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Full-Text Articles in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Predicting And Monitoring Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy Using Artificial Intelligence In Pancreatic Cancer, Guangbo Yu, Zigeng Zhang, Aydin Eresen, Qiaoming Hou, Farideh Amirrad, Sha Webster, Surya M. Nauli, Vahid Yaghmai, Zhuoli Zhang Nov 2024

Predicting And Monitoring Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy Using Artificial Intelligence In Pancreatic Cancer, Guangbo Yu, Zigeng Zhang, Aydin Eresen, Qiaoming Hou, Farideh Amirrad, Sha Webster, Surya M. Nauli, Vahid Yaghmai, Zhuoli Zhang

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal cancers, primarily due to its late diagnosis and limited treatment options. This review examines the challenges and potential of using immunotherapy to treat pancreatic cancer, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as a promising tool to enhance early detection and monitor the effectiveness of these therapies. By synthesizing recent advancements and identifying gaps in the current research, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how AI and immunotherapy can be integrated to develop more personalized and effective treatment strategies. The insights from this review may guide future research efforts …


Hepatotoxicity Induced By Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, Flaviu Muresan, Olga Hilda Orasan, Angela Cozma, Madalina Daiana Bancos, Lorena Ciumarnean, Mircea Vasile Milaciu, Tinca Codruta Pocol, Nicoleta Valentina Leach, Teodora Gabriela Alexescu, Ovidiu Vasile Fabian, George Ciulei, Mirela Georgiana Perne Oct 2024

Hepatotoxicity Induced By Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, Flaviu Muresan, Olga Hilda Orasan, Angela Cozma, Madalina Daiana Bancos, Lorena Ciumarnean, Mircea Vasile Milaciu, Tinca Codruta Pocol, Nicoleta Valentina Leach, Teodora Gabriela Alexescu, Ovidiu Vasile Fabian, George Ciulei, Mirela Georgiana Perne

Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are an effective immunotherapeutic approach for cancers affecting the lung, skin, kidney, mammary gland, or certain hematologic malignancies. Regarding the prognosis of these oncological conditions, treatments with ICIs open new therapeutic perspectives with benefits for both patients and healthcare providers. A drawback of immune checkpoint inhibition is the occurrence of immune-related adverse events that can involve a wide range of organs, such as the liver. Given widespread usage of immunotherapy, the number of patients who suffer from this unwanted condition has increased. Hepatopathy induced by ICIs can be severe and can even lead to death. Detecting …


The Role Of Peptides In Combatting Hiv Infection: Applications And Insights, Naiera M. Helmy, Keykavous Parang Oct 2024

The Role Of Peptides In Combatting Hiv Infection: Applications And Insights, Naiera M. Helmy, Keykavous Parang

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Peptide-based inhibitors represent a promising approach for the treatment of HIV-1, offering a range of potential advantages, including specificity, low toxicity, and the ability to target various stages of the viral lifecycle. This review outlines the current state of research on peptide-based anti-HIV therapies, highlighting key advancements and identifying future research directions. Over the past few years, there has been significant progress in developing synthetic peptide-based drugs that target various stages of the viral life cycle, including entry and replication. These approaches aim to create effective anti-HIV therapies. Additionally, peptides have proven valuable in the development of anti-HIV vaccines. In …


A Tale Of Two Bills: Lessons Learned In Expanding Pharmacist-Led Hiv Pre-Exposure And Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, Jennifer M. Cocohoba, Jerika Lam, Maria Lopez, Betty J. Dong Oct 2024

A Tale Of Two Bills: Lessons Learned In Expanding Pharmacist-Led Hiv Pre-Exposure And Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, Jennifer M. Cocohoba, Jerika Lam, Maria Lopez, Betty J. Dong

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

"In December 2023, JACCP published a content analysis of state legislative bills focused on expanding pharmacist scope of practice to provide human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).1 All states permit pharmacists to prescribe under a collaborative practice agreement with approximately half of the states granting HIV PrEP and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) authority to prescribe either via legislation, standing orders, or statewide protocols.2-4 New York was the first state to expand pharmacists' specific authority for HIV prevention in 2017; however, California was the first state to pass legislation with Senate Bill 159 …


