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Hirata AHDL, Camargo LADJR, da Silva VA, de Almeida RJ, Bacigalupo LDS, Albejante MC, Curi FSD, Varela P, Martins L, Pesquero JB, Delle H, Camacho CP. Exploring the Potential of Olfactory Receptor Circulating RNA Measurement for Preeclampsia Prediction and Its Linkage to Mild Gestational Hypothyroidism. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16681. [PMID: 38069004 PMCID: PMC10706743 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316681] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gestational hypothyroidism may lead to preeclampsia development. However, this pathophysiological is unknown. We expect to find a shared mechanism by comparing hypothyroidism and preeclampsia. From our transcriptome data, we recognized olfactory receptors as that fingerprint. The reduction of taste and smell in hypothyroid patients has been known for a long time. Therefore, we decided to look to the olfactory receptors and aimed to identify genes capable of predicting preeclampsia (PEC). Methods: An Ion Proton Sequencer (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA) was used to construct the transcriptome databases. RStudio with packages Limma v.3.50.0, GEOquery v.2.62.2, and umap v.0.2.8.8 were used to analyze the differentially expressed genes in GSE149440 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The 7500 Real-Time PCR System (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA, USA) was used for RT-qPCR amplification of OR6X1 and OR4E2. Results: Our transcriptomic datasets analysis revealed 25.08% and 26.75% downregulated olfactory receptor (ORs) in mild nontreated gestational hypothyroidism (GHT) and PEC, respectively. In the GSE149440 GEO dataset, we found OR5H1, OR5T3, OR51A7, OR51B6, OR10J5, OR6C6, and OR2AG2 as predictors of early-onset PEC. We also evaluate two chosen biomarkers' responses to levothyroxine. The RT-qPCR demonstrated a difference in OR6X1 and OR4E2 expression between GHT and healthy pregnancy (p < 0.05). Those genes presented a negative correlation with TSH (r: -0.51, p < 0.05; and r: -0.44, p < 0.05), a strong positive correlation with each other (r: 0.89; p < 0.01) and the levothyroxine-treated group had no difference from the healthy one. We conclude that ORs could be used as biomarkers at the beginning of gestation, and the downregulated ORs found in GHT may be improved with levothyroxine treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa Harumy de Lima Hirata
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Antônio de Jesus Rocha Camargo
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
- Thyroid Diseases Center, Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 11th Floor, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
| | - Valdelena Alessandra da Silva
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Robson José de Almeida
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas dos Santos Bacigalupo
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Conjunto Hospitalar do Mandaqui, Rua Voluntários da Pátria, 4301, São Paulo 02401-400, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Clara Albejante
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Conjunto Hospitalar do Mandaqui, Rua Voluntários da Pátria, 4301, São Paulo 02401-400, SP, Brazil
| | - Flavia Salomão d’Avila Curi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Conjunto Hospitalar do Mandaqui, Rua Voluntários da Pátria, 4301, São Paulo 02401-400, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9th Floor, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Leonardo Martins
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9th Floor, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
- Division of Medical Sciences, Laboratory of Transcriptional Regulation, Institute of Medical Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences (IMB-PAS), Lodowa 106, 93-232 Łódź, Poland
| | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9th Floor, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
| | - Humberto Delle
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Cleber P. Camacho
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), Rua Vergueiro, 235/249, São Paulo 01525-000, SP, Brazil
- Thyroid Diseases Center, Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 11th Floor, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
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Castura J, Varela P, Næs T. Evaluation of complementary numerical and visual approaches for investigating pairwise comparisons after principal component analysis. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104843] [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: 03/06/2023]
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Castura J, Varela P, Næs T. Investigating paired comparisons after principal component analysis. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104814] [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: 01/19/2023]
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Korsholm SB, Chambon A, Gonçalves B, Infante V, Jensen T, Jessen M, Klinkby EB, Larsen AW, Luis R, Nietiadi Y, Nonbøl E, Rasmussen J, Rechena D, Salewski M, Taormina A, Vale A, Varela P, Sanchez L, Ballester RM, Udintsev V, Liu Y. ITER collective Thomson scattering-Preparing to diagnose fusion-born alpha particles (invited). Rev Sci Instrum 2022; 93:103539. [PMID: 36319374 DOI: 10.1063/5.0101867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The ITER Collective Thomson scattering (CTS) diagnostic will measure the dynamics of fusion-born alpha particles in the burning ITER plasma by scattering a 1 MW 60 GHz gyrotron beam off fast-ion induced fluctuations in the plasma. The diagnostic will have seven measurement volumes across the ITER cross section and will resolve the alpha particle energies in the range from 300 keV to 3.5 MeV; importantly, the CTS diagnostic is the only diagnostic capable of measuring confined alpha particles for energies below ∼1.7 MeV and will also be sensitive to the other fast-ion populations. The temporal resolution is 100 ms, allowing the capture of dynamics on that timescale, and the typical spatial resolution is 10-50 cm. The development and design of the in-vessel and primary parts of the CTS diagnostic has been completed. This marks the beginning of a new phase of preparation to maximize the scientific benefit of the diagnostic, e.g., by investigating the capability to contribute to the determination of the fuel-ion ratio and the bulk ion temperature as well as integrating data analysis with other fast-ion and bulk-ion diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Korsholm
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - A Chambon
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - B Gonçalves
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - V Infante
- IDMEC, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - T Jensen
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - M Jessen
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - E B Klinkby
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - A W Larsen
