151
|
Mendoza JL, Murillo LS, Fernández L, Peña AS, Lana R, Urcelay E, Cruz-Santamaría DM, de la Concha EG, Díaz-Rubio M, García-Paredes J. Prevalence of mutations of the NOD2/CARD15 gene and relation to phenotype in Spanish patients with Crohn disease. Scand J Gastroenterol 2003; 38:1235-40. [PMID: 14750643 DOI: 10.1080/00365520310006612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We assessed the prevalence of R702W, G908R, and L1007fs coding mutations in the NOD2/CARD15 gene and the genotype-phenotype relation in Spanish patients with Crohn disease. METHODS A cohort of 204 unrelated patients with Crohn disease and 140 healthy controls were studied. The phenotype was established before commencement of genotyping. Genotyping of the R702W, G908R, and L1007fs gene polymorphisms of NOD2/CARD15 was performed by two independent laboratories using different techniques. In the case of discordant results, specific sequencing of DNA strands was performed. RESULTS At least one mutation was present in 32.8% of patients compared to 10.7% in controls (OR = 4.08, 95% CI 2.21 to 7.50). In patients with Crohn disease, the frequency of R702W, G908R, and L1007fs carriers was 13.7%, 8.3%, and 14.2%, respectively. Compound heterozygotes and homozygotes occurred in 3.4% and 2.9% of patients and in none of the controls. The correlation of genotype-Vienna classification showed a significant association with ileal disease (RR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.21-2.15, P = 0.001) and an inverse association with colonic localization (RR = 0.29, 95% CI 0.11-0.80, P = 0.007). There was a significant association between G908R carriership and previous appendectomy, surgical interventions, and stricturing behavior. A gene-dosage effect on phenotypic characteristics was not observed. CONCLUSIONS In a Spanish population from Madrid, mutations of the NOD2/CARD15 gene were a marker of susceptibility to Crohn disease and were associated with ileal disease. Carriers of the G908R mutation showed a stricturing disease behavior, history of appendectomy, and surgical interventions over the course of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J L Mendoza
- Dept. of Gastroenterology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
152
|
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Allergy Unit, Hospital Sierrallana, Barrio Ganzo s/n, 39300 Torrelavega, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
153
|
Fernández L, Heredia N, Peralta C, Xaus C, Roselló-Catafau J, Rimola A, Marco A, Serafín A, Deulofeu R, Gelpí E, Grande L. Role of ischemic preconditioning and the portosystemic shunt in the prevention of liver and lung damage after rat liver transplantation. Transplantation 2003; 76:282-9. [PMID: 12883180 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000067529.82245.4e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluates whether surgical strategies such as the portosystemic shunt and ischemic preconditioning can protect against hepatic and pulmonary injury associated with liver transplantation. METHODS The effect of the portosystemic shunt, ischemic preconditioning, and both surgical procedures together were evaluated in rat liver transplantation. Alanine aminotransferase, hyaluronic acid levels in plasma, adenosine triphosphate and nucleotide levels in liver and edema, malondialdehyde levels, and myeloperoxidase activity were measured 24 hr posttransplantation. Plasmatic tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels were measured as a possible proinflammatory factor responsible for hepatic and pulmonary damage associated with liver transplantation. RESULTS Hepatocyte and cell endothelial damage were observed in liver grafts subjected to 8 hr of cold ischemia. This was associated with increased plasma TNF levels and lung inflammatory response. Portosystemic shunt application in the recipient protected endothelial cells but did not confer an effective protection from hepatocyte damage or reduce the increased plasma TNF levels and lung damage after liver transplantation. However, preconditioning of the donor liver conferred protection against both the endothelial cell and hepatocyte damage observed after liver transplantation. Preconditioning also attenuated the increased plasma TNF release and pulmonary damage. The combination of both surgical strategies resulted in levels of liver injury, TNF, and lung damage similar to those seen after liver transplantation. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that ischemic preconditioning could be a preferred treatment to reduce hepatic and pulmonary damage associated with liver transplantation. However, this strategy may not be effective in several clinical situations requiring a portosystemic shunt.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Instituto de Investigaciones August Pi i Sunyer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
154
|
García de Vinuesa S, Fernández L, Goicoechea MA, Luño J. [Vasculitis in elderly patients associated to ANCA]. Nefrologia 2003; 23:359-60. [PMID: 14558337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
|
155
|
Castaño G, Fernández L, Mas R, Illnait J, Fernández J, Mesa M, Alvarez E, Lezcay M. Comparison of the efficacy, safety and tolerability of original policosanol versus other mixtures of higher aliphatic primary alcohols in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 2003; 22:55-66. [PMID: 12503776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
This randomized, double-blind study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol and Octa-60 in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. After 4 weeks on a diet, 110 patients were randomized to policosanol or Octa-60 5 mg tablets once a day for 5 weeks. The dose was then doubled to 10 mg/day for the next 5 weeks. Policosanol 5 and 10 mg/day significantly lowered low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (p<0.0001 and p<0.00001), the main efficacy variable, by 18.6% and 30.2%, while Octa-60 significantly reduced (p<0.05) LDL-C by 10.0% at study completion only. The frequency of policosanol patients reaching reductions of LDL-C > or = 15% after 5 mg/day (37/55; 67.3%) and 10 mg/day (47/55; 88.7%) was greater (p<0.01 and p<0.01) than in the Octa-60 group, which was 5/55 (9.1%) and 20/55 (36.4%). Likewise, the frequency of patients reaching LDL-C values of <3.4 mmol/l at study completion was greater (p<0.001) in the policosanol group (39/55, 70.9%) than in the Octa-60 group (6/55, 10.9%). Policosanol 5 and 10 mg/day significantly lowered (p<0.00001) total cholesterol (TC) (13.4% and 20.4%), LDL-C/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (22.1% and 37.0%) and TC/HDL-C (17.2% and 28.2%). Octa-60 at 10 mg/day lowered (p<0.05) TC (8.7%), LDL-C/HDL-C (12.6%) and TC/HDL-C (9.4%). HDL-C was increased (p<0.001 and 0.0001) by policosanol 5 and 10 mg/day (5.6% and 12.5%) but was unchanged by Octa-60. In both groups, triglycerides remained unchanged. Both treatments were safe and well tolerated. Octa-60, but not policosanol, significantly increased glucose and alanine aminotransferase, but individual values were within the normal range. Four patients (two from each group) discontinued the trial, but only one (in the Octa-60 group) did so because of an adverse event (AE) (skin rash). Overall, three patients (all from the Octa-60 group) reported AEs. In conclusion, original policosanol at 5 and 10 mg/day, but not Octa 60, was effective in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. Thus, policosanol reached the efficacy criterion for LDL-C reduction in both steps, while Octa-60 failed to reach this goal. In addition, policosanol was better tolerated than Octa-60.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Castaño
- Medical and Surgical Research Center, National Center for Scientific Research, Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
156
|
Aguilar EJ, Leal C, Acosta FJ, Cejas MR, Fernández L, Gracia R. A psychopathological study of a group of schizophrenic patients after attempting suicide. Are there two different clinical subtypes? Eur Psychiatry 2003; 18:190-2. [PMID: 12814854 DOI: 10.1016/s0924-9338(03)00047-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifty-six schizophrenic patients at the moment of their suicidal attempt were compared to a control group of 60 patients. Schizophrenic suicidal attempters showed an identifiable clinical profile at the acute phase. Two main groups could be differentiated in regard to their reasons (depressive or psychotic) for attempting suicide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E J Aguilar
- Hospital de la Ribera, Carretera de Corbera, Km 1, 46600 Alzira, Valencia, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
157
|
Fernández L, Pérez V, Muñoz M, Corpa JM, Abad M, Carbajo MT. Effects of S-adenosylmethionine on hepatic regeneration after partial hepatectomy in the rat. J Physiol Biochem 2003; 59:63-4. [PMID: 12903906 DOI: 10.1007/bf03179869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Dpto de Patología Animal: Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
158
|