Biological Evaluation Of Anti-Cancer Activities Of Novel Small-Molecule Tubulin Polymerization Inhibitors In Prostate And Pancreatic Cancer, Rui Wang Oct 2024

Biological Evaluation Of Anti-Cancer Activities Of Novel Small-Molecule Tubulin Polymerization Inhibitors In Prostate And Pancreatic Cancer, Rui Wang

Alternative Theses and Dissertations (AETDs)

Colchicine binding site inhibitors (CBSIs) are an emerging class of microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) with promising potential for cancer therapy. Traditional MTAs like paclitaxel, docetaxel, and Cabazitaxel, are three FDA-approved taxanes for treating various cancers. Acquired chemoresistance and toxicities caused by chemotherapy are some of the main barriers that limit their clinical outcomes. More effective novel agents and therapeutic strategies are needed to overcome these challenges. Tremendous efforts have been made in discovering novel CBSIs and evaluating many cancer types, reporting their promising potential to treat both primary, resistant, and metastatic cancers including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma. …


A Mixed Methods Evaluation Of Pharmacists' Readiness To Provide Long-Acting Injectable Hiv Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis In California, Raiza Beltran, Lauren A. Hunter, Laura J. Packel, Loriann De Martini, Ian W. Holloway, Betty J. Dong, Jerika Lam, Sandra I. Mccoy, Ayako Miyashita Ochoa Oct 2024

A Mixed Methods Evaluation Of Pharmacists' Readiness To Provide Long-Acting Injectable Hiv Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis In California, Raiza Beltran, Lauren A. Hunter, Laura J. Packel, Loriann De Martini, Ian W. Holloway, Betty J. Dong, Jerika Lam, Sandra I. Mccoy, Ayako Miyashita Ochoa

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Background:

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake remains low among people who could benefit, some of whom may prefer alternatives to oral PrEP, such as long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (LAI-PrEP). We evaluated the potential for LAI-PrEP provision in pharmacies through a mixed methods study of pharmacists in California, where Senate Bill 159 enables pharmacists to independently provide oral PrEP.

Methods:

In 2022–2023, we conducted an online cross-sectional survey of California pharmacists and pharmacy students (n = 919) and in-depth interviews with pharmacists (n = 30), both of which included modules assessing attitudes about PrEP provision. Using log-binomial regression, we estimated prevalence ratios …


At A Crossroads: The Crucial Role Of Pharmacists In Healthcare Teams To End The Hiv Epidemic, Jerika Lam, Jennifer M. Cocohoba Sep 2024

At A Crossroads: The Crucial Role Of Pharmacists In Healthcare Teams To End The Hiv Epidemic, Jerika Lam, Jennifer M. Cocohoba

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

"Therapeutic advances in treatment and prevention have slowed the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic, yet the virus and complications related to it still claim an alarming 630,000 lives globally every year.1,2 The United States’ goals for the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative include reducing new infections by 90% by the year 2030 and advancing health equity through key treatment and prevention initiatives.3 Multiple agencies, professions, and patient groups are working diligently to achieve the EHE goals. Pharmacists have long recognized that our profession is a key resource in ending the HIV epidemic. We demonstrate this in the …


Targeting Ribosome Biogenesis Is A Novel Approach For The Management Of Pancreatic Cancer, Mudassier Ahmad, Haider Ahsan, Carlos Perez, Muhammad Bangash, Andrew Massey, Emmanuel Anning, Manish Tripathi, Dae Kim, Subhash C. Chauhan, Bilal Bin Hafeez Sep 2024

Targeting Ribosome Biogenesis Is A Novel Approach For The Management Of Pancreatic Cancer, Mudassier Ahmad, Haider Ahsan, Carlos Perez, Muhammad Bangash, Andrew Massey, Emmanuel Anning, Manish Tripathi, Dae Kim, Subhash C. Chauhan, Bilal Bin Hafeez

