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Seepersaud M, Marrero A, Davidson T, Smith S. SARS-CoV-2, Lung Protective Ventilation, Low Middle Income Countries, and Pediatric Intensivists as Cross Disciplinary Knowledge Translation and Implementation Science Specialists. Int J Infect Dis 2022. [PMCID: PMC8884746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.12.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We hypothesized that despite the low incidence of severe SARS-CoV-2 infections in children in Guyana, due to their specific skillset in lung protective ventilation, our Pediatric Intensivists were uniquely positioned to address significant training and readiness gaps in our colleagues attending a surging critically ill Adult COVID-19 patient population. Methods & Materials In Guyana, there are few clinicians trained in Critical-Care Medicine (CCM). The high incidence of ventilator dependence in seriously ill SARS-CoV2 patients, combined with a dearth of CCM practitioners competent in complex mechanical ventilation management left Guyana ill prepared to manage these patients. This knowledge deficit was further exacerbated in that many clinicians at our National Infectious Diseases Hospital were co-opted into CCM roles from other specialties with little to no CCM training. We have a very small core of Pediatric Surgical Critical Care Medicine staff that was formally trained in PCCM outside of Guyana. This core was instrumental in establishing a unique and formal Pediatric Critical-Care Medicine Micro-Modular Fellowship (PCCM-MMF) program that allowed the creation of Guyana's only Pediatric ICU. A significant number of that core are also involved in Guyana‘s National COVID Task Force. Given that all graduates of our PCCM-MMF program are extensively trained in Lung Protective Ventilation, it was very appropriate to utilize them to augment Adult critical care capacity. Thirty physicians with primarily adult practices and little to no previous knowledge of ventilator management were enrolled in a multi-modal triphasic mechanical ventilation short course facilitated by PCCM staff. Results We were able to rapidly enable two cohorts of 15 Adult clinicians to competently address critical knowledge deficits and staffing shortfalls. We improved morbidity and mortality amongst our mechanically ventilated adult COVID-19 patients, as well as relieved significant multifactorial caregiver strain. Conclusion Our successful utilization of PCCM staff as Mechanical Ventilation didactic and clinical educators for an Adult patient population carries implications for cross disciplinary Knowledge Translation and Implementation Science in a wide variety of practice milieus. We are actively pursuing research opportunities to further experiment with other skill sets incorporated in our PCCM Micro-Modular Fellowship and welcome potential collaborators.
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Hodgkinson-Brechenmacher V, Lounsberry J, Abrahao A, Benstead T, Breiner A, Briemberg H, Genge A, Grant I, Kalra S, Marrero A, Massie R, Matte G, O'Connell C, Pfeffer G, Schellenberg K, Shoesmith C, Taylor S, Izenberg A, Johnston W, Korngut L. MOTOR NEURON DISORDERS AND NEUROPATHIES. Neuromuscul Disord 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2021.07.268] [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: 10/20/2022]
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Hodgkinson V, Lounsberry J, M'Dahoma S, Russell A, Jewett G, Benstead T, Brais B, Campbell C, Johnston W, Lochmüller H, McCormick A, Nguyen CT, O'Ferrall E, Oskoui M, Abrahao A, Briemberg H, Bourque PR, Botez S, Cashman N, Chapman K, Chrestian N, Crone M, Dobrowolski P, Dojeiji S, Dowling JJ, Dupré N, Genge A, Gonorazky H, Grant I, Hasal S, Izenberg A, Kalra S, Katzberg H, Krieger C, Leung E, Linassi G, Mackenzie A, Mah JK, Marrero A, Massie R, Matte G, McAdam L, McMillan H, Melanson M, Mezei MM, O'Connell C, Pfeffer G, Phan C, Plamondon S, Poulin C, Rodrigue X, Schellenberg K, Selby K, Sheriko J, Shoesmith C, Smith RG, Taillon M, Taylor S, Venance S, Warman-Chardon J, Worley S, Zinman L, Korngut L. The Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry 2010-2019: A Decade of Facilitating Clinical Research Througha Nationwide, Pan-NeuromuscularDisease Registry. J Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 8:53-61. [PMID: 32925088 PMCID: PMC7902956 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-200538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We report the recruitment activities and outcomes of a multi-disease neuromuscular patient registry in Canada. The Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry (CNDR) registers individuals across Canada with a confirmed diagnosis of a neuromuscular disease. Diagnosis and contact information are collected across all diseases and detailed prospective data is collected for 5 specific diseases: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), Myotonic Dystrophy (DM), Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD), and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Since 2010, the CNDR has registered 4306 patients (1154 pediatric and 3148 adult) with 91 different neuromuscular diagnoses and has facilitated 125 projects (73 academic, 3 not-for-profit, 3 government, and 46 commercial) using registry data. In conclusion, the CNDR is an effective and productive pan-neuromuscular registry that has successfully facilitated a substantial number of studies over the past 10 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Hodgkinson
