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Martínez MJ, Cotten M, Phan MVT, Becker K, Espasa M, Leegaard TM, Lisby G, Schneider UV, Casals-Pascual C. Viral epidemic preparedness: a perspective from five clinical microbiology laboratories in Europe. Clin Microbiol Infect 2024; 30:582-585. [PMID: 37119988 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2023.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pandemic preparedness is critical to respond effectively to existing and emerging/new viral pathogens. Important lessons have been learned during the last pandemic at various levels. This revision discusses some of the major challenges and potential ways to address them in the likely event of future pandemics. OBJECTIVES To identify critical points of readiness that may help us accelerate the response to future pandemics from a clinical microbiology laboratory perspective with a focus on viral diagnostics and genomic sequencing. The potential areas of improvement identified are discussed from the sample collection to information reporting. SOURCES Microbiologists and researchers from five countries reflect on challenges encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic, review published literature on prior and current pandemics, and suggest potential solutions in preparation for future outbreaks. CONTENT Major challenges identified in the pre-analytic and post-analytic phases from sample collection to result reporting are discussed. From the perspective of clinical microbiology laboratories, the preparedness for a new pandemic should focus on zoonotic viruses. Laboratory readiness for scalability is critical and should include elements related to material procurement, training personnel, specific funding programmes, and regulatory issues to rapidly implement "in-house" tests. Laboratories across various countries should establish (or re-use) operational networks to communicate to respond effectively, ensuring the presence of agile circuits with full traceability of samples. IMPLICATIONS Laboratory preparedness is paramount to respond effectively to emerging and re-emerging viral infections and to limit the clinical and societal impact of new potential pandemics. Agile and fully traceable methods for sample collection to report are the cornerstone of a successful response. Expert group communication and early involvement of information technology personnel are critical for preparedness. A specific budget for pandemic preparedness should be ring-fenced and added to the national health budgets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Julián Martínez
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, CDB, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Matthew Cotten
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - My V T Phan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Karsten Becker
- Friedrich Loeffler-Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Mateu Espasa
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, UDIAT, Hospital Universitari Parc Taulí, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Truls M Leegaard
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Division of Medicine and Laboratory Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gorm Lisby
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University of Copenhagen Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Uffe Vest Schneider
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Climent Casals-Pascual
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, CDB, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.
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Ramírez-Olivencia G, Velasco Arribas M, Vera García MM, Casabona J, Martínez MJ, Membrillo De Novales FJ. Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics of the 2022 Mpox Outbreak in Spain (CEME-22 Study). Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae105. [PMID: 38524223 PMCID: PMC10960598 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background We conducted a multicentric national study (SEIMC-CEME-22), to describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of the mpox outbreak in Spain, including the management of the disease. Methods This was a retrospective national observational study conducted by Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC) and Foundation SEIMC-GESIDA. We included patients with a confirmed mpox diagnosis before 13 July 2022, and attended at the Spanish health network (the early phase of the outbreak). Epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic data were collected. Results Of a total of 1472 patients from 52 centers included, 99% of them were cisgender men, mostly middle-aged, and 98.6% were residents in Spain. The main suspected route of transmission was sexual exposure, primarily among MSM. Occupational exposure was reported in 6 patients. Immunosuppression was present in 40% of patients, mainly due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Only 6.5% of patients had been vaccinated against orthopoxvirus. Virus sequencing was performed in 147 patients (all B.1 lineage). Rash was the most frequent symptom (95.7%), followed by fever (48.2%), adenopathies (44.4%) myalgias (20.7%), proctitis (17%), and headache (14.7%). Simultaneously diagnosed sexually transmitted infections included syphilis (n = 129), gonococcal infection (n = 91), HIV (n = 67), chlamydia (n = 56), hepatitis B (n = 14), and hepatitis C (n = 11). No therapy was used in 479 patients (33%). Symptomatic therapies and antibiotics were used in 50% of cases. The most used therapy regimens were systemic corticoids (90 patients), tecovirimat (6 patients), and cidofovir (13 patients). Smallpox immunoglobulins were used in 1 patient. Fifty-eight patients were hospitalized, and 1 patient died. Conclusions Mpox outbreak in Spain affected primarily middle-aged men who were sexually active and showed a high rate of HIV infection. A range of heterogeneous therapeutics options was performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ramírez-Olivencia
- Hospital Central de la Defensa "Gómez Ulla." Infectious Diseases Unit, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Estudio de Patología Importada, Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Velasco Arribas
- Grupo de Estudio de Patología Importada, Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), Madrid, Spain
- Hospital Fundación Alcorcón, Department of Internal Medicine-Infectious Department, Research Department, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - M M Vera García
- Centro Sanitario Sandoval, HIV/STI Unit, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Estudio de ITS, Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), Madrid, Spain
| | - J Casabona
- Grupo de Estudio de ITS, Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), Madrid, Spain
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies on HIV/AIDS and STI of Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Health Department, Generalitat de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
| | - M J Martínez
- Hospital Clinic, Microbiology Department, Barcelona, Spain
- Grupo de Estudio de Patología Importada, Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), Madrid, Spain
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Mateu-Salat M, Asla Q, Chico A, Martínez MC, Martínez MJ, López A, Pujol I, Corcoy R. Feasibility of maintaining near-normal glucose control in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes during COVID-19 lockdown. Acta Diabetol 2022; 59:977-979. [PMID: 35230539 PMCID: PMC8886860 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-022-01862-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Mateu-Salat
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Q Asla
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Chico
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER-BBN, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M C Martínez
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M J Martínez
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A López
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
| | - I Pujol
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Corcoy
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí 89, 08042, Barcelona, Spain.
- CIBER-BBN, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Navero-Castillejos J, Benitez R, Torner N, Muñoz J, Camprubí-Ferrer D, Peiró-Mestres A, Sulleiro E, Silgado A, Gonzalo V, Falgueras T, Alejo-Cancho I, Roldán M, Plasencia V, Albarracin R, Perez J, Navarro A, Calderón A, Rubio R, Navarro M, Micó M, Llaberia J, Navarro M, Barrachina J, Vilamala A, Martí C, Pulido MÁ, Sanchez-Seco MP, Vazquez A, Martínez A, Jané M, Martínez MJ. Molecular Characterization of Imported and Autochthonous Dengue in Northeastern Spain. Viruses 2021; 13:1910. [PMID: 34696340 PMCID: PMC8539074 DOI: 10.3390/v13101910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue is the most significant arbovirus worldwide and a public health threat to non-endemic areas in which Aedes vectors are present. Autochthonous dengue transmission has been reported in several European countries in the last decade. Infected travelers from endemic regions arriving to areas colonized by Aedes albopictus in Europe need to be monitored in surveillance and control programs. We aimed to perform molecular characterization of RT-PCR-positive dengue cases detected in Catalonia, northeastern Spain, from 2013 to 2018. The basic demographic information and the geographical regions of importation were also analyzed. One-hundred four dengue cases were studied (103 imported infections and the first autochthonous case in our region). The dengue virus strains detected were serotyped and genotyped using molecular methods, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted. All four dengue serotypes were detected in travelers, including up to 10 different genotypes, reflecting the global circulation of dengue in endemic areas. The primary travel-related case of the 2018 autochthonous transmission was not identified, but the molecular analysis revealed dengue serotype 1, genotype I of Asian origin. Our results highlight the diversity of imported dengue virus strains and the role of molecular epidemiology in supporting arbovirus surveillance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Navero-Castillejos
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.M.); (D.C.-F.); (M.R.)
| | - Rosa Benitez
- North Metropolitan International Health Unit PROSICS, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain;
| | - Nuria Torner
- CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health CIBERESP, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - José Muñoz
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.M.); (D.C.-F.); (M.R.)
| | - Daniel Camprubí-Ferrer
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.M.); (D.C.-F.); (M.R.)
| | - Aida Peiró-Mestres
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- Department of Microbiology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Aroa Silgado
- Department of Microbiology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Verónica Gonzalo
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
| | - Teresa Falgueras
- Hospital Municipal de Badalona, Badalona Serveis Assistencials, 08911 Badalona, Spain; (T.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Izaskun Alejo-Cancho
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
| | - Montserrat Roldán
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.M.); (D.C.-F.); (M.R.)
| | - Virginia Plasencia
- Microbiology Laboratory, Catlab, 08232 Viladecavalls, Spain; (V.P.); (J.P.); (R.R.)
| | - Rosa Albarracin
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
| | - Josefa Perez
- Microbiology Laboratory, Catlab, 08232 Viladecavalls, Spain; (V.P.); (J.P.); (R.R.)
