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Gonçalves A, Moutinho E, Santos A, Teixeira T. Myocardial native T1 mapping at 3T cardiac magnetic resonance-closing the full-vendor reporting cycle of normal values. Clin Radiol 2024; 79:473-478. [PMID: 38582631 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2024.02.013] [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] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
AIM Cardiac magnetic resonance is currently an indispensable tool in the diagnosis of cardiac pathologies, with mapping techniques being one of the most recent advances in this area. T1 mapping is a robust tool that uses the T1 magnetic relaxation time as a quantitative marker of myocardial tissue composition. However, multiple T1 mapping sequences are used, and data comparing them, especially on different vendors, is limited. This study aims to determine the T1 relaxation values in the cardiac muscle of healthy individuals using GE's Discovery 3T scanner, allowing the use of the T1 mapping technique in patients on a sustained basis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-one healthy volunteers were submitted to T1 mapping at 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment, with 3 being excluded from the analysis (54% women; mean age: 39.2 ± 13.9 years). The MOLLI 5(3)3 sequence was used, acquiring one short axis slice at midventricular level. Native T1 values were presented as means (± standard deviation), and t-student independent samples tests evaluated gender differences in T1 values. RESULTS The results show an average global native T1 value of 1193 ± 39 ms, with women's values being statistically higher than men (1211 ± 40 vs 1173 ± 27 ms, respectively, p<0.006). Gender remained the only determinant of native T1 times on a multiple linear regression model that included age, ejection fraction, and T2 status. CONCLUSION This study has established one of the few native T1 values for a 3T GE Discovery scanner that are on par with those already reported by other vendors for a similar sequence, closing the circle in full-vendor reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - A Santos
- Atrys Advanced Medical Centre, Portugal
| | - T Teixeira
- Atrys Advanced Medical Centre, Portugal.
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Gómez E, Montero JL, Molina E, García-Buey L, Casado M, Fuentes J, Simón MA, Díaz-González A, Jorquera F, Morillas RM, Presa J, Berenguer M, Conde MI, Olveira A, Macedo G, Garrido I, Hernández-Guerra M, Olivas I, Rodríguez-Taje S, Londoño M, Sousa JM, Ampuero J, Romero-González E, González-Padilla S, Escudero-García D, Carvalho A, Santos A, Gutiérrez ML, Pérez-Fernández E, Aburruza L, Uriz J, Gomes D, Santos L, Martínez-González J, Albillos A, Fernández-Rodríguez CM. Longitudinal outcomes of obeticholic acid therapy in ursodiol-nonresponsive primary biliary cholangitis: Stratifying the impact of add-on fibrates in real-world practice. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2024. [PMID: 38690746 DOI: 10.1111/apt.18004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid occurs in 40% of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients, affecting survival. Achieving a deep response (normalisation of alkaline phosphatase [ALP] and bilirubin ≤0.6 upper limit of normal) improves survival. Yet, the long-term effectiveness of second-line treatments remains uncertain. AIMS To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of obeticholic acid (OCA) ± fibrates. Focusing on biochemical response (ALP ≤1.67 times the upper limit of normal, with a decrease of at least 15% from baseline and normal bilirubin levels), normalisation of ALP, deep response and biochemical remission (deep response plus aminotransferase normalisation). METHODS We conducted a longitudinal, observational, multicentre study involving ursodeoxyccholic acid non-responsive PBC patients (Paris-II criteria) from Spain and Portugal who received OCA ± fibrates. RESULTS Of 255 patients, median follow-up was 35.1 months (IQR: 20.2-53). The biochemical response in the whole cohort was 47.2%, 61.4% and 68.6% at 12, 24 and 36 months. GLOBE-PBC and 5-year UK-PBC scores improved (p < 0.001). Triple therapy (ursodeoxycholic acid plus OCA plus fibrates) had significantly higher response rates than dual therapy (p = 0.001), including ALP normalisation, deep response and biochemical remission (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, triple therapy remained independently associated with biochemical response (p = 0.024), alkaline phosphatase normalisation, deep response and biochemical remission (p < 0.001). Adverse effects occurred in 41.2% of cases, leading to 18.8% discontinuing OCA. Out of 55 patients with cirrhosis, 12 developed decompensation. All with baseline portal hypertension. CONCLUSION Triple therapy was superior in achieving therapeutic goals in UDCA-nonresponsive PBC. Decompensation was linked to pre-existing portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gómez
- Hospital Universitario 12 De Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - J L Montero
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Córdoba, Spain
| | - E Molina
- Complexo Hospitalario Universitario De Santiago, Coruña, Spain
| | - L García-Buey
- Hospital Universitario De La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Casado
- Hospital Universitario de Torrecárdenas, Almería, Spain
| | - J Fuentes
- Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - M A Simón
- Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - A Díaz-González
- Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - F Jorquera
- Complejo Hospitalario de Leon, Leon, Spain
| | | | - J Presa
- Centro Hospitalar Tras-os-Montes a Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - M Berenguer
- Hospital Universitario La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - M I Conde
- Hospital Universitario La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Olveira
- Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Macedo
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia Do Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João (CHUSJ), Porto, Portugal
| | - I Garrido
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia Do Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João (CHUSJ), Porto, Portugal
| | | | - I Olivas
- Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - J M Sousa
- Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Sevilla, Spain
| | - J Ampuero
- Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Sevilla, Spain
- Instituto De Biomedicina De Sevilla (IBIS), Sevilla, Spain
| | - E Romero-González
- Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valencia, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sh González-Padilla
- Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valencia, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - D Escudero-García
- Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valencia, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Carvalho
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário De Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário De Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M L Gutiérrez
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Alcorcon, Alcorcon Madrid, Spain
- University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Pérez-Fernández
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Alcorcon, Alcorcon Madrid, Spain
- University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - L Aburruza
- Hospital Universitario de Donostia, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - J Uriz
- Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - D Gomes
- Departamento de Gastrenterología, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - L Santos
- Departamento de Gastrenterología, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - A Albillos
- Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Health Research, Madrid, Spain
- University of Alcalá de Henares, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - C M Fernández-Rodríguez
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Alcorcon, Alcorcon Madrid, Spain
- University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
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Champendal M, Borg Grima K, Costa P, Andersson C, Baun C, Gorga RG, Murphy S, Kedves A, Santos A, Geao A. A scoping review of person-centred care strategies used in diagnostic Nuclear Medicine. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:448-456. [PMID: 38211452 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2023.12.011] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Person-centred care (PCC) emphasises the need for the health care professional to prioritise individual patient needs, thereby fostering a collaborative and emphatic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their own care. This article will explore the purpose of PCC in Nuclear Medicine (NM), while discussing strategies that may be used to implement PCC during diagnostic NM examinations performed on adult patients. METHODS The scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search was performed on PubMed, Embase and Cinhal in June 2023 and included studies in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian. The research equation combined keywords and Medical Subject Heading terms (MeSH) related to person-centred care (PCC), for all types of nuclear medicine diagnostic examinations performed. Three independent review authors screened all abstracts and titles, and all eligible full-text publications were included in this scoping review. RESULTS Fifty-three articles, published between 1993 and 2022, met the inclusion criteria for this scoping review. Seven articles were published in 2015 while 56.6 % of all included studies were performed in Europe. Most studies (n = 39/53) focused on the patients only, with the identified patient benefits being: improve patient experience (67.9 %), increase patient comfort (13.2 %), increase patient knowledge (5.7 %), reduction of patient anxiety (9.4 %) and reduction of waiting/scan time (3.8 %). CONCLUSION The scoping review identified a lack of research investigating the use of person-centred care strategies in NM. Future research will focus on using an international survey to explore this topic in nuclear medicine departments overseas. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE By applying PCC principles, the NM professional can improve the patient care pathway and increase patient satisfaction, leading to enhanced clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Champendal
- Department of Radiologic Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Lausanne, Switzerland; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
| | - K Borg Grima
- University of Malta, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Radiography, Malta; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria.
| | - P Costa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, ESS, Polytechnic University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
| | - C Andersson
- Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University Uppsala, Sweden; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
| | - C Baun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
| | - R G Gorga
- Servei de Medicina Nuclear, Hospital Universitari Parc Taulí, Sabadell, Spain; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
| | - S Murphy
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging Unit, College of Health and Agricultural Sciences, School of Medicine, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
| | - A Kedves
- University of Pécs Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, Hungary; European Association of Nuclear Medicine Technologists Committee, Austria
| | - A Santos
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Hospital Cuf Descobertas, Lisbon, Portugal; European Association of Nuclear Medicine Technologists Committee, Austria
| | - A Geao
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Hospital Cuf Descobertas, Lisbon, Portugal; European Federation of Radiographer Societies Nuclear Medicine Committee, Austria
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Lemos GAA, Santos AC, Brito DCC, Novaes MAS, Assis Neto AC. Steroidogenic activity and morphological characterization of prenatal testes and epididymis of guinea pig (Cavia porcellus). Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 261:107407. [PMID: 38217925 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107407] [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: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The present study aims to establish the morphological, morphometric, and immunostaining patterns of the steroidogenic enzymes 17β-HSD and 5α-reductase and androgen receptors (AR) during the prenatal development of the male gonad and epididymis of Cavia porcellus. Fetuses at 22, 25, 30, 40, 45, 50, and 60 days of gestation (DG) were used. Specimens were dissected and subjected to macroscopic, histological, histomorphometric, and immunohistochemical analyses. Genital and scrotal protrusions were identified in 22 DG embryos. Gonocytes were identified at 25 DG and the formation of primary testicular cords was observed at 30 DG. Through anatomical evaluation, we observed differentiation of the epididymis into the head, body, and tail at 45 DG. During development, there is a progressive decrease in the diameters of the testicular cords and epididymal ducts. 17β-HSD enzyme immunostaining was observed in Leydig cells at all ages, while 5α-reductase was observed in Leydig cell cytoplasm and gonocytes at 40, 50, and 60 DG. AR shows gonocyte labeling at 30 DG. Thus, from the second trimester of pregnancy, it is possible to observe patterns of anatomical development, such as genital and scrotal prominence (22 DG), the appearance of gonocytes in the testicular cords at 25 DG, and the beginning of the organization of primary testicular cords at 30 DG, suggesting sexual differentiation. The 17β-HSD, 5α-reductase, and ARs play an essential role in sexual development and differentiation, presenting immunostaining at different reproductive process times.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A A Lemos
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A C Santos
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D C C Brito
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - M A S Novaes
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A C Assis Neto
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Carrette L, Santos A, Brennan M, Othman D, Collazo A, George O. Antagonists of the stress and opioid systems restore the functional connectivity of the prefrontal cortex during alcohol withdrawal through divergent mechanisms. bioRxiv 2024:2023.09.30.560339. [PMID: 37873478 PMCID: PMC10592857 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.30.560339] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Chronic alcohol consumption leads to dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, contributing to persistent use. However, the brain network mechanisms by which the brain orchestrates alcohol withdrawal and how these networks are affected by pharmacological treatments remain elusive. Recent work revealed that alcohol withdrawal produces a widespread increase in coordinated brain activity and a decrease in modularity of the whole-brain functional network using single-cell whole-brain imaging of immediate early genes. This decreased modularity and functional hyperconnectivity are hypothesized to be novel biomarkers of alcohol withdrawal in alcohol dependence, which could potentially be used to evaluate the efficacy of new medications for alcohol use disorder. However, there is no evidence that current FDA-approved medications or experimental treatments known to reduce alcohol drinking in animal models can normalize the changes in whole-brain functional connectivity. In this report, we tested the effect of R121919, a CRF1 antagonist, and naltrexone, an FDA-approved treatment for alcohol use disorder, on whole-brain functional connectivity using the cellular marker FOS combined with graph theory and advanced network analyses. Results show that both R121919 and naltrexone restored the functional connectivity of the prefrontal cortex during alcohol withdrawal, but through divergent mechanisms. Specifically, R121919 increased FOS activation in the prefrontal cortex, partially restored modularity, and normalized connectivity, particularly in CRF1-rich regions, including the prefrontal, pallidum, and extended amygdala circuits. On the other hand, naltrexone decreased FOS activation throughout the brain, decreased modularity, and increased connectivity overall except for the Mu opioid receptor-rich regions, including the thalamus. These results identify the brain networks underlying the pharmacological effects of R121919 and naltrexone and demonstrate that these drugs restored different aspects of functional connectivity of the prefrontal cortex, pallidum, amygdala, and thalamus during alcohol withdrawal. Notably, these effects were particularly prominent in CRF1- and Mu opioid receptors-rich regions highlighting the potential of whole-brain functional connectivity using FOS as a tool for identifying neuronal network mechanisms underlying the pharmacological effects of existing and new medications for alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- L.L.G. Carrette
- Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - A. Santos
- Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - M. Brennan
- Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - D. Othman
- Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - A. Collazo
- Beckman Institute, CalTech, Passadena, CA, United States
| | - O. George
- Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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Minela T, Gibb P, McBeth S, Santos A, Pursley JR. Reduced period from follicular wave emergence to luteolysis generated greater steroidogenic follicles and estrus intensity in dairy cows. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22818. [PMID: 38129551 PMCID: PMC10739795 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50001-x] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The onset of productive life in dairy cattle, concomitant to parturition, is accompanied by a substantial decrease in fertility in comparison with non-lactating, nulliparous heifers. Follicular growth patterns differ between parous and nulliparous dairy cattle. Nulliparous heifers ovulate follicles with reduced antral age (RAA). This study aimed to exogenously reduce ovulatory follicle age in lactating dairy cows from 7 to 5 days old. Cows (n = 80) had their estrous cycles synchronized with the Double-Ovsynch program. At the final portion of this program, luteolysis was induced at either 5 (RAA) or 7 (Control) days following follicular wave emergence. RAA outcomes were estimated in comparison with Controls. RAA resulted in smaller follicles 2 days post-treatment. Despite lower serum concentrations of 17β-estradiol before treatment compared with Controls, the rate of increase in this hormone was greater for the RAA treatment. There was no difference in luteolysis rates between treatments. Proestrus (luteolysis onset to estrus onset) was prolonged in RAA cows. Cows with RAA had more intense estruses. Collectively, these results indicate that decreasing the age of the ovulatory follicle may improve the steroidogenic capacity of the dominant follicle and estrus expression intensity in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - P Gibb
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - S McBeth
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - A Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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Birajdar S, Zhang W, Santos A, Hickson K, Afshar Vahid S. Real-time in vivo dose measurement using ruby-based fibre optic dosimetry during internal radiation therapy. Phys Eng Sci Med 2023; 46:1205-1213. [PMID: 37395926 PMCID: PMC10480264 DOI: 10.1007/s13246-023-01288-7] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
In vivo dosimetry (IVD) in a commonly used liver cancer treatment of selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) has been done based on the post-treatment image-based dosimetry approach. Real-time IVD is necessary to verify the dose delivery and detect errors during the treatment for better patient outcomes. This study aims to develop a fibre optic dosimeter (FOD) for in vivo real-time dose rate measurement during internal beta radiation therapy, e.g., SIRT. A ruby fibre optic probe was prepared and studied the radioluminescence (RL) characteristics, including its major challenge of stem effect arising from Cherenkov radiation and luminescence from the irradiated fibre. The stem signal was suppressed adequately using the stem removal technique of optical filtering, and only 2.3 ± 1.1% stem signal was contributed to the measured RL signal. A linear dose rate response was observed during the exposure of the ruby probe to varying dose rates using a 6 MeV electron beam and a positron-emitting radionuclide fluorine-18. The ruby exhibited a temporally non-constant RL signal, which increased the RL signal by 0.84 ± 0.29 counts/sec2 during the irradiation of the maximum dose rate used in this study of 9 Gy/min for 2 min. The ability of ruby FOD to measure the absolute dose rate with sufficient stem effect suppression and the linear RL dose rate response indicates its suitability for real-time IVD during internal beta radiation therapy. Future work will investigate the time-dependent RL characteristic of ruby and validate post-treatment image-based dosimetry using ruby-based FOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Birajdar
- Laser Physics and Photonic Devices Laboratories, UNISA STEM, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5095, Australia.
