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Ryan MJ, Schloter M, Berg G, Kostic T, Kinkel LL, Eversole K, Macklin JA, Schelkle B, Kazou M, Sarand I, Singh BK, Fischer D, Maguin E, Ferrocino I, Lima N, McClure RS, Charles TC, de Souza RSC, Kiran GS, Krug HL, Taffner J, Roume H, Selvin J, Smith D, Rybakova D, Sessitsch A. Development of Microbiome Biobanks - Challenges and Opportunities: (Trends in Microbiology 29, 89-92; 2021). Trends Microbiol 2021; 29:378. [PMID: 33573876 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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2
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Verly T, Costa S, Lima N, Mallet J, Odêncio F, Pereira M, Moreira CJDC, Britto C, Pavan MG. Vector competence and feeding-excretion behavior of Triatoma rubrovaria (Blanchard, 1843) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) infected with Trypanosoma cruzi TcVI. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008712. [PMID: 32970687 PMCID: PMC7544132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies addressed changes on the insect vector behavior due to parasite infection, but little is known for triatomine bugs, vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease. We assessed infection rates and metacyclogenesis of T. cruzi (TcVI) in fifth-instar nymphs of Triatoma rubrovaria comparing with the primary vector Triatoma infestans. Also, biological parameters related to feeding-excretion behavior were evaluated aiming to identify which variables are most influenced by T. cruzi infection. Methodology/principal findings Fifth-instar nymphs of T. rubrovaria and T. infestans were fed on mice infected with T. cruzi (TcVI). We compared the presence and the number of parasite evolutive forms in excreta of both triatomine species at 30, 60 and 90 days post-infection (dpi) with traditional statistical analyses. Moreover, both species were analyzed through generalized linear models and multinomial logistic regression hypotheses for seven behavioral parameters related to host-seeking and feeding-excretion. Triatoma rubrovaria and T. infestans had similar overall infection and metacyclogenesis rates of T. cruzi TcVI in laboratory conditions. Regarding vector behavior, we confirmed that the triatomine’s tendency is to move away from the bite region after a blood meal, probably to avoid being noticed by the vertebrate host. Interspecific differences were observed on the volume of blood ingested and on the proportion of individuals that excreted after the blood meal, revealing the higher feeding efficiency and dejection rates of T. infestans. The amount of ingested blood and the bite behavior of T. rubrovaria seems to be influenced by TcVI infection. Infected specimens tended to ingest ~25% more blood and to bite more the head of the host. Noteworthy, in two occasions, kleptohematophagy and coprophagy behaviors were also observed in T. rubrovaria. Conclusions/significance Laboratory infections revealed similar rate of T. cruzi TcVI trypomatigotes in excreta of T. rubrovaria and T. infestans, one of the most epidemiological important vectors of T. cruzi. Therefore, TcVI DTU was able to complete its life cycle in T. rubrovaria under laboratory conditions, and this infection changed the feeding behavior of T. rubrovaria. Considering these results, T. rubrovaria must be kept under constant entomological surveillance in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Chagas disease is caused by the etiological agent Trypanosoma cruzi and is mainly transmitted through the excreta of triatomine vectors. It is endemic in Latin America and the Caribbean, affecting ~8 million people. Control programs are based on the elimination of domestic vectors through insecticide-spraying indoors, since there is no vaccine or efficient treatment for chronic patients. However, this strategy is not sustainable where native triatomine species are capable of colonizing peridomestic structures and reinvading human dwellings. Since the ‘virtual’ elimination of Triatomainfestans in Brazil (residual foci remain in Rio Grande do Sul and Bahia), specimens of the native Triatoma rubrovaria have been constantly collected inside human dwellings and peridomiciliary ecotopes in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil, which might represent a real risk for human infections. Here we analyzed a unique and large dataset through classical and modern statistical methods to evaluate T. cruzi infection in T. rubrovaria and to identify host-seeking, and also feeding/excretion behavioral traits that could be influenced by the parasite. Our results indicated that the parasite infection caused changes in T. rubrovaria feeding behavior that could increase T. cruzi TcVI transmission. Moreover, this vector species had similar infection rate to one of the main important Chagas disease vectors in South America, T. infestans. Therefore, T. rubrovaria must be kept under constant entomological surveillance in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaiane Verly
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Stephanie Costa
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Nathanielly Lima
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Vigilância Entomológica em Diptera e Hemiptera, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jacenir Mallet
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Vigilância Entomológica em Diptera e Hemiptera, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Universidade Iguaçu - UNIG, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Francisco Odêncio
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mirian Pereira
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Constança Britto
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Márcio G. Pavan
- Laboratório de Mosquitos Transmissores de Hematozoários, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Lima N, Scanavino M. PNM-10 Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Sexually Compulsive Patients: Literature Review. J Sex Med 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.07.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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4
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Ryan MJ, Schloter M, Berg G, Kostic T, Kinkel LL, Eversole K, Macklin JA, Schelkle B, Kazou M, Sarand I, Singh BK, Fischer D, Maguin E, Ferrocino I, Lima N, McClure RS, Charles TC, de Souza RSC, Kiran GS, Krug HL, Taffner J, Roume H, Selvin J, Smith D, Rybakova D, Sessitsch A. Development of Microbiome Biobanks - Challenges and Opportunities. Trends Microbiol 2020; 29:89-92. [PMID: 32800611 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The microbiome research field is rapidly evolving, but the required biobanking infrastructure is currently fragmented and not prepared for the biobanking of microbiomes. The rapid advancement of technologies requires an urgent assessment of how biobanks can underpin research by preserving microbiome samples and their functional potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Schloter
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, National Research Center for Environmental Health, Research Unit for Comparative Microbiome Analysis, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - G Berg
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - T Kostic
- AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Center for Health and Bioresources, Bioresources Unit, Tulln, Austria
| | - L L Kinkel
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
| | - K Eversole
- International Alliance for Phytobiomes Research, Lee's Summit, MO, USA; Eversole Associates, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - J A Macklin
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - B Schelkle
- European Food Information Council, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Kazou
- Laboratory of Dairy Research, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - I Sarand
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - B K Singh
- Global Centre for Land Based Innovation, Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - D Fischer
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, National Research Center for Environmental Health, Research Unit for Comparative Microbiome Analysis, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - E Maguin
- INRAE, MICALIS Institute, Metagenopolis, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - I Ferrocino
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - N Lima
- Biological Engineering Centre, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - R S McClure
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - T C Charles
- Waterloo Centre for Microbial Research, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - R S C de Souza
- Genomics for Climate Change Research Center, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - G S Kiran
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
| | - H L Krug
