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Luna E, Caravaca F, Ferreira F, Fernandez N, Martín P, Vargas M, Saenz de Santamaría J, Garcia Pino G, Azevedo L, Muñoz Sanz A. Effect of Cytomegalovirus Infection on Survival of Older Kidney Transplant Patients (D+/R+): Impact of Valganciclovir Prophylaxis Versus Preemptive Therapy. Transplant Proc 2016; 48:2931-2937. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2016.06.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Ferreira F, Barbosa I, Scelza P, Russano D, Neff J, Montagnana M, Zaccaro Scelza M. A new method for the assessment of the surface topography of NiTi rotary instruments. Int Endod J 2016; 50:902-909. [DOI: 10.1111/iej.12707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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78
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Sastre F, Ferreira F, Pedreschi F. TLC fingerprint of phenolics and saponins in commercial extracts of Yucca schidigera Roezl. J LIQ CHROMATOGR R T 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/10826076.2016.1234393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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79
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Pisoeiro J, Galvão A, Ferreira F, Matos J. Potential for CSO treatment with horizontal flow constructed wetlands: influence of hydraulic load, plant presence and loading frequency. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:20591-20599. [PMID: 27464662 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7212-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed at analysing the performance of horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (CWs) to treat combined sewer overflow (CSO). Four horizontal subsurface flow CWs, organized in two groups (A and B) each with a planted (Phragmites australis) and a non-planted bed, were loaded with simulated CSO, with group B receiving twice the hydraulic load of group A. Beds were monitored for pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, redox potential, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS) and enterococci. Porosity variations were also estimated. Monitoring was conducted during spring and wintertime, with regular and irregular loading frequencies. Results showed an average treatment efficiency of 90-100 % for TSS, 60-90 % for COD and 2-6 log for enterococci. Removal rates were especially relevant in the first 24 h for COD and TSS. TSS and enterococci removal did not exhibit the influence of macrophytes or the applied hydraulic load while COD's removal efficiency was lower in the higher load group and in planted beds.
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Ferreira F, Chasqueira M, Paixão P. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) genotyping in congenital infection. J Clin Virol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2016.08.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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81
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Shen Y, Pfluger T, Ferreira F, Liang J, Navedo M, Zeng Q, Reid B, Zhao M. LB825 Wound electric signals are significantly reduced in diabetic animal. J Invest Dermatol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.05.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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82
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Hajian B, De Backer J, Vos W, Van Holsbeke C, Ferreira F, Quinn DA, Hufkens A, Claes R, De Backer W. Pulmonary vascular effects of pulsed inhaled nitric oxide in COPD patients with pulmonary hypertension. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2016; 11:1533-41. [PMID: 27462149 PMCID: PMC4940019 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s106480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is often associated with secondary pulmonary hypertension (PH), which worsens prognosis. PH can be lowered by oxygen, but also by inhaled nitric oxide (NO), which has the potential to improve the health status of these patients. NO is an important mediator in vascular reactions in the pulmonary circulation. Oral compounds can act through NO-mediated pathways, but delivering pulsed inhaled NO (iNO) directly to the airways and pulmonary vasculature could equally benefit patients. Therefore, a proof-of-concept study was performed to quantify pulmonary blood vessel caliber changes after iNO administration using computed tomography (CT)-based functional respiratory imaging (FRI). Methods Six patients with secondary PH due to COPD received “pulsed” iNO in combination with oxygen for 20 minutes via a nasal cannula. Patients underwent a high-resolution CT scan with contrast before and after iNO. Using FRI, changes in volumes of blood vessels and associated lobes were quantified. Oxygen saturation and blood pressure were monitored and patients were asked about their subjective feelings. Results Pulmonary blood vessel volume increased by 7.06%±5.37% after iNO. A strong correlation (Ω20=0.32, P=0.002) was obtained between ventilation and observed vasodilation, suggesting that using the pulsed system, iNO is directed toward the ventilated zones, which consequently experience more vasodilation. Patients did not develop oxygen desaturation, remained normotensive, and perceived an improvement in their dyspnea sensation. Conclusion Inhalation of pulsed NO with oxygen causes vasodilation in the pulmonary circulation of COPD patients, mainly in the well-ventilated areas. A high degree of heterogeneity was found in the level of vasodilation. Patients tend to feel better after the treatment. Chronic use trials are warranted.