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - R Luis
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Y Nietiadi
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - E Nonbøl
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - J Rasmussen
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - D Rechena
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Salewski
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - A Taormina
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - A Vale
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Varela
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Univ. Lisboa, 1049001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - L Sanchez
- Fusion for Energy, 08019 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - V Udintsev
- ITER Organization, 13115 Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - Y Liu
- ITER Organization, 13115 Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
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Castura J, Meyners M, Varela P, Næs T. Clustering consumers based on product discrimination in check-all-that-apply (CATA) data. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Sousa C, Varela P, Baptista A. Acrodermatitis continua de Hallopeau y el fenómeno de Koebner. Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2020.01.019] [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: 10/21/2022] Open
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Watanabe A, Guaragna MS, Belangero VMS, Casimiro FMS, Pesquero JB, de Santis Feltran L, Palma LMP, Varela P, de Menezes Neves PDM, Lerario AM, de Souza ML, de Mello MP, de Brito Lutaif ACG, Ferrari CR, Sampson MG, Onuchic LF, Nogueira PCK. APOL1 in an ethnically diverse pediatric population with nephrotic syndrome: implications in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and other diagnoses. Pediatr Nephrol 2021; 36:2327-2336. [PMID: 33585978 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-021-04960-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND APOL1 high-risk genotypes (HRG) are associated with increased risk of kidney disease in individuals of African ancestry. We analyzed the effects of APOL1 risk variants on an ethnically diverse Brazilian pediatric nephrotic syndrome (NS) cohort. METHODS Multicenter study including 318 NS patients, categorized as progressors to advanced CKD [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)] < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2] and slow/non-progressors (eGFR > 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 through the study). We employed Cox regression with progression time as the outcome and APOL1 genotype as the independent variable. We tested this association in the entire cohort and three subgroups; (1) focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), (2) steroid-resistant NS (SRNS), and (3) those who underwent kidney biopsy. RESULTS Nineteen patients (6%) had an HRG. Of these, 47% were self-reported White. Patients with HRG manifested NS at older ages and presented higher frequencies of FSGS and SRNS. HRG patients progressed to advanced CKD more often than low-risk-genotype (LRG) children in the whole NS cohort (p = 0.001) and the three subgroups. In SRNS and biopsied patients, a single risk variant was associated with trends of higher CKD progression risk. CONCLUSIONS Novel discoveries include a substantial prevalence of HRG among patients self-reported White, worse kidney outcomes in HRG versus LRG children in the FSGS subgroup, and a trend of higher CKD progression risk associated with a single risk variant in the SRNS cohort. These findings suggest APOL1-associated NS extends beyond patients self-reported non-White, the HRG effect is independent of FSGS, and a single risk variant may have a detrimental impact in children with NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Watanabe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Molecular Medicine, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mara Sanches Guaragna
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Fernanda Maria Serafim Casimiro
- Center for Diagnosis and Research on Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Center for Diagnosis and Research on Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Patrícia Varela
- Center for Diagnosis and Research on Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Precil Diego Miranda de Menezes Neves
- Division of Molecular Medicine, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Nephrology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Marcela Lopes de Souza
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Matthew Gordon Sampson
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Luiz Fernando Onuchic
- Division of Molecular Medicine, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Division of Nephrology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Pou N, Peix T, Trias S, Trilla A, Varela P, Martínez G, Castells A. [Management of elective surgical activity in a tertiary hospital during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic]. J Healthc Qual Res 2021; 36:136-141. [PMID: 33727004 PMCID: PMC7874944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhqr.2021.01.002] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Introducción Durante la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 la actividad quirúrgica electiva se redujo a su mínima expresión. A medida que disminuyeron tanto el número de casos, como las necesidades de hospitalización para esta patología creímos oportuno proceder a recuperar progresivamente la actividad quirúrgica programada. El presente trabajo describe como, aún con el estado de alarma vigente, pudimos prácticamente normalizar dicha actividad en pocas semanas. Metodología Dos semanas antes de la intervención quirúrgica, se contactó telefónicamente con los pacientes incluidos en las listas de espera. Tras comprobar su estado de salud y manifestar su deseo de ser intervenidos quirúrgicamente se les proporcionaron recomendaciones para disminuir el riesgo de infección por coronavirus. Asimismo, se estableció un circuito exclusivo para llevar a cabo, 48 horas antes de la intervención, la detección de SARS-CoV-2 mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) de exudado nasofaríngeo. Los resultados fueron valorados por cada servicio quirúrgico y el de anestesiología. Además, los profesionales del Área Quirúrgica asintomáticos podían someterse a un cribado semanal para la detección de coronavirus, según las recomendaciones de Salud Laboral. Resultados En plena pandemia, la actividad quirúrgica electiva se redujo un 85%. A partir de la semana del 13 de abril, se fueron recuperando los quirófanos disponibles, lo que permitió recobrar la práctica total de la actividad quirúrgica la semana del 25 de mayo. Conclusiones La creación de circuitos y procedimientos para agilizar la actividad quirúrgica, aún en plena vigencia del estado de alarma, nos ha permitido, en pocas semanas, recuperar la práctica total de la misma.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Pou
- Dirección del Área Quirúrgica, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España.