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - J Lounsberry
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - S M'Dahoma
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - A Russell
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - G Jewett
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - T Benstead
- Division of Neurology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - B Brais
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - C Campbell
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Canada
| | - W Johnston
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - H Lochmüller
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital and Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - A McCormick
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - C T Nguyen
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - E O'Ferrall
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - M Oskoui
- Department of Neurosciences, McGill University, Montréal, Canada.,Departments of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - A Abrahao
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - H Briemberg
- GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - P R Bourque
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - S Botez
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - N Cashman
- GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - K Chapman
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - N Chrestian
- Department of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada, Neuroscience axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval
| | - M Crone
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - P Dobrowolski
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - S Dojeiji
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - J J Dowling
- Department of Pediatrics, Sick Kids Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - N Dupré
- Department of Medicine, Laval University, Québec City, Canada
| | - A Genge
- Department of Neurosciences, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - H Gonorazky
- Department of Pediatrics, Sick Kids Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - I Grant
- Division of Neurology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - S Hasal
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - A Izenberg
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - S Kalra
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - H Katzberg
- University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - C Krieger
- GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - E Leung
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - G Linassi
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - A Mackenzie
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - J K Mah
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - A Marrero
- CHU Dr. Georges-L-Dumont, Université de Sherbrooke, Moncton, Canada
| | - R Massie
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - G Matte
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - L McAdam
- Department of Pediatrics, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Bloorview Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - H McMillan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - M Melanson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - M M Mezei
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - C O'Connell
- Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - G Pfeffer
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, and Alberta Child Health Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - C Phan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - S Plamondon
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - C Poulin
- Departments of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - X Rodrigue
- Department of Medicine, Laval University, Québec City, Canada
| | - K Schellenberg
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - K Selby
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, BC Children's Hospital, University of Vancouver, Vancouver, Canada
| | - J Sheriko
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - C Shoesmith
- Division of Neurology, Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - R G Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, KidsInclusive Centre for Child & Youth Development, Hotel Dieu Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - M Taillon
- Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - S Taylor
- Division of Neurology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - S Venance
- Division of Neurology, Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - J Warman-Chardon
- Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital and Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - S Worley
- Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - L Zinman
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - L Korngut