Research Colloquium

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States with limited therapeutic options available. Gemcitabine, a deoxycytidine nucleoside analog is currently considered the most effective therapy for PanCa. However, it shows only a marginal survival benefit of six months. Aberrant ribosome biogenesis occurs in most tumor types. We observed that PanCa cells are addicted to ribosome biogenesis, which supports their highly aggressive metastatic phenotypes. Thus, strategically targeting ribosome biogenesis process could be one of the ideal strategies for the prevention and treatment of PanCa. In this study, we elucidated the molecular mechanisms of POLR1A …


An Unusual Case Of Metronidazole-Induced Encephalopathy In A Patient With Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia, Tina H. Dao, Kinza Khan, Christopher D. Jackson Sep 2024

An Unusual Case Of Metronidazole-Induced Encephalopathy In A Patient With Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia, Tina H. Dao, Kinza Khan, Christopher D. Jackson

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives

Metronidazole-induced encephalopathy (MIE) is a rare toxic encephalopathy. We describe a reversible MIE case in a patient with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), treated with metronidazole for brain abscess, who developed dizziness, weakness, dysarthria, and severe dysmetria. His Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain revealed bilateral, symmetric lesions in bilateral symmetrical regions of increased intensity in the medullary olives, cerebellar dentate nuclei, and the dorsal pons, all characteristic of MIE. Upon metronidazole discontinuation, the patient experienced significant symptom improvement, with subsequent MRI showing resolution of the lesions


Preventive Effects Of Quercetin On The Leaky Gut By Suppression Of Il-1beta-Induced Transcription Factors Involved In An Inflammatory Pathway In Colonic Epithelial Cells, Wannaporn Chayalak, Sumpun Thammacharoen, Chatsri Deachapunya, Sutthasinee Poonyachoti Aug 2024

Preventive Effects Of Quercetin On The Leaky Gut By Suppression Of Il-1beta-Induced Transcription Factors Involved In An Inflammatory Pathway In Colonic Epithelial Cells, Wannaporn Chayalak, Sumpun Thammacharoen, Chatsri Deachapunya, Sutthasinee Poonyachoti

The Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine

Flavonol quercetin (Q), found in vegetables and fruits, demonstrates the most potent anti-inflammatory effect. The preventive effect and cellular mechanisms of Q (Q1, Q10, and Q100 µM) on IL-1β induced leaky gut via the signaling molecules of inflammatory pathway, NF-κB p65-iκB/or p38/ERK1/2/MLCK/phospho(p)-MLC were investigated in Caco-2 cells. The cytotoxic effect of Q was initially determined by MTT assay. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and apical-to-basolateral fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled dextran (FD-4) flux were used to determine paracellular permeability. The protein expression of signaling molecules was examined by Western blot analysis, and their target MLCK mRNA expression was determined using real-time PCR. All Q …


A Third Generation Long-Acting Dimeric Dolutegravir Prodrug Nanoformulation, Bhoomika Suresh Gowda Aug 2024

A Third Generation Long-Acting Dimeric Dolutegravir Prodrug Nanoformulation, Bhoomika Suresh Gowda

Theses & Dissertations

Dolutegravir (DTG) is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) widely used as a part of first-line combination antiretroviral therapy. DTG has a high barrier to resistance However, one therapeutic challenge centers on its life-long daily use. Sub-optimal adherence to daily oral pills underscore the need for long-acting formulations. To these ends, our research activities have focused on the development and translation of ultra-long-acting ART. Monomeric ester prodrugs provided initial success in extending the apparent half-life of DTG and other INSTIs. One is the DTG prodrug formulation called NM2DTG. NM2DTG’s significantly extended the parent drug’s apparent half-life [Nature Communications, 3226 (2022)]. …


Development Of A Novel Drug Delivery Platform To Treat Hiv-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder, Lina Zhou Aug 2024