Fernández L, Secades P, Lopez JR, Márquez I, Guijarro JA. Isolation and analysis of a protease gene with an ABC transport system in the fish pathogen Yersinia ruckeri: insertional mutagenesis and involvement in virulence. Microbiology (Reading) 2002; 148:2233-2243. [PMID: 12101310 DOI: 10.1099/00221287-148-7-2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Yersinia ruckeri is a Gram-negative pathogen that causes enteric redmouth disease in salmonids. A gene from Y. ruckeri encoding an extracellular protease termed yrp1 (Yersinia ruckeri protease 1) was cloned from a Sau3AI library constructed in pUC19 and analysed in gelatin-supplemented medium. The nucleotide sequence of the yrp1 gene indicated an ORF encoding a protein of 477 aa. On the basis of the high degree of homology in the amino acid sequence as well as its conservative motifs, this protein was included within the serralysin metalloendopeptidase subfamily (EC 3.4.24.12). The yrp1 N-terminal sequence showed a 14 aa propeptide followed by a 10 aa sequence identical to the one deduced previously from the 47 kDa purified protease. Additional results demonstrated that the yrp1 gene encodes the 47 kDa protein. In contrast to other Yersinia species, the yrp1 protease is secreted by a type I Gram-negative bacterial ABC exporter protein secretion system composed of three genes termed yrpD, yrpE and yrpF, and a protease inhibitor inh. The development of genetic methods for this species has allowed the exploration of the organization and the putative role of the Yrp1 genetic locus. Thus, site-directed insertion mutations into the yrp1 and the yrpE genes were constructed by the integration of the mobilizable suicide vector pIVET8 containing internal portions of both coding sequences. Complementation studies of those mutants with different loci indicated that they are organized as a single operon. The mutant strains lacked protease activity as well as the Yrp1 protein and, although physiologically similar to the parental strain when growing on nutrient broth medium, they were attenuated in virulence when bacteria were injected intraperitoneally into rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). This is the first report of defined mutations in Y. ruckeri to show the implication of a factor such as an extracellular protease in pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Área de Microbiologia, Departamento de Biologia Funcional, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Biotecnologia de Asturias, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain1
| | - P Secades
- Área de Microbiologia, Departamento de Biologia Funcional, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Biotecnologia de Asturias, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain1
| | - J R Lopez
- Área de Microbiologia, Departamento de Biologia Funcional, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Biotecnologia de Asturias, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain1
| | - I Márquez
- SERIDA, Laboratorio de Sanidad Animal de Jove, 33299 Gijon, Spain2
| | - J A Guijarro
- Área de Microbiologia, Departamento de Biologia Funcional, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Biotecnologia de Asturias, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain1
| |
Collapse
|
159
|
Castaño G, Mas R, Fernández L, Illnait J, Gámez R, Alvarez E. Effects of policosanol 20 versus 40 mg/day in the treatment of patients with type II hypercholesterolemia: a 6-month double-blind study. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 2002; 21:43-57. [PMID: 11708574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Policosanol is a well defined mixture of higher aliphatic primary alcohols isolated from sugar cane wax with cholesterol-lowering effects proven for a dose range from 5-20 mg/day in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia and dyslipidemia associated with noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus. This randomized, double-blind study investigated the cholesterol-lowering efficacy and tolerability of policosanol 20 mg/day compared with 40 mg/day. Changes in low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol levels were predefined as the primary efficacy endpoint. Patients with type II hypercholesterolemia were enrolled in the study and instructed to continue a step I cholesterol-lowering diet for 6 weeks and those eligible to be included (89) were randomly allocated to receive under double-blind conditions placebo (n = 30), policosanol 20 mg/day (n = 29) or 40 mg/day (n = 30). After 24 weeks, policosanol at 20 and 40 mg/day significantly (p < 0.00001) lowered LDL-cholesterol by 27.4% and 28.1%, total cholesterol (p < 0.00001) by 15.6% and 17.3%, and the LDL-cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol ratio by 37.2% and 36.5%, respectively The ratio of total cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol was lowered by 27.1% and 27.5%, while HDL-cholesterol levels increased (p < 0.001) by 17.6% and 17.0%, respectively. Compared with baseline, policosanol 20 mg/day lowered triglycerides (p < 0.05) by 12.7%, while they were lowered (p < 0.01) by 15.6% at a dose of policosanol 40 mg/day All the above-mentioned significant differences were also different from placebo and no significant changes occurred in any lipid profile parameters in the placebo group. Based on the mean values of LDL-cholesterol levels at study completion, the mean percent reductions from baseline were 27.4% and 28.1% for the 20 and 40 mg/day groups, respectively. Thus, the effects of both policosanol doses on the main efficacy variable were practically identical. Consistent with the data obtained for LDL-cholesterol, both doses were similarly effective in changing all the other lipid profile parameters. No unexpected adverse effects were observed and there were no significant between-group differences regarding safety indicator values or reported adverse effects. In conclusion, although the tolerability profile remains excellent, according to the present results policosanol at a dose of 40 mg/day does not offer significant additional cholesterol-lowering efficacy over the 20 mg/day dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Castaño
- Medical Surgical Research Center, National Center for Scientific Research, Havana City, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
160
|
Ibañez MD, Lombardero M, Jimenez A, Fernández L, Laso MT. Anaphylaxis induced by pine nut in a 2 year old girl. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0091-6749(02)82064-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
161
|
Flores-Morales A, Fernández L, Rico-Bautista E, Umana A, Negrín C, Zhang JG, Norstedt G. Endoplasmic reticulum stress prolongs GH-induced Janus kinase (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT5) signaling pathway. Mol Endocrinol 2001; 15:1471-83. [PMID: 11518796 DOI: 10.1210/mend.15.9.0699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The desensitization of the GH-induced Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in GH regulation of hepatic genes. Previous studies have demonstrated that the inactivation of the GH-induced JAK2/STAT5 pathway is regulated by protein translation and suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS). In this study we sought to explore the relationships between endoplasmic reticulum stress, GH-induced JAK2/STAT5 activity and SOCS expression. 1,2-bis(o-Aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N,N-tetraacetic acid (acetoxymethyl)ester (BAPTA-AM), used to provoke endoplasmic reticulum stress, caused a drastic inhibition of protein translation that correlated with the phosphorylation of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2alpha. Both GH and BAPTA-AM caused a rapid induction of the transcription factor C/EBP homology protein (CHOP) and an additive effect was observed with combined treatment, which suggests a regulatory role of GH on endoplasmic reticulum stress. Endoplasmic reticulum stress did not interfere with the rapid GH activation of STAT5 DNA binding activity. However, BAPTA-AM prolonged the DNA binding activity of STAT5 without affecting STAT5 or JAK2 protein levels. GH-induced phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT5 DNA binding activity were prolonged in the presence of BAPTA-AM, suggesting that endoplasmic reticulum stress prevents the inactivation of STAT5 DNA binding activity by modulating the rate of JAK2/STAT5 dephosphorylation. Like BAPTA-AM, the endoplasmic reticulum stressors dithiothreitol and A23187 also prolonged the GH-induced STAT5 DNA binding activity. We were not able to correlate BAPTA-AM effects to the GH-dependent expression of SOCS proteins or SOCS mRNA, suggesting that endoplasmic reticulum stress modulates the rate of JAK2/STAT5 dephosphorylation through mechanisms other than inhibition of SOCS expression. This study indicates that cellular stress may modulate transcription through the JAK/STAT pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Flores-Morales
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
162
|
Gonzalo MA, Alvarado MI, Fernández L, Rosendo R, González G. Fixed drug eruption due to naproxen; lack of cross-reactivity with other propionic acid derivatives. Br J Dermatol 2001; 144:1291-2. [PMID: 11422076 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2133.2001.04267.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
163
|