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Lobo MG, González M, Peña A, Marrero A. Effects of Ethylene Exposure Temperature on Shelf Life, Composition and Quality of Artificially Ripened Bananas (Musa acuminata AAA, cv. ‘Dwarf Cavendish’). FOOD SCI TECHNOL INT 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1082013205052568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The effects of ethylene exposure temperature, ethylene concentration and post-exposure storage temperature on the ripening processes of bananas were studied. Mature-green bananas were treated for 24h with different ethylene concentrations (5, 50, 500 and 5,000 L/L) at three temperatures (12, 15 and 20°C) and subsequently stored at either 15 or 20°C. No major differences were found among the four ethylene concentrations used, except in the case of the 12°C exposure temperature where the 5 L/L treatment showed little or no effect on ripening. In general, exposure to ethylene at 12°C in all cases resulted in uneven ripening of the fruits. Exposure to ethylene at 15°C (storage temperature 20°C) extended shelf life one or three days (storage temperature 15°C) more than ethylene exposure at 20°C. These differences were accompanied by changes in the respiration pattern of the bananas, their quality parameters (TSS, peel and pulp firmness) and their soluble sugars and organic acids composition. Shelf life of ethylene-treated bananas could reliably be modulated within the range of 6 to 12 days, without any decrease in fruit quality, just by adjusting exposure to ethylene and storage temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. G. Lobo
- Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias. P.O. Box 60, 38200 La Laguna, Spain,
| | - M. González
- Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias. P.O. Box 60, 38200 La Laguna, Spain
| | - A. Peña
- Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias. P.O. Box 60, 38200 La Laguna, Spain
| | - A. Marrero
- Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias. P.O. Box 60, 38200 La Laguna, Spain
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Marrero A, Méndez JA, Reboso JA, Martín I, Calvo JL. Adaptive fuzzy modeling of the hypnotic process in anesthesia. J Clin Monit Comput 2016; 31:319-330. [PMID: 27072987 DOI: 10.1007/s10877-016-9868-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This paper addresses the problem of patient model synthesis in anesthesia. Recent advanced drug infusion mechanisms use a patient model to establish the proper drug dose. However, due to the inherent complexity and variability of the patient dynamics, difficulty obtaining a good model is high. In this paper, a method based on fuzzy logic and genetic algorithms is proposed as an alternative to standard compartmental models. The model uses a Mamdani type fuzzy inference system developed in a two-step procedure. First, an offline model is obtained using information from real patients. Then, an adaptive strategy that uses genetic algorithms is implemented. The validation of the modeling technique was done using real data obtained from real patients in the operating room. Results show that the proposed method based on artificial intelligence appears to be an improved alternative to existing compartmental methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Marrero
- Department of Computer Science and System Engineering, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - J A Méndez
- Department of Computer Science and System Engineering, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.
| | - J A Reboso
- Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - I Martín
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - J L Calvo
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Universidad de La Coruña, La Coruña, Spain
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Meloni M, Reid A, Caujapé-Castells J, Marrero A, Fernández-Palacios JM, Mesa-Coelo RA, Conti E. Effects of clonality on the genetic variability of rare, insular species: the case of Ruta microcarpa from the Canary Islands. Ecol Evol 2013; 3:1569-79. [PMID: 23789068 PMCID: PMC3686192 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Many plant species combine sexual and clonal reproduction. Clonal propagation has ecological costs mainly related to inbreeding depression and pollen discounting; at the same time, species able to reproduce clonally have ecological and evolutionary advantages being able to persist when conditions are not favorable for sexual reproduction. The presence of clonality has profound consequences on the genetic structure of populations, especially when it represents the predominant reproductive strategy in a population. Theoretical studies suggest that high rate of clonal propagation should increase the effective number of alleles and heterozygosity in a population, while an opposite effect is expected on genetic differentiation among populations and on genotypic diversity. In this study, we ask how clonal propagation affects the genetic diversity of rare insular species, which are often characterized by low levels of genetic diversity, hence at risk of extinction. We used eight polymorphic microsatellite markers to study the genetic structure of the critically endangered insular endemic Ruta microcarpa. We found that clonality appears to positively affect the genetic diversity of R. microcarpa by increasing allelic diversity, polymorphism, and heterozygosity. Moreover, clonal propagation seems to be a more successful reproductive strategy in small, isolated population subjected to environmental stress. Our results suggest that clonal propagation may benefit rare species. However, the advantage of clonal growth may be only short-lived for prolonged clonal growth could ultimately lead to monoclonal populations. Some degree of sexual reproduction may be needed in a predominantly clonal species to ensure long-term viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Meloni
