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Davalos V, Dopeso H, Velho S, Ferreira AM, Cirnes L, Díaz-Chico N, Bilbao C, Ramírez R, Rodríguez G, Falcón O, León L, Niessen RC, Keller G, Dallenbach-Hellweg G, Espín E, Armengol M, Plaja A, Perucho M, Imai K, Yamamoto H, Gebert JF, Díaz-Chico JC, Hofstra RM, Woerner SM, Seruca R, Schwartz S, Arango D. High EPHB2 mutation rate in gastric but not endometrial tumors with microsatellite instability. Oncogene 2006; 26:308-11. [PMID: 16819508 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1209780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The EPH/EFN family of receptor tyrosine kinases regulates cell adhesion and migration and has an important role in controlling cell positioning in the normal intestinal epithelium. Inactivation of EPHB2 has recently been shown to accelerate tumorigenesis in the colon and rectum, and we have previously demonstrated frequent frameshift mutations (41%) in an A9 coding microsatellite repeat in exon 17 of EPHB2 in colorectal tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). In this study, we extended these analyses to extracolonic MSI cancers, and found frameshift EPHB2 mutations in 39% (25/64) of gastric tumors and 14% (8/56) of endometrial tumors. Regression analysis of these EPHB2 mutation data on the basis of our previously proposed statistical model identified EPHB2 as a selective target of frameshift mutations in MSI gastric cancers but not in MSI endometrial carcinomas. These results suggest a functional role for EPHB2 in gastric tumor progression, and emphasize the differences between the tumorigenic processes in MSI gastrointestinal and endometrial cancer.
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Brandão GP, Ferreira AM, Melo MN, Vitor RWA. Characterization ofToxoplasma gondiifrom domestic animals from Minas Gerais, Brazil. Parasite 2006; 13:143-9. [PMID: 16800123 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2006132143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In an attempt to isolate and characterize Toxoplasma gondii from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, musculature samples from 72 pigs, 25 dogs, 28 free-range chickens and 50 chickens produced in industrialized farms were collected. Antibodies to T. gondii have not been detected in pigs, but were found in nine (40.9 %) out of 22 dogs, and in 15 (53.6 %) of 28 free range chickens. T. gondii was not isolated from pigs and industrialized chickens, but from eight dogs and 11 free range chickens. In order to determine T. gondii virulence, female BALB/c mice were inoculated with 10(3), 10(2), 10(1) and 10(0) tachyzoites of the 19 isolates. The strains RH (virulent) and ME49 (non-virulent) were used as references. Isolates were divided into three groups according to the virulence phenotype: five isolates were classified into virulent in mice, one into non-virulent and 13 into intermediate virulent. Nested-PCR of T. gondii SAG2 locus amplified DNA from 21 out of 22 DNA samples directly extracted from heart of free range chickens. These samples were genotyped through a PCR-RFLP assay. Seventeen (80.9 %) were classified into type I; one (4.8 %) into type III and three (14.3 %) into type I or II.
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Vaz FS, Ferreira AM, Kulkarni MS, Motghare DD. Sexual risk behaviors and HIV/AIDS awareness among males in a rural community in Goa. THE JOURNAL OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES 2006; 38:74-8. [PMID: 17370692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
To study the heterosexual risk behaviors and to study the level of HIV/ AIDS awareness among males in a rural community in Goa. Survey was cross-sectional and community based. A sample of 300 males aged 15-49 years selected by stratified random sampling. An "UNAIDS protocol for measurement of HIV/STD prevention indicators" was used. SPSS software package was used for statistical analysis. One hundred and ninety eight (66%) males reported ever having sexual intercourse, of these 17% were single. Fifty three (17.7%) males reported intercourse with a non-regular partner in the past 12 months, of these 90.6% had intercourse with strangers, 92.5% had paid for sex and only 43.4% had used a condom for the last sexual encounter with a non-regular partner. Less educated males (<10th class), single and those employed have higher sexual indulgence with non-regular sexual partners. The level of knowledge about HIV/ AIDS was very high in all areas of causation and prevention. Although the awareness about sexual risk behavior was high, condom use was very low resulting in high risk behavior related to HIV/ AIDS and STDs among males. The study highlights the need for more effective behaviour change communication (BCC) strategies in the community as well as innovative methods like village level peer education.
