most collaborations. Most schizophrenia research in SEA was published in Asia- or SEA-based journals. The research hotspots for schizophrenia in SEA included treatment, pathophysiology, symptomatology, and psychological and social aspects of schizophrenia. Lastly, correlation analysis showed that gross domestic product per capita, research and development (R&D) expenditures, number of researchers in R&D, number of physicians, and international research collaborations were significantly correlated with higher research productivity and scientific impact in schizophrenia research. Conclusion In conclusion, this study showed the trends and gaps for research in SEA and the socioeconomic factors correlated with research productivity for schizophrenia in SEA. This study emphasized increasing financial support and collaborations for schizophrenia research to improve research productivity in schizophrenia in the SEA region. There were 1068 articles on schizophrenia from Southeast Asia from 1973 until 2021. Southeast Asian countries only contributed 1.09% of the global research outputs on schizophrenia. Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand were the most productive countries in schizophrenia research. Most schizophrenia research in Southeast Asia was published in regional or local journals. Research funding, number of researchers and physicians, and collaboration increased research productivity in schizophrenia.
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Sianoya AC, Ornos EDB, Santos JR, Tantengco OAG, Jimeno CA. Current status and challenges in the management of osteoporosis among men in the Philippines. Arch Osteoporos 2022; 17:116. [PMID: 36002776 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-022-01142-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Abraham C Sianoya
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines.
| | - Eric David B Ornos
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Jerico R Santos
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines.,Department of Surgery, World Citi Medical Center, Quezon City, 1109, Philippines
| | | | - Cecilia A Jimeno
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, Manila, 1000, Philippines.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, 1000, Philippines
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Tantengco OAG, Richardson LS, Radnaa E, Kammala AK, Kim S, Medina PMB, Han A, Menon R. Exosomes from Ureaplasma parvum-infected ectocervical epithelial cells promote feto-maternal interface inflammation but are insufficient to cause preterm delivery. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:931609. [PMID: 36046342 PMCID: PMC9420848 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.931609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study determined if exosomes from ectocervical epithelial (ECTO) cells infected with Ureaplasma parvum (U. parvum) can carry bacterial antigens and cause inflammation at the feto-maternal interface using two organ-on-chip devices, one representing the vagina-cervix-decidua and another one mimicking the feto-maternal interface, and whether such inflammation can lead to preterm birth (PTB). Exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells were characterized using cryo-electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, Western blot, and Exoview analysis. The antigenicity of the exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells was also tested using THP-1 cells and our newly developed vagina-cervix-decidua organ-on-a-chip (VCD-OOC) having six microchannel-interconnected cell culture chambers containing cells from the vagina, ectocervical, endocervical, transformation zone epithelia, cervical stroma, and decidua. The VCD-OOC was linked to the maternal side of our previously developed feto-maternal interface organ-on-a-chip (FMi-OOC). Cell culture media were collected after 48 h to determine the cytokine levels from each cell line via ELISA. For physiological validation of our in vitro data, high-dose exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells were delivered to the vagina of pregnant CD-1 mice on E15. Mice were monitored for preterm birth (PTB, < E18.5 days). Exosomes from ECTO cells infected with U. parvum (UP ECTO) showed significant downregulation of exosome markers CD9, CD63, and CD81, but contained multiple banded antigen (MBA), a U. parvum virulence factor. Monoculture experiments showed that exosomes from UP ECTO cells delivered MBA from the host cell to uninfected endocervical epithelial cells (ENDO). Moreover, exposure of THP-1 cells to exosomes from UP ECTO cells resulted in increased IL-8 and TNFα and reduced IL-10. The OOC experiments showed that low and high doses of exosomes from UP ECTO cells produced a cell type-specific inflammatory response in the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC. Specifically, exosomes from UP ECTO cells increased pro-inflammatory cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-6, and IL-8 in cervical, decidual, chorion trophoblast, and amnion mesenchymal cells. The results from our OOC models were validated in our in vivo mice model. The inflammatory response was insufficient to promote PTB. These results showed the potential use of the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC in simulating the pathophysiological processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Paul Mark B. Medina