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Meyer P, Maity P, Burkovski A, Singh K, Ferreira F, Krug L, Wlaschek M, Wirth T, Kestler H, Scharffetter-Kochanek K. 397 In-silico modeling of the senescence associated secretory phenotype. J Invest Dermatol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.02.431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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84
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Matricardi PM, Kleine-Tebbe J, Hoffmann HJ, Valenta R, Hilger C, Hofmaier S, Aalberse RC, Agache I, Asero R, Ballmer-Weber B, Barber D, Beyer K, Biedermann T, Bilò MB, Blank S, Bohle B, Bosshard PP, Breiteneder H, Brough HA, Caraballo L, Caubet JC, Crameri R, Davies JM, Douladiris N, Ebisawa M, EIgenmann PA, Fernandez-Rivas M, Ferreira F, Gadermaier G, Glatz M, Hamilton RG, Hawranek T, Hellings P, Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, Jakob T, Jappe U, Jutel M, Kamath SD, Knol EF, Korosec P, Kuehn A, Lack G, Lopata AL, Mäkelä M, Morisset M, Niederberger V, Nowak-Węgrzyn AH, Papadopoulos NG, Pastorello EA, Pauli G, Platts-Mills T, Posa D, Poulsen LK, Raulf M, Sastre J, Scala E, Schmid JM, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, van Hage M, van Ree R, Vieths S, Weber R, Wickman M, Muraro A, Ollert M. EAACI Molecular Allergology User's Guide. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2016; 27 Suppl 23:1-250. [PMID: 27288833 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 500] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The availability of allergen molecules ('components') from several protein families has advanced our understanding of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated responses and enabled 'component-resolved diagnosis' (CRD). The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Molecular Allergology User's Guide (MAUG) provides comprehensive information on important allergens and describes the diagnostic options using CRD. Part A of the EAACI MAUG introduces allergen molecules, families, composition of extracts, databases, and diagnostic IgE, skin, and basophil tests. Singleplex and multiplex IgE assays with components improve both sensitivity for low-abundance allergens and analytical specificity; IgE to individual allergens can yield information on clinical risks and distinguish cross-reactivity from true primary sensitization. Part B discusses the clinical and molecular aspects of IgE-mediated allergies to foods (including nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, vegetables, cereal grains, milk, egg, meat, fish, and shellfish), inhalants (pollen, mold spores, mites, and animal dander), and Hymenoptera venom. Diagnostic algorithms and short case histories provide useful information for the clinical workup of allergic individuals targeted for CRD. Part C covers protein families containing ubiquitous, highly cross-reactive panallergens from plant (lipid transfer proteins, polcalcins, PR-10, profilins) and animal sources (lipocalins, parvalbumins, serum albumins, tropomyosins) and explains their diagnostic and clinical utility. Part D lists 100 important allergen molecules. In conclusion, IgE-mediated reactions and allergic diseases, including allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma, food reactions, and insect sting reactions, are discussed from a novel molecular perspective. The EAACI MAUG documents the rapid progression of molecular allergology from basic research to its integration into clinical practice, a quantum leap in the management of allergic patients.