- Institute of Systematic Botany, University of Zurich Zollikerstrase 107, Zurich, 8008, Switzerland
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Morgan J, Marrero A, Becker T, Zeitouni N, Bellnier D. Identification of potential targets for enhancing ALA-PDT of tumors. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2011.03.045] [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: 11/16/2022]
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Cintado A, Companioni O, Nazabal M, Camacho H, Ferrer A, De Cossio MEF, Marrero A, Ale M, Villarreal A, Leal L, Casalvilla R, Benitez J, Novoa L, Diaz-Horta O, Dueñas M. Admixture estimates for the population of Havana City. Ann Hum Biol 2009; 36:350-60. [DOI: 10.1080/03014460902817984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Cintado
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - O. Companioni
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - M. Nazabal
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - H. Camacho
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - A. Ferrer
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | | | - A. Marrero
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - M. Ale
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - A. Villarreal
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - L. Leal
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - R. Casalvilla
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - J. Benitez
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - L. Novoa
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - O. Diaz-Horta
- National Institute of Endocrinology, Zapata y D, Havana, 10400, Cuba
| | - M. Dueñas
- Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, 10600, Cuba
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Hernández Perera O, Marrero A, Rodríguez Pérez JC. [What are the Hox genes? Its importance in vascular and renal disease]. Nefrologia 2006; 26:195-205. [PMID: 16808257] [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: 05/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- O Hernández Perera
- Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitario de Gran Canaria Dr Negrín, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
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Boorsma M, Hoenke S, Marrero A, Fischer R, Bailey JE, Renner WA, Bachmann MF. Bioprocess applications of a Sindbis virus-based temperature-inducible expression system. Biotechnol Bioeng 2002; 79:602-9. [PMID: 12209807 DOI: 10.1002/bit.10311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The production and study of toxic proteins requires inducible expression systems with low basal level expression and high inducibility. Here, we describe bioprocess applications of the pCytTS temperature-regulatable Sindbis virus replicon-based expression system. We used green fluorescent protein as a marker protein to optimize the selection of stable transfected clones with increased expression levels. Using the optimized protocol, clones were constructed that produced the growth-inhibiting, anti-viral protein interferon beta (beta-IFN). Selected clones were analyzed for temperature-dependent beta-IFN production in adherent and suspension cultures in serum free medium. Specific expression levels were around 1.0 x 10(5) IU/10(6) cells/day (0.5 microg/10(6) cells/day) in suspension cultures and over 1.5 x 10(6) IU/mL/day (7.5 microg/mL/day) in hollow fiber reactors using adherent cells. Hexahistidine-tagged beta-IFN purified from T-flask cultures was highly glycosylated and showed high specific activity. beta-IFN mRNA amplified by the viral replicase for 10 days did not show an accumulation of mutations. These data suggest the applicability of the pCytTS-inducible expression system for the production of high-quality glycoproteins in different reactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Boorsma
- Cytos Biotechnology AG, Wagistrasse 21, CH-8952, Zurich-Schlieren, Switzerland
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Abstract
BACKGROUND This study describes the epidemiological trends of tuberculosis in Cuba and the performance of the tuberculosis control programme. The circumstances that caused an increase in the incidence of new cases of tuberculosis between 1991 and 1994 had been analysed and were corrected in 1995-7. METHODS A descriptive study of the incidence rates of new cases of tuberculosis notified from 1962 to 1997 was made, with special emphasis on the total change between 1965 and 1991 and the increase thereafter. RESULTS The case notification rate of 14.7 per 100 000 in 1994 was almost three times the rate found in 1991 (4.8 per 100 000) and reversed the mean annual decrease of 5% observed since 1965. This increase was almost twofold in the rate of smear positive new cases (4.4 per 100 000 in 1991 and 8.3 in 1994). From 1971 onwards the programme had achieved a cure rate of 90% throughout the country with only 2% absconding by applying directly observed treatment. The main factors associated with the increasing trends were: (1) a probable underdetection of cases for the 1988-92 period that generated contagious sources in the community; (2) improved case finding from 1993 onwards and the introduction of an expanded case definition in 1994; (3) a considerable increase in the diagnostic delay from initial medical consultation to beginning of antituberculosis treatment (56.9 days in 1993); and (4) operational changes in the tuberculosis control programme due to the economic crisis in Cuba. In 1995, 1996 and 1997 it has been possible to reverse this trend, achieving rates of 14.1, 13.5, and 12.2 per 100 000, respectively (7. 