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Arum Han, ; Ramkumar Menon,
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Arum Han, ; Ramkumar Menon,
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Velayo CL, Reforma KN, Sicam RVG, Diwa MH, Sy ADR, Tantengco OAG. Clinical Performance of a Multivariate Index Assay in Detecting Early-Stage Ovarian Cancer in Filipino Women. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:9896. [PMID: 36011527 PMCID: PMC9408304 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the clinical performance and overall utility of a multivariate index assay in detecting early-stage ovarian cancer in a Filipino population. This is a prospective cohort study among Filipino women undergoing assessment for an ovarian mass in a tertiary center. Patients diagnosed with early-stage ovarian cancer and who underwent a physical examination before level III specialist ultrasonographic and Doppler evaluation, multivariate index assay (MIA2G), and surgery for an adnexal mass were included in this study. Ovarian tumors were classified as high-risk for malignancy based on the IOTA-LR2 score. The ovarian imaging and biomarker results were correlated with the reference standard: surgico-pathologic findings. The MIA2G exhibited the best overall performance among individual classifiers with a sensitivity of 91.7% and NPV of 84.7%, with a concomitant higher sensitivity in early-stage disease, whether as an individual classifier (93.5%) or in serial combination with ultrasound (85.5%). The performance of biomarkers (specificity, positive predictive values, and AUROC) such as MIA2G and CA-125 significantly improved when combined with an ultrasound risk scoring approach (p < 0.01). MIA2G showed a higher sensitivity for detecting lesions among EOC and late-stage ovarian cancers than otherwise. The application of biomarkers for evaluating ovarian masses in our local setting is secondary to ultrasound but adopting multivariate index assays rather than CA-125 would increase the detection of early-stage ovarian cancers regardless of menopausal status. This is most relevant in areas where level III sonographers or gynecologic oncologists are limited and preoperative referrals to these specialists can improve the survival of our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa L. Velayo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines—Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Kareen N. Reforma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines—Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Renee Vina G. Sicam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines—Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Michele H. Diwa
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Alvin Duke R. Sy
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines, Manila 1000, Philippines
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Dela Rosa JGL, Ornos EDB, Sianoya AC, Tantengco OAG, Guinaran RC. Social Determinants of Health Inequities in Indigenous Children in the Philippines. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:1493-1494. [PMID: 35770475 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.16103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abraham C Sianoya
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Ryan C Guinaran
- Community Health Development Section, Benguet State University-Open University, Benguet, Philippines
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29
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Uy MNAR, Tantengco OAG. Investigating the landscape and trajectory of spina bifida research in Asia: a bibliometric analysis. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:1581-1591. [PMID: 35474541 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05527-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spina bifida is a type of a neural tube defect which affects 243.14 per 100,000 babies in Asia. Research articles on spina bifida have increased in the recent years. However, no study has focused on the research trends in this field in Asia. METHODS A systematic review of literature on spina bifida in Asia was performed using the Scopus database from inception to 2020. All published studies on spina bifida conducted in or published by authors from Asia were included in our analysis. Bibliometric information was obtained from Scopus and bibliometrics diagrams were created using VOSviewer software. RESULTS A total of 652 articles were obtained in this study. The number of publications showed an upward trend starting 2000s. The country with the greatest number of publications was Japan while All India Institute of Medical Sciences was the most productive institution in spina bifida research in Asia. The current focus of this field in Asia was prevalence of spina bifida, prenatal diagnosis, folic acid supplementation, and complications of spina bifida. Future areas of research in spina bifida include the genetic basis of neural tube defects and the use of stem cell technology as therapies for spina bifida. CONCLUSION This is the first bibliometric analysis on spina bifida in Asia. It showed the trend and future areas of research on spina bifida in Asia. Despite the increase in scientific literature on spina bifida research, more research outputs and collaborations are needed especially in developing countries in Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Pedro Gil Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines.