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - J Taffner
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - H Roume
- INRAE, MICALIS Institute, Metagenopolis, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - J Selvin
- Department of Microbiology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
| | | | - D Rybakova
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - A Sessitsch
- AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Center for Health and Bioresources, Bioresources Unit, Tulln, Austria
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Gonçalves A, Gkrillas A, Dorne JL, Dall'Asta C, Palumbo R, Lima N, Battilani P, Venâncio A, Giorni P. Pre- and Postharvest Strategies to Minimize Mycotoxin Contamination in the Rice Food Chain. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2019; 18:441-454. [PMID: 33336939 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [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: 10/14/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Rice is part of many people's diet around the world, being the main energy source in some regions. Although fewer reports exist on the occurrence of mycotoxins in rice compared to other cereals, fungal contamination and the associated production of toxic metabolites, even at lower occurrence levels compared to other crops, are of concern because of the high consumption of rice in many countries. Due to the diversity of fungi that may contaminate the rice food chain, the co-occurrence of mycotoxins is frequent. Specific strategies to overcome these problems may be applied at the preharvest part of the crop chain, while assuring good practices at harvest and postharvest stages, since different fungi may find suitable conditions to grow at the various stages of the production chain. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present the state-of-the-art knowledge on such strategies in an integrated way, from the field to the final products, to reduce mycotoxin contamination in rice.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gonçalves
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Univ. of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - A Gkrillas
- Univ. degli studi di Parma, Via Università 12, 43121, Parma, Italy
| | - J L Dorne
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Via Carlo Magno 1A, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - C Dall'Asta
- Univ. degli studi di Parma, Via Università 12, 43121, Parma, Italy
| | - R Palumbo
- Faculty of Agriculture, Univ. Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100, Piacenza, Italy
| | - N Lima
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Univ. of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - P Battilani
- Faculty of Agriculture, Univ. Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100, Piacenza, Italy
| | - A Venâncio
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Univ. of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - P Giorni
- Faculty of Agriculture, Univ. Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100, Piacenza, Italy
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Abstract
Abstract
In this work the microstructure of multilayer blown films consisting of a core layer placed between two external ones is studied. The core layer is a blend with 70 ° (w/w) of a homopolypropylene PP and 30 ° of a metallocene-catalyzed ethylene-octene copolymer mEOC (LLDPE or VLDPE), whereas the external symmetrical layers are composed of LLDPE or they have the same composition as the core layer. The PP and PE crystalline phases formed during the film blowing were investigated by thermal analysis, mechanical properties, TEM morphology and X-ray diffraction pole figures. These films successfully combine the high mechanical strength of PP with the quasi-isotropic behavior of blown PE. Multilayer film containing PP/mEOC blends, particularly blends of PP70/LLDPE30, show better balanced tensile properties when compared at crossed directions. The presence of VLDPE in the blends shifts downwards the melting and crystallization temperatures and crystallinity of PP. X-Ray pole figures suggest the occurrence of epitaxial crystallization of the PE phase upon the PP crystals in these PP/mEOC blend films.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Silva
- Department of Materials Engineering , Federal University of São Carlos, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - M. Elias
- Graduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering , Federal University of São Carlos, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - N. Lima
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares , CCTM, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - S. Canevarolo
- Department of Materials Engineering , Federal University of São Carlos, São Paulo , Brazil
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Rodrigues P, Venâncio A, Lima N. Toxic reagents and expensive equipment: are they really necessary for the extraction of good quality fungal DNA? Lett Appl Microbiol 2018; 66:32-37. [PMID: 29117447 DOI: 10.1111/lam.12822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [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: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to evaluate a fungal DNA extraction procedure with the lowest inputs in terms of time as well as of expensive and toxic chemicals, but able to consistently produce genomic DNA of good quality for PCR purposes. Two types of fungal biological material were tested - mycelium and conidia - combined with two protocols for DNA extraction using Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate (SDS) and Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide as extraction buffers and glass beads for mechanical disruption of cell walls. Our results showed that conidia and SDS buffer was the combination that lead to the best DNA quality and yield, with the lowest variation between samples. This study clearly demonstrates that it is possible to obtain high yield and pure DNA from pigmented conidia without the use of strong cell disrupting procedures and of toxic reagents. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY There are numerous methods for DNA extraction from fungi. Some rely on expensive commercial kits and/or equipments, unavailable for many laboratories, or make use of toxic chemicals such as chloroform, phenol and mercaptoethanol. This study clearly demonstrates that it is possible to obtain high yields of pure DNA from pigmented conidia without the use of strong and expensive cell disrupting procedures and of toxic reagents. The method herein described is simultaneously inexpensive and adequate to DNA extraction from several different types of fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rodrigues
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), ESA, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - A Venâncio
- Centre for Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - N Lima
- Centre for Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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Lima N, Huang S, Blackmore S, Garland A, Chan D, Truong R, Robb M, Michael N, Jones R, Trautmann L. Functional profiling of HIV-specific CTL clonotypes and their ability to reduce HIV reservoir. J Virus Erad 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)30646-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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9
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Decontardi S, Mauro A, Lima N, Battilani P. Survey of Penicillia associated with Italian grana cheese. Int J Food Microbiol 2017; 246:25-31. [PMID: 28187328 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2017.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The present work aimed to contribute information on the mycobiota associated with ripening grana cheese, with focus on the genus Penicillium as potential mycotoxin producers. Eighteen wheels of grana cheese, aged in different storehouses situated in Northern Italy, were sampled to isolate associated fungi. Penicillium spp. were commonly dominant; morphological observation and gene sequencing were applied to identify Penicillium at species level. P. crustosum and P. solitum were the dominant species. Citrinin and ochratoxin A mycotoxins were analysed and the latter was found in all grana cheese samples. These results confirmed that a polyphasic approach is mandatory for Penicillium identification at species level.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Decontardi
- Department of Sustainable Crop Production, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - A Mauro
- Department of Sustainable Crop Production, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - N Lima
- CEB-Center of Biological Engineering, Micoteca da Universidade do Minho, 4704-553 Braga, Portugal
| | - P Battilani
- Department of Sustainable Crop Production, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy.