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Vaz FS, Ferreira AM. Prevalence of reproductive tract infections in rural Goa. THE JOURNAL OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES 2005; 37:163-4. [PMID: 16749284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
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Camargo LSA, Viana JHM, Sá WF, Ferreira AM, Vale Filho VR. Developmental competence of oocytes from prepubertal Bos indicus crossbred cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2005; 85:53-9. [PMID: 15556308 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2004.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2003] [Revised: 03/22/2004] [Accepted: 04/05/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of age on embryogenic competence of oocytes recovered from Bos indicus crossbred calves and heifers. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from 4- to 7-month-old calves (experiment 1) and from 9- to 14-month-old heifers (experiment 2) during processing at an abattoir. In both experiments cow COCs were used as control. COCs were in vitro matured and fertilized, and the presumptive zygotes co-cultured with cumulus cells until 224 h post insemination (hpi). In experiment 1, the development rate during the first 68-72 hpi was similar (P > 0.05) between embryos derived from calves and cows. Fewer embryos from calves developed to the blastocyst stage, resulting in a lesser blastocyst production as well as lesser hatching rate (P < 0.05). The embryo development after blastocyst stage was, nevertheless, similar (P > 0.05) between blastocysts derived from calves and cows, suggesting that the development after blastocoele formation is not compromised in embryos derived from calves. In experiment 2, there were no differences (P > 0.05) on cleavage, blastocyst and hatching rates between embryos derived from prepubertal heifers and cows. The rate of blastocyst development until hatching was also similar (P > 0.05). These results indicate that oocytes from 9- to 14-month-old B. indicus crossbred heifers have the same developmental competence as oocytes derived from cows, while ocytes derived from 4- to 7-month-old B. indicus crossbred calves are less competent in developing to the blastocyst stage in vitro. It suggests that oocyte competence in B. indicus crossbred cattle is achieved around 9-14 months of age.
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Ferreira AM, Diaz A, Fernandez C, Sim RB. Assessment of in vivo complement activation on the Echinococcus granulosus hydatid cyst wall. Parasite Immunol 2001; 23:655-8. [PMID: 11737668 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3024.2001.00424.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The larval stage of the parasite Echinococcus granulosus causes hydatid disease. The hydatid cyst is potentially capable of activating host complement, since it is a large, persistent, carbohydrate-rich structure, coated with host immunoglobulins, and localized in the host's internal organs. Nonetheless, in vitro studies have suggested that the cyst surface, the hydatid cyst wall (HCW), is a poor complement activator. In this study, we assessed the occurrence of in vivo complement activation on the hydatid cyst by measuring the levels of two complement activation products, C3d and complexes bearing a C9 activation neoepitope (TCC/MAC), in extracts from HCW of human origin. Low amounts of C3d and TCC/MAC were found in HCW in comparison with their levels in normal human plasma and activated human sera, suggesting that in vivo complement activation on HCW is efficiently down-regulated. This regulation may contribute to limit host inflammation which has been observed to correlate with parasite degeneration and death.
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Ferreira AM, Martins MS, Vitor RW. Virulence for BALB/c mice and antigenic diversity of eight Toxoplasma gondii strains isolated from animals and humans in Brazil. Parasite 2001; 8:99-105. [PMID: 11474987 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2001082099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
With the purpose of establishing alternative parameters to determine the virulence of Toxoplasma gondii strains, the antigenic diversity of eight strains of the parasite isolated in Brazil was evaluated. BALB/c mice were inoculated i.p. with 10(0), 10(1), 10(2) and 10(3) tachyzoites from each strain. The mortality and time to death of the animals showed that T. gondii strains may be divided in three groups: three strains resulted in 100% of mortality, 5-10 days post inoculation (DPI); three strains resulted in 100% of mortality, 7-19 DPI and brain cysts were observed in the mice which were inoculated; two strains resulted in 0% of mortality, 30 DPI. The analysis of the antigenic profile of different T. gondii strains through Western blotting, using rabbit antiserum to T. gondii, revealed that most antigens are similar to all strains. The mAb 4C3H4 recognized antigens only in the RH, N, AS28 and ME49 strains.