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Valenzuela RLG, Mendoza JED, Tantengco OAG, Ornos EDB. Challenges in Philippine Developmental Paediatric Care. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:1490. [PMID: 35716035 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.16055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julian E D Mendoza
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Eric D B Ornos
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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Callanta MLJ, Tantengco OAG. Dyslipidemia research landscape and socioeconomic facilitators of scientific productivity in Southeast Asia. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2022; 16:102583. [PMID: 35952510 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing prevalence of lipid disorder in Southeast Asia (SEA) resulted in an increase in clinical and epidemiological studies on dyslipidemia in the region. Thus, there is a need to summarize the existing evidence from the literature. AIMS This paper determined the research landscape of dyslipidemia in SEA. This study also identified the socioeconomic facilitators of scientific productivity in dyslipidemia research in SEA. METHODS A database search of dyslipidemia literature in SEA countries was performed using the Scopus database. Bibliographic information was obtained, and network visualization of collaboration among countries and keywords was created using VOSviewer software. RESULTS This bibliometric analysis showed a continuous increase in published articles in SEA, most of which were from universities and hospitals in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The usual topics of dyslipidemia research in SEA include epidemiology, pathophysiology, comorbidities and complications, and treatment options for dyslipidemia. Research & development expenditure (total citations: p = 0.037; h-index: p = 0.031) and researchers in R&D (total citations: p = 0.005; h-index: p = 0.017) were positively correlated with citations and h-index for dyslipidemia publications from SEA countries. Moreover, the number of research collaborations within SEA and worldwide was positively correlated with the total publications, citations, and h-index of SEA countries for their dyslipidemia research outputs. CONCLUSION In summary, this bibliometrics study showed an increasing trend of dyslipidemia research in SEA countries. Policymakers and administrators should invest more in dyslipidemia studies to propose better strategies in curbing the prevalence of this condition in SEA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Llaine J Callanta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.
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Malaluan MRV, Razal RB, Velasco AJD, Tantengco OAG. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on The Physical and Mental Health of Adolescents in The Philippines. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:1281. [PMID: 35635219 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.16045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rozel B Razal
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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Ong EP, Obeles AJT, Ong BAG, Tantengco OAG. Perspectives and lessons from the Philippines' decades-long battle with dengue. Lancet Reg Health West Pac 2022; 24:100505. [PMID: 35789734 PMCID: PMC9249805 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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34
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Lintao RCV, Cando LFT, Perias GAS, Tantengco OAG, Tabios IKB, Velayo CL, de Paz-Silava SLM. Current Status of Human Papillomavirus Infection and Cervical Cancer in the Philippines. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:929062. [PMID: 35795639 PMCID: PMC9251542 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.929062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is estimated to cause 341,831 deaths each year, with 9 of 10 deaths occurring in developing countries. Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in cervical cancer incidence among women in the Philippines. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is the well-established necessary cause of cervical cancer. Based on limited studies conducted in the Philippines, the prevalence of infection with any HPV genotype was 93.8% for cervical squamous cell carcinoma and 90.9% for cervical adenocarcinomas. HPV types 16 and 18 were the most common HPV genotypes among Filipino patients with cervical cancer. On the other hand, the incidence of HPV infection among Filipino women with normal cervices was 9.2%. The World Health Organization has launched a global agenda of eliminating HPV infection by 2030. One of its key milestones is to vaccinate 90% of girls with the HPV vaccine by 15 years. However, the HPV vaccination rate among Filipino women remains to be unsatisfactory. HPV vaccination has only been included in the Philippine Department of Health's community-based National Immunization Program in 2015. Despite these efforts, the Philippines currently ranks last on HPV program coverage among low-middle income countries, with coverage of only 23% of the target female population for the first dose and 5% for the final dose. The principal reason for the non-acceptance of HPV vaccines was the perceived high cost of vaccination. The low utilization of available cervical cancer screening tests such as Pap smear and visual inspection with acetic acid hampered the Philippines' control and prevention of HPV infection and cervical cancer. Among those diagnosed with cervical cancer in the Philippines, only an estimated 50% to 60% receive some form of treatment. To this end, we summarize the burden of HPV infection and cervical cancer on Filipinos and the risk factors associated with the disease. We present the current screening, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention of HPV-related diseases in the Philippines. Lastly, we also propose solutions on how each building block in health systems can be improved to eliminate HPV infection and reduce the burden of cervical cancer in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C. V. Lintao