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10
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Dias N, Dias MC, Cavaleiro C, Sousa MC, Lima N, Machado M. Oxygenated monoterpenes-rich volatile oils as potential antifungal agents for dermatophytes. Nat Prod Res 2016; 31:460-464. [PMID: 27309978 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2016.1195379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) extracted from Lavandula luisieri and Cymbopogon citratus were tested for their antifungal activity against ten clinical isolates of dermatophytes isolated from cases of tinea pedis. Inhibition of conidial germination and antifungal drug/EO combination assay were tested on two ATCC reference strains of Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. EOs were characterised by high amount of oxygenated monoterpenes in their composition. Strong antifungal activity was observed for the majority of clinical strains, and fungicidal activity was demonstrated. Positive interaction between L. luisieri EO combined with terbinafine was observed against terbinafine-resistant strain (Tr ATCC MYA-4438). Significative reduction of the germination was observed above 100 μg mL-1. Both oils were safe to macrophage mammalian cells at tested concentration. This study describes the antifungal activity of L. luisieri and C. citratus EOs against dermatophytes, which could be useful in designing new formulations for topical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Dias
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering , University of Minho, Campus Gualtar , Braga , Portugal
| | - M C Dias
- b CESPU - Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde , Gandra , Portugal
| | - C Cavaleiro
- c CEF - Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - M C Sousa
- c CEF - Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal.,d CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - N Lima
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering , University of Minho, Campus Gualtar , Braga , Portugal
| | - M Machado
- b CESPU - Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde , Gandra , Portugal.,c CEF - Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal.,e CIBIO - Research Centre in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, InBIO , Universidade do Porto , Campus Agrário de Vairão, Vila do Conde , Portugal
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Goyal V, Mahajan R, Sharma B, Strub-Wourgaft N, Balasegaram M, Rijal S, Ellis S, Alves F, Burza S, Sunyoto T, Lima N, Pandey K, Rabi Das V, Das P, Alvar J. Twelve months outcome in kala-azar patients treated with 3 novel regimens, at public health care facilities in Bihar. Int J Infect Dis 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2016.02.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Abstract
The nomenclature of Ganoderma used as a Chinese medicine is debated. A group of researchers could not amplify the DNA of type specimens and concluded the DNA was degraded irreparably. New topotypes were used as the type specimens which was premature. The use of internal amplification controls is recommended to determine if other factors were involved as alternative explanations.
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Affiliation(s)
- R R M Paterson
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
| | - N Lima
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Pereira L, Dias N, Carvalho J, Fernandes S, Santos C, Lima N. Synthesis, characterization and antifungal activity of chemically and fungal-produced silver nanoparticles against Trichophyton rubrum. J Appl Microbiol 2014; 117:1601-13. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Pereira
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Campus Gualtar; Braga Portugal
| | - N. Dias
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Campus Gualtar; Braga Portugal
| | - J. Carvalho
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Campus Gualtar; Braga Portugal
| | - S. Fernandes
- Shannon ABC; Limerick Institute of Technology; Moylish Park; Limerick Ireland
| | - C. Santos
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Campus Gualtar; Braga Portugal
| | - N. Lima
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Campus Gualtar; Braga Portugal
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Muniroh M, Sariah M, Zainal Abidin M, Lima N, Paterson R. Rapid detection of Ganoderma-infected oil palms by microwave ergosterol extraction with HPLC and TLC. J Microbiol Methods 2014; 100:143-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2014.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Neto DBO, Barbosa BG, Lima N, Silva JMD, Siqueira M, Silva VMD, Guimarães MAC, Brito I, Cassimiro G, Zita E. P5.046 Health and Religion: Candomble Places of Worship (Terreiros) as Spaces For Promoting Health and STD/AIDS Prevention. Br J Vener Dis 2013. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2013-051184.1090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Correia N, Lima N, Seara L, Colombo M, Oliveira D, Casimiro G, Barbosa B. P6.071 Projects for Strengthen Civil Society’s Actions Related to the STD/HIV/AIDS and Viral Hepatitis Epidemic. Br J Vener Dis 2013. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2013-051184.1224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Morales H, Paterson R, Venâncio A, Lima N. Interaction with Penicillium expansum
enhances Botrytis cinerea
growth in grape juice medium and prevents patulin accumulation in vitro. Lett Appl Microbiol 2013; 56:356-60. [DOI: 10.1111/lam.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. Morales
- IBB - Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering; Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Braga Portugal
| | - R.R.M. Paterson
- IBB - Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering; Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Braga Portugal
| | - A. Venâncio
- IBB - Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering; Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Braga Portugal
| | - N. Lima
- IBB - Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering; Centre of Biological Engineering; University of Minho; Braga Portugal
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Siqueira VM, Oliveira HMB, Santos C, Paterson RRM, Gusmão NB, Lima N. Biofilms from a Brazilian water distribution system include filamentous fungi. Can J Microbiol 2012; 59:183-8. [PMID: 23540336 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2012-0529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Filamentous fungi in drinking water can block water pipes, can cause organoleptic biodeterioration, and are a source of pathogens. There are increasing reports of the involvement of the organisms in biofilms. This present study describes a sampling device that can be inserted directly into pipes within water distribution systems, allowing biofilm formation in situ. Calcofluor White M2R staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization with morphological analyses using epifluorescent microscopy were used to analyse biofilms for filamentous fungi, permitting direct observation of the fungi. DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) was applied to detect bacteria. Filamentous fungi were detected in biofilms after 6 months on coupons exposed to raw water, decanted water and at the entrance of the water distribution system. Algae, yeast, and bacteria were also observed. The role of filamentous fungi requires further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Siqueira
- Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Abstract