Sandúa JM, Escolar F, Martínez-Berganza A, Sangrós FJ, Fernández L, Elviro T. [Computer communication between an ambulatory centre and its hospital of reference]. An Sist Sanit Navar 2001; 24:167-76. [PMID: 12876588 DOI: 10.23938/assn.0518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To analyse the demand for medical information requested by a primary care team from its hospital of reference over an 18 month period. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients assigned to 5 surgeries of a primary care team, which had computerised clinical records available in its hospital of reference. In 1995 computerised communication via modem was set up between this team and the "Local Area Network" of its hospital of reference. This connection allows members of the team to carry out real time consultations of the hospital clinical records of their patients (reports, complementary explorations...) and the laboratory and radiology reports requested by the primary care team. Consultations made over an 18 month period (March 96 - August 97) were analysed. RESULTS Five hundred and twenty three consultations were made (29.06 per month). Ninety three point seven per cent of the patients concerning whom consultations were made had a computerised clinical record available. The most consulted services were: Radiology (28.7%), Laboratory (25.2%) and Internal Medicine (16.3%). The most consulted parts of the clinical record were those corresponding to the results of complementary tests: simple radiology (27.3%), haematology and biochemistry (24.7%), other explorations (23.7%). Some 67.5% of the searches were considered "resolutive" by the consulting doctor. An average of 4 minutes 13 seconds were employed per consultation. CONCLUSIONS The information principally required by the family doctor was the results of complementary tests and, in particular, from the laboratory and radiology. Computerised communication between primary care and specialised care is going to be an effective, and probably efficient, system for improving communication between the two levels.
Collapse
|
164
|
Rodrigo AM, Martínez ME, Escudero ML, Ruíz J, Martínez P, Saldaña L, Gómez-García L, Fernández L, Cordero J, Munuera L. Influence of particle size in the effect of polyethylene on human osteoblastic cells. Biomaterials 2001; 22:755-62. [PMID: 11246943 DOI: 10.1016/s0142-9612(00)00208-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The influence of two different sizes of polyethylene particles (< 30 and 20-200 microm) on osteoblastic function has been studied in primary human bone cell cultures. Cells were obtained from trabecular bone fragments of patients undergoing knee reconstructive surgery. On reaching confluency, cells were subcultured in three flasks: < 30 microm polyethylene particles were added to the first flask, 20-200 microm particles to the second flask and none to the third flask, which was the control. The resulting subcultures were incubated until confluence. Osteoblastic function was evaluated by assaying the secretion of osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, and C-terminal type I procollagen (PICP), with or without 1.25(OH)2D3 stimulation in the cell-conditioned medium. Adding < 30 microm polyethylene particles to these osteoblastic cell cultures increased the levels of osteocalcin secreted after 1,25(OH)2D3 stimulation. Treating stimulated or basal osteoblastic cultures with either polyethylene particle size did not affect alkaline phosphatase secretion. However, the addition of <30 microm polyethylene particles decreased PICP levels in the basal and stimulated cultures. A parallel series of osteoblastic cultures was treated with < 30 microm polyethylene particles and stimulated or not with 1,25(OH)2D3 to determine the effect on osteocalcin mRNA expression using RT-PCR amplification. Polyethylene particle-treated cultures had higher osteocalcin mRNA expression regardless of whether they had been stimulated with 1,25(OH)2D3 or not. We conclude that particle size affects the influence of polyethylene on osteoblastic function markers. Particles with a diameter of less than 30 microm increase osteocalcin expression and secretion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Rodrigo
- Investigation Unit, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
165
|
Zabala A, Martín MR, Haza AI, Fernández L, Rodríguez JM, Morales P. Anti-proliferative effect of two lactic acid bacteria strains of human origin on the growth of a myeloma cell line. Lett Appl Microbiol 2001; 32:287-92. [PMID: 11298943 DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.2001.00910.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Twenty lactic acid bacteria strains were isolated from human faeces and tested by MTT assay for stimulation or inhibition of the proliferation of Vero and myeloma cells. METHODS AND RESULTS None of the strains significantly affected the proliferation of Vero cells. However, two isolates (HN1 and HA8) showed a strong inhibition of myeloma cell proliferation (16.7 and 5.0%, respectively) by MTT assay. CONCLUSION Both strains have an anti-proliferative effect on a tumoral cell line. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The beneficial effect of LAB cancer therapy has been linked to their ability for immunomodulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Zabala
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología III, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
166
|
Castaño G, Más R, Fernández JC, Illnait J, Fernández L, Alvarez E. Effects of policosanol in older patients with type II hypercholesterolemia and high coronary risk. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2001; 56:M186-92. [PMID: 11253161 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/56.3.m186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of policosanol in older patients with type II hypercholesterolemia and more than one concomitant atherosclerotic risk factor. METHODS After 6 weeks on a lipid-lowering diet, 179 patients randomly received a placebo or policosanol at doses of 5 followed by 10 mg per day for successive 12-week periods of each dose. Policosanol (5 and 10 mg/d) significantly (p < .001) reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; 16.9% and 24.4%, respectively) and total cholesterol (TC; 12.8% and 16.2%, respectively), while significantly (p < .01) increasing (p < .001) high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) by 14.6% and 29.1%, respectively. RESULTS Policosanol significantly decreased (p < .01) the ratios of LDL-C to HDL-C (29.1%) and TC to HDL-C (28%) at study completion, although triglycerides remained unchanged. Policosanol, but not the placebo, significantly improved (p .01) cardiovascular capacity, which was assessed using the Specific Activity Scale. No serious adverse experiences occurred in policosanol patients (p < .01), compared with seven adverse experiences (7.9%) reported by placebo patients. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that policosanol is effective, safe, and well tolerated in older hypercholesterolemic patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Castaño
- Medical Surgical Research Center, National Center for Scientific Research, Havana City, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
167
|
Crespo N, Illnait J, Más R, Fernández L, Fernández J, Castaño G. Comparative study of the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol and lovastatin in patients with hypercholesterolemia and noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 2001; 19:117-27. [PMID: 10939029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
This randomized, double-blind study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol (10 mg/day) and lovastatin (20 mg/day) in patients with hypercholesterolemia and noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus. After 6 weeks on a lipid lowering diet, 53 patients were randomized to receive either policosanol or lovastatin tablets that were taken o.i.d. for 12 weeks under double-blind conditions. Both groups were similar at randomization. Policosanol significantly (p < 0.001) lowered low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (20.4%), total cholesterol (14.2%) and the ratio of LDL-cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol (23.7%). Lovastatin significantly (p < 0.01) lowered LDL-cholesterol (16.8%), total cholesterol (14.0%) and the ratio (p < 0.05) of LDL-cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol (14.9%). Triglyceride levels did not significantly change after therapy. Policosanol, but not lovastatin, significantly increased (p < 0.01) levels of HDL-cholesterol (7.5%). Comparison between groups showed that changes in HDL-cholesterol induced by policosanol were significantly greater (p < 0.01) than those induced by lovastatin. Both treatments were safe and well tolerated. Lovastatin moderately but significantly (p < 0.05) increased levels of aspartate aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase and alkaline phosphatase. Adverse reactions were more frequent in the lovastatin group (p < 0.01) than in the policosanol group. In conclusion, policosanol administered at 10 mg/day produces more advantageous changes in HDL-cholesterol and has a better safety and tolerability profile than lovastatin 20 mg/day.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Crespo
- Enrique Cabrera Hospital, Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
168
|
Abstract