| | - T Peix
- Dirección del Área Quirúrgica, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - S Trias
- Dirección del Área Quirúrgica, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - A Trilla
- Servició de Medicina Preventiva, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - P Varela
- Dirección para las Personas, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - G Martínez
- Dirección de Enfermería, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - A Castells
- Dirección Médica, Hospital Clínico de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
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Varela P, Carvalho G, Martin RP, Pesquero JB. Fabry disease: GLA deletion alters a canonical splice site in a family with neuropsychiatric manifestations. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:265-272. [PMID: 33156427 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-020-00640-0] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fabry disease (FD) is a rare X-linked glycosphingolipidosis caused by mutations in GLA, a gene responsible for encoding α-galactosidase A, an enzyme required for degradation of glycosphingolipids, mainly globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in all cells of the body. FD patients present a broad spectrum of clinical phenotype and many symptoms are shared with other diseases, making diagnosis challenging. Here we describe a novel GLA variant located in the 5' splice site of the intron 3, in four members of a family with neuropsychiatric symptoms. Analysis of the RNA showed the variant promotes alteration of the wild type donor site, affecting splicing and producing two aberrant transcripts. The functional characterization showed absence of enzymatic activity in cells expressing both transcripts, confirming their pathogenicity. The family presents mild signs of FD, as angiokeratoma, cornea verticillata, acroparesthesia, tinnitus, vertigo, as well as accumulation of plasma lyso-Gb3 and urinary Gb3. Interestingly, the man and two women present psychiatric symptoms, as depression or schizophrenia. Although psychiatric illnesses, especially depression, are frequently reported in patients with FD and studies have shown that the hippocampus is an affected brain structure in these patients, it is not clear whether the Gb3 accumulation in the brain is responsible for these symptoms or they are secondary. Therefore, new studies are needed to understand whether the accumulation of Gb3 could produce neuronal alterations leading to psychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Gerson Carvalho
- Medical Genetics Unit, Hospital de Apoio de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Renan Paulo Martin
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil.
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Céspedes IC, Ota VK, Mazzotti DR, Wscieklica T, Conte R, Galduróz JCF, Varela P, Pesquero JB, Souza-Formigoni MLO. Association between polymorphism in gene related to the dopamine circuit and motivations for drinking in patients with alcohol use disorder. Psychiatry Res 2021; 295:113563. [PMID: 33199027 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The development of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is influenced by genetic, psychological, and social factors. However, the identification of the load of each of these factors and the association between them is still debatable. This study aimed to explore the load of the association between AUD and polymorphisms in genes of the dopaminergic system, as well as with drinking triggers. The study comprised 227 inpatients with AUD and 174 controls. The pattern and motivations for drinking were evaluated using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and the Inventory of Drinking Situations (IDS). Analyses of genetic variation in genes encoding dopaminergic were performed using next generation sequencing. We observed an significant association between a polymorphism in DDC (rs11575457) and AUD. Positive reinforcement factors as urges/temptations to drink and pleasant emotion, in isolation, were the significantly related elements to drinking. In addition, negative (physical discomfort) and positive reinforcement factors (testing personal control; pleasant time with others) significantly reinforced the interaction with DDC genetic variant for increased odds of an individual presenting AUD. These results indicated a complex relationship between the dopaminergic system and the drug-seeking behavior profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Cristina Céspedes
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 740 - 1o. andar - Edifício Leitão da Cunha, Zip code 04023-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa Kiyomi Ota
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 740 - 1o. andar - Edifício Leitão da Cunha, Zip code 04023-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Diego Robles Mazzotti
- Chronobiology and Sleep Institute, University of Pennsylvania, 125 South 31st Street, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tatiana Wscieklica
- Department of Biosciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Zip code 11015-020, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafael Conte
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 740 - 1o. andar - Edifício Leitão da Cunha, Zip code 04023-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - José Carlos Fernandes Galduróz
- Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 862 - 1o. andar, Zip code 04023-062, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Varela
- Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 740 - 1o. andar, Zip code 04023-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 740 - 1o. andar, Zip code 04023-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Lucia Oliveira Souza-Formigoni
- Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 862 - 1o. andar, Zip code 04023-062, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Riguetti MTP, Varela P, Fernandes DE, Polito MG, Casimiro FM, Pesquero JB, Mastroianni-Kirsztajn G. Familial Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis With Late-Onset Presentation and R229Q/R291W Podocin Mutations. Front Genet 2020; 11:533373. [PMID: 33193607 PMCID: PMC7525155 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.533373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pathogenic variants in different genes have been described as involved in the development of familial focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). A more precise genotype–phenotype correlation would be helpful to better characterize the clinical and laboratorial manifestations of this disease, as well as response to treatment. We analyzed podocin (NPHS2) gene variants in 50 members of four generations of a family with late-onset presentation of glomerular disease. Results and Discussion The NPHS2 gene variants R229Q and/or R291W were detected in several individuals, and the phenotype of FSGS with progressive loss of renal function was observed in all the family members carrying both mutations simultaneously. Patients manifested ongoing proteinuria over the years and progressive loss of renal function, which in three women culminated in renal replacement therapy by the 4th decade of life. In two affected patients with nephrotic syndrome, remission was not reached by the use of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs. The R229Q variant was pathogenic only when trans-associated with specific mutations, as the R291W variant in this family. Conclusion Coexistence of the two NPHS2 variants R229Q and R291W in compound heterozygosis was a determinant of the FSGS phenotype. The presence of these variants alone in heterozygosis did not cause significant proteinuria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle T P Riguetti
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Danilo E Fernandes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Goretti Polito
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Casimiro
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João B Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Hirata AHDL, Rocha LADJ, da Silva VA, de Almeida RJ, Bacigalupo LDS, Varela P, Martins L, Pesquero JB, Dellê H, Camacho CP. Circulating RNA Transcriptome of Pregnant Women with TSH Just Above the Trimester-Specific Reference and its Correlation with the Hypertensive Phenotype. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6439. [PMID: 32296081 PMCID: PMC7160149 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63040-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
During gestation, a woman’s body undergoes physiological changes that alter thyroid function. Pregnant women with hypothyroidism may exhibit gestational complications, including hypertension and preeclampsia. We investigated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in circulating RNAs from pregnant women with TSH levels just above the normal range to determine the impact of a mild elevation of TSH in pregnancy. We selected three women with healthy thyroid pregnancy (HTP), three pregnant women with gestational hypothyroidism (GHT), and three nonpregnant women (NPG) to construct transcriptome libraries. We also compared our results with data from the GEO dataset and DisGeNET. We identified 1500 DEG in GHT and 1656 DEG in HTP. From GEO dataset, we recognized 453 DEGs in trimester-specific plasma RNA, 1263 DEGs in placental tissues from healthy women, 1031 DEGs from preeclamptic uteroplacental tissues and 1657 DEGs from placental tissues from severely preeclamptic women. In this scenario, 12.26% and 12.86% genes were shared between these datasets in GHT and HTP, respectively. We stablished 62 genes in GHT DEGs related to hypertensive phenotype hallmarks. In conclusion, even in women with a mild TSH increment, we were able to detect some DEGs that could be associated with a hypertensive phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa Harumy de Lima Hirata
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Antônio de Jesus Rocha
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Valdelena Alessandra da Silva
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Robson José de Almeida
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Dos Santos Bacigalupo
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Conjunto Hospitalar do Mandaqui, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Martins
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Humberto Dellê
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Cleber Pinto Camacho
- Molecular Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Abstract
IntroductionEye movement recordings can provide information about higher-level processing of visual information. Recent evidence shows a novel role for eye vergence in orienting attention (Solé Puig et al., 2013). Based on such eye tracking data, the BGaze method (Braingaze; Spain) detects visual attention. The outcomes of the BGaze method have been applied to classify ADHD patients from healthy controls.AimIn this study, we validated the BGaze method.ObjectiveWe therefore recorded eye movements in children while performing a visual detection task.MethodsWe evaluated the BGaze method using 4 types of supervised machine learning algorithms. In total, 138 different trained models were tested. Nineteen ADHD diagnosed patients (children 7–14 years of age) and 19 healthy age matched controls were used to build the 138 models. We performed 30 times repeated random sub-sampling validation. In each repeated random split, training set consisted of 80% of the data and test set of the remaining 20%. Finally, all the 138 models were tested with a validation set consisting of 232 children, including 22 ADHD patients.ResultsAcross all the 138 models, BGaze method showed an average accuracy of 90.84% (minimum 86.21%; maximum, 95.26%) and an average AUC of 0.95 (minimum 0.90; maximum, 0.97). Best models gave accuracies of 92%, AUCs of 0.96 and FN and FP rates of 4.3% and 7.5%, respectively. Mean scores during the training-testing phase averaged 99.63%.ConclusionThe BGaze method is robust, accurate, and can provide an objective tool supporting the clinical diagnosis of ADHD.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
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Varela P, Marlinghaus L, Sartori S, Viebahn R, Salber J, Ciardelli G. Response of Human Macrophages to Clinically Applied Wound Dressings Loaded With Silver. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:124. [PMID: 32158748 PMCID: PMC7051918 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Wound infections constitute an increasing clinical problem worldwide. To reverse this trend, several wound dressings with antimicrobial properties have been developed. Considering the increasing presence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, product developers have been focusing their efforts in introducing antibiotic-free antibacterial wound dressings to the market, with silver being the most commonly incorporated antimicrobial agent. In this scenario, gaining information about the microbial and eukaryotic cells’ response to these dressings is needed for a proper selection of antimicrobial dressings for the different cases of infected wounds. In particular, one insufficiently explored parameter is the effect of the dressings on the immunomodulation of macrophages, the main immune cell population participating in the repair process, because of their pivotal role in the transition of the inflammation to the proliferation phase of wound healing. In this work, three different clinically applied antimicrobial, silver impregnated wound dressings were selected: Atrauman® Ag, Biatain® Alginate Ag and PolyMem WIC Silver® Non-adhesive. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests (disk diffusion and broth dilution), cell viability evaluation (CellTiter-Blue®) and experiments to determine macrophage polarization (e.g., flow cytometry, ELISA and glucose uptake) were performed after 24 h of incubation. Among all products tested, Biatain® Alginate Ag induced the most evident bactericidal effect on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, followed by PolyMem WIC Silver® Non-adhesive, but did not show good cytocompatibility in vitro. On the other hand, Atrauman® Ag showed excellent cytocompatibility on L929 fibroblasts, HaCaT keratinocytes and THP-1 derived macrophages, but no significant antimicrobial activity was observed. Overall, it was confirmed that macrophages initiate, in fact, an alteration of their metabolism and phenotype in response to wound dressings of different composition in a short period of contact (24 h). M0 resting state macrophages common response to all silver-containing dressings used in this study was to increase the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine TGF-β, which indicates an acquisition of M2-like macrophages characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Varela
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy.,Department of Experimental Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Susanna Sartori
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Richard Viebahn
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jochen Salber
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Gianluca Ciardelli
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
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15
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Varela P, Mastroianni Kirsztajn G, Motta FL, Martin RP, Turaça LT, Ferrer HLF, Gomes CP, Nicolicht P, Mara Marins M, Pessoa JG, Braga MC, D'Almeida V, Martins AM, Pesquero JB. Correlation between GLA variants and alpha-Galactosidase A profile in dried blood spot: an observational study in Brazilian patients. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2020; 15:30. [PMID: 31996269 PMCID: PMC6990533 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-019-1274-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fabry disease is a rare X-linked inherited disorder caused by deficiency of α-Galactosidase A. Hundreds of mutations and non-coding haplotypes in the GLA gene have been described; however, many are variants of unknown significance, prompting doubts about the diagnosis and treatment. The α-Galactosidase A enzymatic activity in dried blood spot (DBS) samples are widely used for screening purposes; however, even when values below the normal are found, new tests are required to confirm the diagnosis. Here we describe an analysis of GLA variants and their correlation with DBS α-Galactosidase A enzymatic activity in a large Brazilian population with Fabry disease symptoms. RESULTS We analyzed GLA variants by DNA sequencing of 803 male patients with suspected Fabry disease or belonging to high-risk populations; in 179 individuals, 58 different exonic variants were detected. From these, 50 are variants described as pathogenic and eight described as variants of unknown significance. The other individuals presented complex non-coding haplotypes or had no variants. Interestingly, the enzymatic activity in DBS was different among pathogenic variants and the other genotypes, including variants of unknown significance; the first presented mean of 12% of residual activity, while the others presented levels above 70% of the activity found in healthy controls. CONCLUSION The activity of α-Galactosidase A in DBS was markedly reduced in males with known pathogenic variants when compared with subjects presenting variants of unknown significance, non-coding haplotypes, or without variants, indicating a possible non-pathogenic potential of these latter genotypes. These findings bring a better understanding about the biochemical results of α-Galactosidase A in DBS samples, as well as the possible non-pathogenic potential of non-coding haplotypes and variants of unknown significance in GLA gene. These results certainly will help clinicians to decide about the treatment of patients carrying variants in the gene causing this rare but life-threatening disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiana L Motta
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Renan P Martin
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil.,McKeusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine - Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lauro T Turaça
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Henrique L F Ferrer
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Caio P Gomes
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Priscila Nicolicht
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Maryana Mara Marins
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Juliana G Pessoa
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Marion C Braga
- Department of Psychobiology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Vânia D'Almeida
- Department of Psychobiology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Martins
- Reference Center in Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Pediatrics Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - João B Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 669 - 9o andar, São Paulo, 04039-032, Brazil.
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Varela P, Mastroianni Kirsztajn G, Ferrer H, Aranda C, Wallbach K, Ferreira da Mata G, Moura LA, Moreira SR, Mendes C, Curiati MA, Martins AM, Bosco Pesquero J. Functional Characterization and Pharmacological Evaluation of a Novel GLA Missense Mutation Found in a Severely Affected Fabry Disease Family. Nephron Clin Pract 2019; 144:147-155. [PMID: 31665721 DOI: 10.1159/000503998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fabry disease (FD) is a rare X-linked storage disorder resulting from the deficient activity of the lysosomal hydrolase α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A). Here we describe a 23-year-old man with FD possessing a novel mutation in the GLA gene, the evaluation of his family, and the functional characterization of the novel variant. METHODS Two generations of a family were screened for FD by clinical symptoms and low enzymatic activity. This step was followed by DNA sequencing that showed a novel GLA missense mutation. To confirm the pathogenicity potential of the mutation, we employed site-directed polymerase chain reaction mutagenesis. GLA wild-type and mutant plasmids were transfected into mammalian cells; RNA and proteins were extracted for expression and analysis of enzymatic