6, 7.6, and 6.9 for smear positive cases) as a result of effective intervention correcting the problems identified. Reducing the diagnostic delay attributable to shortcomings in the health care system and the study of contacts were of particular importance for re-establishing the tuberculosis programme as a priority. CONCLUSIONS Cuba represents a good example of how it is possible to fight against tuberculosis effectively, even in a low income country, by applying control strategies advocated by the World Health Organisation and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease and by giving adequate support to the programme through political commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Marrero
- National Tuberculosis Programme of the Ministry of Public Health, Cuba
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12
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Abstract
We investigated gender differences in cardiovascular and pain responses to the cold pressor (CP) test in persons with positive (PH+) or negative parental history (PH-) for hypertension. Previous work has suggested an attenuated sensitivity to painful stimulation in hypertensive men and more recently in men with parental disposition for hypertension. It is not known whether this hypoalgesic effect is present in PH+ women. In this study, we evaluated differences in pain perception between men and women with PH+ or PH- using an assessment method to measure current as well as delayed pain. Participants rated their pain every 15 s during a 90-s hand CP (0-4 degrees C) and a 90-s post-CP rest period. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP, DBP) and heart rate (HR) were measured before, during, and after the CP. PH+ and PH- groups did not differ in age, height, weight, education, resting SBP, DBP, or HR. PH+ men showed greater DBP responses to the CP than PH- men, while female groups did not differ in cardiovascular responses to the CP. Although pain ratings during the CP did not differ between groups, post-CP reported pain receded faster in the PH+ men than in the PH- men. PH+ women, on the other hand, tended to report greater pain than PH- women. These findings question the generalizability of the hypoalgesic effects in hypertension-prone women.
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Affiliation(s)
- M al'Absi
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Duluth School of Medicine, 10 University Drive, Duluth 55812, USA
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13
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Bello AR, Hernández G, González M, Reyes R, Negrín I, Marrero A, Sánchez-Criado JE, Tramu G, Alonso R. Immunoreactive neurotensin in gonadotrophs and thyrotrophs is regulated by sex steroid hormones in the female rat. J Neuroendocrinol 1999; 11:785-94. [PMID: 10520127 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2826.1999.00393.x] [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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In addition to regulating anterior pituitary function by being released from the median eminence, mammalian neurotensin (NT) may also exert an autocrine or a paracrine action within the anterior pituitary. In this study, using double immunostaining with elution restaining, we identified the specific anterior pituitary cells which express NT immunoreactivity (NT-IR) during the rat oestrous cycle. In the normal cycling rat, NT-IR was present in both gonadotrophs and thyrotrophs and displayed plastic changes along the oestrous cycle. Both the number of TSH-NT positive cells and the intensity of immunological reaction were elevated during dioestrus, and decreased through pro-oestrus and early oestrus. NT-IR was also high in both follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)- or luteinizing hormone (LH)-positive cells during early pro-oestrus, and decreased during late pro-oestrus. Treatment of intact rats with either the anti-oestrogens Tamoxifen or LY117018, or the anti-progestagen RU486 prevented the normal expression of NT-IR in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-, FSH-, and LH-positive cells during pro-oestrus. Bilateral ovariectomy induced a dramatic reduction in the number of NT-IR cells. This effect was completely prevented by treatment of ovariectomized rats with oestradiol and progesterone, and was unaffected by the concurrent administration of a GnRH antagonist. Furthermore, administration of an anti-oestrogen together with an anti-progestagen to ovariectomized-oestrogen, progesterone-treated rats, blocked the stimulatory effect of ovarian hormones on NT-IR in anterior pituitary cells. These findings demonstrate that, in female rats, NT is specifically localized in gonadotrophs or thyrotrophs. In addition, they strongly suggest that changes in circulating concentrations of ovarian steroids may control both NT synthesis in, and release from, these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Bello
- Section on Cell Biology, School of Biology, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.; Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Physiology, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.