Policosanol is a cholesterol-lowering drug with concomitant antiplatelet effects. This study was undertaken to investigate the long-term effects of policosanol administered to patients with moderately severe intermittent claudication. The study consisted of a 6-week single-blind, placebo-controlled run in phase, followed by a 2-year double-blind, randomized treatment step. Fifty-six patients who met study entry criteria were randomized to receive placebo or policosanol 10 mg twice daily. Walking distances on a treadmill (constant speed 3.2 km/h, slope 10 degrees, temperature 25 degrees C) were assessed before and after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of treatment. Both groups were similar at randomization. After 6 months of therapy, policosanol significantly increased (p < 0.01) the initial claudication distance from 125.9 +/- 8.7 m to 201.1 +/- 24.8 m and the absolute claudication distance from 219.5 +/- 14.1 m to 380.7 +/- 50.2 m. Both variables remained unchanged in the placebo group (p < 0.01). These effects did not wear off but improved after long-term therapy, so that final values were 333.5 +/- 28.6 m (initial claudication distance) and 648.9 +/- 54.1 m (absolute claudication distance); both significantly greater (p < 0.0001) than those obtained in the placebo group, which showed values of 137.9 +/- 21.8 m (initial claudication distance) and 237.7 +/- 28.1 m (absolute claudication distance), respectively. At study completion, 21 policosanol and 5 placebo patients attained increases in claudication distance values > 50% (p < 0.001). Policosanol, but not placebo, significantly increased the ankle/arm pressure index. In addition, from month 6 up to study completion, the frequency of patients reporting improvement of lower limb symptoms was greater in the policosanol group than in the placebo group. The treatment was tolerated well. There were 16 withdrawals (12 placebo, 4 policosanol) from the study. Eight patients in the placebo group experienced a total of 10 serious adverse events, 8 of which were vascular events, compared with none in the policosanol group (p < 0.01). In addition, 3 patients in the policosanol group and 3 patients in the placebo group reported mild adverse events during the study. The present results demonstrate the long-term usefulness of policosanol therapy to treat patients with intermittent claudication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Castaño
- Medical Surgical Research Center, Havana City Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
169
|
Peralta C, Fernández L, Panés J, Prats N, Sans M, Piqué JM, Gelpí E, Roselló-Catafau J. Preconditioning protects against systemic disorders associated with hepatic ischemia-reperfusion through blockade of tumor necrosis factor-induced P-selectin up-regulation in the rat. Hepatology 2001; 33:100-13. [PMID: 11124826 DOI: 10.1053/jhep.2001.20529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies indicate that ischemic preconditioning protects against lung injury resulting from hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) through inhibition of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) release from Kupffer cells. The present study investigated whether this effect is limited to the lung or is a generalized systemic response and explores the molecular mechanisms involved. Hepatic I/R led to an increase in neutrophil accumulation in liver, lung, and splanchnic organs. Although preconditioning did not modify neutrophil infiltration in liver during reperfusion, it conferred protection against hepatic injury associated with I/R. In remote organs, preconditioning abrogated the increase in P-selectin up-regulation, preventing neutrophil infiltration and thus reducing the oxidative stress and microvascular disorders following hepatic I/R in these organs. Administration of Abs against P-selectin or TNF previous to ischemia had the same effects as preconditioning. The effects of preconditioning on the blockade of P-selectin up-regulation probably results from inhibition of systemic TNF release from Kupffer cells. Supplementation of TNF abolished the benefits of preconditioning, whereas the injurious effects of TNF were prevented by previous blockade of P-selectin. The results of the present study suggest that ischemic preconditioning protects the liver against I/R injury by a mechanism independent of adhesion molecule expression and neutrophil accumulation. In remote organs, however, hepatic preconditioning prevents inflammatory damage by reducing the systemic TNF release from the liver and thus preventing P-selectin up-regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Peralta
- Department of Medical Bioanalysis, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Barcelona, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
170
|
Rodrigo AM, Martínez ME, Martínez P, Escudero ML, Ruíz J, Saldaña L, Gómez-García L, Fernández L, del Valle I, Munuera L. Effects of MA 956 superalloy and alpha-alumina particles on some markers of human osteoblastic cells in primary culture. J Biomed Mater Res 2001; 54:30-6. [PMID: 11077400 DOI: 10.1002/1097-4636(200101)54:1<30::aid-jbm4>3.0.co;2-v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
One of the problems associated with the modern biomaterials used in prostheses is osteolysis, which, although its exact origin is unknown, has been associated with wear particles. Osteoblasts seem to participate directly in this phenomenon. This paper investigates in vitro cellular response to the wear particles from the metal substrate and ceramic covering (alpha-alumina) of a new titanium yttrium aluminum alloy, MA 956, that has been proposed as a biomaterial because of its exceptional mechanical and electrochemical properties. The effect of different sizes (10 and 80 microm) of MA 956 and alpha-alumina particles on osteoblast function was studied in primary human bone cell cultures. Cells were harvested from trabecular bone fragments obtained during knee arthroplasty. Osteoblastic cell response to the particles was measured by assaying C-terminal type I procollagen (PICP), alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin secretion, with and without 1.25(OH)(2)D(3) stimulation, in the cell-conditioned medium. Both sizes of MA 956 and alpha-alumina particles decreased PICP secretion in nonstimulated osteoblastic cells, but this secretion was not affected in the cultures stimulated with 1.25(OH)(2)D(3). Only the 10 microm alpha-alumina particles inhibited alkaline phosphatase activity in 1.25(OH)(2)D(3)-stimulated and nonstimulated cultures. The rise in osteocalcin levels after 1.25(OH)(2)D(3) stimulation was lower in the presence of the 10 microm MA 956 particles than in the presence of alpha-alumina particles. Although both materials seem to have directly affected in vitro osteoblastic cell function, the increase in osteocalcin levels after 1.25(OH)(2)D(3) stimulation was lower after exposure to MA 956 particles than the increase observed after exposure to alpha-alumina particles. Therefore, it does not seem that osteocalcin stimulated bone resorption, suggesting that MA 956 would be less likely to provoke osteolysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Rodrigo
- Investigation Unit Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
171
|
Díaz AM, Abad MJ, Fernández L, Recuero C, Villaescusa L, Silván AM, Bermejo P. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity of iridoids and triterpenoid compounds isolated from Phillyrea latifolia L. Biol Pharm Bull 2000; 23:1307-13. [PMID: 11085357 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.23.1307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Two iridoids, oleuropeoside and ligustroside, and two triterpenoid compounds, oleanolic acid and ursolic acid, have been isolated from the leaves of Phillyrea latifolia L. (Oleaceae). These compounds were tested for interactions with the cyclooxygenase (COX) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) pathways of arachidonate metabolism in calcium ionophore-stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages and human platelets, and for their effect on cell viability. Structure-activity relationships obtained for in vitro screening results were discussed. These compounds are capable of exerting inhibitory actions on enzymes of the arachidonate cascade. All compounds assayed showed a significant effect on prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-release, with inhibition percentages similar to the reference drug indomethacin (IC50 = 0.95 microM). The IC50 values of the active compounds are: oleuropeoside 47 microM, ligustroside 48.53 microM, oleanolic acid 23.51 microM and ursolic acid 60.91 microM. In the leukotriene C4 (LTC4)-assay, only oleanolic acid showed a significant effect (IC50 = 16.79 microM). We also investigated the action of compounds on thromboxane B2 (TXB2)-release induced by calcium ionophore in human platelets. Of all the tested compounds, only ligustroside (IC50 = 122.63 microM) and ursolic acid (IC50 = 50.21 microM) showed a significant effect, although with less potency than the reference drug ibuprofen (IC50 = 1.27 microM). Thus, our compounds possess an array of potentially beneficial anti-inflammatory properties which may, alongside other constituents, contribute to the claimed therapeutic properties of the plant from which they are derived.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Díaz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Alcala, Alcala de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
172
|
