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Freyre A, Falcón J, Méndez J, Gastell T, Venzal JM. Toxoplasma gondii: Cross-immunity against the enteric cycle. Exp Parasitol 2007; 115:48-52. [PMID: 16828745 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2006.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2006] [Revised: 04/03/2006] [Accepted: 05/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Eight of nine cats inoculated with strain ME-49 and challenged with three different strains of Toxoplasma were immune to oocyst shedding, as ascertained with bioassays of their feces. In a second experiment, only toxoplasma asexual stages were seen in H&E stained gut sections of cats treated with suppressive doses of sulfamerazine and pyrimethamine starting 2 days after oral inoculation with cysts of the strain ME-49 and killed 6 days later. In a third experiment, four cats were similarly inoculated and treated for 20 days. Six weeks later, the cats received an oral homologous challenge with cysts, and none shed toxoplasma oocysts. An acceptable level of cross-protection was achieved with strain ME-49, and therefore, it can be used as a candidate strain from which antigens could be tested for enteric protection.
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Iglesias I, Rodriguez-Rajo FJ, Méndez J. Behavior of Platanus hispanica pollen, an important spring aeroallergen in northwestern Spain. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2007; 17:145-56. [PMID: 17583100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Platanus hispanica trees are considered an important source of airborne pollen allergens in many cities of Western Europe. As the prevalence of sensitization to this species is 8% to 9% in northwestern Spain, our objective was to propose models predicting both the onset of the pollen season and the mean daily pollen concentrations. METHODS Airborne P. hispanica pollen was monitored from 1993 through 2002 with 2 Hirst volumetric spore traps in Ourense and Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. The pollination start dates were determined and the data were fitted to predictive regression models, which were tested for the year 2002. RESULTS P. hispanica pollen is present in the atmosphere from March to April. The main pollination period is short with a mean duration of around 40 days. The mean maximum daily concentrations exceeded 100 pollen grains/m(3). As temperature is the parameter that most influences atmospheric pollen levels, this variable was chosen as the basis for models predicting both the onset of the pollen season and daily pollen concentrations. The predicted onset date was a few days later than the real start date in 2002. However, the model gave an accurate prediction of the mean daily pollen concentration. CONCLUSIONS The mean daily concentrations of P. hispanica pollen are high, and given the allergenic potential of this species, it should be taken into account as one of the most important local spring allergens. The weather-related models proposed help us to predict P. hispanica pollen concentrations in the atmosphere.
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Méndez J, García I, Escudero G, Marcos M, Sánchez A, Cabrerizo S. Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Induced by Tuberculin Testing. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s1578-2190(07)70501-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Castillo C, Hernández J, Méndez J, Llena J, Pereira V, López-Alonso M, Benedito JL. Influence of Grain Processing on Acid–Base Balance in Feedlot Steers. Vet Res Commun 2006; 30:823-37. [PMID: 17004043 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-006-3339-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Grain processing (e.g. grinding, steaming, pelleting, flaking) has been reported to modify the incidence of ruminal disturbances in feedlot cattle. This study investigated the effects of two grain processing methods widely used in Spanish feedlots (grinding and pelleting) on animal performance, blood acid-base balance, blood electrolyte levels and serum lactate in a 140-day feedlot experiment with double-muscled Belgian Blue steers. The main aim of the study was to evaluate the way in which these two feeds modify blood acid-base balance, which is closely associated with ruminal pH. In light of our results we conclude that the animals that received the pelleted feed showed a more stable acid-base balance over time than those fed a ground feed. Nevertheless, higher levels of L-lactate and lower base excess (BE) and HCO(3)(-) values for cattle fed pelleted grain reflect a greater risk of grain-acid overload.