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14
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Diaz R, Kremer K, de Haas PE, Gomez RI, Marrero A, Valdivia JA, van Embden JD, van Soolingen D. Molecular epidemiology of tuberculosis in Cuba outside of Havana, July 1994-June 1995: utility of spoligotyping versus IS6110 restriction fragment length polymorphism. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 1998; 2:743-50. [PMID: 9755929] [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: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SETTING Molecular typing has become an important tool for examining the extent of active transmission of tuberculosis. OBJECTIVES To examine transmission of tuberculosis in Cuba using IS6110 restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) typing and to evaluate the utility of spoligotyping. DESIGN One hundred and sixty Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains isolated over a one year period in Cuba were subjected to RFLP and spoligotyping. RESULTS Forty-eight percent of the isolates were found in 19 clusters of strains with identical RFLP patterns. In general, cluster sizes were limited, except for two large institutional outbreaks. Age was strongly inversely correlated to clustering. Most streptomycin-resistant isolates were found in clusters. Fifteen spoligotype clusters comprised 78% of the isolates. Significantly different IS6110 RFLP types subdivided 11 spoligotype clusters, whereas none of the IS6110 clusters were subdivided by spoligotyping. CONCLUSIONS Considering the short study period, 48% clustering is high, indicating that recent transmission plays an important role in Cuba. Although resistance is still a minor problem, transmission of streptomycin-resistant strains occurs. The high polymorphism observed with IS6110 RFLP indicates that this marker is useful for future molecular epidemiological studies in Cuba. Spoligotyping appeared less suitable for population-based studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Diaz
- National Reference Laboratory on Tuberculosis and Mycobacteria, Institute Pedro Kouri, Havana, Cuba
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15
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Gallo I, Alvarez L, Goiti J, Larrañaga G, Marrero A, Ruiz B, Sáenz A, Larman M, Ubago JL. [Coronary revascularization surgery with arterial grafts]. Rev Esp Cardiol 1998; 51 Suppl 3:51-7. [PMID: 9717403] [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: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronary artery revascularization surgery is well established procedure throughout the world. The benefits are based on the blood perfusion through the implanted grafts distal to the coronary occlusions and continue as long as the grafts remains patent. The immediate success of this procedure is related to the surgical technique and the anatomical characteristics of the grafted coronary arteries. However, the long term results are mainly dependent on the type of grafts used. The modern era of myocardial revascularization started in the sixties with the use of saphenous vein grafts by Johnson and Favaloro. Alternative vascular conduits to the saphenous vein have been tried, and the internal mammary artery has become the first choice. In recent years, various publications have demonstrated the supremacy of the internal mammary artery over the saphenous vein when used as a single, bilateral, sequential of free graft. In order to obtain full myocardial revascularization, the use of alternatives to the internal mammary artery is required. The gastroepiploic artery, the inferior epigastric artery and the radial artery have been used as alternatives to the saphenous vein with the hope of obtaining long term results similar to the internal mammary artery.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gallo
- Servicio de Cirugía Cardiovascular, Policlínica Guipúzcoa, San Sebastián
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16
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Sáenz A, Larrañaga G, Alvarez L, Greco E, Marrero A, Lunar M, Elósegui C, Ubago JL, Gallo I. Heparin-coated circuit in coronary surgery. A clinical study. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 1996; 10:48-53. [PMID: 8776185 DOI: 10.1016/s1010-7940(96)80265-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