Development Of A Novel Drug Delivery Platform To Treat Hiv-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder, Lina Zhou

Alternative Theses and Dissertations (AETDs)

Despite the significant reduction in HIV prevalence and improvement in life expectancy achieved through the availability of widespread antiretroviral therapy (ART), there remains no definitive cure for HIV. Further, HIV infects the brain as early as eight days after initial peripheral infection leading to neuroHIV and subsequently neuronal damage and cognitive impairment. HIV can enter the brain through several mechanisms, including the migration of infected immune cells (Trojan Horse Mechanism), direct infection of endothelial cells, and cytokine-mediated disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Consequently, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) remains a significant challenge in the ART era, with an estimated prevalence …


Diesel Exhaust Particles Alter Mitochondrial Bioenergetics And Camp Producing Capacity In Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells, Isabella Cattani-Cavalieri, Marina Trombetta-Lima, Hong Yan, Ana L. Manzano-Covarrubias, Hoeke A. Baarsma, Asmaa Oun, Melissa Mol Van Der Veen, Emily Oosterhout, Amalia M. Dolga, Rennolds S. Ostrom, Samuel Santos Valenca, Martina Schmidt Jul 2024

Diesel Exhaust Particles Alter Mitochondrial Bioenergetics And Camp Producing Capacity In Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells, Isabella Cattani-Cavalieri, Marina Trombetta-Lima, Hong Yan, Ana L. Manzano-Covarrubias, Hoeke A. Baarsma, Asmaa Oun, Melissa Mol Van Der Veen, Emily Oosterhout, Amalia M. Dolga, Rennolds S. Ostrom, Samuel Santos Valenca, Martina Schmidt

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Introduction: Air pollution from diesel combustion is linked in part to the generation of diesel exhaust particles (DEP). DEP exposure induces various processes, including inflammation and oxidative stress, which ultimately contribute to a decline in lung function. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling is critical for lung homeostasis. The impact of DEP on cAMP signaling is largely unknown.

Methods: We exposed human bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells to DEP for 24–72 h and evaluated mitochondrial bioenergetics, markers of oxidative stress and inflammation and the components of cAMP signaling. Mitochondrial bioenergetics was measured at 72 h to capture the potential and accumulative effects of …


Impact Of A Pharmacist-Led Hcv Treatment Program At A Federally Qualified Health Center, Jerika T. Lam, Sharon Xavioer Jul 2024

Impact Of A Pharmacist-Led Hcv Treatment Program At A Federally Qualified Health Center, Jerika T. Lam, Sharon Xavioer

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Pharmacists are key players who can help to eliminate the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic in the United States. This pilot retrospective study evaluated the impact of a pharmacist-led HCV treatment program in a federally qualified health center (FQHC) primary care clinic setting. The primary outcome was to assess sustained virologic response (SVR) rates 12 weeks after patients were initiated and completed their oral direct acting antiviral (DAA) treatment regimens. Methods: This pilot retrospective study included historical analyses of patients who received DAA treatment in the pharmacist-led HCV treatment program in a FQHC clinic between 1 January 2019 and 31 …


Data-Driven Drug Repurposing For Immune System-Related Diseases, Sabyasachi Mohanty Jul 2024

Data-Driven Drug Repurposing For Immune System-Related Diseases, Sabyasachi Mohanty

Department of Biochemistry: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

In this research, we explore a data-driven approach for drug repurposing to enhance the immunomodulatory effect by integrating pattern-based search and genome-scale metabolic modeling. This research helps to find a solution to the preexisting problems of drug discovery which includes expenses and a high amount of time consumption. By leveraging the pre-existing data of the approved drugs to identify the major metabolic pathway changes, we can find new drugs with similar effects with less off-target effects.