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Freyre A, Falcón J, Méndez J, Rodriguez A, Correa L, González M. Refinement of the mouse model of congenital toxoplasmosis. Exp Parasitol 2006; 113:154-60. [PMID: 16469312 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2005.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2005] [Revised: 12/27/2005] [Accepted: 12/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The goals of the present investigation, focusing on the BALB/c mouse model of congenital toxoplasmosis, were: (1) to find a method to determine pregnancy in the mouse. The method has 100% sensitivity and 72% specificity; (2) to test congenital transmission during the chronic stage of toxoplasmosis. This occurred in 2 of 10 mice tested; (3) to investigate the relationship between the infective dose and the rate of congenital transmission. This was not demonstrated for doses of 10(2) to 10(3) bradyzoites and oocysts of Prugniaud, M3 and M7741 strains, with transmission rates of 3 of 8 to 6 of 10 mice inoculated; (4) to determine homologous and heterologous protection. Homologous protection was demonstrated with Prugniaud cysts, and heterologous protection was found between ME-49 and M3 cysts. This finding is consistent with the uniform natural protection against congenital toxoplasmosis seen in immune women and ewes.
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Cachaldora P, García-Rebollar P, Alvarez C, De Blas JC, Méndez J. Effect of type and level of fish oil supplementation on yolk fat composition and n-3 fatty acids retention efficiency in laying hens. Br Poult Sci 2006; 47:43-9. [PMID: 16546796 DOI: 10.1080/00071660500475541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
1. Laying hen performance and yolk fat fatty acid (FA) concentrations were evaluated with respect to the inclusion in the diet of different sources and levels of marine fish oil (MFO). 2. Twelve diets were arranged factorially, with three sources (MFO1, MFO2_EPA, MFO3_DHA) and four levels of inclusion (15, 30, 45 and 60 g/kg) of MFO. 3. Type of diet had little effect on egg production traits, although laying rate and shell thickness slightly decreased at the highest level of MFO supplementation. 4. An increase in level of inclusion of MFO from 15 to 60 g/kg linearly increased concentrations of C20:5 n-3, C22:5 n-3, C22:6 n-3 and total n-3 FA in yolk fat, but greatly impaired their efficiencies of deposition (g retained/g ingested). 5. An interaction between type and dietary concentration of MFO was found, as the reduction in efficiency of retention of n-3 FA in egg fat with level of MFO was less when the proportion of n-3 in total FA decreased or when that of DHA in total n-3 FA increased. 6. MFO3_ DHA was more efficiently used for total n-3 FA yolk deposition than MFO2_EPA at a similar total n-3 FA intake. 7. Dietary inclusion of MFO reduced LC n-6 FA yolk fat content, which additionally decreased the ratio between total n-6 and total n-3 FA in egg fat. 8. Regression equations were calculated in order to predict efficiency of retention and n-3 FA concentration of yolk fat in the range of diets studied.
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Puig J, Pedraza S, Méndez J, Trujillo A. Trombosis venosa cerebral neonatal. Diagnóstico por angiorresonancia magnética. RADIOLOGIA 2006; 48:169-71. [PMID: 17058640 DOI: 10.1016/s0033-8338(06)73148-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal cerebral venous thrombosis (NCVT) is a rare, severe neuropathology of multiple etiology and variable clinical presentation. We describe the case of a 25-day-old infant that presented with a tonic convulsion. Ultrasound examination showed tetraventricular hemorrhage. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed the presence of acute thrombosis of the deep and superficial venous systems associated to a hemorrhagic infarct of the left thalamus. Coagulation study revealed a deficit of protein C. Thrombosis of deep cerebral veins must be ruled out as a cause of a neonatal convulsive crisis. The presence of a hemorrhagic thalamic lesion supports the diagnosis of NCVT, which must in turn be confirmed by magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).
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Freyre A, Falcón J, Méndez J, Rodriguez A, Correa L, Gonzalez M. Toxoplasma gondii: Partial cross-protection among several strains of the parasite against congenital transmission in a rat model. Exp Parasitol 2006; 112:8-12. [PMID: 16202411 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2005.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2005] [Revised: 08/12/2005] [Accepted: 08/19/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Rats were immunized with cysts of two Toxoplasma strains or with RH strain tachyzoites prior to pregnancy. The litters of the 13 rats that received homologous challenges with cysts during pregnancy, were all protected, whereas of 173 rats that received heterologous challenges with cysts or oocysts, only 21 protected their litters. 38.3 and 17% of rats immunized with the RH and with complete strains respectively, and 57% of control rats challenged with cysts, transmitted the infection congenitally. The percentages when similar groups were challenged with oocysts, were 33.3, 48.2, and 56.2%, respectively. Immunization with cysts did not completely protect against challenge with oocysts, even if the same strain was used. The divergence of these results from the complete protection against congenital toxoplasmosis observed in immune women and ewes, might be due to the use of excessive challenge doses in the model.