We performed a randomized study in 101 patients who underwent routine isolated coronary bypass graft surgery. In 50 cases an entire coated Carmeda circuit was used (coated group), and an uncoated circuit in the remaining 51 (uncoated group). A Medtronic Maxima oxygenator and a Biomedicus Biohead were used in all cases. Patients with coated circuits received low systemic heparinization with a heparin loading dose of 200 IU/kg, and 300 IU/kg for the control. Activated coagulation time was maintained at more than 275 s for the coated group versus more than 400 s for the uncoated one. The mean age of patients was 64.1 +/- 9.6 for coated and 63.5 +/- 9.7 for the uncoated group. The number of coronary grafts was 3.1 +/- 0.7 for the coated group and 3.1 +/- 0.1 for the uncoated one. Cross-clamp and bypass times were 53 +/- 14 and 98 +/- 24 min for the coated, versus 57 +/- 15 and 104 +/- 24 for the uncoated, group. Chest drainage was 989.4 +/- 509.5 ml for the coated group versus 1435 +/- 1027 for the uncoated one (P < 0.02). The amount of transfused homologous blood was 723 +/- 597 ml for the coated group versus 1071 +/- 831 ml for the uncoated one (P < 0.03). Postoperative endotracheal intubation time was 12.1 +/- 3.6 h for the coated and 14.6 +/- 4.5 h for the uncoated group (P < 0.05). Bleeding required rethoracotomy in 1/50 of the coated group, and in 4/51 of the uncoated one. Hospital mortality was 1/50 in the coated, and 4/51 in the uncoated, group. In our preliminary experience, heparin coating of an extracorporeal circuit reduces post-operative blood loss and blood transfusions in routine coronary bypass operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sáenz
- Cardiovascular Unit, Policlínica Guipuzcoa, San Sebastian, Spain
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17
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Onorato A, Rodriguez R, Marrero A, Palomino A, Grateron H, Balza V, Hernandez O, Rumenoff L. [Postoperative morbidity/mortality in gastric cancer according to the rules of the Japanese Society: preliminary report]. G E N 1995; 49:202-7. [PMID: 8598257] [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: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
With the purpose of evaluate the Morbi-mortality related with the kind of surgery recommended by the Japanese Research Society for Gastric Cancer (JRSGC), 13 patients treated surgically by the Rules of that Society were reviewed. Eleven patients were males and 2 females, with ages between 24 and 72 years old. Twelve of them were operated at the Hospital "Dr. Luis Gómez López" (MSAS) and one in a private clinic, both centers located in Barquisimeto, Lara State. Twelve (92.3%) of the patients had advanced Gastric Cancer and only one case was an Early Gastric Cancer. Nine patients received a Distal Gastrectomy (69.23%) and 4 a Total Gastrectomy. Eight among the 13 also underwent a combined resection of another organ(s) (Spleen; 4: Transverse Colon: 1; some kind of Pancreatic resection: 3; Gallbladder: 2). Considering the kind of Radicality (= D2: lymph Node Level Dissection, based on the JRSGC), 10 patients (76.9%) received a D2 type (the Radicality recommended by the JRSGC), being also disected another Lymph Groups (ALFA), and the Paraortics one in 6 of them. The Post-operative Stages founded were: Ia: one case; II:2 cases; IIIb: 3 cases; IV a:2 cases and IVb: 5 cases (38.46%). In relation with the Post-operative Morbidity, directly related with this kind of surgery, only one patient with a severe Desnutrion developed a Fistula, but it healed spontaneously, after a conservative treatment. Two patients received a second surgery; one during the immediate Post-operative period because a Mesentery Rotation, and the other at the 20th. Post-operative day due to an eventration plus an abdominal wall abscess. Both patients were discharge in good conditions. None of the 13 cases stayed in an Intensive or Intermediate Care Unit. There was no case of Post-operative Mortality. It is important to reassure the low risk of Post-operative Complications with this kind of Radical surgery, for Gastric Cancer patients, even in those with nutrional deficit and with a minimal hospital conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Onorato
- Hospital Dr. Luis Gómez López, M.S.A.S., Departamento de Cirugía y Oncología, Barquisimeto, Estado Lara
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18
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Alonso JG, Decaro J, Marrero A, Lavalle E, Martell M, Cuadro JC. Repeated direct fetal intravascular high-dose immunoglobulin therapy for the treatment of Rh hemolytic disease. J Perinat Med 1994; 22:415-9. [PMID: 7791017 DOI: 10.1515/jpme.1994.22.5.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Recently, administration of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (HDivIG) either to the mother or the neonate has been proposed in an effort to prevent progressive hemolysis in Rh(D) perinatal disease, but no cases have been published with direct fetal HDivIG administration. We report a case in which HDivIG was repeatedly administered by cordocentesis to a fetus affected by Rh(D) disease from 28 to 36 weeks gestation, at doses of approximately 450 mg/kg. The fetus required no transfusions, and the neonatal evolution was satisfactory. The treatment, performed at three weeks intervals, seemed to be useful in preventing fetal hemolysis. No fetal complications were present. Recurrent administration of HDivIG therapy to the fetus in cases of severe Rh(D) disease, appears to be feasible and free of serious complications to the fetus or the mother.