| | - Alexander Navarro
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
| | - Ana Calderón
- Hospital Municipal de Badalona, Badalona Serveis Assistencials, 08911 Badalona, Spain; (T.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Rosa Rubio
- Microbiology Laboratory, Catlab, 08232 Viladecavalls, Spain; (V.P.); (J.P.); (R.R.)
| | - Mireia Navarro
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.M.); (D.C.-F.); (M.R.)
| | - Miguel Micó
- Microbiology Department, Xarxa Assistencial Universitària de Manresa, 08243 Manresa, Spain;
| | - Jaume Llaberia
- Hospital de Barcelona, Societat Cooperativa d’Instal·lacions Assistencials Sanitàries (SCIAS), 08034 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - María Navarro
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitari de Vic, 08500 Barcelona, Spain; (M.N.); (A.V.)
| | - Josep Barrachina
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
| | - Anna Vilamala
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitari de Vic, 08500 Barcelona, Spain; (M.N.); (A.V.)
| | - Carmina Martí
- Hospital General de Granollers, 08402 Granollers, Spain; (C.M.); (M.Á.P.)
| | | | - María Paz Sanchez-Seco
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28222 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.S.-S.); (A.V.)
| | - Ana Vazquez
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28222 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.S.-S.); (A.V.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Martínez
- Public Health Agency of Catalonia, Generalitat of Catalonia, 08005 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.); (M.J.)
| | - Mireia Jané
- Public Health Agency of Catalonia, Generalitat of Catalonia, 08005 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.); (M.J.)
| | - Miguel Julián Martínez
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.N.-C.); (A.P.-M.); (V.G.); (I.A.-C.); (R.A.); (A.N.); (M.N.); (J.B.)
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.M.); (D.C.-F.); (M.R.)
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Fernández-Rodríguez A, Burton JL, Andreoletti L, Alberola J, Fornes P, Merino I, Martínez MJ, Castillo P, Sampaio-Maia B, Caldas IM, Saegeman V, Cohen MC. Post-mortem microbiology in sudden death: sampling protocols proposed in different clinical settings. Clin Microbiol Infect 2018; 25:570-579. [PMID: 30145399 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autopsies, including minimally invasive autopsies, are a powerful tool for determination of the cause of death. When a patient dies from an infection, microbiology is crucial to identify the causative organism. Post-mortem microbiology (PMM) aims to detect unexpected infections causing sudden deaths; confirm clinically suspected but unproven infection; evaluate the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy; identify emergent pathogens; and recognize medical errors. Additionally, the analysis of the thanatomicrobiome may help to estimate the post-mortem interval. AIMS The aim was to provide advice in the collection of PMM samples and to propose sampling guidelines for microbiologists advising autopsy pathologists facing different sudden death scenarios. SOURCES A multidisciplinary team with experts in various fields of microbiology and autopsies on behalf of the ESGFOR (ESCMID - European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases - study group of forensic and post-mortem microbiology and in collaboration with the European Society of Pathology) developed this narrative review based on a literature search using MedLine and Scopus electronic databases supplemented with their own expertise. CONTENT These guidelines address measures to prevent sample contamination in autopsy microbiology; general PMM sampling technique; protocols for PMM sampling in different scenarios and using minimally invasive autopsy; and potential use of the evolving post-mortem microbiome to estimate the post-mortem interval. IMPLICATIONS Adequate sampling is paramount to identify the causative organism. Meaningful interpretation of PMM results requires careful evaluation in the context of clinical history, macroscopic and histological findings. Networking and closer collaboration among microbiologists and autopsy pathologists is vital to maximize the yield of PMM.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fernández-Rodríguez
- Microbiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Instituto Nacional de Toxicología y Ciencias Forenses, Las Rozas de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - L Andreoletti
- Molecular and Clinical Virology Department, EA-4684 CardioVir, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - J Alberola
- Microbiology Service, University Hospital Dr. Peset Valencia, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - P Fornes
- Pathology Department and Forensic Institute, Academic Hospital, Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - I Merino
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal-Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Infectious Diseases (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - M J Martínez
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Spain; Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Castillo
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Spain; Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Sampaio-Maia
- Faculdade de Medicina Dentária, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - I M Caldas
- Faculdade de Medicina Dentária da Universidade do Porto, CFE - Centre os Functional Ecology, University of Coimbra, IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, Gandra, Portugal
| | - V Saegeman
- Clinical Laboratory, AZ Nikolaas, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
| | - M C Cohen
- Sheffield Children's Hospital NHS FT, Histopathology Department, Sheffield UK
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Galbarriatu L, Pomposo I, Aurrecoechea J, Marinas A, Agúndez M, Gómez JC, Acera MA, Martínez MJ, Valle E, Maestro I, Mateos B, Cabrera A, Fernández J, Iturri F, Garamendi I. Vagus nerve stimulation therapy for treatment-resistant epilepsy: a 15-year experience at a single institution. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2015; 137:89-93. [PMID: 26164349 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2015.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment-resistant epilepsy (TRE) occurs in 20-30% of patients. The goal of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in this group of patients, including adult and pediatric populations and several off-label indications. METHODS This is a retrospective review of 59 consecutive patients in whom 60 VNS devices were implanted at a single institution during a 15-year period. Patients were evaluated in the Multidisciplinary Epilepsy Committee and complete presurgical workup was performed. The series included indications not approved by the FDA, such as children under 12 years of age, pregnancy and right-sided VNS. Performing the procedure on an out-patient basis was recently adopted, minimizing hospital length of stay. RESULTS There were 42 adults and 17 children (14 under 12 years of age) and the mean age at implantation was 26 years. Duration of VNS therapy ranged from 6 months to 9 years. For the entire cohort, the mean percentage seizure reduction was 31.37%. Twenty patients (34.48%) were considered responders (seizure reduction ≥50%); 7 patients (12.06%) had seizure reduction of ≥75% and 2 patients had seizure control of ≥90% (3.4%). The patient in whom right-sided VNS was implanted achieved the same reduction in seizure burden and the patient who became pregnant could reduce antiepileptic drugs dosage, without complications. Side-effects were mild and there were no permanent nerve injuries. One patient died in the follow-up due to psychiatric disorders previously known. CONCLUSIONS VNS is a safe and effective palliative treatment for TRE patients. There are an increasing number of indications and further randomized trials would potentially expand the number of patients who may benefit from it. A multidisciplinary team is crucial for a complete preoperative evaluation and selection of the optimal candidates for the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Galbarriatu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain.