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Martínez-Lage A, Rodríguez-Fariña F, González-Tizón A, Méndez J. Origin and evolution of Mytilus mussel satellite DNAs. Genome 2005; 48:247-56. [PMID: 15838547 DOI: 10.1139/g04-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A phylogenetic reconstruction based on the amplification of 3 satellite DNAs (stDNAs) was carried out in 1 crustacean species and 15 bivalve species of the subclass Pteriomorphia (10, subfamily Mytilinae; 1, subfamily Litophaginae; 1, subfamily Modiolinae, all belonging to family Mytilidae; 1, family Arcidae; and 2, family Pectinidae). The sequences obtained showed motifs with high similarity to those of A and B boxes of tRNA promoter regions. Dot-blot hybridizations revealed that the 3 stDNAs are present mainly in high copy numbers for each species of the genus Mytilus, whereas for the other species they appear in low copy numbers. Maximum-parsimony trees evidenced a tendency to group Mytilus clones together, and species containing these sequences as a single copy were distributed among the different mytilids. Finally, the possible origin and evolution of these stDNAs is discussed.
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Laffon B, Teixeira JP, Silva S, Loureiro J, Torres J, Pásaro E, Méndez J, Mayan O. Genotoxic effects in a population of nurses handling antineoplastic drugs, and relationship with genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair enzymes. Am J Ind Med 2005; 48:128-36. [PMID: 16032741 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concern about the genotoxic risk associated with chronic handling of antineoplastic drugs has increased, and usual safety practices may not avoid exposure. METHODS Comet assay and MN test were performed on 30 oncology nurses and 22 controls. Genetic polymorphisms of XRCC1, XRCC3, and APE1 genes were determined by PCR-RFLP. RESULTS Data obtained showed increased cytogenetic and DNA damage in the exposed group, although statistical significance was only reached in the comet assay. Significant differences in TL were observed for carriers of the variant alleles of every gene analyzed. However, no significant effect was detected in the MN test. CONCLUSIONS Evidence that the present handling practices of antineoplastic drugs in some Portuguese hospitals are not enough to prevent exposure are provided. Present data suggest that genetic polymorphisms in the studied DNA repair enzymes may influence the individual susceptibility to DNA damage related to chronic handling of antineoplastic drugs.
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Herrera M, Espinoza A, Méndez J, Castro M, López J, Rendón J. Effect of C content on the mechanical properties of solution treated as-cast ASTM F-75 alloys. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2005; 16:607-11. [PMID: 15965591 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-005-2530-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2004] [Accepted: 08/12/2004] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The mechanical properties of solution treated ASTM F-75 alloys with various carbon contents have been studied. Alloys cast under the same conditions were subjected to solution treatment for several periods and then their tensile properties were evaluated. In the as-cast conditions, the alloys exhibited higher strength values with increasing carbon content whereas their ductility was not significantly affected. For the solution treated alloys, the variation of the strength was characterized by a progressive increase for short treatment times until a maximum value was achieved, which was followed by a diminution in this property for longer treatment times. This behavior was more accentuated for the case of the alloys with medium carbon contents, which also exhibited the highest values of strength. Furthermore, the alloy's ductility was enhanced progressively with increasing solution treatment time. This improvement in ductility was significantly higher for the medium carbon alloys compared with the rest of the studied alloys. Thus, high and low carbon contents in solution treated ASTM F-75 alloys did not produced sufficiently high tensile properties.