We have studied the therapeutic effects of two different doses (30 mg and 60 mg, twice daily) of DL-fenfluramine (DL-F) in, respectively, prepuberal (11-13 years old) and adolescent subjects (14-17 years old). Sixty-eight obese subjects were recruited for this study (22 boys, 36 girls, aged 10-17 years old) with body mass index ranging from 24.5 to 44.0 kg/m2, absolute weight ranging from 37.0 to 119.5 kg and % over IBW ranging from 122% to 260%. Results were compared to a placebo treated group of obese adolescent patients (n = 17), 6 boys and 11 girls, aged 10-17 years old, BMI ranging from 26-44 kg/m2, absolute weight 53.1 to 96.5 kg, and with 129% to 253% over IBW. In the DL-F-treated subjects most patients (n = 41) had a continuous weight loss during 12 months but 27 individuals were unable to lose any additional weight after the initial 6 months of the trial. Taken together 65% of all patients lost weight during DL-F treatment (12 months) whereas only 17.4% of the placebo group lost a significant (> 10% BMI) amount of excess weight. Also the placebo group had a higher withdrawal rate (57%) as compared with the DL-F-treated group (24%). There was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease of the mean +/- SD of the BMI (at 6 and 12 months of therapy). No significant change of the BMI was observed for control group. Minor adverse side effects consisted of a brief period of drowsiness and dry mouth. Our findings indicated that the continuous administration of DL-Fenfluramine might help obese adolescent subjects adhere to a diet and to maintain the weight loss achieved without major or harmful adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pedrinola
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Hospital das Clinicas, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo 05403-900, Brazil
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20
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Abstract
Aflatoxin contamination of nuts is an increasing concern to the consumer's health. Portugal is a big producer of almonds, but there is no scientific knowledge on the safety of those nuts, in terms of mycotoxins. The aim of this paper was to study the incidence of aflatoxigenic fungi and aflatoxin contamination of 21 samples of Portuguese almonds, and its evolution throughout the various stages of production. All fungi belonging to Aspergillus section Flavi were identified and tested for their aflatoxigenic ability. Almond samples were tested for aflatoxin contamination by HPLC-fluorescence. In total, 352 fungi belonging to Aspergillus section Flavi were isolated from Portuguese almonds: 127 were identified as A. flavus (of which 28% produced aflatoxins B), 196 as typical or atypical A. parasiticus (all producing aflatoxins B and G), and 29 as A. tamarii (all nonaflatoxigenic). Aflatoxins were detected in only one sample at 4.97 μg/kg.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rodrigues
- CIMO/School of Agriculture of the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5301-855 Bragança, Portugal.
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Rodrigues P, Santos C, Venâncio A, Lima N. Species identification of Aspergillus section Flavi isolates from Portuguese almonds using phenotypic, including MALDI-TOF ICMS, and molecular approaches. J Appl Microbiol 2011; 111:877-92. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2011.05116.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Dias N, Santos C, Portela M, Lima N. Toenail Onychomycosis in a Portuguese Geriatric Population. Mycopathologia 2011; 172:55-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s11046-011-9402-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2010] [Accepted: 02/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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24
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Morales-Valle H, Silva L, Paterson R, Oliveira J, Venâncio A, Lima N. Microextraction and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry for improved analysis of geosmin and other fungal “off” volatiles in grape juice. J Microbiol Methods 2010; 83:48-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2010.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2010] [Revised: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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25
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Abstract
Self-produced mutagens in culture by fungi may affect DNA analysis of the same fungi. This has not been considered previously. Many fungi produce numerous mutagenic secondary metabolites (SM) in culture. There is a paradox of growing fungi in media to produce representative DNA which also support mutagenic SM. This is a crucial issue in developing diagnostic and phylogenetic methods, especially for closely-related fungi. For example, idh gene analysis of the patulin metabolic pathway in fungi can be interpreted as producing some false negative and positive results in terms of possession, or nonpossession, of the gene from mutated strains. The most obvious mycotoxins and fungi to consider in this regard are aflatoxins and Aspergillus, as aflatoxins are the most mutagenic natural compounds. Many other fungi and SM are relevant. Conditions to grow fungi have not been selected to inhibit SM production although relevant data exist. In fact, fungi repair damaged nucleic acid (NA) and are capable of removing toxins by employing transporter proteins. These and NA repair mechanisms could be inhibited by secondary metabolites. Mutagenic effects may involve inhibition of DNA stabilizing enzymes. There may be an equivalent situation for bacteria. Researchers need to devise methods to reduce SM for valid protocols. More work on how mutagens affect the NA of producing fungus in vitro is required. The current review assesses the potential seriousness of the situation with selected papers.
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Affiliation(s)
- R R M Paterson
- IBB-Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre of Biological Engineering, Braga, Portugal.
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Santos C, Paterson R, Venâncio A, Lima N. Filamentous fungal characterizations by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. J Appl Microbiol 2010; 108:375-85. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2009.04448.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Paterson R, Meon S, Abidin M, Lima N. Prospects for Inhibition of Lignin Degrading Enzymes to Control Ganoderma White Rot of Oil Palm. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.2174/157340808786733613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
AIM To produce high laccase activities from the white-rot fungus Trametes hirsuta in an in-house air-lift bioreactor (ALB). METHODS AND RESULTS Trametes hirsuta was grown in a 6-l ALB. A fed-batch strategy with glycerol as an addition resulted in maximum laccase activity of 19,400 U l(-1), which was the highest reported from the fungus. CONCLUSION The ALB configuration with additional glycerol resulted in high laccase activities. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study provides useful information on how to produce high concentrations of laccase.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Rodríguez Couto
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Vigo, Vigo, Spain.
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Dias N, Amaral AL, Ferreira EC, Lima N. Automated image analysis to improve bead ingestion toxicity test counts in the protozoan Tetrahymena pyriformis. Lett Appl Microbiol 2003; 37:230-3. [PMID: 12904224 DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.2003.01382.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To improve bead ingestion counts in Tetrahymena pyriformis by automated image analysis as an alternative to direct-counts. METHODS AND RESULTS Fluorescent latex beads were added to T. pyriformis cultures for ingestion tests. The number of beads ingested by 25 cells was counted directly by epifluorescence microscopy and compared with similar data from image analysis. anova indicated that counts were not significantly different (P < 0.05). The image analysis particularly provided advantages in terms of speed. CONCLUSIONS The image analysis is superior to direct beads counting in T. pyriformis particularly in terms of speed of analysis. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The image analysis method is very rapid and will allow many more toxicological analyses to be undertaken with less operator error.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Dias
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal.