- Multi-Omics Research Program for Health, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Leslie Faye T. Cando
- Multi-Omics Research Program for Health, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Glenmarie Angelica S. Perias
- Multi-Omics Research Program for Health, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Multi-Omics Research Program for Health, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ian Kim B. Tabios
- Multi-Omics Research Program for Health, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Clarissa L. Velayo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Sheriah Laine M. de Paz-Silava
- Multi-Omics Research Program for Health, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- *Correspondence: Sheriah Laine M. de Paz-Silava
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Tabios IKB, Sato MO, Tantengco OAG, Fornillos RJC, Kirinoki M, Sato M, Rojo RD, Fontanilla IKC, Chigusa Y, Medina PMB, Kikuchi M, Leonardo LR. Diagnostic Performance of Parasitological, Immunological, Molecular, and Ultrasonographic Tests in Diagnosing Intestinal Schistosomiasis in Fieldworkers From Endemic Municipalities in the Philippines. Front Immunol 2022; 13:899311. [PMID: 35774791 PMCID: PMC9237846 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.899311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains to ha/ve a significant public health impact in the Philippines. The Kato-Katz (K-K) technique is the reference standard and most used technique for definitive diagnosis of intestinal schistosomiasis for control programs in endemic regions. However, this has a very low sensitivity when applied in areas of low endemicity and patients with light infection. Hence, this study determined the diagnostic performance of immunological, molecular, parasitological, and ultrasonographic tests in diagnosing intestinal schistosomiasis in endemic municipalities in the Philippines. We performed a community-based cross-sectional study to determine the positivity of schistosomiasis in Leyte, Philippines. The diagnostic performance of five different detection techniques: (1) three stool K-K with duplicate smears; (2) soluble egg antigen IgG ELISA; (3) urine point-of-care circulating cathodic antigen (POC-CCA) test; (4) detection of Schistosoma japonicum circulating DNA (SjcDNA) in serum and urine samples; (5) focused abdominal ultrasound (US), were also obtained in this study. Multiple stool examinations enhanced the sensitivity of K-K from 26.2% (95% CI [16.4, 38.8]) with single stool to 53.8% (95% CI [41.1, 66.1]) and 69.2% (95% CI [56.4, 80.0]) with two and three stools from consecutive days, respectively. Among the SjcDNA nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)-based detection assays, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) PCR using sera had the highest sensitivity at 92.3% (95% CI [82.2, 97.1]) with LAMP consistently identifying more positive cases in both serum and urine samples. This study showed that single stool K-K, which remains the only diagnostic test available in most endemic areas in the Philippines, had low sensitivity and failed to identify most patients with light infection. SjcDNA detection assay and POC-CCA urine test were more sensitive than stool microscopy in detecting schistosomiasis. On the other hand, US was less sensitive than the widely utilized K-K technique in diagnosing schistosomiasis. This study emphasizes the need to revisit the use of single stool K-K in the surveillance and case detection of schistosomiasis in endemic areas of the Philippines. The availability of advanced and more sensitive diagnostic tests will help better control, prevent, and eliminate schistosomiasis in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Kim B. Tabios
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Laboratory of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- *Correspondence: Marcello Otake Sato, ; Ian Kim B. Tabios,
| | - Marcello Otake Sato
- Laboratory of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- *Correspondence: Marcello Otake Sato, ; Ian Kim B. Tabios,
| | | | - Raffy Jay C. Fornillos
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Masashi Kirinoki
- Laboratory of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Megumi Sato
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata City, Japan
| | - Raniv D. Rojo
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ian Kendrich C. Fontanilla
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Yuichi Chigusa
- Center for International Cooperation, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Paul Mark B. Medina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mihoko Kikuchi
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Lydia R. Leonardo
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Office of Research Coordination, University of the East, Manila, Philippines
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Graduate School, Quezon City, Philippines
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Quebral EPB, Badua CLD, Tantengco OAG. Helicobacter pylori infection and the risk of gastric cancer in the Philippines. Lancet Reg Health West Pac 2022; 23:100475. [PMID: 35542893 PMCID: PMC9079792 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
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Cando LFT, Ceriales JA, Callanta MLJ, Punzalan FER, Tantengco OAG. Challenges in the control and prevention of infective endocarditis in the Philippines. The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific 2022; 22:100458. [PMID: 35493772 PMCID: PMC9046885 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Callanta MLJ, Cando LFT, Ceriales JA, Punzalan FER, Tantengco OAG. Geographical and socioeconomic disparities in the use of percutaneous coronary intervention in the Philippines. The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific 2022; 22:100477. [PMID: 35539432 PMCID: PMC9079768 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leslie Faye T. Cando
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jeremy A. Ceriales
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Felix Eduardo R. Punzalan
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of the Philippines College of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Corresponding author.