| | - W Zhang
- Laser Physics and Photonic Devices Laboratories, UNISA STEM, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5095, Australia
| | - A Santos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- School of Physical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
- Australian Bragg Centre for Proton Therapy and Research, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - K Hickson
- Medical Physics & Radiation Protection Group, SA Medical Imaging, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Allied Health & Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia
| | - S Afshar Vahid
- Laser Physics and Photonic Devices Laboratories, UNISA STEM, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5095, Australia
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Martinho M, Calé R, Ferreira F, Alegria S, Santos A, Vieira AC, Repolho D, Vitorino S, Saraiva C, Pereira H. Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension - the challenging approach of a young patient with distal disease. Pulmonology 2023; 29:435-437. [PMID: 37031000 DOI: 10.1016/j.pulmoe.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Martinho
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal.
| | - R Calé
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - F Ferreira
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - S Alegria
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Radiology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A C Vieira
- Pulmonology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - D Repolho
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - S Vitorino
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - C Saraiva
- Radiology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - H Pereira
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
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Alves JC, Santos A, Jorge P, Lavrador C, Carreira LM. Evaluation of the thermographic response of the lumbar region in dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis. J Therm Biol 2023; 115:103610. [PMID: 37356203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2023.103610] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Infrared thermography is suggested as a method of medical assistance for evaluating anatomical regions where there may be some inflammatory or painful condition that requires immediate medical attention. For this reason, this study aimed to characterize digital thermography of the lumbar region in police working dogs with hip osteoarthritis, 47 dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis were evaluated. A thermographic dorsoventral view of the dogs' backs were obtained, and mean and maximum temperatures were determined. In addition, results from the Canine Brief Pain Inventory, Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD), the Canine Orthopedic Index, and weight-bearing distribution evaluation were collected. Results were compared with an Independent Samples T-Test or ANOVA, followed by an LSD post hoc. Multiple regression was run to predict temperatures from age, sex, breed, body weight, and Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hip score and to predict clinical metrology scores and weight-bearing distribution results from temperature results. The sample included 28 males and 19 females, with a mean age of 6.3 ± 2.5 years and bodyweight of 26.9 ± 5.1 kg, with osteoarthritis hip scores of mild (70.2%), moderate (21.3%), and severe (8.5%). Significant differences were observed in mean temperatures between German Shepherd Dogs (GSD) and Labrador Retrievers (LR) (p < 0.01), and LR and Belgian Malinois (BM) (p=0.02). Mean temperature contributed to the prediction of LOAD and stiffness. LR showed significantly higher temperature values than GSD and BM. No differences were observed between osteoarthritis hip scores and mean temperature values contributed to LOAD scores' prediction. This relation needs to be addressed in further studies, involving a larger number of animals, and to determine changes in response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal; MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - A Santos
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Jorge
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - C Lavrador
- MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal
| | - L Miguel Carreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon (FMV/ULisboa), Portugal; Interdisciplinary Centre for Research in Animal Health (CIISA), University of Lisbon, (FMV/ULisboa), Portugal; Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA), Barreiro, Portugal
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Santos A, Macedo de Souza Brandão AP, Hryniewicz BM, Abreu H, Bach-Toledo L, Schuster da Silva S, Deller AE, Rogerio VZ, Baêta Rodrigues DS, Hiraiwa PM, Guimarães BG, Marchesi LF, Carvalho de Oliveira J, Gradia DF, Soares FLF, Zanchin NIT, Camargo de Oliveira C, Vidotti M. COVID-19 impedimetric biosensor based on polypyrrole nanotubes, nickel hydroxide and VHH antibody fragment: specific, sensitive, and rapid viral detection in saliva samples. Mater Today Chem 2023; 30:101597. [PMID: 37284350 PMCID: PMC10236006 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtchem.2023.101597] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 rapid spread required urgent, accurate, and prompt diagnosis to control the virus dissemination and pandemic management. Several sensors were developed using different biorecognition elements to obtain high specificity and sensitivity. However, the task to achieve these parameters in combination with fast detection, simplicity, and portability to identify the biorecognition element even in low concentration remains a challenge. Therefore, we developed an electrochemical biosensor based on polypyrrole nanotubes coupled via Ni(OH)2 ligation to an engineered antigen-binding fragment of heavy chain-only antibodies (VHH) termed Sb#15. Herein we report Sb#15-His6 expression, purification, and characterization of its interaction with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 in addition to the construction and validation of a biosensor. The recombinant Sb#15 is correctly folded and interacts with the RBD with a dissociation constant (KD) of 27.1 ± 6.4 nmol/L. The biosensing platform was developed using polypyrrole nanotubes and Ni(OH)2, which can properly orientate the immobilization of Sb#15-His6 at the electrode surface through His-tag interaction for the sensitive SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection. The quantification limit was determined as 0.01 pg/mL using recombinant RBD, which was expressively lower than commercial monoclonal antibodies. In pre-characterized saliva, both Omicron and Delta SARS-CoV-2 were accurately detected only in positive samples, meeting all the requirements recommended by the World Health Organization for in vitro diagnostics. A low sample volume of saliva is needed to perform the detection, providing results within 15 min without further sample preparations. In summary, a new perspective allying recombinant VHHs with biosensor development and real sample detection was explored, addressing the need for accurate, rapid, and sensitive biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- Laboratory of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Cells, Cell Biology Department, Section of Biological Sciences - Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - A P Macedo de Souza Brandão
- Laboratory of Structural Biology and Protein Engineering, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ Paraná, 81350-010, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - B M Hryniewicz
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Macromoléculas e Interfaces, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - H Abreu
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics and Oncogenetics, Postgraduate Program in Genetics, Department of Genetics, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - L Bach-Toledo
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Macromoléculas e Interfaces, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
- Centro de Tecnologia da Informação Renato Archer (CTI), Rod. D. Pedro I, KM143.6, 13069-901, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - S Schuster da Silva
- Laboratory of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Cells, Cell Biology Department, Section of Biological Sciences - Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - A E Deller
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Macromoléculas e Interfaces, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - V Z Rogerio
- Laboratory of Structural Biology and Protein Engineering, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ Paraná, 81350-010, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - D S Baêta Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Structural Biology and Protein Engineering, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ Paraná, 81350-010, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - P M Hiraiwa
- Laboratory of Structural Biology and Protein Engineering, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ Paraná, 81350-010, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - B G Guimarães
- Laboratory of Structural Biology and Protein Engineering, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ Paraná, 81350-010, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - L F Marchesi
- Grupo de Estudos em Espectroscopia de Impedância Eletroquímica (GEIS), Universidade Tecnológica Federal Do Paraná, Rua Dr. Washington Subtil Chueire, 330 - Jd. Carvalho, CEP 84017-220, Ponta Grossa, PR, Brazil
| | - J Carvalho de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics and Oncogenetics, Postgraduate Program in Genetics, Department of Genetics, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - D F Gradia
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics and Oncogenetics, Postgraduate Program in Genetics, Department of Genetics, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - F L F Soares
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Macromoléculas e Interfaces, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - N I T Zanchin
- Laboratory of Structural Biology and Protein Engineering, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ Paraná, 81350-010, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - C Camargo de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Cells, Cell Biology Department, Section of Biological Sciences - Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - M Vidotti
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Macromoléculas e Interfaces, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), 81531-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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Overstreet AMC, Anderson B, Burge M, Zhu X, Tao Y, Cham CM, Michaud B, Horam S, Sangwan N, Dwidar M, Liu X, Santos A, Finney C, Dai Z, Leone VA, Messer JS. HMGB1 acts as an agent of host defense at the gut mucosal barrier. bioRxiv 2023:2023.05.30.542477. [PMID: 37398239 PMCID: PMC10312563 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.30.542477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Mucosal barriers provide the first line of defense between internal body surfaces and microbial threats from the outside world. 1 In the colon, the barrier consists of two layers of mucus and a single layer of tightly interconnected epithelial cells supported by connective tissue and immune cells. 2 Microbes colonize the loose, outer layer of colonic mucus, but are essentially excluded from the tight, epithelial-associated layer by host defenses. 3 The amount and composition of the mucus is calibrated based on microbial signals and loss of even a single component of this mixture can destabilize microbial biogeography and increase the risk of disease. 4-7 However, the specific components of mucus, their molecular microbial targets, and how they work to contain the gut microbiota are still largely unknown. Here we show that high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), the prototypical damage-associated molecular pattern molecule (DAMP), acts as an agent of host mucosal defense in the colon. HMGB1 in colonic mucus targets an evolutionarily conserved amino acid sequence found in bacterial adhesins, including the well-characterized Enterobacteriaceae adhesin FimH. HMGB1 aggregates bacteria and blocks adhesin-carbohydrate interactions, inhibiting invasion through colonic mucus and adhesion to host cells. Exposure to HMGB1 also suppresses bacterial expression of FimH. In ulcerative colitis, HMGB1 mucosal defense is compromised, leading to tissue-adherent bacteria expressing FimH. Our results demonstrate a new, physiologic role for extracellular HMGB1 that refines its functions as a DAMP to include direct, virulence limiting effects on bacteria. The amino acid sequence targeted by HMGB1 appears to be broadly utilized by bacterial adhesins, critical for virulence, and differentially expressed by bacteria in commensal versus pathogenic states. These characteristics suggest that this amino acid sequence is a novel microbial virulence determinant and could be used to develop new approaches to diagnosis and treatment of bacterial disease that precisely identify and target virulent microbes.