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Affiliation(s)
- J G Alonso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital De Clinicas, Montevideo School of Medicine, University of Uruguay
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19
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Gallo I, Saenz A, Larramaga G, Marrero A, Alvarez C, Artinano E. Early primary tissue failure of a Labcor bioprosthesis. J Heart Valve Dis 1994; 3:73-4. [PMID: 8162221] [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: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
A 78-year-old woman underwent re-replacement of a 19mm Labcor bioprosthesis implanted in aortic position eighteen months earlier. The rupture of the free margin of one leaflet was found at reoperation. There was no apparent cause of this rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gallo
- Servicio de Cirugia Cardiovascular, Policlinica Guipuzcoa, San Sebastian, Spain
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20
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Yanes C, Batista MAP, Trujillo JMM, Monzon M, Marrero A. Anterior dorsal ventricular ridge in the lizard: Embryonic development. J Morphol 1987; 194:55-64. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.1051940105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Marrero A, Martin JM, Pérez MA, Rodríguez A, Yanes CM. Presence of giant mitochondria during cerebellar ontogenesis in reptiles. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1987. [DOI: 10.1007/bf01951672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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22
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Trujillo CM, Yanes CM, Marrero A, Perez MA, Martin JM. Cell death in the embryonic brain of Gallotia galloti (Reptilia; Lacertidae): a structural and ultrastructural study. J Anat 1987; 150:11-21. [PMID: 3654326 PMCID: PMC1261660] [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: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the striatum, thalamus and cerebellum of a Lacertid reptile, we have found three types of cellular death during embryonic development, both at the light and electron microscopic level. The first affects the undifferentiated neuro-epithelial cells and is commonest during the early stages (E. 32-E. 36). The second corresponds to the type of 'nuclear' death described in the bibliography and reaches a maximum in the middle embryonic period (E. 37-E. 39); nevertheless important variations were observed in different zones. The third is the same as the 'cytoplasmic' death type and appears in the perinatal stages. Phagocytosis involved in the elimination of dead cells is of two types. One is associated with early death and is carried out by undifferentiated neuro-epithelial cells. The other is carried out by microglial cells which appear around Stage 37. Much cellular debris was observed in the intermediate zone and this was associated with the second type of phagocytosis. In both cases lipid production was associated with the degenerative process. Comparison of the temporal cellular death pattern with synaptogenesis, gliogenesis and maturation of neuronal processes is consistent with the view that the various types of cellular death found by us had different causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Trujillo
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, University of La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
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23
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Monzon M, Yanes CM, Trujillo CM, Marrero A. Cell death in the normal development of Gallotia galloti mesencephalon (Reptilia Lacertidae). An ultrastructural study. J Submicrosc Cytol 1987; 19:71-6. [PMID: 3560296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We have studied the development of the mesencephalon of Gallotia galloti and we have observed two classes of cellular death: 'nuclear' or 'Type I' and 'cytoplasmatic' or 'Type II'. The first appears in stages around E-34 and the second one is observed from stages around hatching to the adult lizard. The degenerative cells have been observed in the profundus, torus semicircularis, the 5th pair of the trigeminal nerve nuclei as well as the 4th and 5th layers of the optic tectum where this last nucleus mentioned is situated.
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24
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Baldrich Camiño JF, Hernández Angulo M, Villanueva Rams L, Torres Ponce G, Marrero A. [Sound therapy in ocular leprosy]. Rev Cubana Med Trop 1982; 34:298-307. [PMID: 6764274] [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: 05/21/2023]
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25
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Cubeddu LX, Barbella YR, Marrero A, Trifaro J, Israel AS. Circulating pool and adrenal soluble content of dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH), in rats, guinea pigs, dogs and humans: their role in determining acute stress-induced changes in plasma enzyme levels. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1979; 211:271-9. [PMID: 501560] [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: 12/15/2022] Open
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