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Quebral EPB, Badua CLDC, Maramba-Lazarte CNC, Tantengco OAG. The Current State of COVID-19 Infection in Filipino Children. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:936-937. [PMID: 35388945 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cecilia Nelia C Maramba-Lazarte
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
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Eala MAB, Tantengco OAG. Global online interest in cervical cancer care in the time of COVID-19: an infodemiology study. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2022; 41:100998. [PMID: 35574243 PMCID: PMC9085355 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2022.100998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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Noda-Nicolau NM, Tantengco OAG, Polettini J, Silva MC, Bento GFC, Cursino GC, Marconi C, Lamont RF, Taylor BD, Silva MG, Jupiter D, Menon R. Genital Mycoplasmas and Biomarkers of Inflammation and Their Association With Spontaneous Preterm Birth and Preterm Prelabor Rupture of Membranes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:859732. [PMID: 35432251 PMCID: PMC9006060 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.859732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genital mycoplasmas (GM), such as Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasma parvum, and Ureaplasma urealyticum are commonly associated with spontaneous preterm labor (SPTL), spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), and preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM). This study determined the association between GM and such adverse pregnancy outcomes. We searched for studies published 1980–2019 in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Studies were eligible when GM was detected during pregnancy. We included 93 and 51 studies in determining the prevalence and the inflammatory biomarkers associated with GM, respectively, using the “metafor” package within R. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (registration no. CRD42016047297). Women with the studied adverse pregnancy outcomes had significantly higher odds of presence with GM compared to women who delivered at term. For PTB, the odds ratios were: M. hominis (OR: 2.25; CI: 1.35–3.75; I2: 44%), M. genitalium (OR: 2.04; CIL 1.18–3.53; I2: 20%), U. parvum (OR: 1.75; CI: 1.47–2.07; I2: 0%), U. urealyticum (OR: 1.50; CI: 1.08–2.07; I2: 58%). SPTL had significantly higher odds with M. hominis (OR: 1.96; CI: 1.19–3.23; I2: 1%) or U. urealyticum (OR: 2.37; CI: 1.20–4.70; I2: 76%) compared to women without SPTL. Women with PPROM had significantly higher odds with M. hominis (OR: 2.09; CI: 1.42–3.08; I2: 0%) than women without PPROM. However, our subgroup analysis based on the diagnostic test and the sample used for detecting GM showed a higher prevalence of GM in maternal samples than in fetal samples. GM presence of the cervix and vagina was associated with lower odds of PTB and preterm labor (PTL). In contrast, GM presence in the AF, fetal membrane, and placenta was associated with increased odds of PTB and PTL. However, genital mycoplasmas may not elicit the massive inflammation required to trigger PTB. In conclusion, GM presence in the fetal tissues was associated with significantly increased odds of PTB and PTL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia M Noda-Nicolau
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jossimara Polettini
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Passo Fundo, Brazil
| | - Mariana C Silva
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Giovana F C Bento
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Geovanna C Cursino
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Camila Marconi
- Department of Basic Pathology, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Ronald F Lamont
- Research Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Division of Surgery, Northwick Park Institute for Medical Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Brandie D Taylor
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Márcia G Silva
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Daniel Jupiter
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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Tantengco OAG, Rojo RD. Bibliometric analysis of schistosomiasis research in Southeast Asia (1908-2020). Acta Trop 2022; 228:106322. [PMID: 35065014 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study determined the characteristics and trends of published articles regarding schistosomiasis in Southeast Asian countries through a bibliometric analysis. METHODS Using the Scopus database, we identified all original research articles on schistosomiasis from 1908 to 2020 from SEA countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Bibliographic and citation information was obtained, and visualization of collaboration networks of countries and keywords related to schistosomiasis was conducted using VOSviewer software. RESULTS We obtained 528 schistosomiasis articles published between 1908 and 2020 from SEA countries. The number of publications continued to increase and peaked from 2000 until 2020. The Philippines had the highest number of publications (n = 231), followed by Thailand (n = 153), and Malaysia (n = 64). The leading journals with the highest number of publications in this field include the Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health (n = 96), Acta Tropica (n = 27), and Plos Neglected Tropical Diseases (n = 24). The most common keywords related to schistosomiasis research in SEA were "schistosomiasis", "Schistosoma japonicum", "Schistosoma mekongi", "Schistosoma mansoni", and "praziquantel". International collaboration was significantly correlated with scientific productivity for schistosomiasis research. CONCLUSION Our study showed the research landscape, trends and development, and collaboration among researchers in schistosomiasis in SEA. Our results also revealed the limited schistosomiasis research in several SEA countries. There is a need for more research to improve our understanding of the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in SEA, which can help in improving the control and prevention of this disease.