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12
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Santos A, Minela T, Branen J, Pursley JR. Time to increase in pregnancy-specific protein B following artificial insemination is a direct determinant of subsequent pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:3734-3747. [PMID: 37028965 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Increasing progesterone (P4) during early conceptus development may be crucial for establishment of pregnancy in dairy cattle. The objective of this study was to determine if human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) at various times after ovulation will increase serum P4 during elongation and increase the chances for, and reduce variability to, initial increase in pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) following artificial insemination (AI). Time to PSPB increase was defined as the first day of increase in concentrations of PSPB between d 18 and 28 after ovulation in cows with ≥12.5% increases for 3 consecutive days compared with baseline. Lactating cows (n = 368) synchronized to Double-Ovsynch (first service) or Ovsynch (second or greater service) received one of 4 treatments: no hCG (control), or 3,000 IU of hCG on d 2 (D2), 2 and 5 (D2+5), or 5 (D5) after ovulation. All cows were examined via ultrasound on d 5 and 10 postovulation to determine percentage of cows with hCG-induced accessory CL (aCL) and to quantify and measure all luteal structures. Samples for serum P4 were collected on d 0, 5, 19, and 20 postovulation. The P4 was increased in D2, D2+5, and D5 groups compared with control. The D2+5 and D5 treatments increased aCL and P4 compared with D2 and control. The D2 treatment increased P4 on d 5 after ovulation compared with control. Serum PSPB samples were collected daily from all cows on d 18 through 28 after ovulation for determination of d of PSPB increase. Pregnancy diagnoses were performed via ultrasound examination on d 35, 63, and 100 after ovulation and AI. The D5 treatment reduced percentage of cows with, and increased the time to, PSPB increase. Primiparous cows with ipsilateral aCL had reduced pregnancy loss before d 100 postovulation compared with cows with contralateral aCL. Cows that had PSPB increase >21 d postovulation had 4× greater chances of pregnancy loss compared with cows that had PSPB increase on d 20 or 21. The highest quartile of P4 on d 5, but not on d 19 and 20, was associated with reduced time to PSPB increase. Time to PSPB increase appears to be an important measurement to understand reasons for pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. Increasing P4 utilizing hCG after ovulation did not enhance early pregnancy or reduce pregnancy losses in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - T Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - J Branen
- BioTracking Inc., Moscow, ID 83843
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
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Tugade R, Ongjoco E, Turalba M, Yabon A, Bisquera N, Gonzales L, Maderazo D, Suguitan E, Santos A. Cardiovascular Profile of patients with COVID-19 infection admitted at a tertiary hospital. Eur Heart J 2023. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac779.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.
Introduction
In December 2019, a novel Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was discovered and spread rapidly worldwide. The virus spared no country in its contagiousness. The most common clinical manifestations are respiratory symptoms; but COVID-19 may induce arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and other cardiovascular diseases due to the systemic inflammatory response coupled with localized vascular inflammation. The study aims to provide knowledge about the clinical profile, cardiovascular complications, and clinical outcomes among adult COVID-19 patients admitted to a tertiary hospital.
Methods
This study is a single-centered cross-sectional retrospective study of hospitalized adult COVID-19 patients between March 2020 to May 2022. COVID-19 confirmed patients who met the inclusion criteria with clinical data upon hospitalization are followed up for occurrence of critical illness. The study's primary outcome is determining the demographic profile and clinical course of COVID-19 infection regarding cardiovascular signs and symptoms. Data were retrieved from electronic health records. All outcomes were obtained with standardized data collection forms, and clinical severity was defined based on the National Institute of Health guidelines.
Results
A total of 1341 hospitalized adult COVID-19 patients were admitted with a mean age of 50.41±15.92 years. More males than females account for 60.2% of the total number of patients. Hypertension is the most common comorbidity among COVID-19 patients, comprising 44% of cases, followed by diabetes at 31.9% and dyslipidemia at 11.4%. About 5.4% had coronary artery disease, followed by heart disease 6 (3.6%) and arrhythmia (0.6%). Most COVID-19 patients were smokers 12% and alcoholic beverage drinkers (11.4%). A univariate analysis associated with mortality showed diabetes mellitus (odds ratio 2.7, p = 0.029) and hypertension (odds ratio 3.4, p = 0.11). In the multiple logistic regression analysis, factors' age (OR 1.095, estimate coefficient 0.091, standard error 0.028, p-value <0.05) and admission duration (OR 0.906, estimate coefficient -0.099, standard error 0.028, p-value <0.05) were significantly associated with mortality. Based on the fitted model, older people are more likely to be deceased than younger people. The log odds for mortality increase by 0.091 units for each year. During hospital admission, 24.43% of patients developed acute COVID-19 infection, with an in-hospital case-fatality rate of 13.89%. During hospital stay, COVID-19 patients had a significant QTc (.43 ± 0.04, p«0.001). Patients admitted to Non-ICU had lower QTc (.44 ± 0.045) compared to ICU patients (.45 ± .05).
Conclusion
Myocardial injury and significant cardiovascular risk factors increased mortality among critically-ill COVID-19 patients. Hence, aside from risk factor modification, emphasis on cardiovascular protection should also be considered during treatment for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Tugade
- St. Luke's Medical Center , HB Calleja Heart and Vascular Institute , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - E Ongjoco
- St. Luke's Medical Center , HB Calleja Heart and Vascular Institute , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - M Turalba
- St. Luke's Medical Center , HB Calleja Heart and Vascular Institute , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - A Yabon
- St. Luke's Medical Center - Quezon City , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - N Bisquera
- St. Luke's Medical Center - Quezon City , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - L Gonzales
- St. Luke's Medical Center - Quezon City , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - D Maderazo
- St. Luke's Medical Center , HB Calleja Heart and Vascular Institute , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - E Suguitan
- St. Luke's Medical Center , HB Calleja Heart and Vascular Institute , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - A Santos
- St. Luke's Medical Center , HB Calleja Heart and Vascular Institute , Quezon City , Philippines
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Pires AM, Carvalho L, Santos AC, Vilaça AM, Coelho AR, Fernandes F, Moreira L, Lima J, Vieira R, Ferraz MJ, Silva M, Silva P, Matias R, Zorro S, Costa S, Sarandão S, Barros AF. Radiotherapy skin marking with lancets versus electric marking pen - Comfort, satisfaction, effectiveness and cosmesis results from the randomized, double-blind COMFORTATTOO trial. Radiography (Lond) 2023; 29:171-177. [PMID: 36410128 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.10.030] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Set-up skin markings are performed, in several centers, for radiotherapy (RT) treatments. This study aimed to compare two permanent methods: lancets and an electric marking pen, the Comfort Marker 2.0® (CM). METHODS This was a prospective, unicentric, randomized study. Patients aged 18 years or older referred to our department to receive RT were recruited. Patients were randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, to receive set-up markings using lancets or CM. The markings arrangement followed our departmental protocols. The coprimary endpoints were patients' comfort and effectiveness. Secondary endpoints included radiation therapists (RTTs) satisfaction and cosmesis. RESULTS Between October 2021 and January 2022, 100 patients were enrolled (50 received lancets and 50 CM) and assessed for the comfort and satisfaction outcomes. CM was significantly less painful than the lancets, with 44% and 16% of the patients, respectively, considering the tattooing process painless (RR = 2.75; 95% IC: 1.36 - 5.58). On the RTT-reported satisfaction, CM had significantly easier processes than lancets (98.0% vs. 78.0%, respectively; RR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.08 - 1.46). For effectiveness and cosmesis assessment, 98 patients were analyzed (48 received lancets and 50 CM). Patients receiving CM had a significantly higher proportion of markings graded as good and excellent compared to those receiving lancets (98.0% and 50.0%, respectively, had ≥75% of the tattoos assessed as good/excellent, RR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.47 - 2.61). On the cosmetic evaluation, patients receiving CM had significantly better cosmetic markings, with a median score of 4.4 (vs. 3.5 for lancets, p <0.001). CONCLUSION The trial results demonstrated that tattooing with the CM is significantly less painful, more effective, easier to apply, and cosmetically superior to tattooing with lancets. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Tattooing with CM allows for better results regarding pain, quality, ease and cosmesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Pires
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.
| | - L Carvalho
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - A C Santos
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - A M Vilaça
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - A R Coelho
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - F Fernandes
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - L Moreira
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - J Lima
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - R Vieira
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - M J Ferraz
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Silva
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - P Silva
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - R Matias
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - S Zorro
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - S Costa
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - S Sarandão
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - A F Barros
- Radiation Oncology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
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Santos A, Rachadell J. Anxiety and depression disorders in Portugal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eur J Public Health 2022. [PMCID: PMC9620537 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac131.486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mental disorders are a major contributor to the global burden of disease. During the first year of the pandemic by COVID-19, increases of 25% in the prevalence of anxiety and depression were reported globally. In Portugal, studies conducted during lockdown showed an increase in the prevalence of these disorders. However, previous studies have shown that negative life events, such as exposure to disasters or grief, later lead to resilience or recovery. It is therefore necessary to study the evolution of these disorders in order to adapt mental health measures. Methods The number of patients registered with “P76 - Depressive Disorder” and “P74 - Anxiety Disorder/anxiety state”, according to ICPC-2 criteria, and the total number of patients registered in the Portuguese Health Centers for the months of January 2019 to 2022 were obtained from the Portuguese NHS Information and Monitoring System (SIM@SNS). We calculated the percentage of patients with each of the disorders, individually and combined. Data by health regions were also obtained in order to compare the evolution within each region (North, Center, Lisbon and Tagus Valley, Alentejo and Algarve). Results Between January 2019 and 2022, the proportion of patients with anxiety disorder increased linearly from 8% to 9%. Similarly, the proportion of patients with depressive disorder increased from 11% to 12%. When considered together, anxiety and depression disorders affected 21% of users in mainland Portugal at the beginning of 2022. The Alentejo and Center regions have the highest prevalence of anxiety and depression (24.9% and 24%, respectively) and the Algarve region has the lowest (16.74%). The increases were consistent across health regions, with the largest increase in the North region (2.6%) and the smallest in the Central region (1.7%). Conclusions Anxiety and depression disorders increased in mainland Portugal during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key messages • Mental health has been an important factor in public health since before the pandemic. • Monitoring depression and anxiety levels in the general public can guide priorities after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- Public Health Unit, ACES Almada Seixal , Almada, Portugal
| | - J Rachadell
- Public Health Unit, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras , Oeiras, Portugal
- EUPHA-DH
- Institute for Evidence Based Health , Lisbon, Portugal
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Santos A, Rachadell J, Vareda R. COVID-19 contact tracing apps in Europe, technological feat or failure? Eur J Public Health 2022. [PMCID: PMC9593594 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac130.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the context of infectious disease control (IDC), public health services (PHS) have been under great pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially with the burden of contact tracing. Most European Union countries have developed contact tracing apps for smartphones (CTA) with the goal of aiding PHS in IDC. CTAs generally use proximity data from mobile devices to determine a user's risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2, thus providing testing and isolation recommendations. This review aimed to study the acceptance and adoption of CTAs in Europe. Methods 5 European countries were selected: Germany, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy. A literature review was carried out and official sources of information from each country were consulted in order to compare the adoption of each national CTA. Criterias included number of downloads, rating in the app stores, costo of development, proportion of positive tests registered. Potential factors influencing population adherence to CTAs were also investigated. Results In proportion to their population, the number of downloads varied significantly in each country (18 % in Spain, 67% in France, 75% in Ireland). Except for Spain, all countries integrated additional functions into the CTA to increase its uptake, such as access to the vaccination certificate. App stores ratings ranged from 3.0 (Spain) to 3.9 (France and Ireland). The proportion of tests added in the apps varied significantly (1% in Italy and Spain, 4% in Ireland, 10% in France and 17% in Germany). Concerns that lead to the non-use of CTAs were related to data protection, smartphone battery drainage and app bugs. Conclusions CTAs as a way to identify contacts from a positive case had a low impact in the analyzed countries, with low population adherence being an important factor. Adding more features within the apps, minimizing bugs, and increasing public confidence in data privacy seem essential to increase uptake in the future. Key messages
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- Public Health Unit, ACES Almada-Seixal , Almada, Portugal
| | - J Rachadell
- Public Health Unit, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras , Oeiras, Portugal
- EUPHA-DH
- Institute for Evidence Based Health , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R Vareda
- Public Health Unit, ACES Lisboa Norte , Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute for Evidence Based Health , Lisbon, Portugal
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17
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Rachadell J, Vareda R, Santos A. Gauging Public Health Literacy needs through Google Trends: the COVID-19 vaccination example. Eur J Public Health 2022. [PMCID: PMC9593520 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac131.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination program in Portugal was one of the most successful in the world. However, there was still a challenge for Public Health services to determine the health literacy needs of the population in the context of a new vaccine and the uncertainty of the pandemic. The goal of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of Google Trends data to gauge the health literacy needs of the general population during the pandemic. Methods A Google Trends search was performed for Portugal including 5 topics related to health literacy needs of the population (“vaccination”, “scheduling”, “isolation”, “booster dose” and “vaccination certificate” ) between the 28th of december 2019 and the 10th of march 2022. The variation shows the relative popularity of each term referring to the total number of Google searches during that period in a normalized scale of 0-100. The variation was compared to the number of doses administered daily in Portugal and key moments of the vaccination campaign as defined by the Directorate-General for Health in Portugal. Results The terms “vaccination” and “isolation” had a steady rise in popularity from December 2019 to January 2021. The term “vaccination” was the most popular search term with peak popularity in July 2021 and a downward trend followed by an ascent to a lower peak in popularity in January 2022. The terms “scheduling” and “vaccination certificate” both followed a similar pattern, though at lower popularity levels. The term “isolation” was low on popularity since February 2021, with a significant rise and peak in January 2022. This variation relates to key dates during the Portuguese vaccination campaign. Conclusions Google Trends data seems to correlate with key events during the Portuguese COVID-19 vaccination campaign. That data might be incorporated in the planning framework of health literacy activities for national and local Public Health services. Key messages • Google Trends might be an important source of information for public health teams. • There is a need for further research into how Google Trends data can be incorporated with other sources of information to inform health literacy activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Rachadell
- Public Health Unit, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras , Oeiras, Portugal
- EUPHA-DH
- Institute for Evidence Based Health , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R Vareda
- Institute for Evidence Based Health , Lisbon, Portugal
- Public Health Unit, ACES Lisboa Norte , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Public Health Unit, ACES Almada-Seixal , Almada, Portugal
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Alves JC, Jorge P, Santos A. Initial psychometric evaluation of the Portuguese version of the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:367. [PMID: 36203166 PMCID: PMC9535868 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03461-8] [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: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most commonly diagnosed joint disease in companion animals, and proper tools are necessary to assess patients and response to treatment. We aimed to perform an initial psychometric evaluation of the Portuguese version of the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD).Fifty Police working dogs with bilateral hip OA were assessed in a prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. Canine handlers, who were native Portuguese speakers, completed a copy of the translated version of the LOAD. Their results were compared with those of fifty sound dogs. Construct validity was evaluated by assessing differences between OA and sound animals with the Mann-Whitney test. Further evaluation was performed with the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling adequacy, Eigenvalue, and scree-plot analysis. Internal consistency was tested with Cronbach's α. RESULTS A significant difference was observed between OA and sound dogs (p < 0.01), indicating construct validity. Two factors accounted for 81.5% of the total variance. Cronbach's α was 0.96, and a high inter-item correlation was observed, raging from 0.76 to 0.95, showing strong internal consistency. We presented criterion and construct validity of the Portuguese version of the LOAD, which is valid for use in the Portuguese language. It is an additional stage in providing a broader number of clinicians with an accessible tool to evaluate dogs with osteoarthritis. Further studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Guarda Nacional Republicana (Portuguese Gendarmerie), Lisbon, Portugal. .,Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal.