| | - I Pomposo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - J Aurrecoechea
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - A Marinas
- Department of Neurology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - M Agúndez
- Department of Neurology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - J C Gómez
- Department of Neurology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - M A Acera
- Department of Neurology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - M J Martínez
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - E Valle
- Department of Neurophysiology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - I Maestro
- Department of Neurophysiology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - B Mateos
- Department of Radiology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - A Cabrera
- Department of Radiology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - J Fernández
- Department of Psychiatry, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - F Iturri
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - I Garamendi
- Department of Neurology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
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Requena-Méndez A, García C, Aldasoro E, Vicente JA, Martínez MJ, Pérez-Molina JA, Calvo-Cano A, Franco L, Parrón I, Molina A, Ruiz M, Álvarez J, Sánchez-Seco MP, Gascón J. Cases of chikungunya virus infection in travellers returning to Spain from Haiti or Dominican Republic, April-June 2014. Euro Surveill 2014; 19:20853. [DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2014.19.28.20853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ten cases of chikungunya were diagnosed in Spanish travellers returning from Haiti (n=2), the Dominican Republic (n=7) or from both countries (n=1) between April and June 2014. These cases remind clinicians to consider chikungunya in European travellers presenting with febrile illness and arthralgia, who are returning from the Caribbean region and Central America, particularly from Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The presence of Aedes albopictus together with viraemic patients could potentially lead to autochthonous transmission of chikungunya virus in southern Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Requena-Méndez
- Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona), Spain
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - C García
- These authors contributed equally to this work
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Virgen de la Luz, Cuenca, Spain
| | - E Aldasoro
- Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona), Spain
| | - J A Vicente
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Virgen de la Luz, Cuenca, Spain
| | - M J Martínez
- Microbiology Laboratory, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research
| | - J A Pérez-Molina
- Tropical Medicine & Clinical Parasitology. Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Calvo-Cano
- Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona), Spain
| | - L Franco
- National Microbiologic Center. Virology and imported arbovirus department, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - I Parrón
- Unitat de Vigilància Epidemiològica Barcelonès Nord Maresme. Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya. Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Molina
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Virgen de la Luz, Cuenca, Spain
| | - M Ruiz
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Virgen de la Luz, Cuenca, Spain
| | - J Álvarez
- Unitat de Vigilància Epidemiològica Barcelonès Nord Maresme. Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya. Barcelona, Spain
| | - M P Sánchez-Seco
- National Microbiologic Center. Virology and imported arbovirus department, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Gascón
- Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona), Spain
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8
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Martínez MJ, Marcos MA, Gonzalo V, Zboromyrska Y, Isanta R, Torner N, Martinez A, Jané M, Mateu A, Vila J. Lack of detection of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in mild and severe respiratory infections in Catalonia, northeastern Spain. New Microbes New Infect 2014; 2:27-8. [PMID: 25356335 PMCID: PMC4184620 DOI: 10.1002/2052-2975.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Surveillance of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was conducted to explore the possible introduction and circulation of this novel virus in Catalonia, northeastern Spain. Five hundred and sixty-three samples from mild and severe respiratory infections collected between January 2012 and April 2013 were screened using real-time RT-PCR. All samples were negative, suggesting that MERS-CoV is not circulating silently in Catalonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Martínez
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research Barcelona, Spain
| | - M A Marcos
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Gonzalo
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research Barcelona, Spain
| | - Y Zboromyrska
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Isanta
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Torner
- Generalitat of Catalonia, Public Health Agency of Catalonia Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Martinez
- Generalitat of Catalonia, Public Health Agency of Catalonia Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Jané
- Generalitat of Catalonia, Public Health Agency of Catalonia Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Mateu
- Generalitat of Catalonia, Public Health Agency of Catalonia Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Vila
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research Barcelona, Spain
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9
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Garcia-Maraver A, Salvachúa D, Martínez MJ, Diaz LF, Zamorano M. Analysis of the relation between the cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin content and the thermal behavior of residual biomass from olive trees. Waste Manag 2013; 33:2245-9. [PMID: 23916844 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2013.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Revised: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The heterogeneity of biomass makes it difficult if not impossible to make sweeping generalizations concerning thermochemical treatment systems and the optimal equipment to be used in them. Chemical differences in the structural components of the biomass (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) have a direct impact on its chemical reactivity. The aim of this research was to study the influence of the organic components of the raw material from olive trees (leaves, pruning residues, and wood) in the combustion behavior of this biomass, as well as to find the component responsible for the higher ash content of olive leaves. Accordingly, the study used a thermogravimetric analyzer to monitor the different states and complex transitions that occurred in the biomass as the temperature varied. The decomposition rates of the different samples were analyzed in order to establish a link between each combustion phase and the composition of the raw materials. Two methods were used to determine the hemicellulose and cellulose contents of biomass from olive trees. Significant differences among the results obtained by the different methods were observed, as well as important variations regarding the chemical composition and consequently the thermal behavior of the raw materials tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Garcia-Maraver
- Civil Engineering Department, University of Granada, Campus de Fuentenueva, 18071 Granada, Spain.
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10
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Dalmau J, Moráis A, Martínez V, Peña-Quintana L, Varea V, Martínez MJ, Soler B. [Evaluation of diet and nutrient intake in children under three years old. ALSALMA pilot study]. An Pediatr (Barc) 2013; 81:22-31. [PMID: 24182736 DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2013.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study evaluates energy and nutrient intake in Spanish children under three years of age, and compares the results with the current recommendations in order to identify possible inadequate nutrient intake. PATIENTS AND METHODS A cross-sectional pilot study. The mothers completed a diet diary for four non-consecutive days, recording the products and amounts consumed by their children. Nutrient intake was calculated, and the results were compared with the dietary reference intakes (DRI) for each age group. RESULTS A total of 188 children (93 boys and 95 girls) aged 0-6 (n=41), 7-12 (n=24), 13-24 (n=57), and 25-36 months (n=66) were included. Statistically significant differences in DRI were observed for most of the nutrients analyzed. Protein intake, in particular was 376% of DRI in children between 1-3 years of age. By age groups, 96% of the children aged 7-12 months, 88% of the children aged 13-24 months, and 97% of the children aged 25-36 months showed protein intakes more than two-fold DRI. CONCLUSIONS Nutrient intake differed from the DRI, particularly as regards proteins. A new study is required to determine whether the observed study deviations could be representative of the national population of this age group, as well as the possible effects on child health.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Dalmau
- Unidad de Nutrición y Metabolopatías, Hospital Infantil La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - A Moráis
- Unidad de Nutrición Infantil y Enfermedades Metabólicas, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, España
| | - V Martínez
- Centro de Salud El Llano, Gijón, Asturias, España
| | - L Peña-Quintana
- Unidad de Gastroenterología y Nutrición Pediátrica, Hospital Universitario Materno Infantil, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, España
| | - V Varea
- Sección de Gastroenterología, Hepatología y Nutrición, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Unidad de Gastroenterología Pediátrica del Departament de Pediatría, Institut Dexeus, Barcelona, España
| | - M J Martínez
- Sección de Gastroenterología, Hepatología y Nutrición, Hospital Infantil Niño Jesús, Madrid, España
| | - B Soler
- Departamento médico, E-C-BIO, S.L., Madrid, España.
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11
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Doti P, Castro P, Martínez MJ, Zboromyrska Y, Aldasoro E, Inciarte A, Requena-Méndez A, Requena A, Milisenda J, Fernández S, Nicolás JM, Muñoz J. A case of Japanese encephalitis in a 20 year-old Spanish sportsman, February 2013. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 18:20573. [PMID: 24008230 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2013.18.35.20573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We report a severe case of imported Japanese encephalitis (JE) in a healthy young Spanish traveller who developed symptoms after spending three weeks in a touristic area of Thailand. The patient was diagnosed in Thailand and subsequently transferred to Barcelona, Spain, where the Thai laboratory results were confirmed based on IgM serology. Although JE is a rare disease in travellers, this case illustrates the need for seeking travel medical advice before visiting tropical countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Doti
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Fernández MS, Arias JI, Martínez MJ, Saenz L, Neira-Carrillo A, Yazdani-Pedram M, Arias JL. Evaluation of a multilayered chitosan-hydroxy-apatite porous composite enriched with fibronectin or an in vitro-generated bone-like extracellular matrix on proliferation and diferentiation of osteoblasts. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2011; 6:497-504. [PMID: 21812117 DOI: 10.1002/term.455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 05/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The use of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules from tissues is an interesting way to induce specific responses of cells grown onto composite scaffolds to promote adhesion, proliferation and differentiation. There have been several studies on the effects on cell proliferation and differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells cultured onto composites, either adding some ECM molecules or grown in the presence of growth factors. Other studies involve the use of osteoblasts cultured on a three-dimensional (3D) matrix, enriched with ECM molecules produced by the same cells grown previously inside the composite. Here, the effect of enrichment of a novel multilayered chitosan-hydroxyapatite composite with ECM molecules produced by osteoblasts, or the addition of 25 or 50 µg/ml fibronectin to the composite, on proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts cultured on these composites was studied. The results showed an increase in the number of osteoblasts from day 1 of culture, which was higher in the group grown onto composites enriched with the highest concentration of fibronectin or with ECM molecules produced naturally by osteoblasts cultured previously on them, when compared with the control group. However, this increment tended to decline in all groups after day 7 of culture, the day when they reached the highest peak of proliferation. Differentiation expressed as alkaline phosphatase activity followed the proliferation pattern of the cells cultivated on the scaffolds. The results demonstrate the potential offered by these enriched 3D multilayered composites for improving their ability as bone grafting material.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Fernández
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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13
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Aldana M, De Prado R, Martínez MJ. Leaching of oxadyxil and tebuconazole in Colombian soil. Commun Agric Appl Biol Sci 2011; 76:909-914. [PMID: 22702207] [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: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Lake Tota (Boyaca, Colombia) supplies water for human consumption, agriculture and industry for more than 500.000 people. Oxadixyl and Tebuconazole are fungicides used in onion crops in the lake catchment area. The mobility of pesticides in soil, bioavailability and transfer to other environmental compartments depend on sorption and desorption kinetics and mechanisms. An understanding of these processes is essential for transport modeling and the rational design of corrective measures against pollution. A displacement study was performed on a hand packed soil column in laboratory conditions. A pulse of 0,01 M CaCl2 solution, containing a tracer (Bromide) and the fungicides Oxadixyl y Tebuconazole, was injected. Column experiment was performed at 0.078 cmh(-1) flow rate under unsaturated conditions. Eluates were collected in flasks at constant intervals and the volumes of eluate were recorded. After rainfall simulation, the soil from the column was sliced into six successive sections (5 cm). Methanol extraction was used to determine the fungicide in each soil section. Samples were measured by HPLC. Only Oxadixyl was recovered in leachates. Unlike bromide breakthrough curve, Oxadixyl was asymmetrical, with early breakthrough and increased tailing. The percentage eluted was 96.7% after ten pore volumes. Tebuconazole showed the highest retention in the first five cm of soil layer. The results suggest that oxadyxil presents highs risk to leachate through the soil profile and that Tebuconazole is strongly absorbed in Colombian soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Aldana
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Departamento de Química, Sede Bogotá, Colombia.