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Moraes AH, Asam C, Batista A, Almeida FCL, Wallner M, Ferreira F, Valente AP. 1H, 13C and 15N resonance assignments and second structure information of Fag s 1: Fagales allergen from Fagus sylvatica. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2016; 10:45-48. [PMID: 26289775 PMCID: PMC5689376 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-015-9634-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Fagales allergens belonging to the Bet v 1 family account responsible for the majority of spring pollinosis in the temperate climate zones in the Northern hemisphere. Among them, Fag s 1 from beech pollen is an important trigger of Fagales pollen associated allergic reactions. The protein shares high similarity with birch pollen Bet v 1, the best-characterized member of this allergen family. Of note, recent work on Bet v 1 and its homologues found in Fagales pollen demonstrated that not all allergenic members of this family have the capacity to induce allergic sensitization. Fag s 1 was shown to bind pre-existing IgE antibodies most likely primarily directed against other members of this multi-allergen family. Therefore, it is especially interesting to compare the structures of Bet v 1-like pollen allergens, which have the potential to induce allergic sensitization with allergens that are mainly cross-reactive. This in the end will help to identify allergy eliciting molecular pattern on Bet v 1-like allergens. In this work, we report the (1)H, (15)N and (13)C NMR assignment of beech pollen Fag s 1 as well as the secondary structure information based on backbone chemical shifts.
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86
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Himly M, Nandy A, Kahlert H, Thilker M, Steiner M, Briza P, Neubauer A, Klysner S, van Ree R, Buchheit KH, Vieths S, Ferreira F. Standardization of allergen products: 2. Detailed characterization of GMP-produced recombinant Phl p 5.0109 as European Pharmacopoeia reference standard. Allergy 2016; 71:495-504. [PMID: 26687027 DOI: 10.1111/all.12824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Biological Standardization Programme of the European Directorate for Quality of Medicines and Healthcare (EDQM) aims at the establishment of well-characterized reference standards based on recombinant allergens and validated assays for the quantification of major allergen content. The objective of this study was to examine the detailed physicochemical and immunological characterization of recombinant Phl p 5.0109, the second available allergen reference standard. METHODS Recombinant Phl p 5.0109 PP5ar06007 was produced under GMP conditions and analyzed by an array of physicochemical and immunological methods for identity, quantity, homogeneity, and folding stability in bulk solution, as well as thermal denaturation, aggregation state, and biological activity when formulated for long-time storage. RESULTS PP5ar06007 revealed as a highly homogeneous, monomeric, well-folded preparation of rPhl p 5.0109, as documented by mass spectrometry, SDS-PAGE, isoelectric focusing, size-exclusion chromatography with light scattering, circular dichroism, and infrared spectroscopy. Upon storage at +4°C, PP5ar06007 retained the monomeric state for at least 2 months. A protein quantity of 1.56 ± 0.03 mg/ml was determined by amino acid analysis in PP5ar06007, and its biological activity was shown to be comparable to natural Phl p 5 in terms of basophil activation and T-cell reactivity. CONCLUSIONS Recombinant Phl p 5.0109 PP5ar06007 was characterized extensively at the physicochemical and immunological level. It revealed to be a highly stable, monomeric, and immunologically equivalent of its natural counterpart. PP5ar06007 is now available as European Pharmacopoeia allergen reference standard for grass pollen products.
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87
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Barbosa E, Ferreira F, Vos W, Van Holsbeke C, Nuyttens L, De Backer W, De Baker J, Lee J. Assessment of FEV1 Decline after Lung Transplantation Using Functional Respiratory Imaging. J Heart Lung Transplant 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.01.624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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88
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Zago M, Martinez Casas I, Pereira J, Mariani D, Silva AR, Casamassima A, Barbosa E, Ferreira F, Ruesseler M, Bass GA, Ponchietti L, Butti F, Marconi M, Pinheiro LF. Tailored ultrasound learning for acute care surgeons: a review of the MUSEC (Modular UltraSound ESTES Course) project. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2016; 42:161-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00068-016-0651-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Ferreira F, Adeodato C, Barbosa I, Aboud L, Scelza P, Zaccaro Scelza M. Movement kinematics and cyclic fatigue of NiTi rotary instruments: a systematic review. Int Endod J 2016; 50:143-152. [DOI: 10.1111/iej.12613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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90