| | - P Jorge
- Guarda Nacional Republicana (Portuguese Gendarmerie), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Guarda Nacional Republicana (Portuguese Gendarmerie), Lisbon, Portugal
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Ferreira V, Garcia Bras P, Castelo A, Santos A, Viveiros A, Ilhao Moreira R, Machado AI, Alves M, Cruz Ferreira R. Outcomes in pregnant women with valvular heart disease from sub Saharan Africa transferred to a developed nation. A distinct care model. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.2604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Pregnant women with valvular heart disease (VHD) in African countries still bear a disproportionate burden of maternal morbidity and mortality, due to the reduced accessibility to health care and the scarcity of skilled professionals. It is unclear if outcomes would be improved by care-delivery model changes.
Purpose
We performed a clinical audit of African pregnant women with VHD who were transferred for their care from five countries to our cardio-obstetrics unit, during a twenty-year period, through a memorandum of agreement of international cooperation.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of 81 pregnancies (P) in 45 African women with VHD (median age 24, IQR 22–29 years) from 2001 to 2020. The main outcome measures were major maternal complications and perinatal outcome.
Results
History of rheumatic heart disease was determined in 74.1% of the P. Most women were in NHYA I or II before P (79.0%), 43.2% had previous cardiac medication and 60.5% were anticoagulated (33.3% with acenocoumarol and 27.2% with warfarin). 59.3% of P had at least one valvular prosthesis, including 38 mechanical prosthetic valve (MPV) and 10 biological valves. 22.2% had prior surgical or percutaneous VHD correction, excluding prosthesis implantation. At baseline, impaired left ventricular ejection fraction was found in 12.3%. Previous arrhythmic event, stroke or infectious endocarditis were found in 12.3%, 8.6% and 6.2% of P, respectively.
During P, deterioration in NYHA functional class occurred in 42.0% and 9.9% required initiation or intensified cardiac medication. For MPV, 51% maintained a vitamin K antagonist, 15.7% used LMWH from 6 to 12th weeks and 9.8% used LMWH throughout P. Valve thrombosis occurred in 4 women (4.9% of P), with one maternal death in a patient with double MPV.
Hemorrhagic complications happened in 8.6% of P, all anticoagulated, in immediate postpartum or puerperal period. The 81 P resulted in 56 live births (69.1%), with a medium birth weight of 3026±471g. Delivery by caesarean section was performed in 28.3% of newborns. The incidence of miscarriage was 23.5% and fetal malformations occurred in 14.8%, with warfarin embryopathy in 4 cases. In univariate analysis, the presence of valvular protheses (p=0.001), and anticoagulation (p=0.001) were related to unsuccessful P. In multivariate analysis, VKA therapy was the unique independent predictor of unsuccessful P (p=0.048).
Conclusion
With the multidisciplinary care provided, pregnancy was relatively well tolerated and successful for women transferred from sub–Saharan Africa. However, the presence of a valvular prothesis is associated with unsuccessful pregnancy even in a developed nation. Efforts other than the implantation of a MPV should be pursued vigorously in sub Saharan Africa.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ferreira
- Hospital de Santa Marta , Lisbon , Portugal
| | | | - A Castelo
- Hospital de Santa Marta , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Hospital de Santa Marta , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Viveiros
- Hospital de Santa Marta , Lisbon , Portugal
| | | | - A I Machado
- Maternidade Alfredo da Costa , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - M Alves
- Maternidade Alfredo da Costa , Lisbon , Portugal
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Paiva M, Gomes D, Freitas P, Santos R, Presume J, Lopes P, Matos D, Guerreiro S, Santos A, Saraiva S, Mendes M, Ferreira A. Potential impact of replacing SCORE with SCORE-2 on risk classification and statin eligibility – a coronary calcium score correlation study. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.2257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Recently, the European Society of Cardiology issued new algorithms to estimate the 10-year risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), along with new age-specific thresholds to classify individuals as low-to-moderate, high, or very-high risk.
The aim of this study was to compare the latest SCORE-2 model with the older SCORE (Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation) in their ability to identify individuals with high coronary artery calcium score (CACS), and assess the relationship between potential eligibility for statin therapy and CACS.
Methods
Individuals 40–69 years old without diabetes or known ASCVD were identified in a single center registry of patients undergoing CACS and coronary CT angiography for suspected coronary artery disease. SCORE and SCORE-2 were calculated and used with each patient's untreated LDL-C values to assess eligibility for statin therapy. High CACS was defined as an Agatston score ≥100.
Results
A total of 389 pts (46% men, mean age 58±8 years) were included, of which 15% (n=60) were active smokers. The mean systolic blood pressure and untreated LDL-C values were 136±17 mmHg and 155±65 mg/dL, respectively.
The proportion of patients classified as low-to-moderate risk, high risk, and very high risk was 93%, 6% and 1% using the SCORE algorithm, and 42%, 44%, and 14% using SCORE-2, respectively. Overall, 218 patients (56%) would have their risk category revised upwards, while no patients would be downgraded.
The median CACS was 5 (IQR 0–71 AU), with 166 patients (43%) having CACS = 0, and 81 (21%) presenting CACS values ≥100.
SCORE and SCORE-2 showed similar discriminative power to identify patients with CACS ≥100 (C-statistic 0.77, 95% CI 0.71–0.82, vs. 0.75, 95% CI 0.69–0.80, P=0.109 for comparison]. The up-reclassification of risk conveyed by SCORE-2 affected patients across all categories of CACS (Fig. 1).
The proportion of patients in whom statin therapy would generally be indicated was higher with the SCORE-2 criteria vs. the SCORE algorithm (61% vs. 29%, respectively, p<0.001). The broadening of potential indication for statin therapy spanned all categories of CACS, including patients with CACS = 0 (Fig. 2).
Conclusion
Even though the discriminative power of SCORE-2 is similar to the older SCORE, the introduction of age-specific thresholds results in the up-reclassification of risk in roughly half of the patients. The application of SCORE-2 will broaden statin eligibility overall, not only in patients with high atherosclerotic burden, but also in those with CACS = 0. These findings support the use of risk modifiers in selected patients to improve the effectiveness of statin therapy.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Paiva
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - D Gomes
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - P Freitas
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - R Santos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - J Presume
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - P Lopes
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - D Matos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - S Guerreiro
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - S Saraiva
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - M Mendes
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Ferreira
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
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Lopes P, Albuquerque F, Freitas P, Goncalves PA, Presume J, Guerreiro S, Abecasis J, Santos AC, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Marques H, Ferreira A. Influence of age on the diagnostic value of coronary artery calcium score for ruling out coronary stenosis in symptomatic patients. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The 2021 Guideline for the Evaluation of Chest Pain supports the use of coronary artery calcium (CAC) score as a reasonable first-line test to identify patients with a low likelihood of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) who may not require additional testing (class IIa, LOE B). However, a recent study from a large cohort of Northern European patients raised concerns about the added diagnostic value of CAC=0 in younger patients. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of age on the value of CAC=0 in symptomatic patients undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA).
Methods
We conducted a two-center cross-sectional study assessing symptomatic patients with suspected CAD who underwent CAC score and CCTA. Key exclusion criteria were age <30 years, known CAD, suspected acute coronary syndrome, or symptoms other than chest pain or dyspnea. Pretest probability of obstructive CAD was calculated based on age, sex and symptom typicality, according to the guideline-recommended method. Obstructive CAD was defined as any luminal stenosis ≥50% on CCTA. The diagnostic likelihood ratios and negative predictive values (NPV) were used to assess the diagnostic value of a CAC score of 0 to rule out obstructive CAD.
Results
A total of 2043 patients (mean age 60±11 years, 60% women) of whom 990 (48.5%) had a CAC score of 0 were included in the analysis. Symptom characteristics were: 38% non-anginal chest pain, 30% atypical angina, 19% dyspnea, and 13% typical chest pain. Overall, the prevalence of obstructive CAD was 12.8% (n=262). Pretest probability of obstructive CAD increased progressively with age, from 6.0% in patients young than 50 years to 20.7% in those 70 years or older. Contrariwise, the prevalence of patients with a CAC score = 0 decreased from 77% in patients younger than 50 years, to 26% in those who where 70 years or older.
The added diagnostic value of a CAC score = 0 was lower in younger patients, with negative likelihood ratios ranging from 0.36 (64% decrease in the likelihood of CAD) in patients younger than 50 years, to 0.09 and 0.10 (∼90% decrease in the likelihood of CAD) in those aged 60–69 years and 70 years or older, respectively – Figure 1.
Despite this, the prevalence of obstructive CAD among patients with a CAC score = 0 was low across all age groups: 2.4% (i.e., NPV = 97.6%) in those younger than 50 years, 3.0% (NPV = 97.0%) among those aged 50–59 years, 1.5% (NPV = 98.5%) in patients between 60 and 69 years, and 2.0% (NPV = 98.0%) among those 70 years or older.
Conclusions
In a cohort of symptomatic patients undergoing CCTA for suspected CAD, the added diagnostic value of a CAC score of zero decreases significantly at younger ages. However, this “diminishing return” of CAC in younger patients if offset by their lower pretest probabilities, yielding high negative predictive values independently of age.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lopes
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | | | - P Freitas
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - P A Goncalves
- UNICA – Cardiovascular CT and MR Unit, Hospital da Luz , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - J Presume
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | | | - J Abecasis
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - A C Santos
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - C Saraiva
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - M Mendes
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - H Marques
- UNICA – Cardiovascular CT and MR Unit, Hospital da Luz , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Ferreira
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
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22
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Paiva M, Gomes D, Freitas P, Presume P, Santos R, Lopes P, Matos D, Guerreiro S, Abecasis J, Santos A, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Ferreira A. Use of coronary calcium score to refine the cardiovascular risk classification of the new SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP algorithms in patients undergoing coronary CT angiography. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Recently, the European Society of Cardiology issued new algorithms (SCORE-2 and SCORE2-OP) to estimate the 10-year risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). CACS has been shown to reclassify a significant proportion of patients when applied on top of several scores, but data on its use with these new algorithms are lacking.
The aim of this study was to assess the risk reassignment that can be attained by using CACS as a risk modifier of the SCORE-2 / SCORE2-OP classification, in patients referred for coronary CT angiography (CCTA).
Methods
Individuals without diabetes or known ASCVD were included in a single center registry of patients undergoing CCTA for suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). The 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease was calculated for each patient using SCORE-2 (ages 40–69) or SCORE2-OP (ages 70–89), and categorised as low-to-moderate, high, or very-high risk, according to guideline-recommended age-specific thresholds. CACS was considered to reclassify risk one level downward if = 0 in high or very-high risk patients, and reclassify risk upward if >100 (or >75th percentile) in those with low-to-moderate risk, or >1000 in those with high-risk.
Results
A total of 529 patients (43% men, mean age 63±10 years) were included, of which 13% (n=69) were active smokers. The mean systolic blood pressure and non-HDL-C values were 137±18 mmHg and 140±37 mg/dL, respectively.
A total of 47 patients (9%) had obstructive CAD on CCTA, classifying them as very-high risk. In the remainder 482 patients without obstructive CAD, the median CACS was 8 (IQR 0–80 AU), with 194 patients (40%) having CACS = 0, and 111 (23%) presenting CACS values ≥100.