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14
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Terriza A, Del Prado G, Pérez AO, Martínez MJ, Puértolas JA, Manso DM, González-Elipe AR, Yubero F, Barrena EG, Esteban J. Bacterial adherence on fluorinated carbon based coatings deposited on polyethylene surfaces. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/252/1/012013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 11/11/2022]
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15
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Molina-Manso D, Gómez-Barrena E, Esteban J, Adames H, Martínez MJ, Cordero J, Fernández-Roblas R, Puértolas JA. Bacterial adherence on UHMWPE doped with Vitamin E: anin vitrostudy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/252/1/012014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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16
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Antón A, López-Iglesias AA, Tórtola T, Ruiz-Camps I, Abrisqueta P, Llopart L, Marcos MÁ, Martínez MJ, Tudó G, Bosch F, Pahissa A, de Anta MTJ, Pumarola T. Selection and viral load kinetics of an oseltamivir-resistant pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus in an immunocompromised patient during treatment with neuraminidase inhibitors. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2010; 68:214-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2010.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2010] [Revised: 07/30/2010] [Accepted: 08/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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17
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Antón A, Marcos MÁ, Martínez MJ, Ramón S, Isanta R, de Molina P, de Anta MTJ, Pumarola T. Double (V27A/S31N) mutant 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus isolated from adamantane non-treated inmunocompetent child. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2010; 67:114-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2009.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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18
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Antón A, Marcos MA, Martínez MJ, Ramón S, Martínez A, Cardeñosa N, Godoy P, Torner N, De Molina P, Isanta R, Jiménez de Anta MT, Pumarola T. D225G mutation in the hemagglutinin protein found in 3 severe cases of 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) in Spain. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2010; 67:207-8. [PMID: 20356695 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2010.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
From 27 April to 16 December 2009, we analyzed the hemagglutinin gene sequence of 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus in 189 respiratory specimens. We only found the D225G mutation in 3 severe cases. However, it was not found in samples from other cases with or without clinical criteria of severity. The biologic significance of this mutation remains still unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Antón
- Microbiology Laboratory, Hospital Clínic, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
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19
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Mosquera CS, Martínez MJ, Guerrero JA. 14C tebuconazole degradation in Colombian soils. Commun Agric Appl Biol Sci 2010; 75:173-181. [PMID: 21542480] [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: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Tebuconazole is a fungicide used on onion crops (Allium Fistulosum L) in Colombia. Persistence of pesticides in soils is characterized by the half-life (DT50), which is influenced by their chemical structure, the physical and chemical properties of the soil and the previous soil history. Based on its structural and chemical properties, tebuconazole should be expected to be relatively persistent in soils. Laboratory incubation studies were conducted to evaluate persistence and bond residues of 14C tebuconazole in three soils, two inceptisol (I) and one histosol (H). Textural classifications were: loam (101), loamy sand (102) and loam (H03), respectively. Data obtained followed a first-order degradation kinetics (R2 > or = 0.899) with DT50 values between 158 and 198 days. The production of 14CO2 from the 14C-ring-labelled test chemicals was very low and increased slightly during 63 days in all cases. The methanol extractable 14C-residues were higher than aqueous ones and both decreased over incubation time for the three soils. The formation of bound 14C-residues increased with time and final values were 11.3; 5.55 and 7.87% for 101, 102 and H03 respectively. Soil 101 showed the lowest mineralization rate and the highest bound residues formation, which might be explained by the clay fraction content. In contrast, an inverse behavior was found for soils 102 and H03, these results might be explained by the higher soil organic carbon content.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Mosquera
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Facultad de Ciencias. Dpto Química, Colombia.
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20
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Agudo S, Alarcón T, Cibrelus L, Urruzuno P, Martínez MJ, López-Brea M. High percentage of clarithromycin and metronidazole resistance in Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates obtained from Spanish children. Rev Esp Quimioter 2009; 22:88-92. [PMID: 19544100] [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: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the primary and secondary resistance to several antimicrobial agents in Spanish Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates obtained from paediatric patients from January 2002 to June 2006. METHODS Samples were collected from gastric biopsies of symptomatic paediatric patients and H. pylori cultured according to standard microbiological procedures. Resistance was determined by E-test. Strains were considered resistant if minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) > or = 2 mg/l for amoxycillin, > or = 4 mg/l for tetracycline, > or = 8 mg/l for metronidazole, > or = 1 mg/l for clarithromycin, MIC > or = 4 mg/l for ciprofloxacin, MIC > or = 32 mg/l for rifampicin and intermediate if MIC = 0.5 mg/l for clarithromycin, and MIC = 2 mg/l for ciprofloxacin. RESULTS A total of 101 patients were included: 38 males and 63 females (sex ratio M/F: 0.6). Average age was 10 years (range: 4-18 years). All strains were susceptible to amoxycillin, tetracycline and rifampicin, 35.7% were resistant to metronidazole, 54.6% to clarithromycin and 1.8% to ciprofloxacin. 2.0% were intermediate to clarithromycin and 1.8% to ciprofloxacin. Double resistance to metronidazole and clarithromycin rated at 17.2%. Thirty-five patients (34.7%) had a history of treatment failure, and were considered as secondary H. pylori. Primary resistance rates to metronidazole and clarithromycin were 32.8% and 49.2%, respectively, and secondary resistance rates were 41.2% and 70.6%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Resistance to clarithromycin (56.6%) was higher than to metronidazole (35.7%) in the H. pylori strains studied. Clarithromycin resistance was very high even in strains from paediatric patients not previously treated for H. pylori infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Agudo
- Hospital de La Princesa, Madrid, Spain.
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21
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Eibes GM, Lú-Chau TA, Ruiz-Dueñas FJ, Feijoo G, Martínez MJ, Martínez AT, Lema JM. Effect of culture temperature on the heterologous expression of Pleurotus eryngii versatile peroxidase in Aspergillus hosts. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng 2008; 32:129-34. [PMID: 18481101 DOI: 10.1007/s00449-008-0231-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 04/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Production of recombinant versatile peroxidase in Aspergillus hosts was optimized through the modification of temperature during bioreactor cultivations. To further this purpose, the cDNA encoding a versatile peroxidase of Pleurotus eryngii was expressed under control of the alcohol dehydrogenase (alcA) promoter of Aspergillus nidulans. A dependence of recombinant peroxidase production on cultivation temperature was found. Lowering the culture temperature from 28 to 19 degrees C enhanced the level of active peroxidase 5.8-fold and reduced the effective proteolytic activity twofold. Thus, a maximum peroxidase activity of 466 U L(-1) was reached. The same optimization scheme was applied to a recombinant Aspergillus niger that bore the alcohol dehydrogenase regulator (alcR), enabling transformation with the peroxidase cDNA under the same alcA promoter. However, with this strain, the peroxidase activity was not improved, while the effective proteolytic activity was increased between 3- and 11-fold compared to that obtained with A. nidulans.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Eibes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Technology, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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22
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Martínez
- Nuklearmedizinische Klinik und Poliklinik der Technischen Universität München, Germany
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23
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Cogollos J, Martínez MJ, Blanc E, Ripollés T, Calvillo P, Ballestín J. [Ultrasound and CT study of duodenal pathology]. Radiologia 2006; 48:263-72. [PMID: 17168235 DOI: 10.1016/s0033-8338(06)75135-9] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The radiological evaluation of the duodenum has traditionally been based on barium transit studies; however, ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) are becoming more important in the assessment of this portion of the intestine and the structures that surround it. This report describes and illustrates the CT and US findings for different entities that affect the duodenum, including diseases of the duodenum itself and those of neighboring organs that affect this portion of the small intestine. We classify the pathologies by etiology into congenital, traumatic, iatrogenic and foreign bodies, bezoars, hematologic, inflammatory and neoplastic. Moreover, we present the incidental duodenal and periduodenal findings in US and CT that radiologists should be familiar with given the widespread use of these techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cogollos
- Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset, Valencia, España.