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Portinha A, Teixeira V, Monteiro A, Costa MF, Lima N, Martins J, Martinez D. Surface analysis of nanocomposite ceramic coatings. SURF INTERFACE ANAL 2003. [DOI: 10.1002/sia.1570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Santos IM, Abrunhosa L, Venâncio A, Lima N. The effect of culture preservation techniques on patulin and citrinin production by Penicillium expansum Link. Lett Appl Microbiol 2002; 35:272-5. [PMID: 12358686 DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.2002.01186.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To study the influence of culture preservation methods and culture conditions on the production of the mycotoxins patulin and citrinin by Penicillium expansum. METHODS AND RESULTS Ten strains of Penicillium expansum were preserved using subculture and maintenance at 4 degrees C, mineral oil, drying on silica gel and freeze-drying. Patulin and citrinin production was assessed on yeast extract sucrose agar (YES) and grape juice agar (GJ), using TLC before and after 0.5, 2-3, 6 and 12 months preservation. Citrinin was detected in all cultures for all preservation techniques on YES. The patulin profiles obtained differed with strain and culture media used. CONCLUSIONS Citrinin production seems to be a stable character for the tested strains. There is a tendency for patulin detection with time apparently more consistent for silica gel storage and freeze-drying, especially when the strains are grown on GJ. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Variability in the profiles of the mycotoxins tested seems to be more strain-specific than dependent on the preservation technique used.
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Affiliation(s)
- I M Santos
- Micoteca da Universidade do Minho and Centro de Engenharia Biológica da Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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Domingues L, Teixeira JA, Penttilä M, Lima N. Construction of a flocculent Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain secreting high levels of Aspergillus niger beta-galactosidase. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2002; 58:645-50. [PMID: 11956748 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-002-0948-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2001] [Revised: 01/09/2002] [Accepted: 01/11/2002] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A flocculent Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain secreting Aspergillus niger beta-galactosidase activity was constructed by transforming S. cerevisiae NCYC869-A3 strain with plasmid pVK1.1 harboring the A. niger beta-galactosidase gene, lacA, under the control of the ADH1 promoter and terminator. Compared to other recombinant S. cerevisiae strains, this recombinant yeast has higher levels of extracellular beta-galactosidase activity. In shake-flask cultures, the beta-galactosidase activity detected in the supernatant was 20 times higher than that obtained with previously constructed strains (Domingues et al. 2000a). In bioreactor culture, with cheese-whey permeate as substrate, a yield of 878.0 nkat/gsubstrate was obtained. The recombinant strain is an attractive alternative to other fungal beta-galactosidase production systems as the enzyme is produced in a rather pure form. Moreover, the use of flocculating yeast cells allows for enzyme production with high productivity in continuous fermentation systems with facilitated downstream processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Domingues
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Lima N, Cavaliere H, Tomimori E, Knobel M, Medeiros-Neto G. Prognostic value of serial serum thyroglobulin determinations after total thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid cancer. J Endocrinol Invest 2002; 25:110-5. [PMID: 11929080 DOI: 10.1007/bf03343973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Serial weekly serum samples (for 3 weeks) were obtained from 42 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC, papillary no.=35, follicular no.=6, Hurthle cell no.=1) for serum thyroid hormone, TSH and TG before and after total thyroidectomy. Serum specimens were also obtained one month after radioiodine (131I) therapy followed by suppressive dose of L-thyroxine (L-T4, 2.5 microg/kg). The patients were subdivided into four groups: group I: the DTC was confined to a single solid nodule (no.=1 2); group II: thyroid malignancy invaded local cervical structures but there were no lymph node metastases (no.=8); group III: DTC with lymph node metastases (no.=6); and group IV: DTC with distant metastases (no.=16). In all group I patients serum TG remained undetectable in spite of elevated serum TSH levels at the 3rd week post-surgery (PS). Only one of group II patients had a detectable serum TG value of 5.2 ng/ml (3rd week PS). By contrast, 37.5% of group III patients had detectable serum TG levels, ranging from 3.4 to 16.8 ng/ml (3rd week PS). Lymph node metastases were detected in 5 of these patients by whole body scan (WBS) and removed surgically in 3. As expected, group IV patients had elevated serum TG values ranging 33.0-958.0 ng/ml and distant metastases were confirmed in all of them by WBS. From the calculations through univariate logistic regression comparing TG concentrations at the 3rd week PS from groups I and II vs groups III and IV, we obtained a cut-off value of 2.3 ng/ml with the following efficacy features: sensitivity=74.5%; specificity=95%; positive predictive value=92.3%; negative predictive value=65.5%; and accuracy=73.8%. After 131I and L-T4 suppressive therapy, only 5 out of 36 patients of groups I, II and III had detectable serum TG levels (3.1-7.0 ng/ml) whereas serum TG was detectable in all group IV patients (ranging 2.5-8.6 ng/ml). We concluded that serum TG concentrations above 2.3 ng/ml at the 3rd week PS could be suggestive of lymph node or distant metastases in patients with DTC. Patients with serum TG above this limit could be considered at risk for metastatic disease and higher doses of diagnostic iodine-131 (131I) may be indicated for actinic ablation.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/blood
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/surgery
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/therapy
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/blood
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/surgery
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/therapy
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Carcinoma, Papillary/blood
- Carcinoma, Papillary/surgery
- Carcinoma, Papillary/therapy
- Female
- Humans
- Iodine Radioisotopes/therapeutic use
- Logistic Models
- Lymphatic Metastasis/diagnosis
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Metastasis/diagnosis
- Prognosis
- Thyroglobulin/blood
- Thyroid Neoplasms/blood
- Thyroid Neoplasms/surgery
- Thyroid Neoplasms/therapy
- Thyroidectomy
- Thyrotropin/blood
- Thyroxine/therapeutic use
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lima
- Endocrine Division, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, SP, Brazil
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Abstract
Increasing environmental pollution and the continuous development of new chemicals and drugs has led to ever growing concern about the potential effects of these compounds directly or indirectly on human health. As concerns water pollution, protozoa seem to be an excellent tool to assess both toxicity and pollution: they are regarded as biological indicators of pollution when their presence or absence can be related to particular environmental conditions, and they are considered test organisms when a species or population is used to evaluate the toxicity of relevant toxic compounds. Thus, an integrated approach is being developed to assess how toxic compounds affect the different biological levels of organisation--from the community level to the species level--of ciliated protozoa. The present paper reports and discusses the current state of the art of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nicolau