activity. RESULTS The patient presents the variant p.Asn34Asp in the GLA and had several manifestations of FD since adolescence. The investigation of the deficiency of α-Gal A was initiated due to stage 4 of chronic kidney disease. All family members carrying the novel mutation presented early symptoms, including index case's mother, who received a renal transplant when she was 35 years old. In silico and in vitro analysis confirmed the pathogenic potential of the mutation p.Asn34Asp showing that the enzyme had only 4% of residual activity due to protein misfolding. The ability of the pharmacological chaperone 1-deoxygalactonojirimycin to recover the mutant was confirmed, producing 37.5% of residual activity. CONCLUSION In this work, we present a novel missense mutation in GLA that leads to the production of a catalytically competent α-Gal A, which is degraded before its delivery to the lysosome, promoting severe manifestations of FD, with a very similar disease course in affected men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Henrique Ferrer
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina Aranda
- Reference Center in Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Krissia Wallbach
- Reference Center in Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Ferreira da Mata
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz A Moura
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sílvia R Moreira
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carmen Mendes
- Reference Center in Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco A Curiati
- Reference Center in Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Martins
- Reference Center in Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,
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17
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Abstract
Fabry disease (FD) is a rare and underdiagnosed X-linked disorder resulting from the deficient activity of the lysosomal hydrolase α-galactosidase A, which leads to storage of complex glycosphingolipids inside of lysosomes in critical organs and tissues, impairing their functions and consequently resulting in a progressive multisystem disease. FD is caused by mutations in the GLA gene, and only 4.6% of described mutations are located in the splice site regions. RNA splicing is an essential step to the formation of functional proteins, and mutations in splice site regions can cause formation of aberrant transcripts leading to disease. Here we report a novel GLA insertion at position c.801+3 in intron 5 (c.801+2_801+3insT) in a Brazilian family with suspicion of FD. The index case, a 46-year-old male, presented undetectable α-galactosidase A activity. Analysis of blood cDNA found two aberrant GLA transcripts. In the first transcript, a novel donor splice site was created promoting formation of an intron inclusion with 37 bp. The splice site was not recognized in the second transcript and the intron 5 was not excised. The wild-type transcript was not formed and both aberrant transcripts lead to a premature stop codon. Despite not being in the canonical site, this new mutation disrupts existing 5’ splice site and produces two aberrant transcripts leading to FD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Varela
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - João Bosco Pesquero
- Center for Research and Molecular Diagnostic of Genetic Diseases - Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Varela P, Sartori S, Viebahn R, Salber J, Ciardelli G. Macrophage immunomodulation: An indispensable tool to evaluate the performance of wound dressing biomaterials. J Appl Biomater Funct Mater 2019; 17:2280800019830355. [PMID: 30808227 DOI: 10.1177/2280800019830355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A major burden of the healthcare system resides in providing proper medical treatment for all types of chronic wounds, which are usually treated with dressings to induce a faster regeneration. Hence, to reduce healing time and improve the patient's quality of life, it is extremely important to select the most appropriate constituent material for a specific wound dressing. A wide range of wound dressings exist but their mechanisms of action are poorly explored, especially concerning the immunomodulatory effects that occur from the interactions between immune cells and the biomaterial. Tissue-resident and monocyte-derived recruited macrophages are key regulators of wound repair. These phagocytic immune cells exert specific functions during the different stages of wound healing. The recognition of the substantial role of macrophages in the outcome of the wound healing process requires specific understanding of the immunomodulatory effects of commercially available or newly developed wound dressings. For a precise intervention, it is necessary to obtain more knowledge on macrophage polarization in different phases of wound healing in the presence of the dressings. The main purpose of this review is to collect clinical cases in which macrophage immunomodulation was taken into consideration as an indicator of the performances of novel or mainstream wound dressing materials, including those provided with antimicrobial properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Varela
- 1 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy.,2 Chirurgische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Susanna Sartori
- 1 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Richard Viebahn
- 2 Chirurgische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Jochen Salber
- 2 Chirurgische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Gianluca Ciardelli
- 1 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
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Tonda-Turo C, Ruini F, Ceresa C, Gentile P, Varela P, Ferreira AM, Fracchia L, Ciardelli G. Nanostructured scaffold with biomimetic and antibacterial properties for wound healing produced by ‘green electrospinning’. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2018; 172:233-243. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2018.08.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Varela P, Souza E, de Deus G, Duran-Sindreu F, Mercadé M. Effectiveness of complementary irrigation routines in debriding pulp tissue from root canals instrumented with a single reciprocating file. Int Endod J 2018; 52:475-483. [PMID: 30317653 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P. Varela
- Department of Endodontics; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
| | - E. Souza
- Department of Dentistry II; Federal University of Maranhão; São Luis Brazil
| | - G. de Deus
- Department of Endodontics; Grande Rio University; Duque de Caxias Brazil
| | - F. Duran-Sindreu
- Department of Endodontics; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
| | - M. Mercadé