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24
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Martínez MJ, Martínez MA, Montero M, Campelo E, Castro I, Inaraja MT. Hypophosphatemia in postoperative patients with total parenteral nutrition: influence of nutritional support teams. NUTR HOSP 2006; 21:657-60. [PMID: 17147062] [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: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED PURPOSE, SETTING AND SUBJECTS: We conducted a prospective, descriptive study of postoperative patients under total parenteral nutrition controlled by a Multidisciplinary Nutritional Support Team in a tertiary care hospital. Between january 2002 and november 2003. Data of nutritional status, nutritional support, hypophosphatemia, electrolyte and metabolic complications were reviewed. RESULTS 215 postoperative patients (63.3% male, 68 +/- 13.9 years old, 47.4% neoplasia). were included. Nutritional support according nutritional needs was made during fasting 14.2 +/- 18.4 days. Mild-moderate initial malnutrition was present in 58% of patients. 18.1% developed postoperative hypophosphatemia 96 hours after starting total parenteral nutrition containing phosphate. 37.7% patients showed moderated and 6.5% severe hypophosphatemia. Nutritional intervention corrected hypophosphatemia (p < 0.001). Factors related to hypophosphatemia were hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypercalcemia, female sex, neoplasia, 96-hour postoperative period and duration of nutrition. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of hypophosphatemia in postoperative patients with total parenteral nutrition is high and needs timely monitoring. The intervention of Multidisciplinary Nutritional Support Team is effective detecting and correcting postoperative hypophosphatemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Martínez
- Pharmacy Department, Meixoeiro Hospital, Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
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25
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Garrido A, Martínez MJ, Ortega JA, Lobato A, Rodríguez MJ, Guerrero FJ. Epidemiology of chronic inflammatory bowel disease in the Northern area of Huelva. Rev esp enferm dig 2004; 96:687-91; 691-4. [PMID: 15537375 DOI: 10.4321/s1130-01082004001000003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To know the different epidemiologic aspects of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the Northern area of the province of Huelva. MATERIAL AND METHODS we carried out a retrospective (1980-1996) and prospective (1996-2003) study of all patients diagnosed with IBD in the Northern area of Huelva, with 77,856 inhabitants. The distribution of Crohn s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) was analyzed, as well as sex, age and smoking habit at the time of diagnosis, familial aggregation, appendicectomy rate, phenotype (anatomical site and clinical types), extraintestinal manifestations, and immunosuppressive therapy or surgical requirements. RESULTS 70 patients with IBD were studied, 40 with UC and 30 with CD. Sex distribution was 39 (55.7%) males (55% with CD vs 56.6% with UC; NS) and 31 (44.3%) females (45% with CD vs 43.3% with UC; NS). Mean age at presentation was 44.7 +/- 19.32 years in UC vs 32.3 +/- 16.43 in CD; p < 0.001. Familial association was 7.1%. Previous appendicectomy was referred in 2.5% of patients with UC vs 36.7% of those with CD (p < 0.001), and the percentage of smokers was also higher in CD 66.7% vs CU 12.5% (p < 0.001). Anatomical site in UC was: proctitis, 20%; proctosigmoiditis/left colon, 42.5%; extensive colitis, 25%; and pancolitis, 12.5%; in CD was: terminal ileum, 43.3%; colon, 20%; and ileo-colon, 36.7%. The disease patterns were: inflammatory 56.7%, obstruction 26.7%, and fistulization 16.7%. Extraintestinal manifestations were diagnosed in 7.5% of patients with UC vs 16.6% patients with CD; surgery was performed in one patient with UC vs 10 with CD, and one patient with UC required immunosuppressive treatment vs 12 with CD. A multivariant analysis showed that younger age and smoking habit were risk factors for CD vs advanced age in UC, in which case, the smoking habit was a protective factor. The mean incidence rate of IBD starting from 1996 and expressed in cases/100,000 inhabitants/year was 5.2 for UC and 6.6 for CD. CONCLUSIONS The mean incidence of UC in our area was 5.2 cases/100,000/inhabitants/year, and 6.6 for CD. Patients presenting with CD are diagnosed at a significantly younger age that those with UC; the smoking habit is a risk factor for CD while it protects from UC. The characteristics of IBD in our geographical area do not differ substantially from those in other regions of Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Garrido
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medicine, Hospital Comarcal de Riotinto, Huelva, Spain.
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Lú-Chau TA, Ruiz-Dueñas FJ, Camarero S, Feijoo G, Martínez MJ, Lema JM, Martínez AT. Effect of pH on the stability of Pleurotus eryngii versatile peroxidase during heterologous production in Emericella nidulans. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng 2004; 26:287-93. [PMID: 15300480 DOI: 10.1007/s00449-004-0365-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [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] [Received: 12/04/2002] [Accepted: 06/30/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Complementary DNA (cDNA) encoding the new versatile peroxidase from the ligninolytic basidiomycete Pleurotus eryngii has been expressed in the ascomycete Emericella nidulans. In recombinant E. nidulans cultures, the pH reached values as high as 8.3, correlating with a sharp decrease in peroxidase activity. Peroxidase was rapidly inactivated at alkaline pH, but was comparatively stable at acidic pH. The peroxidase inactivation in alkaline buffer could be reversed by adding Ca(2+) and lowering the pH. However, reactivation did not result after incubating the enzyme in non-buffered E. nidulans cultures that reached pH 7.5. To optimize recombinant peroxidase production, the effect of controlling the pH in E. nidulans bioreactor cultures was studied. An extended growth period, and a significant increase in the recombinant peroxidase level (5.3-fold higher activity than in the bioreactor without pH control) was obtained when the pH was maintained at 6.8, showing that culture pH is an important parameter for recombinant peroxidase production.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Lú-Chau
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Technology, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Martínez MJ, Farsaoui K, de Prado R. Weed control and persistence of two oxyfluorfen formulations in olive groves under non tillage conditions. Commun Agric Appl Biol Sci 2004; 69:77-82. [PMID: 15765564] [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: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
To obtain profitable yields in olive groves, residual preemergence herbicides are applied in October or November before the winter rains, and before the winter annual weeds germinate. Simazine, one of the herbicides most used for weed control in olive groves, has recently been banned. Oxyfluorfen is presented as a good alternative to simazine in olive fields. Experiments were carried out in 2002 and 2003 to evaluate the behaviour of two oxyfluorfen formulations, 2XL and G4F, at 480 g a.i. ha(-1) for three different soil management systems with three replications (1. bare soil; 2. bare soil and grassed buffer strips, chemically controlled and 3. bare soil and grassed buffer strips with controlled mowing; under non tillage conditions in all three cases). The most important species that survived 2XL and G4F treatments was Sagina apetala ARD. Oxyfluorfen residues were evaluated throughout 158 days after the applications. Three soil samples from each plot were collected, mixed and air dried. The herbicide extractions were made with methanol and the residues were analyzed by HPLC. We found no differences between the two formulations, but results showed that recoveries of oxyfluorfen were higher in plots with chemically controlled buffer grassed strips than in the other soil management types.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Martínez
- Departamento de Química Agrícola y Edafología, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edif. Marie Curie, E-14071 Córdoba, Spain
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Garrido A, Rodríguez MJ, Martínez MJ, Ortega JA, Lobato A. [Giant hepatic adenoma not associated with oral contraceptive intake]. Gastroenterol Hepatol 2003; 26:665-6. [PMID: 14670244 DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(03)70429-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Garrido A, Ortega JA, Lobato A, Rodríguez MJ, Martínez MJ. [Esophageal epidermoid carcinoma after sclerosis of esophageal varices]. Gastroenterol Hepatol 2003; 26:664-5. [PMID: 14670243] [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: 04/27/2023]
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Garrido A, Ortega JA, Lobato A, Rodríguez MJ, Martínez MJ. Carcinoma epidermoide esofagico tras esclerosis de varices esofagicas? Gastroenterol Hepatol 2003. [DOI: 10.1157/13055140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Alcantara Lapaz AG, García Fernández L, Martínez MJ. [Quetiapine treatment of risperidone-related tardive dyskinesia. A case report]. Actas Esp Psiquiatr 2003; 31:306. [PMID: 14557956] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A G Alcantara Lapaz
- Unidad de Psiquiatría, Hospital General Universitario de San Juan de Alicante, Murcia, Spain