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Marques P, Ferreira F, Soares AP, Nunes J, Sousa S, Aguiar A, Calhaz-Jorge C. Clinico-biochemical characteristics of 229 Portuguese infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: clinical relevance and relationship with fertility treatment results. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 2016; 43:812-817. [PMID: 29944229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 6-20% of reproductive-age women. The authors aimed to evaluate the characteristics of PCOS women and its relationship with fertility treatment outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS The authors reviewed records of PCOS women assisted at Hospital Santa Maria. Fertility treatment results were assessed as pregnancy rate, number of cycles, and miscarriage rate. RESULTS They identified 229 PCOS women, 179 (78.2%) had waist circumference > 80 cm, 72 (31.4%) had type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) familial history and glucose abnormalities, hypertriglyceridemia and low cholesterol-HDL were detected in 23(10.1%), 15 (6.6%) and 103 (45.0%), respectively. Pregnancy was achieved in 164 women. The mean number of cycles to achieve pregnancy was 2.7 (±2.2). Statistical analysis identified factors associated with longer/higher number of treatments: primary infertility, T2DM familial history, hypertriglyceridemia, and low cholesterol-HDL. Waist circumference > 80 cm, older age, and increased LH level were associated with miscarriage. CONCLUSIONS Primary infertility, T2DM familial history, hypertriglyceridemia, low cholesterol-HDL, older age, waist circumference > 80 cm, and high LH may confer poorer fertility treatment results.
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Pires J, Ledo L, Jesus G, Ferreira F, Santos V, Madaleno C, Victorino RMM, Fernandes SM. Severe sepsis admitted through the emergency department to an internal medicine ward: time to antibiotic and its factors (retrospective cohort study). Intensive Care Med Exp 2015. [PMCID: PMC4797344 DOI: 10.1186/2197-425x-3-s1-a222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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92
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Oeder S, Alessandrini F, Wirz OF, Braun A, Wimmer M, Frank U, Hauser M, Durner J, Ferreira F, Ernst D, Mempel M, Gilles S, Buters JTM, Behrendt H, Traidl-Hoffmann C, Schmidt-Weber C, Akdis M, Gutermuth J. Pollen-derived nonallergenic substances enhance Th2-induced IgE production in B cells. Allergy 2015. [PMID: 26214762 DOI: 10.1111/all.12707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND B cells play a central role in IgE-mediated allergies. In damaged airway epithelium, they are exposed directly to aeroallergens. We aimed to assess whether direct exposure of B cells to pollen constituents affects allergic sensitization. METHODS B cells from murine splenocytes and from blood samples of healthy donors were incubated for 8 days under Th2-like conditions with aqueous ragweed pollen extracts (Amb-APE) or its constituents. Secreted total IgM, IgG, and IgE was quantified by ELISA. Additionally, birch, grass, or pine-pollen extracts were tested. The number of viable cells was evaluated by ATP measurements. B-cell proliferation was measured by CFSE staining. IgE class switch was analyzed by quantitation of class switch transcripts. In an OVA/Alum i.p.-sensitization mouse model, Amb-APE was intranasally instilled for 11 consecutive days. RESULTS Upon Th2 priming of murine B cells, ragweed pollen extract caused a dose-dependent increase in IgE production, while IgG and IgM were not affected. The low-molecular-weight fraction and phytoprostane E1 (PPE1) increased IgE production, while Amb a 1 did not. PPE1 enhanced IgE also in human memory B cells. Under Th1 conditions, Amb-APE did not influence immunoglobulin secretion. The IgE elevation was not ragweed specific. It correlated with proliferation of viable B cells, but not with IgE class switch. In vivo, Amb-APE increased total IgE and showed adjuvant activity in allergic airway inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Aqueous pollen extracts, the protein-free fraction of Amb-APE, and the pollen-contained substance PPE1 specifically enhance IgE production in Th2-primed B cells. Thus, pollen-derived nonallergenic substances might be responsible for B-cell-dependent aggravation of IgE-mediated allergies.