The proportion of patients classified as low-to-moderate risk, high risk, and very high risk was 36%, 46% and 19% using the SCORE-2 / SCORE2-OP algorithm.
Using CACS would reclassify 150 patients (31%): 107 patients (22%) downward, and 43 patients (9%) upward. The extent of risk reclassification conveyed by CACS was 33% in patients assessed with SCORE-2, and 25% with SCORE-2 OP (p=0.082). Overall, most of the risk reassignment (42%, n=93) would occur in patients originally classified as high-risk – Fig. 1.
At the time of testing, 32% (n=61) of patients with CACS = 0 were being treated with statins, whereas 52% (n=58) of those with CACS ≥100 were not.
Conclusion
Even when the most recent SCORE-2 / SCORE-2 OP algorithms are used, risk refinement with CACS leads to the reclassification of nearly one third of the patients undergoing CCTA, mostly from downgrading risk. This opportunistic use of CACS may be employed to improve the allocation of primary prevention therapies.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Paiva
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - D Gomes
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - P Freitas
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - P Presume
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - R Santos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - P Lopes
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - D Matos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - S Guerreiro
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - J Abecasis
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - C Saraiva
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - M Mendes
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Ferreira
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental , Lisbon , Portugal
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Lopes P, Albuquerque F, Goncalves PA, Presume J, Freitas P, Guerreiro S, Abecasis J, Santos AC, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Marques H, Ferreira A. Implications of the North American 2021 Chest Pain guidelines in the diagnostic approach to patients with stable chest pain and low pretest probability of obstructive coronary artery disease. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The North American 2021 Chest Pain Guidelines recommend not testing stable patients with low pretest likelihood of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), defined as pretest probability <15% using contemporary models (Class I recommendation). In selected cases among this subset of patients, coronary artery calcium (CAC) score is considered a “reasonable first-line test” (Class IIa). Despite some supporting evidence, the clinical implications of a widespread adoption of these recommendations remain unclear.
The purpose of this study was to assess the results of three different testing strategies for patients with pretest probability <15%: A) defer testing; B) perform CAC score and withhold further testing if = 0, and proceed to coronary CT angiography (CCTA) if >0; C) perform CCTA in all.
Methods
We conducted a two-center cross-sectional study assessing symptomatic patients with suspected CAD who underwent CAC score and CCTA. Patients with known CAD, suspected acute coronary syndrome, or symptoms other than chest pain or dyspnea were excluded. Pretest probability of obstructive CAD was calculated based on age, sex and symptom typicality. Obstructive CAD was defined as any luminal stenosis ≥50% on CCTA.
Results
A total of 2259 patients were screened, of which 1385 (61.3%) had pretest probability <15% and were included in the analysis (mean age 57±11 years, 79% women). Symptom characteristics were: 48% non-anginal chest pain, 26% atypical angina, 21% dyspnea, and 5% typical chest pain. Overall, the prevalence of obstructive CAD was 10.3% (n=142). In the 786 patients (56.6%) with a CAC score of 0, 8.5% (n=67) had some degree of CAD [1.9% (n=15) obstructive, and 6.6% (n=52) nonobstructive]. Among those with CAC >0 (n=599), 21.2% (n=127) had obstructive CAD. The results that would be reached with each of the 3 diagnostic strategies are presented in Figure 1. The number of patients needed to scan with strategy B (CAC as gatekeeper) vs. A (no testing) to identify one patient with obstructive CAD was 11, whereas the number needed to scan with strategy C (CCTA for all) vs. strategy B was 91.
Conclusions
Not testing patients with suspected CAD and pretest likelihood <15% would lead to missing obstructive CAD in 1 out of 10 patients. Using CAC as a gatekeeper in this subgroup would decrease the use of CCTA by more than 50%, at the cost of missing obstructive CAD in 1 out of 100 patients. These findings may be used to inform decisions on testing, which will ultimately depend on how much diagnostic uncertainty and missed diagnoses patients and their physicians are willing to accept.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lopes
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | | | - P A Goncalves
- UNICA – Cardiovascular CT and MR Unit, Hospital da Luz , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - J Presume
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - P Freitas
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | | | - J Abecasis
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - A C Santos
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - C Saraiva
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - M Mendes
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
| | - H Marques
- UNICA – Cardiovascular CT and MR Unit, Hospital da Luz , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - A Ferreira
- Hospital Santa Cruz , Carnaxide , Portugal
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Alves JC, Santos A, Jorge P, Lavrador C, Miguel Carreira L. The influence of IL-1 and C-reactive protein levels in synovial fluid of companion dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis on various clinical disease parameters. Am J Vet Res 2022; 83:1-10. [PMID: 36087306 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.22.05.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate IL-1 and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in the synovial fluid in dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis and their relation to animals' clinical, radiographic, and thermographic disease signs. SAMPLE 100 joints from police working dogs. PROCEDURES Synovial fluid, IL-1, and CRP levels, weight distribution, joint range of motion, thigh girth, digital thermography, and radiographic signs of the joints were recorded. Data from 4 clinical metrology instruments (CMIs) were collected. Results were compared by age, sex, and Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hip scores with the independent samples t test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient (P < .05). RESULTS The sample included 100 pelvic limbs, equally distributed between left and right pelvic limbs 30 males and 20 females, with a mean age of 6.5 ± 2.4 years and body weight of 26.7 ± 5.2 kg. IL-1 levels, particularly above 200 pg/mL, may be related to the development of caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte, which then expresses a toll on the patient's levels of pain and activity. It was unclear if the CRP levels were a consequence of inflammatory activity within the joint or a reflection of a better prognosis. Increasing body weight was related to worse CMI scores. CLINICAL RELEVANCE We described the relation of IL-1 and CRP synovial concentration levels with several clinical signs, diagnostic imaging, laboratory findings, and CMI results of animals with osteoarthritis. Further studies are required to determine the interest of each parameter for the prognosis and treatment monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto Mediterráneo de Agricultura, Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Évora, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Jorge
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - C Lavrador
- Instituto Mediterráneo de Agricultura, Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Évora, Portugal
| | - L Miguel Carreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Research in Animal Health, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre, Barreiro, Portugal
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Alves JC, Santos A, Jorge P, Carreira LM. A first report on the efficacy of a single intra-articular administration of blood cell secretome, triamcinolone acetonide, and the combination of both in dogs with osteoarthritis. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:309. [PMID: 35962448 PMCID: PMC9375423 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03413-2] [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: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Osteoarthritis represents a significant welfare problem for many dogs, with limited therapeutic options other than palliative pain control. To evaluate the effect of the intra-articular administration of blood cell secretome and triamcinolone, 15 dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to a blood cell secretome (BCSG, n = 5), triamcinolone (TG) or their combination group (BCS + TG, n = 5). BCSG received a single intra-articular administration of 3 ml of blood cell secretome, TG 0.5 ml of triamcinolone acetonide 40 mg/ml, and BCS + TG received the combined products. The volume to administrate was corrected to 3.5 ml with saline. On days 0, 8, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180, a copy of the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (divided into pain interference score—PIS and Pain Severity Score—PSS), Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD), Hudson Visual Analogue Scale (HVAS), and Canine Orthopedic Index (COI, divided into function, gait, stiffness, and quality of life) was completed. Results were analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis test and the Kaplan–Meier estimators were conducted and compared with the Log Rank test, p < 0.05. Results Animals in the sample had a mean age of 9.0 ± 2.9 years and a bodyweight of 28.8 ± 4.1 kg. Hips were classified as moderate (8) and severe (7) osteoarthritis. No differences were found between groups at T0 regarding considered evaluations. Significant differences were observed between groups in pain scores from + 8d- + 150d, with BCS + TG exhibiting better results. The same was observed for HVAS and LOAD, from + 8d- + 120d. Improvements were also observed in several dimensions of the COI. Kaplan–Meier estimators showed that BCS + TG produced longer periods with better results, followed by BCSG and TG. Conclusion The intra-articular administration of blood cell secretome improved the clinical signs and scores of several clinical metrology instruments in dogs with hip OA, particularly when combined with triamcinolone. Further studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal. .,Environment and Development, MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Instituto de Investigação E Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal.
| | - A Santos
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Jorge
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - L Miguel Carreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon (FMV/ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Research in Animal Health (CIISA), University of Lisbon, (FMV/ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.,Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA), Barreiro, Portugal
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Ribeiro FM, Correia PMM, Santos AC, Veloso JFCA. A guideline proposal for mice preparation and care in 18F-FDG PET imaging. EJNMMI Res 2022; 12:49. [PMID: 35962869 PMCID: PMC9375789 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-022-00921-y] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The experimental outcomes of small-animal positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with 18F-labelled fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) can be particularly compromised by animal preparation and care. Several works intend to improve research reporting and amplify the quality and reliability of published research. Though these works provide valuable information to plan and conduct animal studies, manuscripts describe different methodologies—standardization does not exist. Consequently, the variation in details reported can explain the difference in the experimental results found in the literature. Additionally, the resources and guidelines defining protocols for small-animal imaging are scarce, making it difficult for researchers to obtain and compare accurate and reproducible data. Considering the selection of suitable procedures key to ensure animal welfare and research improvement, this paper aims to prepare the way for a future guideline on mice preparation and care for PET imaging with 18F-FDG. For this purpose, a global standard protocol was created based on recommendations and good practices described in relevant literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Ribeiro
- Institute for Nanostructures, Nanomodelling and Nanofabrication (i3N), Department of Physics, University of Aveiro (DFis-UA), 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - P M M Correia
- Institute for Nanostructures, Nanomodelling and Nanofabrication (i3N), Department of Physics, University of Aveiro (DFis-UA), 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - A C Santos
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra (FMUC), Area of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J F C A Veloso
- Institute for Nanostructures, Nanomodelling and Nanofabrication (i3N), Department of Physics, University of Aveiro (DFis-UA), 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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Bockhold S, McNulty J, Abdurakman E, Bezzina P, Drey N, England A, Flinton D, Khine R, McEntee M, Mekiš N, Precht H, Rainford L, Sá Dos Reis C, Santos A, Syrgiamiotis V, Willis S, Woodley J, Beardmore C, Harris R, O'Regan T, Malamateniou C. Research ethics systems, processes, and awareness across Europe: Radiography research ethics standards for Europe (RRESFE). Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:1032-1041. [PMID: 35964488 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Radiography Research Ethics Standards for Europe (RRESFE) project aims to provide a cross-sectional snapshot of current research ethics systems, processes, and awareness of such, across Europe together with identifying the associated challenges, education, and training needs. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey targeting radiography researchers in Europe was conducted. Data collection took place between April 26 and July 12, 2021, using a snowball sampling approach. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used to identify trends in research ethics frameworks across Europe. RESULTS 285 responses were received across 33 European and 23 non-European countries. Most (n = 221; 95%) European respondents stated ethics approval is required before commencing research in their country. Requirements around research ethics approval and awareness of such requirements varied by European region (X2 (2, n = 129) = 7.234, p = 0.013) and were found to differ depending on the type of research participant and study design. Additionally, European respondents reported ethics approval is a national requirement more often than their non-European counterparts (X2 (1, n = 282) = 4.316, p = 0.049). Requirements for ethics approval were also associated with the undergraduate programme duration (2-year vs. 3-year vs. 3.5 year vs. 4-year vs. multiple programme durations; X2 (4, n = 231) = 10.075, p = 0.016) and availability of postgraduate training (postgraduate training available vs. postgraduate training not available; X2 (1, n = 231) = 15.448, p = <0.001) within respondents' country. CONCLUSION Respondents from countries with longer programme durations/availability of multiple programme lengths, availability of postgraduate training, and establishment of European Qualifications Framework Level 6 were generally associated with less uncertainty and more comprehensive research ethics requirements. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Results are informative of the current status of research ethics within evidence-based radiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bockhold
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland.
| | - J McNulty
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland.
| | - E Abdurakman
- Division of Midwifery and Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
| | - P Bezzina
- Radiography, Faculty of Health Sciences, L-Università ta' Malta, Malta
| | - N Drey
- Division of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
| | - A England
- Discipline of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - D Flinton
- Division of Midwifery and Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
| | - R Khine
- School of Health Care and Social Work, Buckinghamshire New University, United Kingdom
| | - M McEntee
- Discipline of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - N Mekiš
- Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - H Precht
- Diagnostic and Treatment and Radiography Education, Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Denmark
| | - L Rainford
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - C Sá Dos Reis
- Radiological Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A Santos
- Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, ESTESC-Coimbra Health School, Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Portugal
| | - V Syrgiamiotis
- CT-MRI Department, General Children's Hospital of Athens Agia Sophia, and University of West Attica, Greece
| | - S Willis
- Health Education England, National Health Service, London, United Kingdom
| | - J Woodley
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - C Beardmore
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - R Harris
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - T O'Regan
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - C Malamateniou
- Division of Midwifery and Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom.