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Ferreira AM, Suzart S, Vidotto O, Knowles DP, Vidotto MC. Use of repetitive DNA elements to define genetic relationships among Anaplasma marginale isolates. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2001; 197:139-43. [PMID: 11313126 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2001.tb10595.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma marginale genomic DNA was tested for the presence of repetitive extragenic palindromic (REP) and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-like sequences in order to evaluate the genetic diversity of multiple A. marginale isolates. A. marginale isolates were obtained from cattle of six different states of Brazil, from the US and an Anaplasma centrale strain was obtained from Uruguay. Patterns obtained from A. marginale isolates varied from 14 to 17 fragments by REP-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and 6 to 14 fragments by ERIC-PCR. All A. marginale isolates presented a 0.75-kb fragment by REP and two common fragments (0.38 and 1.0 kb) by ERIC-PCR. These two fragments were not detectable in A. centrale. Both methods produced similar patterns (80%) among A. marginale isolates obtained from the same region, although some isolates within regions shared less similarity. Isolates from Parana and Pernambuco, were differentiated by these methods. The study demonstrates the presence of ERIC and REP-like elements in A. marginale isolates and shows that A. marginale isolates and strains can be differentiated by these methods.
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Giorgini E, Fisberg M, De Paula RA, Ferreira AM, Valle J, Braga JA. The use of sweet rolls fortified with iron bis-glycinate chelate in the prevention of iron deficiency anemia in preschool children. ARCHIVOS LATINOAMERICANOS DE NUTRICION 2001; 51:48-53. [PMID: 11688082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
The effectiveness of bread fortified with iron bis-glycinate chelate for the control of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia was evaluated in 89 preschool children from families of low socioeconomic level attending 2 day nurseries of the Sao Paulo City Council. During the intervention's time of 6 months the children received besides their usual center's diet, a daily supplement of two sweet rolls fortified with 2 mg each of iron from the chelate for a total daily iron intake of 4 mg. After six months of intervention there was a significant decrease in the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia from 62 to 22%. There was a mean hemoglobin improvement of 1.1 g/dL, and in children with initial hemoglobin levels < 11 g/dL the mean increase in hemoglobin was 1.42 g/dL. The total mean plasma ferritin values increased from 11.34 to 20.2 micrograms/L, and in those children originally iron depleted the ferritin values normalized. A significant increase in the "z" score for weight/height was also observed. We concluded that the use of sweet rolls fortified with 2 mg of iron from the bis-glycinate chelate is highly effective for the control of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in young children.
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Azulay RD, Queiroz CM, Ferreira AM, de Oliveira-Neto MP. An interesting outbreak of leishmaniasis in a family in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Int J Dermatol 2001; 40:79-80. [PMID: 11277964 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-4362.2001.00967-2.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Rocha ME, Ferreira AM, Bechara EJ. Roles of phosphate and an enoyl radical in ferritin iron mobilization by 5-aminolevulinic acid. Free Radic Biol Med 2000; 29:1272-9. [PMID: 11118817 DOI: 10.1016/s0891-5849(00)00437-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
5-Aminolevulinic acid (ALA), a heme precursor that accumulates in acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) and lead poisoning, undergoes enolization and subsequent iron-catalyzed oxidation at neutral pH. Iron is released from horse spleen ferritin (HoSF) by both ALA-generated O(2)(.-) and enoyl radical (ALA(z.rad)), which amplifies the chain of ALA oxidation (autocatalysis). Iron chelators such as EDTA, ATP, but not citrate, and phosphate accelerate this process and ALA-promoted iron release from HoSF is faster in horse spleen isoferritins containing larger amounts of phosphate in the core. ALA (+0.377 V versus standard hydrogen electrode) is less effective in releasing iron from ferritin than are thioglycollic acid, 6-hydroxydopamine, and N,N,N', N'-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine. During electrochemical one electron oxidation of ALA in a nitrogen atmosphere, spin trapping experiments with 3,5-dibromo-4-nitrosobenzenesulfonic acid demonstrated the formation of a spin adduct characterized by a six line signal, indicating a secondary carbon-centered radical and attributed to a resonant ALA&z.rad; radical. Iron is also released in such anaerobic electrochemical oxidations of ALA in the presence of ferritin, suggesting that, in addition to O(2)(*-), ALA&z.rad; can promote iron mobilization from ferritin. Hence, ALA&z.rad; may amplify the metal-catalyzed oxidation of ALA, damaging ALA-accumulating cells and possibly contributing to the symptoms of porphyria.