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93
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Soares M, Correia J, Peleteiro MC, Ferreira F. St Gallen molecular subtypes in feline mammary carcinoma and paired metastases-disease progression and clinical implications from a 3-year follow-up study. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:4053-64. [PMID: 26486327 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-4251-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering that scarce data are available on disease progression of feline mammary carcinoma (FMC), this study aimed to analyze the clinical, pathological, and immunophenotypic features collected from 61 queens with FMC and to compare the concordance ratios of the expression levels of five molecular markers (ER, PR, fHER2, CK5/6, and Ki-67) between primary tumors (PT) and metastatic lesions. The results showed that cats with luminal A mammary carcinomas (MC) had higher overall survival (924.6 days, p = 0.001) and longer disease-free period (385.4 days, p = 0.005) compared to the ones with other MC subtypes. In fact, queens with triple negative/basal-like MC showed the lowest survival (mean 156.2 days) and the shortest disease-free survival (mean 28 days) among the molecular subtypes of MC. The lung was the organ most frequently affected by metastases, and animals with lung and/or pleural metastases were more likely to display metastases at three or more locations (p = 0.039). A large heterogeneity in protein expression levels was found between PT and paired metastases, with both estrogen and progesterone receptors more likely to be downregulated in metastases. Paired metastases frequently had higher Ki-67 index than PT, whereas fHER2 overexpression was seen in 46 samples (30 %) and CK5/6 expression was found in 50.7 % of metastases (36/71). Results also revealed that disease progression leads to a high percentage of triple negative/basal-like metastases (9/23; 39.1 %) associated with the absence of luminal A subtype in distant metastases (0/23). This study highlights the prognostic importance of immunophenotyping of MC in cats, although the modified protein expression identified in metastases contributes to justify why possible targeted therapies may fail in some animals with metastatic disease. Altogether, the results obtained also demonstrate that FMC can be used as a model to study human breast cancer.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Carcinoma, Papillary/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Papillary/mortality
- Carcinoma, Papillary/secondary
- Carcinoma, Papillary/veterinary
- Cat Diseases
- Cats
- Disease Progression
- Disease-Free Survival
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Kaplan-Meier Estimate
- Lymphatic Metastasis
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/metabolism
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/mortality
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/pathology
- Multivariate Analysis
- Prognosis
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/mortality
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/veterinary
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Langer A, Mohallem M, Berment H, Ferreira F, Gog A, Khalifa D, Nekka I, Chérel P. Breast lumps in pregnant women. Diagn Interv Imaging 2015; 96:1077-87. [PMID: 26341843 DOI: 10.1016/j.diii.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 07/05/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Breast lumps detected during pregnancy are generally benign and reflect fibroadenoma, lactating adenoma, cysts, infarction of the breast or galactocele. Although rare, the possibility of breast cancer must also be considered to avoid any delays in diagnosis. After patient questioning and clinical examination, the first imaging modality to use is ultrasound. No further assessment is called for if lesions are categorized as BI-RADS 2 and no suspicious clinical signs are observed. Depending on the clinical setting, lesions classified BI-RADS 3 require monitoring and mammographic assessment (which can be helpful in diagnosing cancer and incurs no risk to the embryo or fetus). If the clinical signs are unclear and/or the lesion(s) are categorized as ≥ BI-RADS 4a, then mammography and often biopsy should be performed. Strict BI-RADS scoring (American College of Radiology) should be applied, bearing in mind that benign lesions can appear suspicious during pregnancy, and some cancers can exhibit what seem to be reassuring characteristics.