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García-Alonso I, Palomares T, Alonso-Varona A, Castro B, Del Olmo M, Portugal V, Méndez J. Effects of all-trans retinoic acid on tumor recurrence and metastasis. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2005; 97:240-8. [PMID: 15982179 DOI: 10.4321/s1130-01082005000400004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE All-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) promotes cell differentiation. We have studied its effect on the local recurrence and metastatic spreading of an experimental rhabdomyosarcoma in rats. DESIGN syngenic rhabdomyosarcoma cells (S4MH) were inoculated s.c. in male WAG/RijCrl rats. After 25 days tumors were excised and a 40% hepatectomy was performed for all animals. Ten days later the rats were sacrificed and a thorough necropsy was performed. The animals were randomly allocated to receive daily doses of ATRA (5 mg/kg, i.p.) or its solvent (Clinoleic/ethanol 90/10), starting three days before surgery until the end of the experiment. RESULTS ATRA reduced the incidence of local recurrence from 70 to 33% (p < 0.05), but the tumor size was not altered (1.8 vs. 2.0 cc). Regarding inguinal metastasis, there was a six-fold decrease (0.2 vs. 1.2 cc; p < 0.05) in mean tumor volume, although the rate of this proliferation increased sharply (86 vs. 29%; p < 0.05) for treated animals. The volume of the retroperitoneal tumor masses also decreased with ATRA (0.7 vs. 5.1 cc; p < 0.05), but the difference in rate was not significant (71 vs. 67%). Lung metastases, which were present in 100% of control animals, were found in only 33% of treated rats, while the mean number of metastatic foci dropped from 26.7 to 5.7 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Protocols including retinoid administration prior to and following primary tumor excision could help in controlling both recurrence and metastatic progression in surgically treated rhabdomyosarcoma.
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López-Piñón MJ, Insua A, Méndez J. Chromosome Analysis and Mapping of Ribosomal Genes by One- and Two-Color Fluorescent in situ Hybridization in Hinnites distortus (Bivalvia: Pectinidae). J Hered 2004; 96:52-8. [PMID: 15598716 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esi001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metaphase chromosomes of the scallop Hinnites distortus were analyzed using Giemsa staining, chromosome measurements, silver staining, one- and two-color fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) ribosomal DNA (rDNA) probes, and 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) banding compatible with in situ hybridization. The karyotype (2n = 38) consists of three submetacentric-metacentric, one submetacentric, one subtelocentric-submetacentric, and 14 subtelocentric pairs. The 18S-28S rDNA maps at the centromeric level of two subtelocentric pairs, but not more than two nucleolus organizer region (NOR)-bearing chromosomes were transcriptionally active. The 5S rDNA seems to show a conventional tandem arrangement with a repeat unit of about 450 bp and it maps at the pericentromeric region of the long arm of one subtelocentric pair. Two-color FISH demonstrated that 18S-28S rDNA and 5S rDNA are not syntenic. Sequential FISH/Giemsa staining and subsequent chromosome pairing allow us to propose that pairs 9 and 12 carry the 18S-28S rDNA and pair 13 carries the 5S rDNA. All chromosomes are characterized as containing constitutive heterochromatin at the centromeric region. The data provided are the first contribution toward construction of the molecular karyotype of H. distortus and will be useful in assessing evolutionary relationships within scallops.
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Alvarez C, Cachaldora P, Méndez J, García-Rebollar P, De Blas JC. Effects of dietary conjugated linoleic acid and fish oil supplementation on performance and egg quality in laying hens. Br Poult Sci 2004; 45:524-9. [PMID: 15484728 DOI: 10.1080/00071660400001116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
1. Laying hen performance, yolk fat fatty acid concentrations and firmness of eggs were evaluated with respect to the inclusion in the diet of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and fish oil. 2. Nine diets were arranged factorially, with three levels of supplementation of CLA (1, 3 and 5 g/kg) and fish oil (0, 14 and 20 g/kg). 3. Type of diet did not affect egg production traits. 4. CLA addition increased yolk weight and yolk fat concentrations of CLA, saturated and total long-chain n-3 fatty acids, but decreased those of monounsaturated and total long-chain n-6 fatty acids. 5. Fish oil addition increased long-chain n-3 fatty acids yolk fat concentrations but decreased those of CLA, saturated and long-chain n-6 fatty acids. 6. Effects of CLA addition on yolk fat concentrations of C22:4 n-6 and C20:5 n-3 were greater when no fish oil was added to the diet. 7. CLA supplementation increased linearly yolk moisture and firmness and altered albumen and yolk pH.