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de las Heras A, Patiño B, Posada ML, Martínez MJ, Vázquez C, González Jaén MT. Characterization and in vitro expression patterns of an exopolygalacturonase encoding gene from Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis lycopersici. J Appl Microbiol 2003; 94:856-64. [PMID: 12694451 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2672.2003.01912.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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS In this work, we report the isolation, characterization and expression pattern in in vitro cultures of an EXOPG encoding gene (pgx2), a novel EXOPG encoding gene of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis lycopersici, responsible for foot crown and root rot disease in tomato plants. The gene was compared with other fungal polygalacturonases (PGs) previously reported. METHODS AND RESULTS Partial sequences of the purified EXOPG native protein were used to design primers that amplified a genomic fragment by PCR. The amplified genomic fragment was used as a probe to screen a genomic library. One isolated clone was analysed. The complete genomic, cDNA and the deduced amino acid sequences were compared with other fungal EXOPGs and ENDOPGs. Regulation of pgx2 expression was analysed by Northern blot in in vitro cultures supplemented with different carbon sources. CONCLUSIONS Pgx2 was present as single copy in the haploid genome of several Fusarium species. PGX2 showed the conserved amino acid motifs typical of PGs and those reported for fungal EXOPGs. Pgx2 was regulated at transcriptional level showing similar expression pattern to other EXOPG encoding gene (pgx1) when the fungus was cultured on different carbon sources suggesting a coordinate expression of both genes. This similarity would be supported by the presence of common putative regulatory motifs in the upstream regions of both genes. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study reports the analysis of a novel EXOPG gene of the tomato pathogen F. oxysporum f.sp. radicis lycopersici, a contribution to the understanding of the role of cell-wall-degrading enzymes produced by fungi during pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A de las Heras
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Vega AE, Alarcón T, Domingo D, Martínez MJ, López-Brea M. [Detection of resistance to clarithromycin in clinical isolates of Helicobacter pylori from children and adults]. Rev Esp Quimioter 2003; 16:53-7. [PMID: 12750757] [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: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Several methods have been used to detect clarithromycin resistance. Agar dilution is now recommended by the NCCLS (susceptible to clarithromycin: MIC<=0.25 mg/l; intermediate resistance: MIC=0.5 mg/l; resistant: MIC>=1 mg/l), and the detection of mutations involved in resistance is used in many laboratories. We analyzed 36 clarithromycin-resistant strains isolated from children and 30 from adults. In vitro susceptibility to clarithromycin was determined by an agar dilution method. DNA from the isolates was extracted using the method published by Ge and Taylor. A2142G and A2143G mutations were identified by PCR-RFLP. A 1.4 Kpb of the 23S rRNA gene was amplified and digested using MboII or BsaI restriction enzymes to detect mutations. The prevalence of the A-G transition mutation at position 2143 was higher in the children (80.55%) than in the adult patients (46.66%) (p<0.05); however, the prevalence of the mutation at position 2142 was higher in adults than in children (36.66% vs. 5.55%; p<0.05). In children, a higher MIC (2-64 mg/l) was observed when the A-G mutation was detected at position 2143. However, in adult patients higher MICs were observed when the A-G mutation was detected at position 2142.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Vega
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, España
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Vallès JA, Barreiro M, Cereza G, Ferro JJ, Martínez MJ, Cucurull E, Barceló E. [Acceptance of generic prescribing in general practice: effect of patient education and reference prices]. Gac Sanit 2002; 16:505-10. [PMID: 12459133 DOI: 10.1016/s0213-9111(02)71972-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To assess patient acceptance of the substitution of brand-name drugs for generic equivalents in the context of repeat prescriptions for chronic diseases. METHODS A prospective multicenter study of drug use was performed. Of the 31 centers included in the study, 8 were randomized to the intervention group and 23 to the control group. For 1 year, patients in the intervention group who visited the center to collect repeat prescriptions received verbal and written information on the advantages and disadvantages of generic and brand name drugs. Data on the number of patients taking brand-name drugs for which generic equivalents were available, as well as the reasons and variables related to refusal of generic drugs (age, gender, education, primary care centre, general practitioner, type of drug and total number of repeat prescriptions) were collected. The percentage of generic drugs among the total number of drugs prescribed was calculated at 2-monthly intervals. RESULTS A total of 98.9% of the 4620 patients in the intervention group agreed to change to a generic formulation. The percentage of patients accepting generic drugs was significantly associated with the primary care centre, the class of drug, doctors' influence, and patient satisfaction with the drug. Generic prescriptions represented 5.9% in the intervention practices compared with 2.8% in controls. After the intervention, and before the application of reference prices, the percentages were 6.7% and 3.9%, respectively. Immediately after application of the reference prices, the percentages were 8.6% and 6.3%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Direct patient education is an effective strategy in increasing the prescription of generic equivalents. General practitioners' motivation and knowledge of generic drugs influenced their use. The application of reference prices increased the use of generic equivalents.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Vallès
- Servei d'Atenció Primària Ciutat Vella. Barcelona. Spain.
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Martínez-Iñigo MJ, Gutiérrez A, del Río JC, Martínez MJ, Martínez AT. Time course of fungal removal of lipophilic extractives from Eucalyptus globulus wood. J Biotechnol 2001; 84:119-26. [PMID: 11090683 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1656(00)00345-x] [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: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Free and esterified sitosterol, the main lipophilic constituents of eucalypt wood extractives, have been associated with the formation of pitch deposits during manufacturing of environmentally-sound paper pulp from Eucalyptus globulus wood. These, and other lipophilic compounds, were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the course of wood treatments (up to 7 weeks) with four extractive-degrading fungi in order to optimize biotechnological control of pitch deposition in eucalypt pulp (with moderate loss of wood weight). In contrast to commercialized fungi used in pitch control, which are not able to degrade sitosterol, the fungi investigated in this paper produced a rapid decline of both free and esterified sterols in wood. The degradation rate of steroid hydrocarbons and squalene was moderate, and the amount of steroid ketones (probably formed during oxidative degradation of steroids) and triglycerides increased at different stages of wood treatment. Up to 95% removal of total steroids (including free and esterified sterols, steroid ketones and steroid hydrocarbons) by fungi was obtained at the end of wood treatment under the solid-state fermentation conditions used. The most promising results from the point of view of industrial applicability, however, were obtained after 1-2 weeks of treatment with either Phlebia radiata or Poria subvermispora, which enabled 70% steroid removal with a moderate wood weight loss of 1-4%.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Martínez-Iñigo
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Velázquez 144, E-28006, Madrid, Spain
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Cancho ME, Oliver JM, Fernández MJ, Martínez MJ, García JM, Naverrete M. [Transesophageal echocardiographic diagnosis of a ruptured sinus of valsalva aneurysm with right atrium fistula]. Rev Esp Cardiol 2001; 54:1236-9. [PMID: 11591308] [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: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Congenital aneurysms of the sinus of Valsalva are relatively rare, tending to be most frequent in adults. Untreated, there is a substantial risk of complication due to bacterial endocarditis and, if rupture occurs, rapid and progressive cardiac insufficiency is fatal at short term. We report the case of a 53-year-old male with a ruptured right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, resulting in an anomalous right atrium fistula. Symptoms presented, clinical diagnosis and, above all, transesophageal echocardiography were crucial in the final diagnosis leading to an early and satisfactory surgical intervention. Catheterization and angiography were not definitive. Echocardiographic data are described and a bibliography of relevant research articles is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Cancho
- Unidad de Cardiología del Hospital del Bierzo, Ponferrada, León.
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Ripollés T, Aliaga R, Morote V, Lonjedo E, Delgado F, Martínez MJ, Vilar J. Utility of intrarenal Doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of renal artery stenosis. Eur J Radiol 2001; 40:54-63. [PMID: 11673009 DOI: 10.1016/s0720-048x(00)00263-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the utility of intrarenal Doppler parameters and waveform analysis in a hypertensive population screened for renal artery stenosis (RAS). MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty five patients were studied (122 kidneys) with intrarenal Doppler sonography. Doppler waveforms of three different areas from each kidney were obtained (superior, middle and inferior level). Waveform morphology, acceleration time (AT), acceleration (Ac) and resistive index (RI) were evaluated in each kidney, comparing retrospectively the Doppler findings with the angiographic results. RESULTS Arteriography demonstrated 33 (27.2%) renal arteries with stenosis (18 with RAS>75%). Statistically significant differences for AT and Ac were found among the patients with RAS>75% and the other groups (P<0.01). An AT>80 ms and an Ac< or =1 m/s(2) showed a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 99%, for the diagnosis of RAS>75%. Better results were obtained in patients less than 50 years old (100% of sensitivity and specificity). The morphologic analysis of the Doppler waveform had poor results but the detection of a waveform grade 0 had a high specificity (98%). An additional comparison of both kidneys didn't improve the results. CONCLUSION Intrarenal Doppler waveform analysis using quantitative measurements (AT and Ac) is an adequate technique for the diagnosis of severe RAS in previously selected patients, especially in younger patients (<50 years).