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica, IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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35
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Abstract
Azo dyes are important chemical pollutants of industrial origin. Textile azo dyes with bioaccessible groups for lignin degrading fungi, such as 2-methoxyphenol (guaiacol) and 2,6-dimethoxyphenol (syringol), were synthesised using different aminobenzoic and aminosulphonic acids as diazo components. The inocula of the best biodegradation assays were obtained from a pre-growth medium (PAM), containing one of the synthesised dyes. The results of the dye biodegradation assays were evaluated every 7 days, by the decrease of the absorbance at the maximum wavelength of the dye, by the decrease of the sucrose concentration in the culture medium and by the increase of the biomass during the 28 days of assay. It was observed that the extent of dye biodegradation depended on the sucrose concentration, on the degraded dye structure and, on the dye present in the PAM medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Martins
- Institute of Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (IBQF), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
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Abstract
AIMS In order to assess the potential for producing mycotoxins, fungi were isolated from wine producing grapes. METHODS AND RESULTS The isolates were identified and Penicillium expansum, the most well recognized mycotoxin producer, was analysed for mycotoxin production by TLC. Many of the strains produced patulin and/or citrinin, often depending on whether they were grown on a grape or yeast extract sucrose media. CONCLUSION Citrinin was produced by all strains grown in the yeast extract sucrose medium, but only one strain (from 51) was able to produce this compound in grape juice medium. Patulin was produced in the yeast extract medium by 20 strains and in grape juice medium by 33 strains. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The presence of mycotoxins in wine producing grapes is discussed. Grapes contamination with patulin seems not to contribute to wine contamination, and no ochratoxin producing fungi was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Abrunhosa
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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37
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Abstract
Alcoholic fermentation of cheese whey permeate was investigated using a recombinant flocculating Saccharomyces cerevisiae, expressing the LAC4 (coding for beta-galactosidase) and LAC12 (coding for lactose permease) genes of Kluyveromyces marxianus enabling for lactose metabolization. Data on yeast fermentation and growth on cheese whey permeate from a Portuguese dairy industry is presented. For cheese whey permeate having a lactose concentration of 50 gL(-1), total lactose consumption was observed with a conversion yield of ethanol close to the expected theoretical value. Using a continuously operating 5.5-L bioreactor, ethanol productivity near 10 g L(-1) h(-1) (corresponding to 0.45 h(-1) dilution rate) was obtained, which raises new perspectives for the economic feasibility of whey alcoholic fermentation. The use of 2-times concentrated cheese whey permeate, corresponding to 100 gL(-1) of lactose concentration, was also considered allowing for obtaining a fermentation product with 5% (w/v) alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Domingues
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Lima N, Cavaliere H, Knobel M, Halpern A, Medeiros-Neto G. Decreased androgen levels in massively obese men may be associated with impaired function of the gonadostat. Int J Obes (Lond) 2000; 24:1433-7. [PMID: 11126339 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijo.0801406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In obese men, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) as well as total testosterone (TT) levels are decreased. Data concerning serum free testosterone (FT) levels in obese men are discordant. FT levels are decreased in only some morbidly obese men, consistent with an impairment of the feedback regulatory mechanism. In this study we aimed to verify serum levels of TT and FT in two groups of obese men (BMI < 35.0 kg/m2 and BMI > 35.1 kg/m2) before and after weight loss. DESIGN Two groups of obese men (group 1: BMI < or = 35 kg/m2; and group 2: BMI > or =35.1 kg/m2) were studied before and after 6 months of a low energy diet (1200 kcal/day). Every patient received a therapeutic prescription of dexfenfluramine (15 mg b.i.d.) that was maintained for 6 months. SUBJECTS Thirty-seven obese men and 20 normal weight men. MEASUREMENTS Serum sex hormones (TT and FT), serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and insulin were analyzed by RIA assays. Plasma insulin levels, serum TT, FT and LH concentrations were obtained before and after weight loss. RESULTS Moderately obese men (BMI = 32.3+/- 1.9 kg/m2) presented significantly decreased TT levels (390+/-120ng/dl) as well as FT (mean+/-s.d.:16.0+/-4.8pg/ml) as compared with normal controls. FT serum levels had a significant and negative correlation with body mass index (BMI), whereas for TT concentrations this correlation was not significant. Serum LH concentrations (4.5+/-2.9mlU/ml) were normal. Insulin levels were elevated in all patients (46.3+/-30.1 microU/ml). After weight loss there was a significant (P< 0.01) increase in TT, FT and LH levels, whereas insulin concentrations significantly decreased. In massively obese men (BMI = 43.0 6.7 kg/m2), TT (320+/-110ng/dl), FT (11.0+/-2.1 pg/ml) and LH (3.1+/-1.3mlU/ml) were decreased and significantly lower as compared with the previous group and normal controls. As expected, after weight loss TT, FT and LH levels increased significantly while insulin concentrations decreased. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that FT levels are dependent on the degree of obesity, massively obese men (BMI > or =35.1 kg/m2) being considered as candidates for consistently low FT levels. A functional decrease of LH pulse amplitude and serum LH levels as well as a possible negative action of excess of circulating leptin on the steroidogenesis may be related to the decreased androgens levels in massively obese men.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lima
- Endocrine Division, University of São Paulo Medical School, Brazil
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Domingues L, Onnela ML, Teixeira JA, Lima N, Penttilä M. Construction of a flocculent brewer's yeast strain secreting Aspergillus niger beta-galactosidase. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2000; 54:97-103. [PMID: 10952011 DOI: 10.1007/s002530000358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
One way of improving heterologous protein production is to use high cell density systems, one of the most attractive being the flocculating yeast production system. Also, lactose is available in large amounts as a waste product from cheese production processes. The construction of flocculent and non-flocculent brewer's yeast strains secreting beta-galactosidase and growing on lactose is presented. A plasmid was constructed coding for an extracellular beta-galactosidase of Aspergillus niger and having, as selective marker, the yeast CUP1 gene conferring resistance to copper. This selective marker allows for the transformation of wild-type yeasts. This work represents an important step towards the study of heterologous protein secretion by flocculent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Domingues