- Department of Dentistry; Universitat de Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- IDIBELL Institute; Barcelona Spain
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Varela P, Silva A, Belo JH. Testing of the ITER plasma position reflectometry high-field side in-vessel antenna assembly prototype. Rev Sci Instrum 2018; 89:10H102. [PMID: 30399703 DOI: 10.1063/1.5036743] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The ITER plasma position reflectometry diagnostic aims to provide measurements of the edge plasma to correct or supplement the magnetics for plasma position control. It consists of five reflectometers, two of which have components installed inside the vessel. One of these systems probes the plasma from the high-field side using a bistatic array of small pyramidal horns located in the gap between two blankets. Electromagnetic simulations have shown that the blankets shape the radiation pattern and need to be considered as part of the antenna. Full-wave plasma simulations have confirmed these results and have also shown that the first-wall geometry may induce measurement errors above the required margin. To further address these issues, we manufactured a prototype of the high-field side antenna, which includes a mock-up of the blanket modules. Here, we present the results of the prototype tests, with and without the blankets, using a metallic mirror as a target. The signals reflected from the mirror are used to derive the mirror distance and assess the precision of the measurements under different arrangements. The sensitivity to the blankets' installation tolerances is also assessed by changing the antennas' position with respect to the blankets' surfaces and cut-outs.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Varela
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - J H Belo
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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22
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Luís R, Moutinho R, Quental P, Policarpo H, Varela P. Neutronics analysis of the in-vessel components of the ITER plasma-position reflectometry system on the low-field side. Fusion Engineering and Design 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2017.03.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Quental PB, Policarpo H, Luís R, Varela P. Thermal analysis of the in-vessel components of the ITER plasma-position reflectometry. Rev Sci Instrum 2016; 87:11E720. [PMID: 27910556 DOI: 10.1063/1.4960493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The ITER plasma position reflectometry system measures the edge electron density profile of the plasma, providing real-time supplementary contribution to the magnetic measurements of the plasma-wall distance. Some of the system components will be in direct sight of the plasma and therefore subject to plasma and stray radiation, which may cause excessive temperatures and stresses. In this work, thermal finite element analysis of the antenna and adjacent waveguides is conducted with ANSYS V17 (ANSYS® Academic Research, Release 17.0, 2016). Results allow the identification of critical temperature points, and solutions are proposed to improve the thermal behavior of the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- P B Quental
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - H Policarpo
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - R Luís
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - P Varela
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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Varela P, Belo JH, Quental PB. Performance assessment of the antenna setup for the ITER plasma position reflectometry in-vessel systems. Rev Sci Instrum 2016; 87:11E713. [PMID: 27910577 DOI: 10.1063/1.4961291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The design of the in-vessel antennas for the ITER plasma position reflectometry diagnostic is very challenging due to the need to cope both with the space restrictions inside the vacuum vessel and with the high mechanical and thermal loads during ITER operation. Here, we present the work carried out to assess and optimise the design of the antenna. We show that the blanket modules surrounding the antenna strongly modify its characteristics and need to be considered from the early phases of the design. We also show that it is possible to optimise the antenna performance, within the design restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Varela
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - J H Belo
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - P B Quental
- Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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Mesquita I, Varela P, Belinha A, Gaifem J, Laforge M, Vergnes B, Estaquier J, Silvestre R. Exploring NAD+ metabolism in host-pathogen interactions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 73:1225-36. [PMID: 26718485 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-2119-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(+)) is a vital molecule found in all living cells. NAD(+) intracellular levels are dictated by its synthesis, using the de novo and/or salvage pathway, and through its catabolic use as co-enzyme or co-substrate. The regulation of NAD(+) metabolism has proven to be an adequate drug target for several diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative or inflammatory diseases. Increasing interest has been given to NAD(+) metabolism during innate and adaptive immune responses suggesting that its modulation could also be relevant during host-pathogen interactions. While the maintenance of NAD(+) homeostatic levels assures an adequate environment for host cell survival and proliferation, fluctuations in NAD(+) or biosynthetic precursors bioavailability have been described during host-pathogen interactions, which will interfere with pathogen persistence or clearance. Here, we review the double-edged sword of NAD(+) metabolism during host-pathogen interactions emphasizing its potential for treatment of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Mesquita
- Microbiology and Infection Research Domain, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Varela
- Microbiology and Infection Research Domain, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana Belinha
- Microbiology and Infection Research Domain, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Joana Gaifem
- Microbiology and Infection Research Domain, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | | | - Baptiste Vergnes
- MIVEGEC (IRD 224-CNRS 5290-Université Montpellier), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Jérôme Estaquier
- CNRS FR 3636, Université Paris Descartes, 75006, Paris, France. .,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec, G1V 4G2, Canada.