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Affiliation(s)
- T Ripollés
- Department of Radiology, Dr. Peset Hospital, 21 Gaspar Aguilar avenue, 46017 Valencia, Spain.
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Abstract
Lignin peroxidase (LiP) and manganese peroxidase (MnP) have been investigated in Phanerochaete chrysosporium. A third ligninolytic peroxidase has been described in Pleurotus and Bjerkandera. Two of these versatile peroxidases (VPs) have been cloned, sequenced and characterized. They have high affinity for Mn(2+), hydroquinones and dyes, and also oxidize veratryl alcohol, dimethoxybenzene and lignin dimers. The deduced sequences show higher identity with Ph. chrysosporium LiP than MnP, but the molecular models obtained include a Mn(2+)-binding site. Concerning aromatic substrate oxidation, Pl. eryngii VP shows a putative long-range electron transfer pathway from an exposed trytophan to haem. Mutagenesis and chemical modification of this tryptophan and the acidic residues forming the Mn(2+)-binding site confirmed their role in catalysis. The existence of several substrate oxidation sites is supported further by biochemical evidence. Residue conservation in other fungal peroxidases is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- F J Ruiz-Dueñas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Velázquez 144, E-28006 Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
At present, microbial and enzymatic preparations for the control of triglyceride-containing pitch deposits during the manufacture of mechanical and sulfite paper is commercially available. However, biotechnological products for pitch control in other pulping processes, such as alkaline pulping, are under development. These products include new fungi for the removal of steroids involved in pitch deposit formation in chlorine-free pulps, to be used as a biological pretreatment of wood before pulping. Simultaneously, tailor-made enzymes are being produced using protein-engineering techniques, enabling the specific removal of pitch contaminant compounds from paper pulp.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Recursos Naturales y Agrobiología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, PO Box 1052, E-41080 Seville, Spain.
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Gómez-Toribio V, Martínez AT, Martínez MJ, Guillén F. Oxidation of hydroquinones by the versatile ligninolytic peroxidase from Pleurotus eryngii. H2O2 generation and the influence of Mn2+. Eur J Biochem 2001; 268:4787-93. [PMID: 11532015 DOI: 10.1046/j.1432-1327.2001.02405.x] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Formation of H2O2 during the oxidation of three lignin-derived hydroquinones by the ligninolytic versatile peroxidase (VP), produced by the white-rot fungus Pleurotus eryngii, was investigated. VP can oxidize a wide variety of phenols, including hydroquinones, either directly in a manner similar to horseradish peroxidase (HRP), or indirectly through Mn3+ formed from Mn2+ oxidation, in a manner similar to manganese peroxidase (MnP). From several possible buffers (all pH 5), tartrate buffer was selected to study the oxidation of hydroquinones as it did not support the Mn2+-mediated activity of VP in the absence of exogenous H2O2 (unlike glyoxylate and oxalate buffers). In the absence of Mn2+, efficient hydroquinone oxidation by VP was dependent on exogenous H2O2. Under these conditions, semiquinone radicals produced by VP autoxidized to a certain extent producing superoxide anion radical (O2*-) that spontaneously dismutated to H2O2 and O2. The use of this peroxide by VP produced quinone in an amount greater than equimolar to the initial H2O2 (a quinone/H2O2 molar ratio of 1 was only observed under anaerobic conditions). In the presence of Mn2+, exogenous H2O2 was not required for complete oxidation of hydroquinone by VP. Reaction blanks lacking VP revealed H2O2 production due to a slow conversion of hydroquinone into semiquinone radicals (probably via autooxidation catalysed by trace amounts of free metal ions), followed by O2*- production through semiquinone autooxidation and O2*- reduction by Mn2+. This peroxide was used by VP to oxidize hydroquinone that was mainly carried out through Mn2+ oxidation. By comparing the activity of VP to that of MnP and HRP, it was found that the ability of VP and MnP to oxidize Mn2+ greatly increased hydroquinone oxidation efficiency.
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López-Brea M, Martínez MJ, Domingo D, Alarcón T. A 9 year study of clarithromycin and metronidazole resistance in Helicobacter pylori from Spanish children. J Antimicrob Chemother 2001; 48:295-7. [PMID: 11481305 DOI: 10.1093/jac/48.2.295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of clarithromycin, metronidazole and amoxycillin resistance in 246 Spanish Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates, obtained from paediatric patients during a 9 year period, was determined by an agar dilution technique. Clarithromycin resistance (MIC 1 mg/L) was 2.27% (IC95 0.05-12.02) in 1991-1993, 20.98% (IC95 12.72-31.46) in 1994-1996 and 28.33% (IC95 20.48-37.28) in 1997-1999 (P < 0.01). Metronidazole resistance (MIC 8 mg/L) was 7.14% (IC95 1.49-19.48) in 1991-1993, 20.25% (IC95 12.04-30.79) in 1994-1996 and 43.90% (IC95 32.95-55.30) in 1997-1999 (P < 0.01). Amoxycillin resistance was not found (all strains showed MICs < 2 mg/L).
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Affiliation(s)
- M López-Brea
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Diego de León 62, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
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Abstract
We report here on bioturbation traces, with micro-dendrite textures, composed of a mixture of altered aluminum and polycarbonate, which have been developed in a common compact disk (CD), destroying information pits. Fungal hyphae proliferated in these deteriorated zones, and Geotrichum-type fungus was isolated from surface-sterilized CD fragments. The severe biodeterioration described is attributed to the slow growth of this arthroconidial fungus on the CD material in the tropical indoor environment of Belize, Central America (approximately 30 degrees C, approximately 90% humidity).
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Affiliation(s)
- J Garcia-Guinea
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, C/Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the value of imaging studies--conventional abdominal radiographs, sonography, and CT--in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal bezoars. METHODS AND METHODS A review was made of the radiologic findings of 17 consecutive patients with surgically verified gastrointestinal bezoars over a period of 51 months. RESULTS Twelve patients had a history of previous gastric surgery. In no patient was a bezoar clinically suspected. Phytobezoars were recorded in 16 patients and a trichobezoar in only one. A total of 33 bezoars were identified at surgery. Two patients had isolated gastric bezoars, whereas 15 patients had bezoars located in the small bowel. Among the latter group, associated gastric bezoars were found in eight patients, and five patients had multiple intestinal bezoars. Abdominal radiographs revealed bezoars in three patients, sonography revealed bezoars in 15, and CT revealed bezoars in all 17. Seven patients had associated gastric bezoars revealed at CT versus only two patients with gastric bezoars revealed at sonography. CT revealed multiple intestinal bezoars in five patients whereas sonography revealed them in only two patients. CONCLUSION Both sonography and CT are reliable methods for diagnosing gastrointestinal bezoars. CT is more accurate, however, and exhibits a quite characteristic bezoar image; in addition, this imaging technique is able to reveal the presence of additional gastrointestinal bezoars.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Ripollés
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Dr. Peset, 90 Gaspar Aguilar Ave., 46017, Valencia, Spain
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Nogueira A, Martínez MJ, Arriaga MJ, Pérez A. Delayed full-thickness autografting of cryopreserved avulsed skin in degloving injuries of the extremities. Plast Reconstr Surg 2001; 107:1009-13. [PMID: 11252097 DOI: 10.1097/00006534-200104010-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Nogueira
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns Unit, Hospital Central de Asturias, and the Tissue Bank and Cryobiology Unit, Centro Comunitario de Transfusión, Oviedo, Spain.