Luzardo OP, Machín RP, Díaz-Chico BN, Fernández L. Photoaffinity labeling identification of a specific binding protein for the anabolic steroids stanozolol and danazol: an oligomeric protein regulated by age, pituitary hormones, and ethinyl estradiol. Endocrinology 2000; 141:3377-87. [PMID: 10965910 DOI: 10.1210/endo.141.9.7667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have demonstrated previously that both rat and human liver microsomes contain a highly specific binding protein for the anabolic steroids stanozolol (ST) and danazol (DA). In this study we solubilized the male rat liver ST-binding protein (STBP) and investigated the following parameters: 1) pharmacological properties, 2) hydrodynamic properties, 3) peptidic composition, 4) the effects of age and hypophysectomy, and 5) inducibility by 17alpha-ethinyl estradiol. We found that STBP is an integral protein bound to the endoplasmic reticulum. 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS) provided its optimal solubilization without changes in its pharmacological properties, i.e. high specificity for ST and danazol, between natural steroids and ligands of low affinity glucocorticoid-binding sites or of progesterone-binding sites. Hydrodynamic properties of the STBP showed that it has a molecular mass of at least 118 kDa. SDS-PAGE of covalently labeled STBP under nonreducing conditions showed that [3H]ST binds to a 110-kDa protein. The STBP was resolved under reducing conditions into three peptides of 55, 31, and 22 kDa, respectively. STBP increased from immature to adult rats, and it dramatically decreased after hypophysectomy. Unlike the 22-kDa peptide, both the 55- and 31-kDa peptides drastically decreased in both immature and hypophysectomized rats. 17alpha-Ethinyl estradiol administration to immature or hypophysectomized rats induced the 55- and 31-kDa [3H]STBP to a greater extent than the 22-kDa peptide. Thus, STBP appears as an oligomeric protein composed of hormone-regulated peptides. The availability of solubilized STBP and the fact that it can be induced in vivo represent major steps toward the purification and functional significance of this unique steroid-binding protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O P Luzardo
- Toxicology Section, Center of Health Sciences and Faculty of Veterinary, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
173
|
Fernández L, Abad M, Pérez V, Corpa JM, Carbajo MT, Díez C. Effects of an opioid antagonist (naloxone) on reproductive function of multiparous sows. Vet Rec 2000; 147:194-6. [PMID: 10985464 DOI: 10.1136/vr.147.7.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Departamento de Patología Animal: Sanidad Animal, (Reproducción y Obstetricia), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Léon, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
174
|
Castaño G, Más R, Fernández J, Illnait J, Fernández L, Alvarez E. Effect of policosanol in older patients with type II hypercholesterolemia and high coronary risk. Atherosclerosis 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(00)81447-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
175
|
Crespo N, Illnait J, Más R, Fernández L, Castaño G, Fernández J, Lescay M. Comparative study of the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol (10 mg/d and lovastatin (20 mg/d) on patients with type ii hypercholesterolemia and non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Atherosclerosis 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(00)81235-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
176
|
Fernández L, Bustos L, González L, Palma D, Villagrán J, Muñoz S. [Beliefs, attitudes and knowledge about sex education]. Rev Med Chil 2000; 128:574-83. [PMID: 11016055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous reports show that Chilean teenagers have an inadequate knowledge about sexuality and reproduction. AIM To compare the knowledge about sexuality among adolescents coming from private and public schools, with and without sexual education programs. MATERIAL AND METHODS A structured anonymous inquiry, containing multiple choice and open questions, was applied to a sample of 229 adolescents attending seventh and eighth grade of junior school, in private and public schools of Temuco, Chile. RESULTS Eleven percent of adolescents had already their first sexual intercourse at a mean age of 12.2 +/- 2.4 years old. Of these, 96% came from public schools. An overall analysis of tests, disclosed a 53% of correct answers to the inquiry. Adolescents coming from private schools had a better performance than those coming from public schools. Sexual attitudes were not influenced by sexual education programs. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents coming from private schools have a better sexual knowledge level and more conservative attitudes towards sexuality. Overall knowledge is inadequate albeit overvalued. These teenagers are high risk group for unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases and require efficient sexual education programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Departamento de Pediatría y Cirugía Infantil, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
177
|
Castaño G, Más R, Fernández L, Fernández JC, Illnait J, López LE, Alvarez E. Effects of policosanol on postmenopausal women with type II hypercholesterolemia. Gynecol Endocrinol 2000; 14:187-95. [PMID: 10923280 DOI: 10.3109/09513590009167681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to investigate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of policosanol, a cholesterol-lowering drug purified from sugar-cane wax, in postmenopausal women with type II hypercholesterolemia. A total of 244 women who had experienced the menopause and showed elevated serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels despite 6 weeks on a standard lipid-lowering diet were randomized to receive placebo or policosanol 5 mg/day for 12 weeks, after which the dose was doubled to 10 mg/day for the next 12 weeks. Policosanol (5 and 10 mg/day) significantly lowered LDL-C levels (17.7% and 25.2%, respectively) and total cholesterol (12.6% and 16.7%, respectively), as well as the ratios of LDL-C to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (17.0% and 29.3%, respectively) and total cholesterol to HDL-C (16.7% and 27.2%, respectively), compared to the baseline and placebo; at the same time, policosanol significantly raised HDL-C levels by 16.5% and 29.3%, respectively. The drug was safe and well tolerated. No drug-related adverse events were observed, and even the extent of adverse events was less in the policosanol group than in the placebo group. Four serious adverse events occurred in the placebo group (one myocardial infarction, two cases of hypertensive status and one surgical intervention) compared to none in the policosanol group. In conclusion, policosanol is effective, safe and well tolerated in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Castaño
- Medical Surgical Research Center (CIMEQ), Siboney, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
178
|
Abstract
A new phenylpropanoid glycoside isoangoroside C was isolated from the roots of Scrophularia scorodonia. Its structure was determined on the basis of spectral data as: 3-hydroxy-4-methoxy-beta-phenylethoxy-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosy l-(1-->6)alpha L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-4-O-Z-feruloyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside. Additionally, one known phenylpropanoid, angoroside C, and five known iridoid glycosides, harpagoside, bartsioside, 8-O-acetyl-harpagide, aucuboside and harpagide were isolated and identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J de Santos
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
179
|
Fernández L, Beerthuyzen MM, Brown J, Siezen RJ, Coolbear T, Holland R, Kuipers OP. Cloning, characterization, controlled overexpression, and inactivation of the major tributyrin esterase gene of Lactococcus lactis. Appl Environ Microbiol 2000; 66:1360-8. [PMID: 10742212 PMCID: PMC91993 DOI: 10.1128/aem.66.4.1360-1368.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/1999] [Accepted: 01/06/2000] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The gene encoding the major intracellular tributyrin esterase of Lactococcus lactis was cloned using degenerate DNA probes based on 19 known N-terminal amino acid residues of the purified enzyme. The gene, named estA, was sequenced and found to encode a protein of 258 amino acid residues. The transcription start site was mapped 233 nucleotides upstream of the start codon, and a canonical promoter sequence was identified. The deduced amino acid sequence of the estA product contained the typical GXSXG motif found in most lipases and esterases. The protein was overproduced up to 170-fold in L. lactis by use of the nisin-controlled expression system recently developed for lactic acid bacteria. The estA gene was inactivated by chromosomal integration of a temperature-sensitive integration vector. This resulted in the complete loss of esterase activity, which could then be recovered after complementation of the constructed esterase-deficient strain with the wild-type estA gene. This confirms that EstA is the main enzyme responsible for esterase activity in L. lactis. Purified recombinant enzyme showed a preference for short-chain acyl esters, surprisingly also including phospholipids. Medium- and long-acyl-chain lipids were also hydrolyzed, albeit less efficiently. Intermediate characteristics between esterases and lipases make intracellular lactococcal EstA difficult to classify in either of these two groups of esterolytic enzymes. We suggest that, in vivo, EstA could be involved in (phospho)lipid metabolism or cellular detoxification or both, as its sequence showed significant similarity to S-formylglutathione hydrolase (FGH) of Paracoccus denitrificans and human EstD (or FGH), which are part of a universal formaldehyde detoxification pathway.