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Bockhold S, McNulty J, Abdurakman E, Bezzina P, Drey N, England A, Flinton D, Khine R, McEntee M, Mekiš N, Precht H, Rainford L, Sá Dos Reis C, Santos A, Syrgiamiotis V, Willis S, Woodley J, Beardmore C, Harris R, O'Regan T, Malamateniou C. Research ethics training, challenges, and suggested improvements across Europe: Radiography research ethics standards for Europe (RRESFE). Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:1016-1024. [PMID: 35939960 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.07.004] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Radiography Research Ethics Standards for Europe (RRESFE) project aimed to provide a cross-sectional view of the current state of radiography research ethics across Europe. This included investigating education and training in research ethics, and identifying the key challenges and potential improvements associated with using existing research ethics frameworks. METHODS This cross-sectional online survey targeting radiography researchers in Europe was conducted between April 26 and July 12, 2021. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used to identify research ethics education and training trends. Content analysis of qualitative responses was employed to identify significant challenges and proposed improvements in research ethics frameworks of practice. RESULTS There were 232 responses received across 33 European countries. Most (n = 132; 57%) respondents had received some research ethics training; however, fewer participants had received training on safeguarding vulnerable patients (n = 72; 38%), diversity and inclusivity (n = 62; 33%), or research with healthy volunteers (n = 60; 32%). Training was associated with a greater perceived importance of the need for research ethics review (p = 0.031) and with the establishment of EQF Level 6 training (p = 0.038). The proportion of formally trained researchers also varied by region (p = <0.001). Time-to-ethics-approval was noted as the biggest challenge for professionals making research ethics applications. CONCLUSION Early and universal integration of research-oriented teaching within the radiography education framework which emphasises research ethics is recommended. Additionally, study findings suggest research ethics committee application and approval processes could be further simplified and streamlined. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The survey contributes to a growing body of knowledge surrounding the importance of education and training in research ethics for assuring a high standard of research outputs in Radiography and has identified hurdles to obtaining research ethics approval for further investigation and address.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bockhold
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland.
| | - J McNulty
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - E Abdurakman
- Division of Midwifery and Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
| | - P Bezzina
- Radiography, Faculty of Health Sciences, L-Università ta' Malta, Malta
| | - N Drey
- Division of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
| | - A England
- Discipline of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - D Flinton
- Division of Midwifery and Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
| | - R Khine
- School of Health Care and Social Work, Buckinghamshire New University, United Kingdom
| | - M McEntee
- Discipline of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - N Mekiš
- Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - H Precht
- Diagnostic and Treatment and Radiography Education, Health Sciences Research Centre, University College Lillebælt, Vejle, Denmark
| | - L Rainford
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - C Sá Dos Reis
- Radiological Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A Santos
- Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, ESTESC-Coimbra Health School, Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Portugal
| | - V Syrgiamiotis
- CT-MRI Department, General Children's Hospital of Athens Agia Sophia, and University of West Attica, Greece
| | - S Willis
- Health Education England, National Health Service, London, United Kingdom
| | - J Woodley
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - C Beardmore
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - R Harris
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - T O'Regan
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - C Malamateniou
- Division of Midwifery and Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, United Kingdom
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Middleton E, Minela T, Ahearne M, Arnold H, Santos A, Pursley J. Dairy heifers have an earlier increase in serum pregnancy-specific protein B compared with lactating dairy cows. Is this an indicator of earlier conceptus attachment? JDS Commun 2022; 3:291-295. [PMID: 36338019 PMCID: PMC9623710 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2021-0198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to use within-individual daily increases in circulating pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) to determine time to increase in serum PSPB in nulliparous heifers and multiparous dairy cows following artificial insemination (AI). Weekly cohorts of lactating Holstein cows (n = 56) averaging 122 ± 7 d in milk at AI and nulliparous Holstein heifers (n = 23) averaging 16 ± 0.24 mo old at AI were used in this study. Lactating cows received AI to either Ovsynch (n = 38) or at ~12 h following observed standing estrus (n = 18). All heifers were inseminated ~12 h after observed standing estrus. Blood samples for measurement of PSPB were collected daily from d 15 through d 35 postovulation. Nulliparous heifers had increases in serum PSPB earlier compared with both primiparous and multiparous cows. Day of increase in serum PSPB was defined as the day serum PSPB optical density levels initially increased ≥10% from baseline and continued to increase from baseline of ≥10% the following 2 d. Average PSPB were greater in pregnant heifers compared pregnant cows from d 23 through 29. Early lactation nonpregnant cows maintained greater average optical density of serum PSPB from 15 to 35 d postovulation compared with nonpregnant heifers (n = 38). In summary, fertility differences in heifers versus lactating cows may be due to the differences in timing of increases in serum PSPB. This appears to be one of the first publications that used daily PSPB sampling to investigate possible differences in fertility in heifers versus lactating cows.
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Lopes P, Albuquerque F, Freitas P, Gonçalves P, Presume J, Guerreiro S, Abecasis J, Santos A, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Marques H, Ferreira A. 494 Influence Of Age On The Diagnostic Value Of Coronary Artery Calcium Score For Ruling Out Coronary Stenosis In Symptomatic Patients. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2022.06.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Paiva M, Santos R, Freitas P, Gomes D, Presume J, Lopes P, Matos D, Guerreiro S, Santos A, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Ferreira A. 461 Use Of Coronary Calcium Score To Refine The Cardiovascular Risk Classification Of The New Score-2 And Score-2 Op Algorithms In Patients Undergoing Coronary Ct Angiography. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2022.06.066] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Paiva M, Gomes D, Freitas P, Presume J, Santos R, Lopes P, Matos D, Guerreiro S, Abecasis J, Santos A, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Ferreira A. 468 Potential Impact Of Replacing Score With Score-2 On Risk Classification And Statin Eligibility - A Coronary Calcium Score Correlation Study. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2022.06.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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de Celis M, Belda I, Marquina D, Santos A. Phenotypic and transcriptional study of the antimicrobial activity of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles on a wastewater biofilm-forming Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain. Sci Total Environ 2022; 826:153915. [PMID: 35219669 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The extensive use of nanoparticles (NPs) in industrial processes makes their potential release into the environment an issue of concern. Ag and ZnO NPs are among the most frequently used NPs, potentially reaching concentrations of 1-4 and 64 mg/kg, respectively, in Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), with unknown effects over microbial populations. Thus, we examined, in depth, the effect of such NPs on a P. aeruginosa strain isolated from a WWTP. We evaluated the growth, ROS production and biofilm formation, in addition to the transcriptomic response in presence of Ag and ZnO NPs at concentrations potentially found in sewage sludge. The transcriptomic and phenotypic patterns of P. aeruginosa in presence of Ag NPs were, in general, similar to the control treatment, with some specific transcriptional impacts affecting processes involved in biofilm formation and iron homeostasis. The biofilms formed under Ag NPs treatment were, on average, thinner and more homogeneous. ZnO NPs also alters the biofilm formation and iron homeostasis in P. aeruginosa, however, the higher and more toxic concentrations utilized caused an increase in cell death and eDNA release. Thus, the biofilm development was characterized by EPS production, via eDNA release. The number of differentially expressed genes in presence of ZnO NPs was higher compared to Ag NPs treatment. Even though the responses of P. aeruginosa to the presence of the studied metallic NPs was at some extent similar, the higher and more toxic concentrations of ZnO NPs produced greater changes concerning cell viability and ROS production, causing disruption in biofilm development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de Celis
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - I Belda
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - D Marquina
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - A Santos
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Alves JC, Santos A, Jorge P, Lavrador C, Carreira LM. Effect of a single intra-articular administration of stanozolol in a naturally occurring canine osteoarthritis model: a randomised trial. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5887. [PMID: 35393497 PMCID: PMC8989994 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09934-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease with a high negative impact on patient’s quality of life and a high financial burden. It is a source of chronic pain and affects all mammals, including humans and dogs. As the dog is a common model for translation research of human OA, and exploring spontaneous dog OA can improve the health and well-being of both humans and dogs. To describe the effect of the intra-articular administration of stanozolol in a naturally occurring canine OA model, forty canine (N = 40) hip joints were randomly assigned to receive stanozolol or saline (control). On treatment day and at 8, 15, 30, 90, and 180 days post-treatment, several evaluations were conducted: weight distribution, joint range of motion, thigh girth, digital thermography, and radiographic signs. Also, synovial fluid C-reactive protein and interleukin-1 levels were evaluated. Results from four Clinical Metrology Instruments was also gathered. Results were compared with Repeated Measures ANOVA, with a Huynh–Feldt correction, paired-samples t-test, or Wilcoxon signed-rank test, with p < 0.05. OA was graded as mild (90%), moderate (5%), and severe (5%), including both sexes. They had a mean age of 6.5 ± 2.4 years and a bodyweight of 26.7 ± 5.2 kg. No differences were found between groups at treatment day in all considered evaluations. Weight distribution showed significant improvements with stanozolol from 15 days (p < 0.05) up to 180 days (p < 0.01). Lower values during thermographic evaluation in both views taken and improved joint extension at 90 (p = 0.02) and 180 days (p < 0.01) were observed. Pain and function scores improved up to 180 days. In the control group, radiographic signs progressed, in contrast with stanozolol. The use of stanozolol was safe and produced significant improvements in weight-bearing, pain score, and clinical evaluations in a naturally occurring canine OA model.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal. .,MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal.
| | - A Santos
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Jorge
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - C Lavrador
- MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal
| | - L Miguel Carreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon (FMV/ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Research in Animal Health (CIISA), University of Lisbon (FMV/ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.,Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA), Barreiro, Portugal
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Alves JC, Santos A, Jorge P, Lavrador C, Carreira LM. Characterization of weight-bearing compensation in dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis. Top Companion Anim Med 2022; 49:100655. [PMID: 35272058 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2022.100655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To describe the weight-bearing compensation in working dogs with bilateral hip osteoarthritis (OA), fifty police working dogs were evaluated with a weight distribution platform at the initial evaluation and after intra-articular treatment (a negative control - 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl), a platelet concentrate, Hylan G-F 20, triamcinolone hexacetonide or stanozolol). Six evaluation sessions were performed, over a 180-day period. Results were compared by breed, age, sex, weight and Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hip grade scores with the Independent Samples T-Test, repeated samples Analysis of variance and Pearson correlation coefficient, p<0.05. Animals had a mean age of 6.5±2.4 years and a bodyweight of 26.7±5.2kg. No significant differences were observed when comparing weight-bearing for different breeds, sex, hip grades or weight during the initial evaluation. Significant differences were observed in deviation (p<0.01) and symmetry index (p<0.01) between the control and treatment groups during the follow-up period. A weight shift from pelvic to thoracic limbs was observed, with a weak, although significant, correlation between a pelvic limb and the opposing contralateral thoracic limb. Labrador Retrievers showed higher symmetry index and deviation from normal values during the follow-up period than German Shepherd Dogs and Dutch Shepherd Dogs. Male dogs also showed higher symmetry index and deviation comparing with females. At this period, the symmetry index showed a weak, although significant, correlation with body weight. Weight-bearing of all limbs correlated with the remaining limbs, reflecting a more balanced weight distribution than the initial evaluation. The weight distribution platform can be used to evaluate patients, at the initial presentation and during the assessment of response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR). Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771 Lisbon, Portugal.; MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR). Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Jorge
- Divisão de Medicina Veterinária, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR). Rua Presidente Arriaga, 9, 1200-771 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - C Lavrador
- MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal
| | - L Miguel Carreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon (FMV/ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal; Interdisciplinary Centre for Research in Animal Health (CIISA) - University of Lisbon (FMV/ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.; Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA), Barreiro, Portugal
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Sardinha Abrantes S, Souto Miranda M, Santos A, Costa A, Nazaré A. 204 1p36 Deletion syndrome – A case report. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.11.065] [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: 11/26/2022]
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Santos A, Carneiro S, Silva A, Gomes JP, Macedo R. Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Portugal: Trends from the last decade. Pulmonology 2022:S2531-0437(22)00023-X. [PMID: 35219623 DOI: 10.1016/j.pulmoe.2022.01.011] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are opportunistic human pathogens found in the environment. The transmission seems to be associated with inhalation of aerosol droplets, ingestion or trauma events. Recent studies indicate that NTM disease is increasing worldwide, however, the true clinical impact of NTM infections is difficult to determine due to challenges in discriminating between disease and colonization as they are ubiquitous in the environment. In addition, understanding the epidemiology of NTM is difficult and has not yet been established. In this work, we used a country NTM representative collection from the National Reference Laboratory for Tuberculosis (NRL-TB) of the National Institute of Health (INSA), to characterize the circulation trends of NTM species in Portugal and the most affected regions, contributing to a better understanding of the NTM epidemiology. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted a nationwide retrospective study where all individuals with positive NTM cultures at the NRL-TB of the INSA from 2014 to December 2020 were included. Positive cultures were identified using GenoType Mycobacterium CM/AS® (Hain Lifescience) according to manufacturer's instructions, or hsp65 DNA sequencing as previously described. Social-demographic data from patients were also analyzed and patients classified into 3 groups according only to microbiological data, "definite NTM disease", "NTM colonization" and, "possible NTM disease". RESULTS In the period 2014-2020, the NRL-TB performed 50397 cultures. Among these, 1118 cultures were NTM positive retrieved from 944. Most of our cases were in patients whose mean age was 64±15.9 years, and no significant differences between gender was observed, although more frequent in male patients. Overall, from the 944 cases, we were able to identified 93 "definite NTM disease" cases and 79 "possible NTM disease". Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) (40,8%), Mycobacterium abscessus-chelonae complex (MABC) (9,6%) and Mycobacterium fortuitum (6,3%) were responsible for most of the infections. The geographical distribution of NTM cases varied significantly and was possible to observe that was independent of population density. The region were most cases occurred was Lisbon Metropolitan Area (31,9%), followed by North (25,3%) and Centre (24,4%), however North region has the highest number of "definite NTM disease" cases (n=33). CONCLUSIONS This is the first national wide epidemiological study on this subject, contributing to a better understanding of NTM dynamics in Portugal. MAC was the NTM species responsible for the majority of infections and, LMA the region with the highest number of cases. It was also possible to conclude that the number of NTM isolates is independent of the demography of the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- National Reference Laboratory for Mycobacteria, Dept of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - S Carneiro
- National Reference Laboratory for Mycobacteria, Dept of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- National Reference Laboratory for Mycobacteria, Dept of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Porto, Portugal
| | - J P Gomes
- Bioinformtics Unit, National Institute of Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R Macedo
- National Reference Laboratory for Mycobacteria, Dept of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Lisbon, Portugal.