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Wimmer M, Alessandrini F, Gilles S, Frank U, Oeder S, Hauser M, Ring J, Ferreira F, Ernst D, Winkler JB, Schmitt-Kopplin P, Ohnmacht C, Behrendt H, Schmidt-Weber C, Traidl-Hoffmann C, Gutermuth J. Pollen-derived adenosine is a necessary cofactor for ragweed allergy. Allergy 2015; 70:944-54. [PMID: 25939785 DOI: 10.1111/all.12642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) is a strong elicitor of allergic airway inflammation with worldwide increasing prevalence. Various components of ragweed pollen are thought to play a role in the development of allergic responses. The aim of this study was to identify critical factors for allergenicity of ragweed pollen in a physiological model of allergic airway inflammation. METHODS Aqueous ragweed pollen extract, the low molecular weight fraction or the major allergen Amb a 1 was instilled intranasally on 1-11 consecutive days, and allergic airway inflammation was evaluated by bronchoalveolar lavage, lung histology, serology, gene expression in lung tissue, and measurement of lung function. Pollen-derived adenosine was removed from the extract enzymatically to analyze its role in ragweed-induced allergy. Migration of human neutrophils and eosinophils toward supernatants of ragweed-stimulated bronchial epithelial cells was analyzed. RESULTS Instillation of ragweed pollen extract, but not of the major allergen or the low molecular weight fraction, induced specific IgG1 , pulmonary infiltration with inflammatory cells, a Th2-associated cytokine signature in pulmonary tissue, and impaired lung function. Adenosine aggravated ragweed-induced allergic lung inflammation. In vitro, human neutrophils and eosinophils migrated toward supernatants of bronchial epithelial cells stimulated with ragweed extract only if adenosine was present. CONCLUSIONS Pollen-derived adenosine is a critical factor in ragweed-pollen-induced allergic airway inflammation. Future studies aim at therapeutic strategies to control these allergen-independent pathways.
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Soares M, Ribeiro R, Carvalho S, Peleteiro M, Correia J, Ferreira F. Ki-67 as a Prognostic Factor in Feline Mammary Carcinoma: What Is the Optimal Cutoff Value? Vet Pathol 2015; 53:37-43. [PMID: 26080833 DOI: 10.1177/0300985815588606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Ki-67 is a nuclear protein and a proliferation marker frequently used in establishing the prognosis for breast cancer patients. To investigate the prognostic value of the Ki-67 proliferation index in female cats with mammary carcinoma, a prospective study was conducted with 96 animals. The Ki-67 index of primary tumors (n = 96) was initially determined, and whenever possible, the Ki-67 index of regional lymph node metastasis (n = 38) and distant metastasis (n = 16) was also estimated. The optimal cutoff value for the Ki-67 index was determined by univariate and multivariate analysis. Ki-67 indices ≥ 14% were detected in 72.9% (70 of 96) of the tumors. Tumors with a Ki-67 index ≥ 14% were significantly associated with large size (P = .022), poor differentiation (P = .009), presence of necrotic areas (P = .008), estrogen receptor-negative status (P < .0001), fHER2-negative status (P = .003), and shorter overall survival (P = .012). Moreover, Ki-67 expression in the primary tumor was strongly and positively correlated with both regional metastasis (P < .0001; r = 0.83) and distant metastasis (P < .0001; r = 0.83), and was significantly higher in distant metastases when compared with the primary tumor (P = .0009). A similar correlation was also observed between regional and distant metastasis (P < .0001; r = 0.75). On the basis of the above results, the authors propose the adoption of the 14% value as the optimal cutoff for Ki-67 to identify tumors with high risk of disease progression.
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Martins PALS, Ferreira F, Natal Jorge R, Parente M, Santos A. Necromechanics: Death-induced changes in the mechanical properties of human tissues. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2015; 229:343-9. [DOI: 10.1177/0954411915581409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
After the death phenomenon, the rigor mortis development, characterized by body stiffening, is one of the most evident changes that occur in the body. In this work, the development of rigor mortis was assessed using a skinfold caliper in human cadavers and in live people to measure the deformation in the biceps brachii muscle in response to the force applied by the device. Additionally, to simulate the measurements with the finite element method, a two-dimensional model of an arm section was used. As a result of the experimental procedure, a decrease in deformation with increasing postmortem time was observed, which corresponds to an increase in rigidity. As expected, the deformations for the live subjects were higher. The finite element method analysis showed a correlation between the c1 parameter of the neo-Hookean model in the 4- to 8-h postmortem interval. This was accomplished by adjusting the c1 material parameter in order to simulate the measured experimental displacement. Despite being a preliminary study, the obtained results show that combining the proposed experimental procedure with a numerical technique can be very useful in the study of the postmortem mechanical modifications of human tissues. Moreover, the use of data from living subjects allows us to estimate the time of death paving the way to establish this process as an alternative to the existing techniques. This solution constitutes a portable, non-invasive method of estimating the postmortem interval with direct quantitative measurements using a skinfold caliper. The tools and methods described can be used to investigate the subject and to gain epidemiologic knowledge on rigor mortis phenomenon.