The focus on the immune system modulating drugs is due to the high prevalence of immune system-involved diseases and the growing demand for effective …


Hepatic Lrp-1 Plays An Important Role In Amyloidosis In Alzheimer's Disease Mice: Potential Role In Chronic Heavy Alcohol Feeding, Devaraj V. Chandrashekar, G. Chuli Roules, Nataraj Jagadeesan, Urvashi R. Panchal, Adenike Oyegbesan, Oghenetega E. Imiruaye, Hai Zhang, Jerome Garcia, Kamaljit Kaur, Sanda Win, Tin A. Than, Neil Kaplowitz, Moom R. Roosan, Derick Han, Rachita K. Sumbria Jun 2024

Hepatic Lrp-1 Plays An Important Role In Amyloidosis In Alzheimer's Disease Mice: Potential Role In Chronic Heavy Alcohol Feeding, Devaraj V. Chandrashekar, G. Chuli Roules, Nataraj Jagadeesan, Urvashi R. Panchal, Adenike Oyegbesan, Oghenetega E. Imiruaye, Hai Zhang, Jerome Garcia, Kamaljit Kaur, Sanda Win, Tin A. Than, Neil Kaplowitz, Moom R. Roosan, Derick Han, Rachita K. Sumbria

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Background

Hepatic lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1) plays a central role in peripheral amyloid beta (Aβ) clearance, but its importance in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology is understudied. Our previous work showed that intragastric alcohol feeding to C57BL/6 J mice reduced hepatic LRP-1 expression which correlated with significant AD-relevant brain changes. Herein, we examined the role of hepatic LRP-1 in AD pathogenesis in APP/PS1 AD mice using two approaches to modulate hepatic LRP-1, intragastric alcohol feeding to model chronic heavy drinking shown by us to reduce hepatic LRP-1, and hepato-specific LRP-1 silencing.

Methods

Eight-month-old male APP/PS1 mice were fed ethanol or …


Mechanistic Study Of Antimicrobial Effectiveness Of Cyclic Amphipathic Peptide [R4W4] Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Clinical Isolates, Ajayi David Akinwale, Keykavous Parang, Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, Jason Yamaki Jun 2024

Mechanistic Study Of Antimicrobial Effectiveness Of Cyclic Amphipathic Peptide [R4W4] Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Clinical Isolates, Ajayi David Akinwale, Keykavous Parang, Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, Jason Yamaki

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are being explored as a potential strategy to combat antibiotic resistance due to their ability to reduce susceptibility to antibiotics. This study explored whether the [R4W4] peptide mode of action is bacteriostatic or bactericidal using modified two-fold serial dilution and evaluating the synergism between gentamicin and [R4W4] against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by a checkered board assay. [R4W4] exhibited bactericidal activity against bacterial isolates (MBC/MIC ≤ 4), with a synergistic effect with gentamicin against E. coli (FICI = 0.3) but …


Effectiveness Of Empiric Carbapenem Versus Non-Carbapenem Therapy For Extended-Spectrum Β-Lactamase Producing Enterobacterales Infections In Non-Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Real-World Investigation In A Hospital With High-Prevalence Of Extended-Spectrum Β-Lactamase Producing Enterobacterales, Amy Y. Kang, Mary Elkomos, Danny Pham, Michelle Guerrero, Deborah Kupferwasser, Loren G. Miller Jun 2024

Effectiveness Of Empiric Carbapenem Versus Non-Carbapenem Therapy For Extended-Spectrum Β-Lactamase Producing Enterobacterales Infections In Non-Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Real-World Investigation In A Hospital With High-Prevalence Of Extended-Spectrum Β-Lactamase Producing Enterobacterales, Amy Y. Kang, Mary Elkomos, Danny Pham, Michelle Guerrero, Deborah Kupferwasser, Loren G. Miller

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Objective:

To investigate whether empiric carbapenem therapy, compared to empiric non-carbapenem therapy, was associated with improved clinical outcomes among hospitalized, non-intensive care unit (ICU) patients with extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales infections.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adult, non-ICU patients admitted with ESBL-producing Enterobacterales infections. Primary outcome was time to clinical stability from the first empiric antibiotic dose. Secondary outcomes were early clinical response and 30-day all-cause hospital readmission. We used multivariate regression methods to examine time to clinical stability.