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Castillo C, Benedito J, Méndez J, Pereira V, López-Alonso M, Miranda M, Hernández J. Organic acids as a substitute for monensin in diets for beef cattle. Anim Feed Sci Technol 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2004.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Araña J, Martínez Nieto JL, Herrera Melián JA, Doña Rodríguez JM, González Díaz O, Pérez Peña J, Bergasa O, Alvarez C, Méndez J. Photocatalytic degradation of formaldehyde containing wastewater from veterinarian laboratories. CHEMOSPHERE 2004; 55:893-904. [PMID: 15041294 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2003.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2003] [Revised: 10/07/2003] [Accepted: 11/26/2003] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The photocatalytic destruction of methanol, formaline (mixture of formaldehyde, methanol and water) and formaline wastes from the preservation of vertinarian physiologic samples has been attempted by two different processes, at high concentrations of reagents and by dossification of reagents, varying pH in both. Experiment evolution has been monitored by measuring the organic matter such as TOC and formaldehyde concentrations [H2CO]. Also, methanol and methanol-formaldehyde interactions with the TiO2 surface have been analysed by FTIR spectroscopy. Results indicate that at high concentrations the catalyst surfacial alterations given by methoxy, formates or carbonates, according to the pH of the sample can profoundly affect catalyst behaviour. It has been established that reagent dossification is advantageous for enhancing photonic efficiency as it minimizes the adsorbate presence that hampers the photocatalytic process.
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García-Alonso I, Palomares T, Alonso A, Portugal V, Castro B, Caramés J, Méndez J. [Effect of hepatic resection on development of liver metastasis]. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS : ORGANO OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE PATOLOGIA DIGESTIVA 2003; 95:771-6, 765-70. [PMID: 14640874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
In the early stages of metastasis, development of the disease is dependent on growth factors produced by the host. There are clinical situations associated with an increase in these factors, such as partial resection of metastasized liver. Given the important role of hepatotrophic factors in liver regeneration, we have studied the effect of partial hepatectomy on the development of residual micrometastases in the liver, and on the neoplastic process as a whole. We used a murine model in which a rabdomiosarcoma was established by subcutaneous inoculation of syngeneic tumor cells in male Wag rats. Subsequently, the primary tumor was resected and/or a 40% hepatectomy was performed. The effect of these two surgical procedures on the tumor process was analyzed on the 25th and 35th days post-inoculation, and the percentage of regenerating hepatocytes was assessed. Both the tumorectomy and liver resection, when not combined, produced an increase in regional adenopathies without modifying the evolution of metastasis in the liver. However, when tumor excision and partial hepatectomy were performed simultaneously, there was a net increase in the metastatic process. In addition to a rapid spread of the disease (lung, mediastinum, retroperitoneum), the number of liver metastases increased by 300%. This development coincided with a steep rise in the percentage of regenerating hepatocytes, which nearly doubled that of the group subjected only to liver resection. We conclude that liver resection, alone or combined with excision of the primary tumor, may enhance tumor progression, both locally and at the metastasic level.
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Fernández-Tajes J, González-Tizón A, Martínez-Lage A, Méndez J. Cytogenetics of the razor clam Solen marginatus (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Solenidae). Cytogenet Genome Res 2003; 101:43-6. [PMID: 14571136 DOI: 10.1159/000073417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2002] [Accepted: 05/20/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The razor clam Solen marginatus has a diploid chromosome number of 38. The karyotype consists of one metacentric/submetacentric, three submetacentric/metacentric, five submetacentric, one submetacentric/subtelocentric, one subtelocentric/submetacentric, six subtelocentric and two telocentric chromosome pairs. Staining with chromomycin A3 revealed bright positive bands subcentromerically in the long arms of one medium-sized subtelocentric pair, while DAPI staining showed uniform fluorescence in all chromosomes of the complement. Fluorescence in situ hybridization using an 18S-5.8S-28S rDNA probe locates these loci at the subcentromeric region of one subtelocentric pair and at the subtelomeric region of another subtelocentric pair.