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Ferreira AM, Clemente V, Gozal D, Gomes A, Pissarra C, César H, Coelho I, Silva CF, Azevedo MH. Snoring in Portuguese primary school children. Pediatrics 2000; 106:E64. [PMID: 11061801 DOI: 10.1542/peds.106.5.e64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of snoring and its potential associations with sleep problems, such as daytime symptoms, medical conditions, school performance, and behavioral disturbances in Portuguese children attending primary school. METHODS A previously validated questionnaire was sent to the parents of 1381 children attending primary schools in a parish of Coimbra, Portugal. To assess behavioral disturbances, the Portuguese version of Rutter's Children's Behavior Questionnaire for completion by teachers was used. RESULTS Of the 988 questionnaires returned (71.5%), complete information concerning snoring was obtained for 976 children (496 girls and 480 boys; mean age: 8.1 +/- 1.5 years). Loud snoring during sleep was reported as frequent or constantly present (LSn) in 84 children (8.6%), as occasionally present in 299 children (30.6%), and as never present (NSn) by 593 children (60.8%). The LSn and NSn groups did not differ with respect to age, gender, sleep duration, time to fall asleep, frequency of night wakings, bedwetting, daytime tiredness, and school achievement. However, LSn was significantly associated with increased bedtime problems (fears and struggles), increased need for comforting activities to fall asleep, behaviors suggestive of parasomnias (sleep talking, teeth grinding, and night terrors), increased daytime sleepiness and irritability, and behavioral disturbances. Children in the LSn group were also more likely to report recurrent medical problems particularly those involving infections of the respiratory tract. CONCLUSIONS Snoring is a common symptom in Portuguese children that is associated with behavioral daytime and sleep time disturbances. Children with loud snoring may benefit from early evaluation and intervention.
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Irabuena O, Nieto A, Ferreira AM, Battistoni J, Ferragut G. Characterization and optimization of bovine Echinococcus granulosus cyst fluid to be used in immunodiagnosis of hydatid disease by ELISA. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2000; 42:255-62. [PMID: 11058935 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652000000500004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work was to assess the influence in the diagnostic value for human hydatid disease of the composition of bovine hydatid cyst fluid (BHCF) obtained from fertile (FC) and non-fertile cysts (NFC). Eight batches from FC and 5 from NFC were prepared and analysed with respect to chemical composition: total protein, host-derived protein, carbohydrate and lipid contents. No differences were observed in the first two parameters but carbohydrate and lipid contents were shown to be higher in batches from FC than in those from NFC. Bands of 38 and 116 kD in SDS-PAGE profiles were observed to be present in BHCF from FC only. Two pools were prepared from BHCF batches obtained from FC (PFC) and NFC (PNFC), respectively. Antigen recognition patterns were analysed by immunoblot. Physicochemical conditions for adsorption of antigens to the polystyrene surface (ELISA plates) were optimized. The diagnostic value of both types of BHCF as well as the diagnostic relevance of oxidation of their carbohydrate moieties with periodate were assessed by ELISA using 42 serum samples from hydatid patients, 41 from patients with other disorders, and 15 from healthy donors. Reactivity of all sera against native antigen were tested with and without free phosphorylcholine. The best diagnostic efficiency was observed using BHCF from periodate-treated PFC using glycine buffer with strong ionic strength to coat ELISA plates.
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Ferreira AM, Breijo M, Sim RB, Nieto A. Contribution of C5-mediated mechanisms to host defence against Echinococcus granulosus hydatid infection. Parasite Immunol 2000; 22:445-53. [PMID: 10972851 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3024.2000.00323.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to investigate the contribution of complement C5-mediated mechanisms, with an emphasis on inflammation, to host defences against Echinococcus granulosus hydatid disease. Thus, we compared the systemic and local inflammatory responses induced by the parasite, and the outcome of infection, between congenic C5-sufficient (B10.D2 n/SnJ) and C5-deficient (B10.D2 o/SnJ) mice challenged with protoscoleces. Indirect evidence of in-vivo complement activation during the establishment phase was obtained; infection induced serum amyloid P and eosinophil responses which were dependent on C5. Early recruitment of polymorphonuclear cells was not dependent on the presence of C5. The higher capacity of C5-sufficient mice to recruit eosinophils was also observed during the cystic phase of infection, and mice recruiting more eosinophils developed lower parasite masses. Analysis of the outcome of infection after 8 months showed that C5-sufficient mice were more resistant to infection than C5-deficient mice in terms of individuals with no cysts; this trend was not statistically significant. In addition, C5-deficient mice developed higher numbers of large (> 5 mm in diameter) cysts and higher cyst weights than C5-sufficient mice indicating that C5-mediated mechanisms are detrimental for parasite growth. Taken together, our results suggest that complement, through C5-mediated effectors, contributes to host defences by both restricting the establishment of infection and controlling the growth of established cysts. This contribution may, at least partially, be associated with the ability of C5a to promote eosinophil infiltration.