Results:

Of the 142 patients, 59 (42%) received empiric carbapenems and 83 (58%) received empiric …


Perceptions Of Metabolic Syndrome Management Utilization In Relation To Patient Experience And Health-Related Quality Of Life, Olajide Adekunle, Jon C. Schommer, Yun Wang, Ismaeel Yunusa, Marc L. Fleming, Enrique Seoane-Vazquez, Lawrence M. Brown May 2024

Perceptions Of Metabolic Syndrome Management Utilization In Relation To Patient Experience And Health-Related Quality Of Life, Olajide Adekunle, Jon C. Schommer, Yun Wang, Ismaeel Yunusa, Marc L. Fleming, Enrique Seoane-Vazquez, Lawrence M. Brown

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Background

One factor for the poor health outcomes among adult people with metabolic syndrome (MetS) is poor utilization of disease management resources, which may be attributable to prior experience with pharmacists (PEwP) and perceptions of disease management resource utilization (PMU). Therefore, understanding patients' experience could be critical to improving their perceptions and promoting health outcomes.

Objectives

The study explored the influence of PEwP and PMU on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of people with MetS.

Methods

Data on perceptions of healthcare, medication, and pharmacy services utilization, PEwP, and HRQoL were collected using validated tools via an electronic survey. Chi-square …


Zinc-Containing Over-The-Counter Product Causing Sideroblastic Anemia And Neutropenia, Marshall Patrick Stagg, Jennifer Miatech, Baseera Majid, Ravali Polala May 2024

Zinc-Containing Over-The-Counter Product Causing Sideroblastic Anemia And Neutropenia, Marshall Patrick Stagg, Jennifer Miatech, Baseera Majid, Ravali Polala

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Sideroblastic anemia is characterized by anemia, granulocytopenia, and bone marrow findings of vacuolated precursors and ringed sideroblasts. Zinc-induced copper deficiency can present as sideroblastic anemia and neutropenia. We report the case of a previously healthy 74-year-old female who presented with newly discovered sideroblastic anemia as a result of an over-the-counter oral vitamin and mineral supplement. Serum analysis revealed increased zinc levels, decreased copper levels, and a decrease in ceruloplasmin. Bone marrow evaluation revealed ringed sideroblasts and cytoplasmic vacuolization in myeloid precursors. She demonstrated improvement in her hematologic profile with discontinuation of the over-the-counter product and administration of oral copper supplementation. …


Translational Pathways For Ultra Long-Acting Medicines For Chronic Disease: From Hiv To Substance Use Disorders, Suyash Sanjay Deodhar May 2024

Translational Pathways For Ultra Long-Acting Medicines For Chronic Disease: From Hiv To Substance Use Disorders, Suyash Sanjay Deodhar

Theses & Dissertations

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and opioid use disorder (OUD) are among the top global public health challenges, with a significant overlap in the number of cases and higher mortality risks compared to the general population. Treatment and recreational opioid use lead to addictive disorders. Both conditions require repeated dosing of therapy where adherence to a strict lifelong regimen remains a major challenge. Notably, people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and struggling with opioid use disorders (OUD) show suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). Also, the risk of transmitting HIV and other blood-borne infections through the sharing of needles and other injection …


Development Of Long-Acting Antiviral And Antimicrobial Prodrug Nanoformulations, Srijanee Das May 2024

Development Of Long-Acting Antiviral And Antimicrobial Prodrug Nanoformulations, Srijanee Das

Theses & Dissertations

Over the past decade, the global burden of infectious diseases has increased substantively, underscoring the need for more effective treatment strategies. However, the discovery and development of new drugs with desirable safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy is a time consuming and costly process with great uncertainty around success rate. As an alternative to new drug development, prodrugs and novel drug delivery systems have increasingly been explored. Both serve to overcome the drug development challenges. Such drug formulations that permit extended dosing intervals of potent native drugs serve multiple purposes by promoting patient adherence to in improving treatment outcomes. This is especially …