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Lintao RC, Llamas-Clark EF, Tantengco OAG. Socioeconomic disparities in adverse birth outcomes in the Philippines. The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific 2022; 21:100453. [PMID: 35463805 PMCID: PMC9018385 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Tantengco OAG, Guinto RR. Tackling air pollution in the Philippines. Lancet Planet Health 2022; 6:e300. [PMID: 35397217 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00065-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Renzo R Guinto
- Planetary and Global Health Program, St Luke's Medical Center College of Medicine-William H Quasha Memorial, Quezon City 1112, Philippines; Sunway Centre for Planetary Health, Sunway University, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Tantengco OAG, Velayo CL. Episiotomy practice and perineal trauma in the Philippines. Lancet Reg Health West Pac 2022; 19:100381. [PMID: 35118435 PMCID: PMC8792258 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Clarissa L. Velayo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
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Tantengco OAG, Nakura Y, Yoshimura M, Nishiumi F, Llamas-Clark EF, Yanagihara I. Co-infection of human papillomavirus and other sexually transmitted bacteria in cervical cancer patients in the Philippines. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2022; 40:100943. [PMID: 35265741 PMCID: PMC8899213 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2022.100943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of HPV 16/18/33/52 was 75% in Filipino cervical cancer patients. Infection with HPV 16/18/33/52 was significantly associated with cervical cancer (OR: 9.00; 95% CI: 2.18–37.18). HPV-16 was the most prevalent HPV genotype among Filipino cervical cancer patients. HPV-18 and HPV-52 were only detected from cervical cancer patients. Among HPV-positive patients, we noted a 22.73% co-infection with Ureaplasma spp. and 9.09% with Mycoplasma spp.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally. Based on several epidemiologic studies, human papillomavirus is strongly associated with cervical neoplasia. Aside from HPV, other bacterial infections in the genital tract were associated with cervical neoplasia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HPV infection; and co-infection with Ureaplasma spp., Mycoplasma spp., Chlamydia trachomatis, and Neisseria gonorrheae in Filipino cervical cancer patients. Forty-four patients (28 patients with cervical carcinoma and 16 patients with non-malignant cervix) who consulted in the Philippine General Hospital from 2016 to 2017 were included in this study. HPV genotyping and genetic detection of Ureaplasma spp., Mycoplasma spp., C. trachomatis, and N. gonorrheae were done using different PCR assays. The prevalence of HPV 16/18/33/52 was 75% in cervical cancer patients and 25% in control patients. Infection with HPV 16/18/33/52 was significantly associated with having cervical cancer (OR: 9.00; 95% CI: 2.18–37.18; p = 0.0024). HPV-16 was the most prevalent HPV genotype among Filipino cervical cancer patients. HPV-18 and HPV-52 were only detected from cervical cancer patients. Among HPV-positive patients, we noted a 22.73% co-infection with Ureaplasma spp. and 9.09% co-infection with Mycoplasma spp. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the co-infection of HPV and sexually transmitted infections among cervical cancer patients in the Philippines.