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Ferreira AM, Dos Santos ML, Pereira EM, Damasceno MO, Alves WA. Mimics of copper proteins: structural and functional aspects. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2000; 72:51-7. [PMID: 10932104 DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652000000100007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of copper as an essential element can be estimated by the wide range of copper proteins and enzymes playing different roles in biological systems. In the last decades many bioinorganic studies were developed on mimetic complexes of copper-dependent proteins, in order to verify the interrelations between structural and functional properties of active copper centers. Among the most studied copper ion ligand, diimine compounds have deserved special attention due their flexibility, facility of preparation, and ability to stabilize both oxidation states of this metal. In our laboratory, we have been investigating some Schiff base copper complexes as mimics of different proteins, with emphasis on functional aspects, trying to elucidate mechanisms of reaction, based on proposed intermediary species, in addition to molecular shapes. Particularly, mimics of the copper-zinc superoxide dismutase, and of monooxigenases and oxidases exhibiting dicopper sites are discussed in this work.
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Ferreira AM, Irigoín F, Breijo M, Sim RB, Diáz A. How Echinococcus granulosus deals with complement. PARASITOLOGY TODAY (PERSONAL ED.) 2000; 16:168-72. [PMID: 10725905 DOI: 10.1016/s0169-4758(99)01625-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Here, Ana Mar a Ferreira and colleagues discuss the interplay between the larval stages of Echinococcus granulosus and an important effector arm of immunity: the host complement system. During early infection, the parasite activates complement, and hence complement-dependent inflammatory responses. However, on differentiation into the hydatid cyst, the parasite exposes to the host a structure - the cyst wall - that does not activate complement strongly. Mechanisms inhibiting complement activation on the cyst wall have been elucidated, contributing to the understanding of how this large, persistent, tissue-dwelling pathogen controls the inflammatory response.
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Ferreira MJ, Ferreira AM, Soares AP, Rodrigues JC. Laugier-Hunziker syndrome: case report and treatment with the Q-switched Nd-Yag laser. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 1999. [PMID: 10343950 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.1999.tb01011.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a 46-year-old Caucasian female presenting with mucocutaneous pigmentation on the lips, oral mucosa, hands, feet and nails, as well as on a psoriatic plaque. She was successfully treated with Q-switched Nd-Yag laser, with double frequency, for both the mucosal and cutaneous lesions.
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Bonini MG, Radi R, Ferrer-Sueta G, Ferreira AM, Augusto O. Direct EPR detection of the carbonate radical anion produced from peroxynitrite and carbon dioxide. J Biol Chem 1999; 274:10802-6. [PMID: 10196155 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.274.16.10802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological effects of peroxynitrite have been recently considered to be largely dependent on its reaction with carbon dioxide, which is present in high concentrations in intra- and extracellular compartments. Peroxynitrite anion (ONOO-) reacts rapidly with carbon dioxide, forming an adduct, nitrosoperoxocarboxylate (ONOOCO2-), whose decomposition has been proposed to produce reactive intermediates such as the carbonate radical (CO-3). Here, by the use of rapid mixing continuous flow electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), we directly detected the carbonate radical in flow mixtures of peroxynitrite with bicarbonate-carbon dioxide over the pH range of 6-9. The radical was unambiguously identified by its EPR parameters (g = 2.0113; line width = 5.5 G) and by experiments with bicarbonate labeled with 13C. In this case, the singlet EPR signal obtained with 12C bicarbonate splits into the expected doublet because of 13C (a(13C)= 11.7 G). The singlet spectrum of the unlabeled radical was invariant between pH 6 and 9, confirming that in this pH range the detected radical is the carbonate radical anion (CO-3). Importantly, in addition to contributing to the understanding of nitrosoperoxocarboxylate decomposition pathways, this is the first report unambiguously demonstrating the formation of the carbonate radical anion at physiological pHs by direct EPR spectroscopy.