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Tagle P, Mery F, Torrealba G, Del Villar S, Carmona H, Campos M, Méndez J, Chicharro A. [Chronic subdural hematoma: a disease of elderly people]. Rev Med Chil 2003; 131:177-82. [PMID: 12708256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of specificity and heterogeneity of the clinical picture of chronic subdural hematoma, hampers its diagnosis. AIM To report the experience of a Neurosurgical Service in chronic subdural hematoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS One hundred patients (77 male, mean age 77 +/- 13 years) with chronic subdural hematoma were analyzed. RESULTS The main clinical presentations were mental status changes (50%) and progressive focal neurological deficit (46%). Five cases presented as a transient neurological deficit. All patients were treated with burr hole drainage. Thirteen had recurrence of the hematoma and they were reoperated. The surgical mortality was 3%. Eighty seven patients were followed for a mean of 66 months. Eighty one of these had a complete recovery, 6 had permanent neurological deficit and 2 of these were unable to care for themselves. Bad prognosis was associated with the absence of a previous trauma to explain the hematoma and symptoms of dementia as the clinical presentation. CONCLUSIONS Most patients with chronic subdural hematoma treated with burr hole drainage have a good outcome.
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Ruiz-Giardín JM, Noguerado A, Pizarro A, Méndez J, La Hulla F, Fernández M, Hernández F, San Martín JV, Hernández I, Alvarez J, Salvanes F. [Comparative study of prognostic and risk factors for mortality in polymicrobial bacteremia-fungemia in a university hospital: development over 10 years]. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2002; 20:435-42. [PMID: 12425877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eighty-two episodes of polymicrobial bacteremia in two time periods, 1986-87 and 1996-97, were compared to assess differences in risk factors and outcome to mortality. METHODS A prospective, concurrent, anterograde study with univariate analysis of all episodes of polymicrobial bacteremia was performed in Hospital de la Princesa. Logistic regression analysis was applied to all significant variables (p < 0.05) in the univariate analysis in either of the two time periods. RESULTS Variables showing statistically significant differences in incidence between the two time periods included the following: hospital acquired bacteremia; previous use of antibiotics; genitourinary, respiratory and cardiovascular manipulations; septic metastases; and absence of leukocytosis. These factors were more frequently present during 1986-87 than during 1996-97. The overall RR of outcome to mortality was five-fold greater during the first period than the second: RR 5.6 (CI 1.76-17.56) p < 0.001. The clinical characteristics at the onset of bacteremia associated with mortality in the first period were: underlying disease - < RR 2.20 (CI 1.18-4.08), steroid treatment - < RR 4.24 (CI 0.68-26.59), hypotension - < RR 2.05 (CI 1.0-4.17), and disseminated intravascular coagulation - < RR 2.31 (CI 1.69-3.35). Clinical characteristics at the onset of bacteremia associated with mortality in the second period were: hypotension - < RR 1.44 (CI 1.01-2.08), underlying disease - < RR 1.16 (CI 1.02-1.34), and disseminated intravascular coagulation - < RR 6.40 (CI 1.15-35.69). The variables independently associated with mortality in polymicrobial bacteremia were: period - < RR 2.05 (CI 1.50-2.10), underlying disease - < RR 7.05 (CI 2.68-7.50), hypotension - < RR 7.06 (CI 3.80-7.29), and (probably) vascular manipulations - < RR 3.41 (CI 0.85-4.53). CONCLUSION Polymicrobial bacteremia-associated mortality was five-fold greater in 1986-87 than in 1996-97. The variables independently associated with mortality risk were underlying disease, hypotension, the period studied (which would include a number of variables not analyzed in this work) and, probably, vascular manipulations.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although urticaria has been reported in association with tinea or other fungal infections, usually this relationship is considered coincidental. CLINICAL CASE We report the case of a patient that developed two episodies of generalised urticaria associated with dermatophytosis. An allergologic studied was performed. Skin prick tests with a battery of common inhalant allergens and foods were negative. A culture of scrapings from lesions was performed and Epidermophyton floccosum colonies were identified. The patient was treated with oral antihistamines and topical clotrimazole and the skin lesion and urticaria healed in 14 days in the first episode and in 10 days in the second one. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a relationship between dermatophytosis and urticaria. Therefore, the allergologist should be aware of tinea infection as a cause of urticaria.