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Varela E, Guillén F, Martínez AT, Martínez MJ. Expression of Pleurotus eryngii aryl-alcohol oxidase in Aspergillus nidulans: purification and characterization of the recombinant enzyme. Biochim Biophys Acta 2001; 1546:107-13. [PMID: 11257513 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4838(00)00301-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [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
Aryl-alcohol oxidase (AAO) is an extracellular flavoenzyme involved in lignin biodegradation by some white-rot fungi. The enzyme catalyzes the extracellular oxidation of aromatic alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes. The electron acceptor is molecular oxygen yielding H(2)O(2) as the product. Herein we describe, for the first time, the expression of AAO from Pleurotus eryngii in the ascomycete Aspergillus nidulans. The activity of the recombinant enzyme in A. nidulans cultures is much higher than found in the extracellular fluid of P. eryngii. The recombinant enzyme showed the same molecular mass, pI and catalytic properties as that of the mature protein secreted by P. eryngii. The enzymic properties are also similar to those reported from other Pleurotus and Bjerkandera species.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Varela
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Velázquez 144, E-28006 Madrid, Spain
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Vinagre C, Martínez MJ, Vogel M, Traipe L, Stoppel J, Squella O, Srur M, Charlín R. [Role of Herpes simplex virus in the immune stromal keratitis]. Rev Med Chil 2001; 129:259-63. [PMID: 11372292] [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: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection of the cornea is a leading cause of blindness in occidental countries and a common recurrent manifestation of it is the immune stromal keratitis (ISK). However, it is not known whether active viral replication occurs during the acute phase of the disease, because isolation of the virus by conventional culture techniques has not been accomplished. AIM To establish the presence of HSV in patients with ISK. MATERIAL AND METHODS Fourteen corneal swabbing samples, from active diseased eyes of patients with clinical diagnosis of ISK, were submitted to Herpchek and PCR for the identification of HSV antigens and genome. RESULTS All ISK samples were negative by both techniques. CONCLUSIONS It was not possible to identify HSV antigens nor their genome by the methodology used. It is likely that, they can't be detected in corneal superficial layers or probably there is no viral replication at this stage of the disease, so antiviral therapy should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Vinagre
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile.
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Fresnedo O, De Heredia ML, Martínez MJ, Cristóbal S, Rejas MT, Cuezva JM, Ochoa B. Immunolocalization of a novel cholesteryl ester hydrolase in the endoplasmic reticulum of murine and human hepatocytes. Hepatology 2001; 33:662-7. [PMID: 11230747 DOI: 10.1053/jhep.2001.22763] [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: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
We have recently purified a cholesteryl ester hydrolase (CEH) from rat liver microsomes. Antibodies raised against the purified protein specifically reacted with a 106-kd protein and neutralized 90% of the CEH activity of rat liver microsomes (J Lipid Res 1999;40:715-725). In this work we have used the anti-CEH antibody to study both the subcellular distribution of the protein in hepatocytes as well as its tissue-specific expression in rat. Western blotting of subcellular fractions obtained from isolated rat hepatocytes revealed that the immunoreactive 106-kd CEH was exclusively localized in microsomes. The antibody also recognized a 106-kd protein in microsomes from mouse and human liver but not from rat nonparenchymal liver cells. Confocal microscopy of HepG2 cells revealed that CEH immunoreactive material colocalized with calnexin, a marker of the endoplasmic reticulum. Furthermore, high-resolution immunoelectron microscopy of rat liver thin sections exclusively localized the CEH immunoreactivity to the endoplasmic reticulum of the hepatocyte. No CEH immunoreactivity was observed in microsomes derived from adrenal glands, ovaries, testis, pancreas, intestine, white adipose tissue, mammary gland, lung, spleen, brain, aorta, and macrophages. We report a CEH localized to the endoplasmic reticulum, erCEH, in the mammalian hepatocyte. The subcellular localization and tissue-restricted pattern of expression of erCEH suggests that it might have unique functions in liver cholesterol metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Fresnedo
- Department of Physiology, University of the Basque Country Medical School, Bilbao, Spain
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Bayo J, Moreno-Grau S, Martínez MJ, Moreno J, Angosto JM, Moreno-Clavel J, Guillén Pérez JJ, García Marcos L. Electroanalytical determination of cadmium and lead in deciduous teeth after microwave oven digestion. J AOAC Int 2001; 84:111-6. [PMID: 11234796] [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: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
A method using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry after microwave oven digestion was developed for the simultaneous determination of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in the deciduous teeth of children. Each tooth was weighed; deposited in a 120 mL capped Teflon vessel with 5 mL 65% nitric acid, Suprapur analytical grade; and digested in a 2-step microwave oven for 15 min. The detection limits for Cd(II) and Pb(II) in the final solution were 0.078 and 0.323 microg/L, and the quantitation limits 0.394 and 1.613 microg/L, respectively, with a linearity range of 2 microg/L for Cd(II) and 23.3 microg/L for Pb(II). The sensitivity was 2.51 nA/microg-L and 1.37 nA/microg-L, for Cd(II) and Pb(II). The main advantages of this technique are a complete and satisfactory dissolution of the tooth material with the proposed microwave oven digestion procedure, without sample pretreatments, such as drying, ashing, or powdering. The voltammetric procedure proved to be well designed because of significant goodness of fit to a linear model, and the accuracy of the method was established as compared with standard reference material. The methodology has enabled us to study Cd(II) and Pb(II) in 371 deciduous teeth from school children in Cartagena, Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bayo
- Technical University of Cartagena, Department of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Spain
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Isusi E, Aspichueta P, Liza M, Hernández ML, Díaz C, Hernández G, Martínez MJ, Ochoa B. Short- and long-term effects of atorvastatin, lovastatin and simvastatin on the cellular metabolism of cholesteryl esters and VLDL secretion in rat hepatocytes. Atherosclerosis 2000; 153:283-94. [PMID: 11164417 DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(00)00407-x] [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: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The short- and long-term in vitro effects of the hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitor atorvastatin, compared with lovastatin and simvastatin on VLDL secretion, and on the formation and the neutral and acid lysosomal hydrolysis of cholesteryl esters was investigated in rat liver hepatocytes maintained in suspension (2 or 4 h) or cultured in monolayers (24 h). All statins time-dependently reduced [14C]oleate incorporation into cholesteryl esters, but when exogenous cholesterol was added only atorvastatin caused an immediate transient decrease in hepatocyte ACAT activity. Activity of the lysosomal, microsomal and cytosolic CEH isoforms was unaffected by the hepatocyte treatments. Statins reduced free and esterified cholesterol mass in hepatocyte microsomes after 2 h, and this was followed by a modest decline in VLDL cholesteryl esters, whilst secretion of VLDL apoB and triglycerides was unaltered. However, after 24 h of treatment, statins caused generalized 20-40% decreases in the secretion of VLDL apoB, cholesterol and triglycerides, with the reduction in apoB48 secretion being significantly superior to that caused in apoB100. The mean diameter of secreted VLDL was not modified by either duration or drug treatment. Additional studies with subcellular fractions demonstrated that statins have a direct selective effect on the enzymes governing the cholesterol-cholesteryl ester cycle, with the exception of the microsomal CEH. Atorvastatin, lovastatin and simvastatin inhibited ACAT activity in microsomes by 50% at doses of 250, 100 and 50 microM, respectively. The cytosolic CEH elicited a biphasic profile of activity with activations up to 100 microM statin and inhibitions above 250 microM, and the lysosomal CEH was only inhibited by atorvastatin at a dose of 100 microM or more. We conclude that a prolonged, but not a short, limited availability of hepatocyte cholesterol derived from the endogenous synthesis reduces VLDL secretion, and that reactivity of statins at the cellular level are more similar than reactivity at the subcellular level as regards the cholesterol-cholesteryl ester cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Isusi
- Department of Physiology, University of the Basque Country Medical School, Bilbao, Spain
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Guillén F, Gómez-Toribio V, Martínez MJ, Martínez AT. Production of hydroxyl radical by the synergistic action of fungal laccase and aryl alcohol oxidase. Arch Biochem Biophys 2000; 383:142-7. [PMID: 11097187 DOI: 10.1006/abbi.2000.2053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [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: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A mechanism for the production of hydroxyl radical (*OH) during the oxidation of hydroquinones by laccase, the ligninolytic enzyme most widely distributed among white-rot fungi, has been demonstrated. Production of Fenton reagent (H2O2 and ferrous ion), leading to *OH formation, was found in reaction mixtures containing Pleurotus eryngii laccase, lignin-derived hydroquinones, and chelated ferric ion. The semiquinones produced by laccase reduced both ferric to ferrous ion and oxygen to superoxide anion radical (O2*-). Dismutation of the latter provided the H2O2 for *OH generation. Although O2*- could also contribute to ferric ion reduction, semiquinone radicals were the main agents accomplishing the reaction. Due to the low extent of semiquinone autoxidation, H2O2 was the limiting reagent in Fenton reaction. The addition of aryl alcohol oxidase and 4-methoxybenzyl alcohol (the natural H2O2-producing system of P. eryngii) to the laccase reaction greatly increased *OH generation, demonstrating the synergistic action of both enzymes in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Guillén
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain.
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