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Fernandes JV, Braz RDF, Neto FV, da Silva MA, da Costa NF, Ferreira AM. [Prevalence of serologic markers of hepatitis B virus in hospital personnel]. Rev Saude Publica 1999; 33:122-8. [PMID: 10413929 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101999000200003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To verify the prevalence of the anti-HBc, anti-HBs and HBsAg markers of hepatitis B virus, and to identify the risk factors determining occupational infection with this virus among hospital personnel. METHODS Samples of serum from 210 persons both male and female who work in different occupations at a hospital university, were analysed. The technique employed was the immunoenzymatic assay using commercial kits. RESULTS As a control group, samples of serum from 45 volunteer blood donors were utilized. It was verified that 20.5% of the hospital personnel presented a positive reaction to at least one of the markers songht, as against 6.6% of the control group. The prevalence of each marker separately was: anti-HBc 8.1%, anti-HBs 5.2%, and HBsAg 2.9% in the hospital personnel; and 4.4%, 2.2% and 0.0% in the control group. The simultaneous presence of the anti-HBc and anti-HBs markers was detected in 4.3% of the workers. In the control group, the presence of the anti-HBc and anti-HBs markers was detected, isolately, with respective prevalences of 4.4% and 2.2%. Those who presented the highest rates of positivite reaction were: laboratory technicians 24.0%, nurses 23.6%, physicians 20.8%, and cleaning personnel 18.2%. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that direct contact with patients and handling of blood and other body fluids are risk factors related to occupational infection with HBV. Therefore, it is recommended that hospital personnel be vaccinated against hepatitis B.
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Vitor RW, Ferreira AM, Fux B. Antibody response in goats experimentally infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Vet Parasitol 1999; 81:259-63. [PMID: 10190869 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4017(98)00251-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Serum samples of five goats inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii were analyzed using the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect hemagglutination (IHA) and western blotting (WB). Antibodies detected by ELISA peaked between 19 and 62 days after inoculation and persisted throughout the experiment with no association to parasitaemia. Using WB, the main antigens detected had molecular weights of approximately 68, 62, 50, 48, 42, 34, 28, 26, 22 and 19 kDa. Antibody titers of between 1:256 and 1:32000 were observed using IHA, with a significant drop in activity after treatment with 2-mercapto-ethanol between days 12 and 48. This coincided with the parasitaemic period that occurs between 5 and 64 days after inoculation.
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Pinheiro LC, Ferreira AM. [Upper obstructive uropathy]. ACTA MEDICA PORT 1999; 12:113-7. [PMID: 10423884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Upper urinary tract obstruction is very frequent. The authors present a review of the etiology and pathogenesis of upper urinary tract obstruction. The clinical aspects and diagnosis are described in detail and the most appropriate complementary exams are pointed out. Finally, the authors discuss the therapeutic options available and the prognosis.
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Breijo M, Spinelli P, Sim RB, Ferreira AM. Echinococcus granulosus: an intraperitoneal diffusion chamber model of secondary infection in mice. Exp Parasitol 1998; 90:270-6. [PMID: 9806872 DOI: 10.1006/expr.1998.4338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present work describes a new experimental model of secondary infection which allows, through the recovery of the parasite together with its local in vivo environment, examination of the local nonadaptive immune response of the infected host and the differentiation of the parasite from protoscoleces to cysts. In this model we administered protoscoleces within silicone diffusion chambers, previously implanted into the peritoneal cavities of mice. The process of designing the model involved, first, determination of the optimal time postimplantation to infect the mice and, second, evaluation of the parasite's ability to establish infection within the chambers. The optimal time for infection was considered to be after the inflammation caused by implantation of the chambers had subsided. Our results showed that by day 20 postsurgery, three parameters used as indications of inflammation (complement C3, serum amyloid P protein, and polymorphonuclear cells in the peritoneum and in the chamber contents) had reverted to their normal levels. In our study of parasite differentiation, we found that 2-3% of the total number of parasites inoculated into the chambers were recovered as viable cysts after 100 days. Throughout the infection period, the population of parasites recovered was heterogeneous; certain parasite morphologies that have not been described previously were observed. In conclusion, the use of intraperitoneal diffusion chambers offers a potential tool for investigating the in vivo differentiation process of secondary cysts of Echinococcus granulosus in mice and the early local interactions between host and parasite during this process.