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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Venâncio A, Domingues L, Lima N. Transformation of a flocculating Saccharomyces cerevisiae using lithium acetate and pYAC4. J Basic Microbiol 2000; 39:37-41. [PMID: 10071865] [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: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
A flocculating yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae ura3 was transformed by the method based on treatment of intact cells with lithium acetate plus single-stranded carrier DNA using the shuttle vector pYAC4. The transformation efficiency was above 10(3) transformants per microgram of plasmid DNA which is similar to other described yeast transformation systems. Under selective pressure, the transformed cells were stable and maintained the flocculation ability. Thus, this simple transformation system can be used for gene expression studies in flocculating yeasts, overcoming disadvantages of conventional methods such as the spheroplast one.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Venâncio
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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Dias N, Nicolau A, Carvalho GS, Mota M, Lima N. Miniaturization and application of the MTT assay to evaluate metabolic activity of protozoa in the presence of toxicants. J Basic Microbiol 2000; 39:103-8. [PMID: 10335603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes a critical evaluation of a miniaturised colorimetric assay, using MTT (3-[4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide) reduction, applied to protozoan viability testing. The toxic substances used were copper, zinc, Triton X-100 (a membrane surfactant) and cycloheximide (an inhibitor of the protein synthesis). The viability assay of the ciliate protozoan Tetrahymena pyriformis was optimised in terms of MTT concentration and incubation time. Since protozoa are non adherent cells the MTT assay was modified in order to maintain the medium in the well. MTT proved to be effective in the measurement of Tetrahymena pyriformis viability. Four hours of MTT incubation followed by 30 minutes of incubation with DMSO were found to be the best incubation times for optical density reading. Furthermore, 10 mg/ml of MTT solution was the concentration that gave higher values of optical densities with minor medium interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Dias
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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42
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Abstract
Continuous fermentations were carried out with a recombinant flocculent Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain in an airlift bioreactor. Once operating under steady state at a dilution rate of 0.45 h(-1), the bioreactor was contaminated with Escherichia coli cells. The faster growing E. coli strain was washed out of the bioreactor and the recombinant, slower growing flocculating S. cerevisiae strain remained as the only species detected in the bioreactor. Flocculation, besides allowing for the realization of high-cell-density systems with corresponding unusual high productivity, may be used as a selective property for controlling some contamination problems associated with prolonged continuous operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Domingues
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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43
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Abstract
Protozoa, and particularly ciliates, are essential in aerobic purification processes of wastewaters and have proved to be very sensitive to environmental changes. The physiological response of the ciliate Tetrahymena pyriformis was assessed in terms of mortality, growth and grazing capacity after exposure to four toxicants: copper, zinc, cycloheximide and Triton X-100. In the ranges of concentrations used, mortality, inhibition of growth and inhibition of grazing were observed with all toxicants employed, but in different ways. Copper and zinc showed lower toxicity than observed in other studies with protozoa, though some of the present results are in accordance with those reported by other authors. This supports the importance of the organism tested and the experimental conditions of the bioassays.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nicolau
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, 4709, Braga Codex, Portugal
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44
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Abstract
Alcohol fermentation of lactose was investigated using a recombinant flocculating Saccharomyces cerevisiae, expressing the LAC4 (coding for beta-galactosidase) and LAC12 (coding for lactose permease) genes of Kluyveromyces marxianus. Data on yeast fermentation and growth on a medium containing lactose as the sole carbon source are presented. In the range of studied lactose concentrations, total lactose consumption was observed with a conversion yield of ethanol close to the expected theoretical value. For the continuously operating bioreactor, an ethanol productivity of 11 g L(-1) h(-1) (corresponding to a feed lactose concentration of 50 g L(-1) and a dilution rate of 0.55 h(-1)) was obtained, which is 7 times larger than the continuous conventional systems. The system stability was confirmed by keeping it in operation for 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Domingues
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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45
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Abstract
A flocculent Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain with the ability to express both the LAC4 (coding for beta-galactosidase) and LAC12 (coding for lactose permease) genes of Kluyveromyces marxianus was constructed. This recombinant strain is not only able to grow on lactose, but it can also ferment this substrate. To our knowledge this is the first time that a recombinant S. cervisiae has been found to ferment lactose in a way comparable to that of the existing lactose-fermenting yeast strains. Moreover, the flocculating capacity of the strain used in this work gives the process several advantages. On the one hand, it allows for operation in a continuous mode at high cell concentration, thus increasing the system's overall productivity; on the other hand, the biomass concentration in the effluent is reduced, thus decreasing product separation/purification costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Domingues
- Centro de Engenharia Biológica-IBQF, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
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46
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Dias N, Nicolau A, Carvalho G, Mota M, Lima N. Miniaturization and application of the MTT assay to evaluate metabolic activity of protozoa in the presence of toxicants. J Basic Microbiol 1999. [DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1521-4028(199905)39:2<103::aid-jobm103>3.0.co;2-d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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47