What Stigmas Still Exist For Weight Loss Medications?, Abdullah Panah, Philip Collins Do May 2024

What Stigmas Still Exist For Weight Loss Medications?, Abdullah Panah, Philip Collins Do

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background and Hypothesis:

Medications for weight loss are becoming far more common as more tolerable formulas have come to the market with some medications offering results almost on par with bariatric surgery. However, studies show a stigma still persists around the discussion and perception around using weight loss medications. The authors of this study hypothesized that one of the biggest hurdles patients face for weight loss medications are the stigmas associated with taking these medicines and approaching the topic.

Methods:

This was a survey-based project that consisted of an anonymous, voluntary questionnaire which was provided to patients during their regular …


Neoadjuvant Versus Adjuvant Therapy For Stage Iiib-Iiid Melanoma, Bhumik Patel, Sangnya Upadhyaya May 2024

Neoadjuvant Versus Adjuvant Therapy For Stage Iiib-Iiid Melanoma, Bhumik Patel, Sangnya Upadhyaya

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

The treatment landscape for advanced stage melanoma is rapidly evolving due to advancements in our understanding of melanoma biology and the emergence of novel therapies. This necessitates a comprehensive review to guide clinicians in adopting evidence based and patient centric approaches to treat stage IIIB-IIID melanoma. A literature review was conducted to synthesize current information on the most optimal treatment available. Data available from different clinical trials found that neoadjuvant therapy was a more effective treatment compared to adjuvant therapies alone. Furthermore, neoadjuvant therapy with combination therapy was more efficacious in producing a complete pathological response compared to monotherapy. A …


Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Role Of Pnpla3 And Its Association With Environmental Chemicals, Shakil A. Saghir, Ata Abbas, Saleh Alfuraih, Ajay Sharma, Jean Latimer, Yadollah Omidi, Rais Ansari May 2024

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Role Of Pnpla3 And Its Association With Environmental Chemicals, Shakil A. Saghir, Ata Abbas, Saleh Alfuraih, Ajay Sharma, Jean Latimer, Yadollah Omidi, Rais Ansari

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

Globally, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise with 30-32%, 27-33%, 35-48%, 36%, 9-20%, and 36-38% prevalence in Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and Australia, respectively. Approximately, 5-10% of NAFLD proceeds to hepatitis called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH often progresses to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Precise mechanism(s) for the development of HCC is not fully understood in NAFLD and NASH patients. Higher insulin levels in type 2 diabetes (T2D) can result in lipolysis of adipose tissue activating lipid synthesizing enzymes such as fatty acid synthase and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1, resulting in lipid accumulation in …


Targeting Coenzyme A Biosynthesis For Antifungal Development., Jessica Regan May 2024

Targeting Coenzyme A Biosynthesis For Antifungal Development., Jessica Regan

Theses and Dissertations (ETD)

An estimated 1.5 million people die each year from invasive fungal infections (IFIs) involving dissemination to the deeper organs via the bloodstream, with estimated healthcare costs of over $7 billion in the U.S. alone. Collectively, several Candida species account for more than 75% of disseminated fungal infections in the U.S., with attributable mortality rates ranging 35-75%. Unfortunately, the prospect of curing these infections is limited by the modest efficacy of the available antifungal drugs: the azoles, echinocandins, and amphotericin B. Approximately one-third of patients with disseminated Candida infections are non-responsive to treatment with the azoles, and favorable response rates are …


Management Of Keloid-Associated Pruritus With Topical Crisaborole 2% Ointment: A Case Report, Daniel A. Nguyen, Elizabeth Thai Ms, Stephen E. Weis Apr 2024

Management Of Keloid-Associated Pruritus With Topical Crisaborole 2% Ointment: A Case Report, Daniel A. Nguyen, Elizabeth Thai Ms, Stephen E. Weis

HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine

Introduction

The pathophysiology of keloid formation is poorly understood, and current treatments, including intralesional corticosteroids, cryotherapy, and surgery, are often associated with high resistance to treatment and recurrence. The multifactorial pathogenesis of keloid formation suggests that aberrant inflammatory cytokine signaling associated with keratinocyte dysregulation may contribute to keloid-associated pruritus.