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Ilagan-Vega MKC, Tantengco OAG, Paz-Pacheco E. A bibliometric analysis of polycystic ovary syndrome research in Southeast Asia: Insights and implications. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2022; 16:102419. [PMID: 35152063 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There has been an increased understanding in the pathophysiology and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the trends and characteristics of PCOS publications in Southeast Asia (SEA) through a bibliometric analysis. METHODS Systematic review of literature on PCOS in SEA countries between 1975 and 2020 was performed using the Scopus database. All published studies on PCOS conducted in or published by authors from any of the countries in SEA were included in this analysis. Bibliographic information was obtained, and visualization of collaboration networks of countries and keywords was conducted using VOSviewer software. RESULTS A total of 260 articles were included in this analysis. The number of PCOS publications in SEA continued to increase through the years. The country with the highest number of publications was Thailand while Singapore produced the most publications with the greatest impact. The focus of research in SEA was on PCOS prevalence, risk factors, infertility, and metabolic complications. A country's fertility rate, research and development expenditures (%GDP), number of researchers per million people, and international research collaborations significantly correlated with PCOS research impact in SEA. CONCLUSION This is the first bibliometric analysis in PCOS research in SEA. Despite the continuing increase in PCOS publications in SEA, it still lags compared to other regions. Countries in SEA should consider policies and strategies directed at increasing research support and encouraging international collaborations for local researchers to produce more meaningful publications and augment PCOS knowledge in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Paz-Pacheco
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The Medical City, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig, Philippines; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
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Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Breaking Down the Barrier: The Role of Cervical Infection and Inflammation in Preterm Birth. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 2:777643. [PMID: 35118439 PMCID: PMC8803751 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2021.777643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 40% of cases of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) are associated with ascending intrauterine infections. The cervix serves as a physical and immunological gatekeeper, preventing the ascent of microorganisms from the vagina to the amniotic cavity. The cervix undergoes remodeling during pregnancy. It remains firm and closed from the start until the late third trimester of pregnancy and then dilates and effaces to accommodate the passage of the fetus during delivery. Remodeling proceeds appropriately and timely to maintain the pregnancy until term delivery. However, risk factors, such as acute and chronic infection and local inflammation in the cervix, may compromise cervical integrity and result in premature remodeling, predisposing to sPTB. Previous clinical studies have established bacterial (i.e., chlamydia, gonorrhea, mycoplasma, etc.) and viral infections (i.e., herpesviruses and human papillomaviruses) as risk factors of PTB. However, the exact mechanism leading to PTB is still unknown. This review focuses on: (1) the epidemiology of cervical infections in pregnant patients; (2) cellular mechanisms that may explain the association of cervical infections to premature cervical ripening and PTB; (3) endogenous defense mechanisms of the cervix that protect the uterine cavity from infection and inflammation; and (4) potential inflammatory biomarkers associated with cervical infection that can serve as prognostic markers for premature cervical ripening and PTB. This review will provide mechanistic insights on cervical functions to assist in managing cervical infections during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Ramkumar Menon
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Puyat CVM, Eala MAB, Dee EC, Tantengco OAG, Cruz ARDP, Faylona EA, Germar MJV, Sacdalan DL. Prioritising access to cancer drugs. Lancet Oncol 2022; 23:e2. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(21)00637-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Tantengco OAG, Kechichian T, Vincent KL, Pyles RB, Medina PMB, Menon R. Inflammatory response elicited by Ureaplasma parvum colonization in human cervical epithelial, stromal, and immune cells. Reproduction 2021; 163:1-10. [PMID: 34780348 PMCID: PMC8669769 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Ureaplasma parvum is a commensal bacterium in the female reproductive tract but has been associated with pregnancy complications such as preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and preterm birth (PTB). However, the pathologic effects of U. parvum in the cervix, which prevents ascending infections during pregnancy, are still poorly understood. To determine the impact of U. parvum on the cervix, ectocervical (ecto) and endocervical (endo) epithelial and stromal cells were incubated with U. parvum. Macrophages were also tested as a proxy for cervical macrophages to determine the antigenicity of U. parvum. The effects of U. parvum, including influence on cell cycle and cell death, antimicrobial peptide (AMP) production, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and inflammatory cytokine levels, were assessed. U. parvum colonized cervical epithelial and stromal cells 4 h post-infection. Like uninfected control, U. parvum neither inhibited cell cycle progression and nor caused cell death in cervical epithelial and stromal cells. U. parvum increased the production of the AMPs cathelicidin and human β-defensin 3 and exhibited weak signs of EMT evidenced by decreased cytokeratin 18 and increased vimentin expression in cervical epithelial cells. U. parvum induced a proinflammatory environment (cytokines) and increased MMP-9 in cervical epithelial cells but promoted pro- and anti-inflammatory response in cervical stromal cells and macrophages. U. parvum may colonize the cervical epithelial layer, but induction of AMPs and anti-inflammatory response may protect the cervix and may prevent ascending infections that can cause PTB. These findings suggest that U. parvum is a weak inducer of inflammation in the cervix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Talar Kechichian
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Kathleen L. Vincent
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Paul Mark B. Medina
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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