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BRÁS A, Lima A, Santos A, Theias Manso R, Carrilho P, Soto K. POS-113 INFECTION ASSOCIATED GLOMERULONEPHRITIS: IS IT ONLY RELATED TO INFECTION? Kidney Int Rep 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2022.01.125] [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: 10/19/2022] Open
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Berbert L, Santos A, Magro D, Guadagnini D, Assalin H, Lourenço L, Martinez C, Saad M, Coy C. Metagenomics analysis reveals universal signatures of the intestinal microbiota in colorectal cancer, regardless of regional differences. Braz J Med Biol Res 2022; 55:e11832. [PMID: 35293551 PMCID: PMC8922548 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2022e11832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- L. Berbert
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil
| | - A. Santos
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil
| | - D.O. Magro
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - C.S.R. Coy
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil
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de Celis M, Serrano-Aguirre L, Belda I, Liébana-García R, Arroyo M, Marquina D, de la Mata I, Santos A. Acylase enzymes disrupting quorum sensing alter the transcriptome and phenotype of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the composition of bacterial biofilms from wastewater treatment plants. Sci Total Environ 2021; 799:149401. [PMID: 34364277 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biofilms represent an essential way of life and colonization of new environments for microorganisms. This feature is regulated by quorum sensing (QS), a microbial communication system based on autoinducer molecules, such as N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) in Gram negative bacteria. In artificial ecosystems, like Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), biofilm attachment in filtration membranes produces biofouling. In this environment, the microbial communities are mostly composed of Gram-negative phyla. Thus, we used two AHLs-degrading enzymes, obtained from Actinoplanes utahensis (namely AuAAC and AuAHLA) to determine the effects of degradation of QS signals in the biofilm formation, among other virulence factors, of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain isolated from a WWTP, assessing molecular mechanisms through transcriptomics. Besides, we studied the possible effects on community composition in biofilms from activated sludge samples. Although the studied enzymes only degraded the AHLs involved in one of the four QS systems of P. aeruginosa, these activities produced the deregulation of the complete QS network. In fact, AuAAC -the enzyme with higher catalytic efficiency- deregulated all the four QS systems. However, both enzymes reduced the biofilm formation and pyocyanin and protease production. The transcriptomic response of P. aeruginosa affected QS related genes, moreover, transcriptomic response to AuAAC affected mainly to QS related genes. Regarding community composition of biofilms, as expected, the abundance of Gram-negative phyla was significantly decreased after enzymatic treatment. These results support the potential use of such AHLs-degrading enzymes as a method to reduce biofilm formation in WWTP membranes and ameliorate bacterial virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de Celis
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - L Serrano-Aguirre
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - I Belda
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - R Liébana-García
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - M Arroyo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - D Marquina
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - I de la Mata
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - A Santos
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Fonseca V, Caeiro J, Santos A, Sarmento P. Ball exercises in elderly cancer patients’ improvements. J Geriatr Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/s1879-4068(21)00486-0] [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: 10/19/2022]
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Alves JC, Jorge P, Santos A. The effect of photobiomodulation therapy on the management of chronic idiopathic large-bowel diarrhea in dogs. Lasers Med Sci 2021; 37:2045-2051. [PMID: 34817707 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-021-03469-w] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate photobiomodulation therapy's effectiveness (PBMT) in managing chronic idiopathic large-bowel diarrhea. Thirty dogs were selected and divided into a control (CG) and treatment group (TG). CG received psyllium husk at the dose of 4 tablespoons/day for 30 days. TG received PBMT with a Class IV therapeutic laser, divided into three sessions on week 1, two sessions on week 2, and one session on week 3. A daily log of fecal characteristics was maintained, and on days 0, 8, 15, and 30, a canine inflammatory bowel disease index (CIBDAI) and body condition scores (BCS) were obtained. Results were compared using a Mann-Whitney test. Multiple regression was run to predict CIBDAI, Bristol stool scores, and diarrhea from different parameters. The Kaplan-Meier test was used to compare the occurrence rate of ≥ 1 day of diarrhea and ≥ 2 days of diarrhea by 30 days. Cox regression analysis to investigate interest covariates influences the same outcome. A p < 0.05 was set. The sample included 15 Belgian Malinois Shepherd Dogs, 10 German Shepherd Dogs, and 5 Dutch Shepherd Dog, with a mean age of 3.6 ± 2.3 years and a bodyweight of 24.6 ± 8.0 kg. TG showed an improvement in all scores and clinical signs, increased body weight, and BCS. An increased time of appearance of a second episode of diarrhea was observed in both groups. Activity level contributed to the prediction of defecation frequency and CIBDAI. PBMT significantly improved clinical signs and frequency of diarrhea episodes compared to psyllium husk.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Alves
- Guarda Nacional Republicana (Portuguese Gendarmerie), Lisbon, Portugal. .,MED - Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Instituto de Investigação E Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal.
| | - P Jorge
- Guarda Nacional Republicana (Portuguese Gendarmerie), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A Santos
- Guarda Nacional Republicana (Portuguese Gendarmerie), Lisbon, Portugal
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Maia I, Oliveira A, Severo M, Santos AC. Association between children’s food insecurity and a Healthy Eating Index in Portuguese children. Eur J Public Health 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab164.684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Evidence on the association between children's food insecurity (FI) and a priori-defined dietary patterns is scarce, particularly in Europe. This study assessed the association between children's FI and a diet quality index in a population-based sample of children.
Methods
A cross-sectional study including 2800 children from the 10-year-old follow-up of a Portuguese birth cohort, the Generation XXI study, was performed. Data on food security status, assessed by the Self-administered Food Security Survey Module for Children (SAFSSMC), dietary intake, assessed by a validated FFQ, and socio-demographic characteristics were collected. An adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) was used, by including 7 food groups (fruit and vegetables, dairy products, fish and eggs, meat and meat products, sweet snacks, salty snacks and soft drinks) scored from 1 to 4 according to increasing quartiles of daily consumption. For the last 4 groups, a reverse score was assigned. Scores were summed up (the highest the score, the highest diet quality). Linear and logistic regression models (HEI score and its food groups divided by the sample median) were performed.
Results
The FI prevalence was 9.4%. The median (P25;P75) HEI score was 18.0 (15.0;21.0). Children's FI was inversely associated with diet quality (β=-0.671;95%CI:-1.129;-0.213), independently of maternal education, caregivers' unemployment and child's sex. By using the SAFSSMC raw score, FI increased the odds for lower (below the median) fruit and vegetables intake (OR = 1.069;95%CI:1.002-1.139), and higher intake (above the median) of meat and meat products (OR = 1.075;95%CI:1.011-1.144) and soft drinks (OR = 1.074;95%CI:1.008-1.145), independently of maternal education, caregivers' unemployment, child's sex and the other food groups consumption.
Conclusions
Food insecure children have poorer diet quality, specifically a lower fruit and vegetables consumption, and higher intake of meat and meat products, and soft drinks.
Key messages
FI was reported by 9.4% of children, and poorer diet quality was observed among food insecure children, when compared to food secure ones. Public health interventions targeting food insecure children should be developed to promote healthy dietary habits in the context of populations vulnerable to FI.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Maia
- EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional, Porto, Portugal
| | - A Oliveira
- EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Severo
- EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional, Porto, Portugal
| | - AC Santos
- EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Rodway A, Giltinan C, Dehghan-Nayeri A, Santos A, Stafford M, Whyte MB, Allan C, Field B, Clark J, Pazos Casal F, Pankhania A, Loosemore T, Heiss C. Impact of COVID-19 on angioplasty service and outcome of patients treated for critical limb ischaemia. Eur Heart J 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.2030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a major challenge worldwide and endovascular revascularization is an important component of treatment that is affected by COVID-19 restrictions.
Purpose
Here, we evaluated the impact of COVID-19 restriction on angioplasty service and outcome of patients undergoing lower limb angioplasty.
Methods
Consecutive patients undergoing endovascular revascularisation between August 2018-March 2021 in a UK district general hospital were analysed retrospectively. Indications for angioplasty of all patients were discussed and agreed upon in multi-disciplinary teams. We compared time from referral to angioplasty, patient and procedural characteristics, technical success, peri-procedural complications, and outcome (wound healing, major amputation, target lesion revascularization, death) in patients treated 'before' and after February 2020 (“during COVID-19”).
Results
One hundred nineteen patients were treated 'before' (92% critical limb ischaemia [CLI]; 60% diabetes mellitus) and 72 were treated 'during COVID-19' (96% CLI; 61% diabetes mellitus). While the total monthly number of patients treated did not change, the number of outpatients treated as day cases increased (40% to 72%) and overnight stays for social reasons decreased (16% to 10%). Treatment of hospitalized patients decreased from 44% to 18%. The percentage of outpatients treated at <14 days after referral increased from 39% to 63% and hospitalized patients treated <5 days from 47% to 54%. Neither COVID-19 nor time to procedure affected wound healing (p(log Rank) = 0.451; median time to healing 168±25 days) and amputation free survival (p(log Rank) = 0.924; median survival 368±30 days) in all CLI patients significantly. However, amputation-free survival was significantly worse in hospitalized as compared to outpatients (p(log Rank) <0.001; median survival 155±20 vs 368±30 days) with similar wound healing in those that survived (p(log Rank) = 0.340; median time to wound healing 168±25 days). Of note, the known causes of death were sepsis (32%), pneumonia (18%), COVID pneumonia (18%), cardiac (16%) and stroke (8%).
Conclusions
Adapting to COVID-19 restriction we maintained a safe and effective angioplasty service while shortening waiting times. Very high mortality rates in patients after hospitalization indicated that CLI need to be treated much earlier and more aggressively to avoid disease progression requiring hospitalization.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rodway
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - C Giltinan
- University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | | | - A Santos
- University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - M Stafford
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - M B Whyte
- University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - C Allan
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - B Field
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - J Clark
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - F Pazos Casal
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - A Pankhania
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - T Loosemore
- Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Vascular Department, Redhill, United Kingdom
| | - C Heiss
- University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
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Lopes P, Presume J, Goncalves PA, Albuquerque F, Freitas P, Guerreiro S, Abecasis J, Santos AC, Saraiva C, Mendes M, Marques H, Ferreira A. Incorporating coronary calcification into pretest assessment of the likelihood of coronary artery disease: validation and recalibration of a new diagnostic tool. Eur Heart J 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.0205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
A new clinical tool was recently proposed to improve the estimation of pre-test probability of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) by incorporating coronary artery calcium score (CACS) with clinical risk factors. This new model (Clinical+CACS) showed improved prediction when compared to the method recommended by the 2019 ESC guidelines on chronic coronary syndromes, but was never tested or adjusted for use in our population. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of this new method in a Portuguese cohort of symptomatic patients referred for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), and to recalibrate it if necessary.
Methods
We conducted a two-center cross-sectional study assessing symptomatic patients who underwent CCTA for suspected CAD. Key exclusion criteria were age <30 years, known CAD, suspected acute coronary syndrome, or symptoms other than chest pain or dyspnea. Obstructive CAD was defined as any luminal stenosis ≥50% on CCTA. The Clinical+CACS prediction model was assessed for discrimination and calibration. A logistical recalibration of the model was conducted in a random sample of 50% of the patients and subsequently validated in the other half.
Results
A total of 1910 patients (mean age 60±11 years, 60% women) were included in the analysis. Symptom characteristics were: 39% non-anginal chest pain, 30% atypical angina, 19% dyspnea and 12% typical angina. The observed prevalence of obstructive CAD was 12.9% (n=247). Patients with obstructive CAD were more often male, were significantly older, had higher prevalence of typical angina and cardiovascular risk factors, and higher CACS values. The new Clinical+CACS tool showed greater discriminative power than the ESC 2019 prediction model, with a C-statistic of 0.83 (CI 95% 0.81–0.86) versus 0.67 (CI 95% 0.64–0.71), respectively (p-value for comparison <0.001). Before recalibration, the Clinical+CACS model underestimated the likelihood of CAD in our population across all quartiles of pretest probability (mean relative underestimation of 49%), which was subsequently corrected by the recalibration procedure - Figure.