Case Presentation

In this paper, we report 2 cases of keloid-associated pruritus that were successfully treated with topical crisaborole 2% ointment, a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. Both patients had previously undergone multiple unsuccessful treatments before being treated with crisaborole 2% ointment. In both cases, the patients experienced complete relief of pruritus …


Education Of The Effects Of Obesity Medications And A Stepwise Approach To Mitigate Prevalence And Encourage Lifestyle Medicine For Primary Care Physicians, Kiely M. Curran Apr 2024

Education Of The Effects Of Obesity Medications And A Stepwise Approach To Mitigate Prevalence And Encourage Lifestyle Medicine For Primary Care Physicians, Kiely M. Curran

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

My Capstone project is an Educational Manual that emphasizes a healthcare team approach to the treatment and management of obesity. The Educational Manual consists of a standardized protocol in management of obesity in patients and a document with summarized references for primary care providers; and a simplified document for patient education. There is a growing interest in the usage of obesity medications. The purpose of my Capstone project is to provide a simplified manual for the primary care provider to reference to make knowledgeable and patient-centered decisions in the prescription of obesity medications and decisions in weight-management. My methodology included …


Broad-Spectrum Activity Of Membranolytic Cationic Macrocyclic Peptides Against Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria And Fungi, Sandeep Lohan, Anastasia G. Konshina, Rakesh K. Tiwari, Roman G. Efremov, Innokentiy Maslennikov, Keykavous Parang Apr 2024

Broad-Spectrum Activity Of Membranolytic Cationic Macrocyclic Peptides Against Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria And Fungi, Sandeep Lohan, Anastasia G. Konshina, Rakesh K. Tiwari, Roman G. Efremov, Innokentiy Maslennikov, Keykavous Parang

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains causes severe problems in the treatment of microbial infections owing to limited treatment options. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are drawing considerable attention as promising antibiotic alternative candidates to combat MDR bacterial and fungal infections. Herein, we present a series of small amphiphilic membrane-active cyclic peptides composed, in part, of various nongenetically encoded hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids. Notably, lead cyclic peptides 3b and 4b showed broad-spectrum activity against drug-resistant Gram-positive (MIC = 1.5–6.2 µg/mL) and Gram-negative (MIC = 12.5–25 µg/mL) bacteria, and fungi (MIC = 3.1–12.5 µg/mL). Furthermore, lead peptides displayed substantial antibiofilm action comparable …


Evaluating The Effect Of Skipping Ticagrelor Doses And Need For Bolus Doses Upon Treatment Resumption Through Population Pk/Pd Simulation, Hiroyoshi Matsui, Le Thien Truc Pham, Eyob D. Adane Apr 2024

Evaluating The Effect Of Skipping Ticagrelor Doses And Need For Bolus Doses Upon Treatment Resumption Through Population Pk/Pd Simulation, Hiroyoshi Matsui, Le Thien Truc Pham, Eyob D. Adane

ONU Student Research Colloquium

Ticagrelor (Brilinta (R)) is the first reversibly binding oral P2Y12 receptor antagonist. It is used, mostly in combination with aspirin, in patients with acute coronary syndromes to reduce thrombosis. The manufacturer of ticagrelor recommends discontinuing it at least 5 days before any surgery when possible. While the effect of dose interruptions on the risk of thrombosis is not directly studied, it is important to understand the impact of skipping doses on ticagrelor's PK/PD profile for clinical-decision making. The objectives of the current study were to simulate the impact of therapy interruption on the PK/PD of ticagrelor and examine the need …