Collapse
|
180
|
Alcocer L, Fernández L, Campos E, Más R. A comparative study of policosanol Versus acipimox in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. Int J Tissue React 2000; 21:85-92. [PMID: 10645516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
An 8-week, randomized, double-blind study comparing the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol and acipimox was conducted in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. Prior to entry into active treatment, all patients followed a standard cholesterol-lowering diet for 12 weeks. Sixty-three patients were randomized to receive either policosanol (10 mg/day) or acipimox (750 mg/day) tablets for 8 weeks under double-blind conditions. Both groups were similar at randomization. Policosanol significantly reduced total cholesterol (p < 0.0001) (15.8%), low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (21%) and the ratios of LDL-cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol (15.8%) and cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol (11.5%). Acipimox significantly lowered both cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 7.5%. The percent changes of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and both ratios were larger in the policosanol group than in the acipimox group. Both drugs were well tolerated. Acipimox significantly increased (p > 0.001) aspartate amino transferase levels but only four patients showed increases above the normal limit. Policosanol significantly reduced creatinine values (p > 0.05) but no patients had values out of the normal range. Four patients withdrew from the study (two from each group) but none withdrew because of adverse effects. No adverse effects were reported in the policosanol group, while five patients on acipimox reported adverse effects (hot flushes, nausea, vomiting, headache, hypochondrial pain and leg edema). These results indicate that policosanol (10 mg/day) was more effective and well tolerated than was acipimox (750 mg/day) in this study population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Alcocer
- Department of Cardiology, Mexico General Hospital, Mexico City
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
181
|
Jaspe A, Palacios P, Fernández L, Sanjosé C. Effect of extra aeration on extracellular enzyme activities and ATP concentration of dairy Pseudomonas fluorescens. Lett Appl Microbiol 2000; 30:244-8. [PMID: 10747259 DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.2000.00705.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The effect of forced aeration on extracellular enzyme synthesis during batch growth of a Pseudomonas fluorescens strain of dairy origin on pyruvate mineral salts medium at 7 degrees C was studied. Measurement of oxygen tension, electron micrographs to estimate cell volume, luciferase determination of ATP and plate counts were performed in the course of incubation. Cells from the stationary phase of growth had lower energy status (in terms of intracellular ATP concentration) in the cultures receiving surplus aeration. Those cells produced three times more extracellular proteinase and lipase than control cells. Onset time for production of both enzymes coincided with a sharp fall of intracellular ATP levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Jaspe
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología III, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
182
|
|
183
|
Ros LH, Fernández L, Villacampa VM, Ros PR. Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the liver--characteristics on magnetic resonance imaging: case report. Can Assoc Radiol J 1999; 50:387-9. [PMID: 10659062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- L H Ros
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
184
|
Affiliation(s)
- M A Gonzalo
- Hospital Infanta Cristina, Servico de Alergologia, Badajoz, Spain
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
185
|
Kameyama L, Fernández L, Calderón J, Ortiz-Rojas A, Patterson TA. Characterization of wild lambdoid bacteriophages: detection of a wide distribution of phage immunity groups and identification of a nus-dependent, nonlambdoid phage group. Virology 1999; 263:100-11. [PMID: 10544086 DOI: 10.1006/viro.1999.9888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Temperate phages were isolated from fresh human fecal samples. Lambdoid phages were screened for growth on Nus+ but not Nus- bacteria. Approximately 100 independent lysogens of Nus-dependent phages were constructed and tested for immunity to superinfection by the same Nus-dependent phages. This identified 20 different phage immunity groups, 18 of which belonged to the lambdoid phage family. The DNA from the majority of these phages hybridized with a lambda DNA probe, and approximately 50% were recognized by anti-lambda antibodies. Furthermore most were inducible by UV light. Eleven phage recombinants with different immunity were obtained when a phage from each group was coinfected with lambda or its derivative lambdaBLK20. We also identified another immunity group with 48 members. None of these hybridized with either lambda or phi80 DNA probes nor were they recognized by anti-lambda serum. Most were not induced by UV light treatment, and no recombinants were obtained when crossed with either lambda or lambdaBLK20. Consequently, this group of Nus-dependent phages represent a new nonlambdoid phage family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Kameyama
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados- IPN, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional No. 2508, México, D.F., C.P. 07360, México.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
186
|
Echagüe Y, Fernández L. [Restatement of the program for detection, treatment and control of mycobacterial infections in the area of San Vicente (northeast of the province of Misiones)]. Rev Argent Microbiol 1999; 31 Suppl 1:15-6. [PMID: 10509400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Y Echagüe
- Carrera de Especialización en Microbiología Clínica, UNAM, Ministerio de Salud Pública, San Vicente, Pcia de Misiones, Argentina
| | | |
Collapse
|
187
|
Hernández DE, Fernández L, Azuaje C, Tassinari P. [Idiopathic CD4+ T-cell lymphocytopenia syndrome associated with immunodeficiency diseases]. Sangre (Barc) 1999; 44:392-3. [PMID: 10618923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
|
188
|
Quiñones D, Alonso S, López R, Sánchez I, Rodríguez F, Fernández L, Jerez J. [Contact urticaria, rhinoconjunctivitis and bronchial asthma from occupational use of papain]. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 1999; 27:273-5. [PMID: 10568879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Papain is a plant protein with a wide pharmacological, domestic and industrial use. It leads a high sensitisation, being the most common rotue of entry the inhalation. The occupational allergy to papain in exposed workers was described some years ago, being presented with bronchial asthma, rhinitis or both. In most of the cases, the specific IgE was positive. We present a case contact urticaria, rhinoconjunctivitis and bronchial asthma per papain of occupational origin. Papain prick test, specific IgE and nasal challenge were positive. The peak flow record showed diary decreases during the working week and the basal spirometry showed obstruction to the airflow. The patient was moved away the place where papain was handled and this resolved the clinical symptoms and the spirometry returns to the normal values. We present a case of IgE-mediated allergy, vehicled by tow routes: contact and airborne. The latest produced clinical manifestations later. Papain was used as Cephalopoda softening, because of that it worth emphasising its seasonal use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Quiñones
- Sección de Alergología, Hospital Universitario "Marqués de Valdecilla", Santander, Cantabria, España
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
189
|