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Asam C, Batista AL, Moraes AH, de Paula VS, Almeida FCL, Aglas L, Kitzmüller C, Bohle B, Ebner C, Ferreira F, Wallner M, Valente AP. Bet v 1--a Trojan horse for small ligands boosting allergic sensitization? Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 44:1083-93. [PMID: 24979350 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Revised: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birch pollen allergy represents the main cause of winter and spring pollinosis in the temperate climate zone of the northern hemisphere and sensitization towards Bet v 1, the major birch pollen allergen, affects over 100 million allergic patients. The major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 has been described as promiscuous acceptor for a wide variety of hydrophobic ligands. OBJECTIVE In search of intrinsic properties of Bet v 1, which account responsible for the high allergenic potential of the protein, we thought to investigate the effects of ligand-binding on immunogenic as well as allergenic properties. METHODS As surrogate ligand of Bet v 1 sodium deoxycholate (DOC) was selected. Recombinant and natural Bet v 1 were characterised physico-chemically as well as immunologically in the presence or absence of DOC, and an animal model of allergic sensitization was established. Moreover, human IgE binding to Bet v 1 was analysed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. RESULTS Ligand-binding had an overall stabilizing effect on Bet v 1. This translated in a Th2 skewing of the immune response in a mouse model. Analyses of human IgE binding on Bet v 1 in mediator release assays revealed that ligand-bound allergen-induced degranulation at lower concentrations; however, in basophil activation tests with human basophils ligand-binding did not show this effect. For the first time, human IgE epitopes on Bet v 1 were determined using antibodies isolated from patients' sera. The IgE epitope mapping of Bet v 1 demonstrated the presence of multiple binding regions. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Deoxycholate binding stabilizes conformational IgE epitopes on Bet v 1; however, the epitopes themselves remain unaltered. Therefore, we speculate that humans are exposed to both ligand-bound and free Bet v 1 during sensitization, disclosing the ligand-binding cavity of the allergen as key structural element.
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de Gusmão BM, Esteves I, Santos F, Petrolli M, Ferreira F, Galvão C, Perini G, Hyppolito J, Helman R, Hamersclak N. 226 EFFICACY OF DECITABINE IN 10-DAY REGIMEN IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH ACUTE MYELOID LEUKEMIA INELIGIBLE FOR INTENSIVE CHEMOTHERAPY. Leuk Res 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s0145-2126(15)30227-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Vidal T, Fontes D, Ferreira F, Godinho R, Silva M, Corrêa G. Teor de metionina + cistina para codornas de corte do nascimento aos 21 dias de idade. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-7018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Estudou-se o efeito do teor de metionina + cistina sobre o desempenho de codornas de corte durante a fase inicial (nascimento ao 21° dia). Foram utilizadas 360 codornas, de ambos os sexos, distribuídas em delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso. Os tratamentos consistiram em seis níveis de metionina + cistina total (0,86; 0,96; 1,06; 1,16; 1,26 e 1,36), quatro repetições e 15 aves por unidade experimental. As características avaliadas foram o peso corporal, ganho de peso, consumo e conversão alimentar para fase inicial. Observou-se efeito quadrático significativo do teor de metionina + cistina sobre todas as variáveis avaliadas do nascimento ao 21° dia de idade, sendo observado melhor desempenho nas codornas alimentadas com 1,21% de metionina + cistina para peso corporal e ganho de peso, 1,36% de metionina + cistina para consumo e 1,1% de metionina + cistina para conversão alimentar. A exigência de metionina + cistina para máximo ganho de peso na fase inicial é de 1,21%.
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