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73
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López-Piñón MJ, Insua A, Méndez J. Identification of four scallop species using PCR and restriction analysis of the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2002; 4:495-502. [PMID: 14961243 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-002-0030-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2002] [Accepted: 01/28/2002] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the ribosomal DNA region spanning the 5.8S RNA gene and the 2 flanking internal transcribed spacers (ITSs) was performed to establish DNA-based molecular markers for the identification of the scallops Aequipecten opercularis, Chlamys distorta, Mimachlamys varia, and Pecten maximus. Chlamys distorta was distinguished simply by ITS size. Species-specific restriction patterns were found with the restriction enzyme AluI, and also with SmaI for A. opercularis and M. varia. When ITS sizes and the RFLPs obtained with SmaI were combined, the 4 scallops were also differentiated. Additional species-specific RFLPs were revealed after ITS-2 PCR amplification and subsequent digestion with Hsp92II. Using this marker, canned scallops were identified. Thus this work provides a simple, reliable, and rapid method for the identification of scallops that can be used when species-specific morphologic characteristics are removed or when specimens are small in size.
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74
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Martínez-Lage A, Rodríguez F, González-Tizón A, Prats E, Cornudella L, Méndez J. Comparative analysis of different satellite DNAs in four Mytilus species. Genome 2002; 45:922-9. [PMID: 12416625 DOI: 10.1139/g02-056] [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: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We report the characterization of three satellite DNAs in four species of mussel: Mytilus edulis, Mytilus galloprovincialis, Mytilus trossulus, and Mytilus californianus. The monomers of the Apa I satellite DNAs were 173, 161, and 166 bp long. These satellite monomers were used to construct phylogenetic trees to infer relationships among these species. The topologies obtained clearly indicate that M. californianus is the most divergent species with respect to the other three. Furthermore, localization of satellite DNAs on metaphase chromosomes was performed using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Fluorescent signals revealed a different organization and distribution of these three satellite DNAs.
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75
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Jato V, Rodríguez-Rajo FJ, Méndez J, Aira MJ. Phenological behaviour of Quercus in Ourense (NW Spain) and its relationship with the atmospheric pollen season. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2002; 46:176-84. [PMID: 12242473 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-002-0132-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2001] [Revised: 03/15/2002] [Accepted: 03/15/2002] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Knowing the beginning of the pollen season is of particular importance to people allergic to a given pollen. Phenological studies in combination with aerobiological studies enable us to observe the relationship between the reproductive phenology of the species and their airborne pollen curves. They also enable us to study the relationship between the release of pollen from anthers and its presence in the atmosphere. The objectives of this study are (1) to determine chill and heat requirements for different phenological phases in the Quercus species present in Ourense (Spain), (2) to verify the synchronization between the flowering event and the presence of Quercus pollen in the air, (3) to select the best criterion for determining the onset of the pollen season according to phenological data, and finally, (4) to obtain models enabling us to determine the onset of the pollen season. Pollen monitoring was carried out from 1993 to 2001, by means of a 7-day Lanzoni VPPS pollen trap and, in order to characterize the floral phenophase of different Quercus species, a sampling method was applied from February to June 2001. We observed that climatic and biotic factors can produce a delay in the onset of the pollen season. Temperatures above 8 degrees C and between 6 degrees C to 8 degrees C are good threshold temperatures for estimating chill and heat requirements respectively. Medium-distance transportation of Quercus robur and Quercus pyrenaica pollen from areas 10-30 km away influences the concentrations of Quercus pollen registered in Ourense.
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