Roel JE, Fernández L, Abraham L, Cuesta MC, Bouza G, Boero A, Falcón JL. [Diagnosis and treatment of spinal epidural abscess]. Medicina (B Aires) 1999; 59:59-62. [PMID: 10349121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal epidural I abscess is an uncommon disease. The medical literature emphasizes the importance of its timely recognition and treatment. Three patients admitted in our hospital are presented. None of them was diagnosed on ambulatory bases. All of them were admitted because of spinal ache and two of them also had fever. Magnetic resonance imaging yielded the correct diagnosis in all cases and was very effective in delineating the extent of the lesion. We used antimicrobial therapy directed against the bacteria identified by cultures as well as surgical drainage in all cases. The three patients had a good outcome and no neurologic sequela. Early recognition, proper microbiologic diagnosis and surgical drainage are the main criteria for the current management of spinal epidural abscess.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J E Roel
- Clínica y Maternidad Suizo-Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
190
|
Biondi C, Cotorruelo C, Balagué C, Toresani I, Racca L, Di Mónaco RD, Fernández L, Racca A. Association of the 'secretor state' with the presence and recurrence of urinary infections in pregnant women. Ann Clin Biochem 1999; 36 ( Pt 3):391-2. [PMID: 10376084 DOI: 10.1177/000456329903600314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Biondi
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
191
|
|
192
|
Fernández Lobato R, Pinto I, Paul L, Tejero E, Montes C, Fernández L, Moreno Azcoita M, Lozano R. Self-expanding prostheses as a palliative method in treating advanced colorectal cancer. Int Surg 1999; 84:159-62. [PMID: 10408289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM This work presents the results of the use of self-expanding prosthesis as a definitive palliative method for eliminating colorectal obstructions caused by advanced and unresectable tumours. PATIENTS A total of 41 cases were included (29 men, 12 women) with an average age of 70.12 years (range 46-95 years). All cases were showed symptoms of acute intestinal obstruction. Wallstent prostheses were inserted. RESULTS Locally unresectable colorectal tumours were disseminated in five cases, metastasis in 28 cases and other tumours in eight cases. In all patients the appropriate insertion was performed, eliminating the obstruction in 38 (92.6%) cases in 24-96 h. The morbidity rate was 6/41 cases (14.6%) with slight rectal discomfort in five and one case of bleeding. Posterior tolerance of the prostheses was good. FOLLOW-UP Two spontaneous rejections, three episodes of subocclusion because of faecal impact and two obstructions caused by an invasion of tumours occurred. Overall, 33 cases (80.4%) died within 1-18 months, average of 4.5 months survival. CONCLUSIONS Wallstent endoprostheses is a good alternative avoiding a colostomy and providing a good tolerance and comfort for the patient until death.
Collapse
|
193
|
Más R, Castaño G, Illnait J, Fernández L, Fernández J, Alemán C, Pontigas V, Lescay M. Effects of policosanol in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia and additional coronary risk factors. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999; 65:439-47. [PMID: 10223782 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-9236(99)70139-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of policosanol, a new cholesterol-lowering drug, in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia and additional coronary risk factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS After 5 weeks of a standard step-1 lipid-lowering diet, 437 patients were randomized to receive, under double-blind conditions, 5 mg policosanol or placebo once a day with the evening meal for 12 weeks and 10 mg policosanol or placebo for the next 12 weeks. RESULTS Both groups were similar at randomization. Policosanol (5 and 10 mg/day) significantly reduced (P < .001) serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (18.2% and 25.6%, respectively) and cholesterol (13.0% and 17.4%), and it significantly raised (P < .01) high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (15.5% and 28.4%). Triglycerides remained unchanged after the first 12 weeks and lowered significantly (5.2%; P < .01) at study completion. Policosanol was safe and well tolerated, and no drug-related disturbances were observed. Two male patients who received placebo died during the study--one because of a myocardial infarction and the other because of a cardiac arrest that occurred during a surgical intervention. There were 11 serious adverse events (5.1%) in 10 patients who received placebo (4.6%), 7 of which were vascular, compared with no serious adverse events reported in patients receiving policosanol (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Subjects in the group treated with policosanol did not have serious adverse events during the 24-week study. This study shows that policosanol is effective, safe, and well tolerated in patients with hypercholesterolemia and concomitant coronary risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Más
- Center of Natural Products, National Center for Scientific Research, Havana City, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
194
|
Moreno A, Clemente J, Crespo C, Martínez A, Navarro M, Fernández L, Minguell J, Vázquez G, Andreu FJ. Pelvic insufficiency fractures in patients with pelvic irradiation. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 1999; 44:61-6. [PMID: 10219795 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(98)00534-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insufficiency fractures (IF) occur as a result of normal physiological stress on bones with deficient elastic resistance. Pelvic insufficiency fractures are a complication of osteoporosis due to postmenopausal status, high dose of corticosteroids, or local irradiation. They are important because differential diagnosis includes pelvic bone metastases. Diagnosis is based on both clinical manifestations and radiographic and scintigraphic findings. METHODS AND MATERIALS We examined eight patients with pelvic cancer who had previously undergone external beam radiation therapy as part of their treatment. In the follow-up, they developed insufficiency fractures, and no factor other than pelvic irradiation was present. Diagnosis was confirmed by radionuclide bone scan followed by conventional radiography and computed tomography (CT) scan. RESULTS The average onset of symptoms was 13.7 months after radiation therapy was completed. The initial symptom in all cases was pain. In all of the patients, the bone scan showed abnormalities. One to four increased uptake foci were observed, in the sacroiliac joint in all cases, and in the pubis in three cases. The initial diagnosis was bone metastases in five patients. CT scan showed fractures in all of the patients, in sacrum and pubis, both endostic and cortical. Treatment, consisting of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and rest, led to symptomatic relief in all cases. CONCLUSION Knowledge of pelvic insufficiency fractures is essential in order to rule out metastasic disease, and thus avoid inaccurate treatment. Although radionuclide bone scan is useful in early detection of pelvic IF, definitive diagnosis is provided by CT scan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Moreno
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of San Juan, Alicante, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
195
|
Arruzazabala ML, Más R, Molina V, Carbajal D, Mendoza S, Fernández L, Valdés S. Effect of policosanol on platelet aggregation in type II hypercholesterolemic patients. Int J Tissue React 1999; 20:119-24. [PMID: 10093795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Policosanol is a cholesterol-lowering drug with concomitant antiplatelet effects proved in experimental models and healthy volunteers. This study reports the results of a 4-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of policosanol on platelet aggregation in type II hypercholesterolemic patients. Patients started or continued on a step-one cholesterol-lowering therapy for 4 weeks and those with total cholesterol > 5.0 mmol/L despite dietary conditions were randomized to receive under double-blind conditions placebo or policosanol (10 mg/day) for 30 days. Both groups were similar at randomization. Effects of policosanol on platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid (3.2 mM), collagen (0.5-1 microgram/ml) and ADP (0.5-1 uM) were determined at baseline and after 30 days of treatment. Policosanol significantly reduced platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid and collagen, meanwhile it only inhibited significantly the platelet aggregation induced by the lowest doses of ADP (0.5 uM). No adverse events occurred during the trial. Only one patient (placebo) discontinued from the study because of arthralgia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Arruzazabala