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Lima N, Knobel M, Cavaliere H, Sztejnsznajd C, Tomimori E, Medeiros-Neto G. Levothyroxine suppressive therapy is partially effective in treating patients with benign, solid thyroid nodules and multinodular goiters. Thyroid 1997; 7:691-7. [PMID: 9349571 DOI: 10.1089/thy.1997.7.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We prospectively evaluated the effect of thyrotropin (TSH)-suppressive therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) on the size of a benign, solitary, solid nodule and multinodular goiter in a relatively low iodine intake area. In this study, 101 euthyroid subjects with a benign, solitary, predominantly solid nodule (n = 54) confirmed by biopsy or multinodular goiter (n = 47) received 200 microg of levothyroxine daily as a single morning tablet for 12 months. Thirty-five receiving no therapy were considered as controls (solitary nodules, n = 20, multinodular, n = 15). Patients were admitted to the study after evaluation of thyroid biochemical parameters (thyroxine [T4], free thyroxine [FT4], triiodothyronine [T3], thyrotropin [TSH], and thyroglobulin [Tg]), thyroid scanning, ultrasound examination, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Every 3 months, thyroid function tests and every 6 months ultrasound examinations were repeated. Twelve months later 20 of 54 (37.1%) patients with single, solid nodules had 50% or more regression of the nodular volume (responders). Eleven of 54 (20.3%) patients had more than 20%, but less than 49.9% reduction of nodular volume (partial responders). Nonresponders were 23 of 54 (42.5%). One-third of subjects with multinodular goiter had 50% or more regression of the glandular volume, whereas 46.8% were considered as nonresponsive. The mean serum Tg levels decreased significantly only in responders with solitary nodular disease or multinodular goiter. In the control group only 1 patient (5% of total) with a solitary nodule had a 50% reduction in the nodular volume. Five others had a partial response (<49%, >20% reduction). None of the patients with multinodular goiter had a significant reduction (>50%) of the combined nodular volumes. We concluded that LT4 may be effective, among other factors, in arresting the growth or in reducing the volume of relatively small, benign, solitary, solid thyroid nodules or the combined nodular volume of multinodular goiter.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lima
- Department of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Brazil
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48
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Pedrinola F, Sztejnsznajd C, Lima N, Halpern A, Medeiros-Neto G. The addition of dexfenfluramine to fluoxetine in the treatment of obesity: a randomized clinical trial. Obes Res 1996; 4:549-54. [PMID: 8946439 DOI: 10.1002/j.1550-8528.1996.tb00268.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Current evidence demonstrates that pharmacologic agents, alone or in combination produce short-term weight-loss and may remain effective for extended periods of time in obese patients. We have evaluated the weight loss of a selective inhibitor of serotonin uptake, fluoxetine, alone as compared with combined therapeutic trial with another serotoninergic drug, dexfenfluramine. Thirty-three patients were randomly assigned in a double-blind randomized clinical trial divided to two groups: Group I [Fluoxetine 40 mg and placebo (n = 13)] and Group II [Fluoxetine 40 mg plus dexfenfluramine 15 mg at night (n = 20)]. Both groups had a significant weight loss at the end of 8 months (Group I, mean +/- SEM 6.2 +/- 2.8 kg and Group II 13.4 +/- 6.3 kg, p < 0.05). Group II patients had a significantly greater weight loss as compared with Group I both in terms of mean weight loss in kg and BMI in kg/m2. However significance between Group I and II related to BMI mean values and weight mean values were only achieved after, respectively, 4 and 6 months of treatment. At laboratory level there was an elevation of HDL-cholesterol and lowering of serum lipids values (cholesterol and triglycerides) in both groups. Side effects were relatively minor and no altered clinical vital signs or abnormal laboratory values were observed. We concluded that the combination of fluoxetine (daytime) and dexfenfluramine (at night) may be more effective than fluoxetine alone in weight reduction although the small size of this study does not permit broad generalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pedrinola
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Brazil
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49
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Vono J, Lima N, Knobel M, Medeiros-Neto G. The effect of oral administration of iodine to patients with goiter and hypothyroidism due to defective synthesis of thyroglobulin. Thyroid 1996; 6:11-5. [PMID: 8777378 DOI: 10.1089/thy.1996.6.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The effects of administration of iodine (1 mg/day orally, 64 days) were studied in three siblings with congenital goiter and hypothyroidism due to defective thyroglobulin (Tg) synthesis. The patients presented very large goiters, elevated RAI uptake, negative perchlorate discharge test, low serum T4, and elevated TSH concentrations. Immunoassayable Tg was low and failed to increase after stimulation with exogenous bovine TSH. Analysis of individual thyroid extracts by gel filtration failed to reveal a Tg component; the immunoassayable Tg antigens in these goitrous tissues were 0.12 and 0.21 mg/g tissue, respectively (normal 70-90 mg/g tissue). The histological pattern of their thyroids was compatible with defective Tg synthesis. The administration of iodine caused a rise in the mean serum T4, T3, and free T4 concentrations in all three siblings, but did not alter the serum Tg concentration. TSH concentrations rose in the terminal period of observation in the three subjects and this was considered to be due to a possible effect produced by the iodine load in the thyroperoxidase system (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). One patient showed an increase in goiter size during the period of observation. These results suggest that iodine administration enhanced the ability of the dyshormonogenetic gland to synthesize iodothyronines.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vono
- Thyroid Unit, University of São Paulo Medical School, Brazil
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50
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Medeiros-Neto G, Lima N, Perozim L, Pedrinola F, Wajchenberg BL. The effect of hypocaloric diet with and without D-fenfluramine treatment on growth hormone release after growth hormone-releasing factor stimulation in patients with android obesity. Metabolism 1994; 43:969-73. [PMID: 8052154 DOI: 10.1016/0026-0495(94)90176-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Basal and stimulated growth hormone (GH) secretions are impaired in obesity, and partial restoration of the GH response to various stimuli is observed after weight loss. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether D-fenfluramine, a serotoninergic agent, would increase the GH response to growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) as compared with placebo in obese android patients. The subjects were 17 patients with android obesity (four men and 13 women) aged 21 to 58 years with a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 32.0 to 52.2 kg/m2 and an abdominal-gluteal ratio greater than 1.0. The following four GRF (1-44) tests were performed: T-30 (control), T0 (after 30 days of a hypocaloric diet), T1 (after 30 days of either placebo or D-fenfluramine 15 mg twice daily), and T2 (after 30 additional days of placebo or D-fenfluramine). The hypocaloric diet was maintained during the T1 and T2 periods. At each test, the serum GH response to GRF was measured at frequent intervals, and the peak GH response and the GH area under the curve were calculated. Serum insulin concentrations were also assayed before GRF stimulation, and the insulin to GH ratio was obtained. The D-fenfluramine-treated group had a mean +/- SEM GH peak level after GRF significantly higher at T1 (43.3 +/- 8.2 micrograms/L) and T2 (50.9 +/- 9.2 micrograms/L) compared with the placebo group. Likewise, the mean integrated areas of GH response were significantly higher for the D-fenfluramine-treated group as compared with the placebo group at both T1 and T2 of therapy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- G Medeiros-Neto
- Division of Endocrinology, Hospital das Clinicas, University of São Paulo Medical School, Brazil
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