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Ferreira AM, César MH, Pissarra C, dos Santos FJ, Moita J, Coelho I, Azevedo MH. [Acromegaly with the sleep apnea syndrome]. ACTA MEDICA PORT 1997; 10:955-9. [PMID: 9522495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The authors present the clinical of a male patient aged 45 years whose main complaints were loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. Polysomnographic study revealed a sleep obstructive apnea syndrome with an apnea/hypopnea index of 86.5. After being treated with nasal continuous positive air pressure, (12 cm H2O), the apneas ended and sleep architecture was corrected. Physical examination also indicated the presence of an acromegaly, and therefore, the patient was subjected to endocrinological and cerebral imagiological studies; the diagnosis confirmed it as a predisposing factor to the sleep breathing disorder. A brief literature review about the incidence of sleep apnea syndrome in acromegaly is also made; the authors conclude that there is still the need for a systematic screening of sleep breathing disorders in acromegalic patients in order to optimise the treatment and prognosis of this disorders.
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Lloyd SN, Kavanagh J, Chan PSF, Ferreira AM, Gu FL, Pavone-Macaluso M, Xia S, Blacklock SN. A multicentre prospective study of prostatic volume in asymptomatic men in various continents. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis 1997; 1:97-100. [PMID: 12496923 DOI: 10.1038/sj.pcan.4500213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/1997] [Accepted: 09/12/1997] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To compare prostatic volumes in asymptomatic Asian men with similar controls in Europe. Patients and methods: Six centres (Beijing, Hong Kong, Jinan, Lisbon, Palermo and Stirling) independently selected asymptomatic men aged 55 y or more for assessment of prostatic volume using transrectal ultrasound (total=320 men) between 1992 and 1993. Results: Prostatic volumes in asymptomatic men were greater in Beijing than Hong Kong, Stirling and Palermo (P<0.05) and were smaller in Stirling than Beijing and Jinan (P<0.05). Conclusions: These results suggest that men from Stirling are less likely to have large prostates, but there is no evidence that men from any of the six cities are more likely to have small prostates. This small series may suggest that benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is as common in China as in European cities. The differences may be due to some cities (Beijing, Jinan and Lisbon) having a greater proportion of high values, perhaps suggesting looser selection criteria. This may indicate an abandonment of traditional Asian foods with their presumptive beneficial effect in favour of a Western dietary style.
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Wait R, Carreto L, Nobre MF, Ferreira AM, da Costa MS. Characterization of novel long-chain 1,2-diols in Thermus species and demonstration that Thermus strains contain both glycerol-linked and diol-linked glycolipids. J Bacteriol 1997; 179:6154-62. [PMID: 9324266 PMCID: PMC179522 DOI: 10.1128/jb.179.19.6154-6162.1997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we purified and characterized tetra- and triglycosyl glycolipids (GL-1 and GL-2, respectively) from two different colonial forms of Thermus scotoductus X-1, from T. filiformis Tok4 A2, and from T. oshimai SPS-11. Acid hydrolysis of the purified glycolipids liberated, in addition to the expected long-chain fatty acids, two components which were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry as 16-methylheptadecane-1,2-diol and 15-methylheptadecane-1,2-diol. Fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry of the intact glycolipids indicated that a major proportion consisted of components with glycan head groups linked to long-chain 1,2-diols rather than to glycerol, although in all cases glycerol-linked compounds containing similar glycan head groups were also present. As in other Thermus strains, the polar head group of GL-1 from T. filiformis Tok4 A2 and from T. scotoductus X-1 colony type t2 was a glucosylgalactosyl-(N-acyl)glucosaminylglucosyl moiety. However, GL-2 from T. scotoductus X-1 colony type t1 and from T. oshimai SPS-11 was a truncated analog which lacked the nonreducing terminal glucose. Long-chain 1,2-diols have been previously reported in the polar lipids of Thermomicrobium roseum and (possibly) Chloroflexus aurantiacus, but to our knowledge, this is the first report of their detection in other bacteria and the first account of the structural determination of long-chain diol-linked glycolipids.
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