- Center of Natural Products, National Center for Scientific Research, Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
196
|
Carpintero LA, Pérez-Burkhardt IL, Morais D, Agundez I, González-Fajardo JA, Fernández L, Mateo AM, Vaquero C. Superficial femoral artery as a substitute for common carotid artery affected by malignant cervical tumors. MINERVA CHIR 1999; 54:171-4. [PMID: 10352528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Tumoral disease of the arteries is uncommon. It is possible that, in tumoral reoperations affecting cervical structures, periarterial fibrosis due to radiotherapy and previous surgery and metastatic adherences to the arterial wall makes radical surgery difficult. We present a case where the surgical treatment of a regional relapse from laryngeal neoplasm needed the removal of the common carotid artery and its reconstruction with autologous patent superficial femoral artery. Surgical technique included a PTFE graft interposition in the leg.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L A Carpintero
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hospital Universitario, Valladolid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
197
|
Falcón O, Chirino R, León L, López-Bonilla A, Torres S, Fernández L, García-Hernández JA, Valerón PF, Díaz-Chico JC. Low levels of cathepsin D are associated with a poor prognosis in endometrial cancer. Br J Cancer 1999; 79:570-6. [PMID: 10027332 PMCID: PMC2362431 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6690090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Total cytosolic cathepsin D (Cat D) levels were estimated by an immunoradiometric assay in a series of 156 consecutive patients with surgical stages I-III primary endometrial adenocarcinoma. Simultaneously, the tissue content of both oestrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors, and p185HER-2/neu, DNA content (ploidy), and the fraction of S-phase cells (S-phase) were also estimated. Tumoral Cat D content ranged from 0 to 243 pmol mg(-1) protein (median 44 pmol mg(-1) protein) and was not associated with any of the established clinicopathological and biological prognostic variables, with the exception of a weak positive correlation with the tumoral p185HER-2/neu levels. Univariable analysis performed on a subset of 97 patients, followed for a minimum of 2 years or until death, showed that patient age at diagnosis, high histological grade, advanced surgical stage, vascular invasion, positive peritoneal cytology, low levels of Cat D, negative ER and PR status, aneuploidy, and high S-phase were predictive of the presence of persistent or recurrent disease. However, multivariable analysis revealed that only histological grade, surgical stage, Cat D and PR were significantly associated with the patient's outcome. From these findings, we conclude that Cat D is an independent prognostic factor in endometrial adenocarcinoma, its low levels being associated with a worse clinical outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O Falcón
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Materno Infantil de Las Palmas de GC, Canary Islands, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
198
|
Castaño G, Más R, Roca J, Fernández L, Illnait J, Fernández JC, Selman E. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effects of policosanol in patients with intermittent claudication. Angiology 1999; 50:123-30. [PMID: 10063942 DOI: 10.1177/000331979905000205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol, a new cholesterol-lowering drug with concomitant antiplatelet effects, in patients with intermittent claudication. After a baseline period of 6 weeks, 62 patients were randomized to receive, under double-blind conditions, either placebo (31 patients) or policosanol (31), 10 mg twice daily. Walking distances in a treadmill (constant speed 3.2 km/hr, slope 10 degrees) were assessed before and after 6 months of treatment. Both groups were similar at randomization. Policosanol increased significantly (p < 0.01) the initial claudication distance from 132.5+/-13.5 m (baseline) to 205.7+/-36.3 m (after therapy) and the absolute claudication distance (p<0.0001) from 229.5+/-22.0 m to 365.4+/-46.9 m; meanwhile both variables remained unchanged in the placebo group (p<0.05). The reduction of lower limb symptoms showed a greater benefit in the policosanol group. There was no significant change in either group in the ankle/arm pressure ratio. The treatment was well tolerated. There were 10 discontinuations (seven placebo, three policosanol) from the study. Six withdrawals occurred because of adverse events (AE); all were in placebo patients. There were five serious vascular AEs in the placebo group but none in the policosanol group (p<0.05). Overall, 12/31 (38.7%) placebo patients and 3/31 (9.7%) policosanol patients experienced AEs after randomization, which showed a lesser incidence of AEs in the policosanol group (p<0.01). The present study demonstrates a beneficial effect of policosanol in patients with intermittent claudication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Castaño
- Medical Surgical Research Center, Havana City, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
199
|
Affiliation(s)
- J Orós
- Department of Histology and Pathology, Veterinary Faculty ULPGC, Las Palmas, Spain
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
200
|
Fernández L, Flores-Morales A, Lahuna O, Sliva D, Norstedt G, Haldosén LA, Mode A, Gustafsson JA. Desensitization of the growth hormone-induced Janus kinase 2 (Jak 2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (Stat5)-signaling pathway requires protein synthesis and phospholipase C. Endocrinology 1998; 139:1815-24. [PMID: 9528967 DOI: 10.1210/endo.139.4.5931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Signal transducers and activators of transcription (Stat) proteins are latent cytoplasmic transcription factors that are tyrosine phosphorylated by Janus kinases (Jak) in response to GH and other cytokines. GH activates Stat5 by a mechanism that involves tyrosine phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. However, the mechanisms that turn off the GH-activated Jak2/Stat5 pathway are unknown. Continuous exposure to GH of BRL-4 cells, a rat hepatoma cell line stably transfected with rat GH receptor, induces a rapid but transient activation of Jak2 and Stat5. GH-induced Stat5 DNA-binding activity was detected after 2 min and reached a maximum at 10 min. Continued exposure to GH resulted in a desensitization characterized by 1) a rapid decrease in Stat5 DNA-binding activity. The rate of decrease of activity was rapid up to 1 h of GH treatment, and the remaining activity declined slowly thereafter. The activity of Stat5 present after 5 h is still higher than the control levels and almost 10-20% with respect to maximal activity at 10 min; and 2) the inability of further GH treatment to reinduce activation of Stat5. In contrast, with transient exposures of BRL-4 cells to GH, Stat5 DNA-binding activity could repeatedly be induced. GH-induced Jak2 and Stat5 activities were independent of ongoing protein synthesis. However, Jak2 tyrosine phosphorylation and Stat5 DNA-binding activity were prolonged for at least 4 h in the presence of cycloheximide, which suggests that the maintenance of desensitization requires ongoing protein synthesis. Furthermore, inhibition of protein synthesis potentiated GH-induced transcriptional activity in BRL-4 cells transiently transfected with SPIGLE1CAT, a reporter plasmid activated by Stat5. GH-induced Jak2 and Stat5 activation were not affected by D609 or mepacrine, both inhibitors of phospholipase C. However, in the presence of D609 and mepacrine, GH maintained prolonged Jak2 and Stat5 activation. Transactivation of SPIGLE1 by GH was potentiated by mepacrine and D609 but not by the phospholipase A2 inhibitor AACOCF3. Thus, a regulatory circuit of GH-induced transcription through the Jak2/Stat5-signaling pathway includes a prompt GH-induced activation of Jak2/Stat5 followed by a negative regulatory response; ongoing protein synthesis and intracellular signaling pathways, where phospholipase C activity is involved, play a critical role to desensitize the GH-activated Jak2/Stat5-signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Fernández
- Department of Medical Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Novum, Huddinge, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|