Conclusions
In a Portuguese cohort of symptomatic patients undergoing CCTA for suspected CAD, the new Clinical+CACS model showed better discrimination power than the 2019 ESC method. The underestimation of the Clinical+CACS model was corrected by recalibrating it for our population. This new tool might prove useful for guiding decisions on the need for further testing.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lopes
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - J Presume
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - P A Goncalves
- UNICA – Cardiovascular CT and MR Unit, Hospital da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - P Freitas
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | | | - J Abecasis
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - A C Santos
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - C Saraiva
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - M Mendes
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - H Marques
- UNICA – Cardiovascular CT and MR Unit, Hospital da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A Ferreira
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
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Albuquerque F, M Lopes P, Freitas P, Presume J, Gomes D, Abecassis J, Guerreiro S, Santos A, Saraiva C, Mendes M, M Ferreira A. Coronary artery calcium score to predict coronary CT angiography interpretability. An old problem revisited. Eur Heart J 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Clinical guidelines recommend against the use of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in patients with heavy calcification due to interpretability concerns, but no specific approach or threshold is provided. Recently, alternative methods have been proposed as more reliable predictors of CCTA interpretability than the classic coronary artery calcium score (CACS). The purpose this study was to compare the performance of different measures of coronary calcification as predictors of CCTA interpretability.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing CACS and CCTA between 2018 and 2020. The key exclusion criteria were known coronary artery disease, CACS of zero, and presence of non-assessable coronary lesions for reasons other than calcification (movement/gating artifacts or vessel diameter <2mm). CCTA studies were considered non-interpretable if the main reader considered one or more coronary lesions non-assessable due to calcification. Three different measures of coronary calcification were compared using ROC curve analysis: 1) total CACS; 2) CACS-to-lesion ratio (total CACS divided by the number of calcified plaques); and 3) calcium score of the most calcified plaque. Decision-tree analysis was performed to identify the algorithm that best predicts CCTA interpretability.
Results
A total of 432 patients (191 women, mean age 64±11 years) were included. Overall, 31 patients (7.2%) had a non-interpretable CCTA due to calcification. Patients with non-interpretable CCTA had higher CACS (median 589 vs. 50 AU, p<0.001), higher CACS-to-lesion ratio (median 43 vs. 14 AU/lesion, p<0.001), and higher score of the most calcified plaque (median 445 vs. 43 AU, p<0.001). Among the 3 methods, CACS showed the highest discriminative power to predict a non-interpretable CCTA (C-statistic 0.93, 95% CI 0.89–0.95, p<0.001) – Figure 1.
Decision-tree analysis identified a single-variable algorithm (CACS value ≤515 AU) as the best discriminator of CCTA interpretability: 396 of the 409 patients (97%) with CACS ≤515 AU had an interpretable CCTA, whereas only 5 of the 23 patients (22%) with CACS >515 AU had an interpretable test, yielding a total of 96% correct predictions.
Conclusions
The recently proposed and more complex measures of coronary calcification seem unable to outperform total CACS as a predictor of CCTA interpretability. A simple CACS cutoff-value around 500 AU remains the best discriminator for this purpose.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1
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Affiliation(s)
| | - P M Lopes
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - P Freitas
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - J Presume
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - D Gomes
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | | | | | - A Santos
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - C Saraiva
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - M Mendes
- Hospital Santa Cruz, Carnaxide, Portugal
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Pinto L, Santos A, Vargas E, Madureira F, Faria A, Augusti R. Validation of an analytical method based on QuEChERS and LC-MS/MS to quantify nine mycotoxins in plant-based milk. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2021. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2020.2656] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Plant-based beverages (popularly known as vegetable milk) have become increasingly important in recent years. However, the nonexistence of information on mycotoxin contamination is noticeable. We herein describe the development and validation of an analytical methodology that employs QuEChERS and LC-MS/MS for the simultaneous determination of nine mycotoxins (aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2, fumonisins B1 and B2, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, and citreoviridin) in seven types of vegetable milk (peanut, oat, rice, cashew, maize, soybean, and coconut). The method provided the following quantification limits, recoveries at the lowest validated concentration and relative standard deviations under repeatability conditions at the lowest validated concentration, respectively: aflatoxin B1 (0.023 μg/l, 84.98 and 9.23%); aflatoxin B2 (0.024 μg/, 93.00 and 4.85%); aflatoxin G1 (0.057 μg/l, 98.85 and 5.53%); aflatoxin G2 (0.031 μg/l, 96.64 and 4.08%); fumonisin B1 (2.166 μg/l, 75.55 and 16.78%); fumonisin B2 (1.105 μg/l, 70.47 and 11.89%); ochratoxin A (0.104 μg/l, 72.05 and 5.12%); zearalenone (8.093 μg/l, 107.10 and 6.37%); citreoviridin (1.305 μg/l, 97.25 and 7.28%). The method uses small amounts of samples, solvents, and other inexpensive reagents with no need for laborious clean-up and pre-concentration steps. Its attractive characteristics (simplicity, low cost compared to procedures that use immunoaffinity columns, and full compatibility with routine analyses) make it potentially valuable. As a proof-of-principle, the validated methodology was applied to seven commercial samples of different compositions showing that some were contaminated with aflatoxins and ochratoxin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Pinto
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte/MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - A. Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte/MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - E. Vargas
- Laboratory of Quality Control and Food Safety, Av. Raja Gabaglia 245, Belo Horizonte/MG, 30380-103, Brazil
| | - F. Madureira
- Laboratory of Quality Control and Food Safety, Av. Raja Gabaglia 245, Belo Horizonte/MG, 30380-103, Brazil
| | - A. Faria
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte/MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - R. Augusti
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte/MG, 31270-901, Brazil
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Ribeiro R, Santos AC, Calazans MO, De Oliveira ACP, Vieira LB. Is resveratrol a prospective therapeutic strategy in the co-association of glucose metabolism disorders and neurodegenerative diseases? Nutr Neurosci 2021; 25:2442-2457. [PMID: 34514962 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2021.1972514] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: The mechanism behind the progression of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains poorly understood. However some evidence pointed out that the co-occurrence of metabolic conditions affecting glucose homeostasis, as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), may be an important catalyst in this context. Notably, candidate drugs which modulate common pathways in the development of MCI-to-AD mediated by T2DM may offer likely therapy for AD. Nonetheless, limited pharmacological alternatives that modulate common pathways in T2DM, MCI, and AD are available. In the recent decades, studies have shown that resveratrol may act as a neuroprotective compound, but little is known about its potential in improving cognitive and metabolic aspects associated with AD progression mediated by the co-association between TDM2-MCI.Methods: In this review, we discuss possible protective mechanisms of resveratrol on shared pathways associated with AD progression mediated by T2DM-MCI co-occurrence.Results: Some studies indicated that insulin resistance and hyperglycemia may be also a T2DM risk factor for the progression of MCI-to-AD, promoting alterations in metabolic pathways associated with neuronal plasticity, and increasing pro-inflammatory environment. Interestingly, basic research and clinical trials indicate that resveratrol may modulate those pathways, showing a potential neuroprotective effect of this polyphenol.Conclusion: Therefore, there is not enough clinical data supporting the translational therapeutic use of resveratrol in this scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ribeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - A C Santos
- Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - M O Calazans
- Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - A C P De Oliveira
- Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - L B Vieira
- Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Minela T, Santos A, Schuurmans EJ, Middleton EL, Pursley JR. The effect of a double dose of cloprostenol sodium on luteal blood flow and pregnancy rates per artificial insemination in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:12105-12116. [PMID: 34482970 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-20113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Inadequate luteolysis in fertility programs is a problem for lactating dairy cows treated with a single dose of PGF2α. The proportion of cows with complete luteolysis can be increased by administering 2 doses of PGF2α 24 h apart. This study hypothesized that a double dose of cloprostenol sodium (1.0 mg) could take the place of 2 doses 24 h apart due to its enhanced half-life. Cows were allocated to receive 1 of 3 treatments: negative controls: 0.5 mg of cloprostenol sodium (single; n = 337); positive controls: two 0.5-mg doses of cloprostenol sodium 24 h apart (two/24; n = 313); and treated: 1.0 mg of cloprostenol sodium (double; n = 298) at the final PGF2α of Double-Ovsynch. Cows received artificial insemination (AI) 16 h after final GnRH of Double-Ovsynch. Pregnancy diagnosis was determined at 24, 34, 62, and 184 d post-AI. Pregnancy loss was categorized in the following periods: between 24 to 34, 34 to 62, and 62 to 184 d post-AI. Ultrasonography (B-mode and color Doppler) was used to assess luteal function pre- and posttreatment with various doses of cloprostenol sodium. Luteal volume and luteal blood flow (LBF) from d 7 and 14 corpora lutea were determined before treatment (d -1), and 2 and 4 d after treatment. No evidence was observed of an effect of treatment on pregnancy rates per AI at 24, 34, or 62 d post-AI. No effect was observed of treatment on pregnancy losses occurring between d 24 and 34, 34, and 62, and between 62 and 184 d post-AI. However, third-plus parity cows treated with the single treatment had greater pregnancy loss compared with two/24 and double between d 24 and 34 post-AI. Third-plus parity cows that received the double treatment had lower LBF 2 and 4 d after treatment compared with cows treated with single. Amount of LBF present 4 d after treatment was not a predictor of pregnancy or pregnancy loss. A double dose (1.0 mg) of cloprostenol sodium may be a feasible alternative for fertility programs based on nondifferent outcomes to the two/24 treatment, lower pregnancy losses, and reduced LBF disappearance following treatment in third-plus parity cows in comparison with the single treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - A Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - E J Schuurmans
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - E L Middleton
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
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50
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Giometti I, Veras A, Pacagnelli F, Schaffer L, Oliveira M, Nespolo R, Santos A, Souza F, Castilho C, Favareto AP, Mendes L, Teixeira G. P–073 High-intensity interval training modulates the effects of hypertension on inflammatory mediators in testis in adult spontaneously hypertensive rats. Hum Reprod 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab130.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
Is the high-intensity interval training (HIIT) able to prevent the increase of the inflammatory proteins in the testis of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR)?
Summary answer
HIIT for 8 weeks inhibits the increase of the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and the interleukin 6 (IL6) in the testis of SHR.
What is known already
Hypertension increases the inflammatory cytokines of the cardiovascular system, causing damage in the microcirculation and in the testes. Hypertension is a cause of low fertility in men and exercises are indicated to decrease blood pressure and improve overall health. HIIT is characterized by short periods of exercise, with an intensity equal to or greater than the anaerobic threshold, separated by recovery periods. HIIT can be indicated for cardiac patients, as this type of training improves the cardiac autonomic nervous system and lipemic control in both hypertensive and normotensive individuals.
Study design, size, duration
Male Wistar-Kyoto rats without hypertension and SHRs were divided into 3 groups (n = 4): WKY (Wistar-Kyoto); SHR; and SHR-HIIT (SHRs that performed HIIT). The HIIT was realized in treadmill for 5 days/week for 8 weeks. HIIT started with 5 times of 4 minutes of 100% of the maximum exhaust speed, with active rest intervals of 3 minutes at 60%. There was an increase of once every week until reaching 7 times each session.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
Samples from testicles were used for immunostainig IL6 and TNFα. After the blocking, the sections were subjected to reaction of specific antibodies IL6 (1:50, E–4, sc–28343) and TNFα (1:50, 52B83, sc–257) at 4ºC overnight, and with secondary antibodies m-IgGK (1:200, IgG-HRP, sc–516) at room temperature for 2 hours. Diaminobenzidine (1:50) was used against Harris stained with Hematoxylin and evaluated in the photomicroscope. Data were analyzed by One-Way ANOVA followed by Tukey post test (P < 0.05).
Main results and the role of chance
The immunostainig of IL6 was higher in SHR (10.23 ± 0.47) than in SHR-HIIT (8.69 ± .44) group (P = 0,0237). From the same perspective, immunoexpression of TNFα was higher in SHR (10.10 ± 0.42) than WKY (8.24 ± 0.24) and SHR-HIIT (7.82 ± 0.39) groups (P = 0.0018).
Limitations, reasons for caution
As a limitation of the study, we have no measurement of fertility parameters to affirm that the HIIT improve the fertility because of the reduction of inflammatory mediators.
Wider implications of the findings: The hypertension drugs have a negative effect on fertility. HIIT can be suggested as a treatment for hypertension as an alternative to medication, since HIIT can inhibit the increase of the inflammatory mediators in testis and its consequences to the reproduction. Financial support by São Paulo Research foundation, FAPESP (2018/22682–0).
Trial registration number
2018/22682–0
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Affiliation(s)
- I Giometti
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - A Veras
- Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Departamento de Educação Física, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - F Pacagnelli
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - L Schaffer
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - M Oliveira
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - R Nespolo
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - A Santos
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - F Souza
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - C Castilho
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - A P Favareto
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - L Mendes
- Universidade do Oeste Paulista - UNOESTE, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
| | - G Teixeira
- Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Departamento de Educação Física, Presidente Prudente - SP, Brazil
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