| | - Ricardo Silvestre
- Microbiology and Infection Research Domain, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal. .,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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Ricardo E, Varela P, Silva A, Gonçalves B. Assessment and performance optimization of the ITER plasma position reflectometry in-vessel oversized waveguide bends. Fusion Engineering and Design 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2015.06.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Hernández-Carrión M, Varela P, Hernando I, Fiszman S, Quiles A. Persimmon milkshakes with enhanced functionality: Understanding consumers' perception of the concept and sensory experience of a functional food. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2014.10.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Marcano J, Varela P, Fiszman S. Relating the effects of protein type and content in increased-protein cheese pies to consumers’ perception of satiating capacity. Food Funct 2015; 6:532-41. [DOI: 10.1039/c4fo01019a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Increasing the protein content proved to be a good strategy for raising expectations on the satiating capacity of a cheese pie model.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Marcano
- Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA-CSIC)
- Valencia
- Spain
| | | | - S. Fiszman
- Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA-CSIC)
- Valencia
- Spain
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Carrillo E, Fiszman S, Lähteenmäki L, Varela P. Consumers’ perception of symbols and health claims as health-related label messages. A cross-cultural study. Food Res Int 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2014.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Fiszman S, Varela P, Díaz P, Linares M, Garrido M. What is satiating? Consumer perceptions of satiating foods and expected satiety of protein-based meals. Food Res Int 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2014.03.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Massa AF, Varela P, Osório-Ferreira E, Nora M, Couceiro A, Baptista A. Bullous pemphigoid in a patient with multiple sclerosis being treated with human immunoglobulin. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2014; 29:821-2. [PMID: 24588974 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A F Massa
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar de V.N.Gaia/Espinho, EPE, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
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Agudelo A, Varela P, Sanz T, Fiszman S. Native tapioca starch as a potential thickener for fruit fillings. Evaluation of mixed models containing low-methoxyl pectin. Food Hydrocoll 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2013.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Mitterer-Daltoé M, Carrillo E, Queiroz M, Fiszman S, Varela P. Structural equation modelling and word association as tools for a better understanding of low fish consumption. Food Res Int 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2013.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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35
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Fioretti C, Galán A, Moine R, Varela M, Varela P, Mouguelar H, Gigena S, Bonino F, Quinteros R, Natali J. Características Mecánicas Dinámicas de la Tibia Aislada de Perro Sometida a Prueba de Impacto. INT J MORPHOL 2013. [DOI: 10.4067/s0717-95022013000200033] [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: 11/17/2022]
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Mitterer-Daltoé M, Latorres J, Queiroz M, Fiszman S, Varela P. Reasons Underlying Low Fish Consumption Where Availability Is Not an Issue. A Case Study in Brazil, One of the World's Largest Fish Producers. J SENS STUD 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/joss.12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M.L. Mitterer-Daltoé
- Federal University of Rio Grande; Rio Grande Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
- CAPES Foundation; Ministry of Education of Brazil; Brasília Distrito Federal Brazil
| | - J.M. Latorres
- Federal University of Rio Grande; Rio Grande Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - M.I. Queiroz
- Federal University of Rio Grande; Rio Grande Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - S. Fiszman
- Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (CSIC); Avenida Agustín Escardino, 7 46980 Paterna Valencia Spain
| | - P. Varela
- Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (CSIC); Avenida Agustín Escardino, 7 46980 Paterna Valencia Spain
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Arocas A, Varela P, González-Miret ML, Salvador A, Heredia FJ, Fiszman SM. Differences in Colour Gamut Obtained with Three Synthetic Red Food Colourants Compared with Three Natural Ones: pH and Heat Stability. International Journal of Food Properties 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/10942912.2011.565537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Arocas
- IATA-CSIC, Agustin Escardino , Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - P. Varela
- IATA-CSIC, Agustin Escardino , Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ma Lourdes González-Miret
- Laboratory of Food Colour & Quality, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville , Spain
| | - A. Salvador
- IATA-CSIC, Agustin Escardino , Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - F. J. Heredia
- Laboratory of Food Colour & Quality, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville , Spain
| | - S. M. Fiszman
- IATA-CSIC, Agustin Escardino , Paterna, Valencia, Spain
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Carrillo E, Prado-Gascó V, Fiszman S, Varela P. How personality traits and intrinsic personal characteristics influence the consumer's choice of reduced-calorie food. Food Res Int 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2012.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Silva A, Varela P, Meneses L, Manso M. Novel mono-static arrangement of the ASDEX Upgrade high field side reflectometers compatible with electron cyclotron resonance heating stray radiation. Rev Sci Instrum 2012; 83:10E317. [PMID: 23130802 DOI: 10.1063/1.4732804] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The ASDEX Upgrade frequency modulated continuous wave broadband reflectometer system uses a mono-static antenna configuration with in-vessel hog-horns and 3 dB directional couplers. The operation of the new electron cyclotron resonance heating (ECRH) launcher and the start of collective Thomson scattering experiments caused several events where the fragile dummy loads inside the high field side directional couplers were damaged, due to excessive power resulting from the ECRH stray fields. In this paper, we present a non-conventional application of the existing three-port directional coupler that hardens the system to the ECRH stray fields and at the same time generates the necessary reference signal. Electromagnetic simulations and laboratory tests were performed to validate the proposed solution and are compared with the in-vessel calibration tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Silva
- Associação EURATOM/IST, Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
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Abstract
Despite the fact that density profile measurements using X-mode lower cut-off reflectometry are foreseen to be used on ITER, little or no experience is available within the reflectometry community and to our knowledge no results on this subject have been published so far. In ASDEX Upgrade the multichannel broadband reflectometer is equipped with both O- and X-mode channels. While X-mode operation was designed for upper cut-off reflection, it is observed that for both high magnetic field and high density discharges the lower cut-off becomes accessible. Here we present reflectometry measurements obtained in ASDEX Upgrade using X-mode lower cut-off and compare both the resulting group delay and density profile with O-mode measurements performed simultaneously over the same plasma region. The possible use of this comparison to provide estimates of the magnetic field is briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Varela
- Associação EURATOM/IST, Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
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Carrillo E, Varela P, Fiszman S. Packaging information as a modulator of consumers’ perception of enriched and reduced-calorie biscuits in tasting and non-tasting tests. Food Qual Prefer 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2012.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Valero-Hervás D, Morales P, Castro M, Varela P, Castillo-Rama M, Moreno E, Meneu J, Mora-Díaz S, Talayero P, Paz-Artal E. Complement C3 Genotyping of Slow and Fast Variants by Real Time PCR-High Resolution Melting. EUR J INFLAMM 2012. [DOI: 10.1177/1721727x1201000308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
“Slow” and “Fast” C3 complement variants (C3S and C3F) result from a g.304C>G polymorphism that changes arginine to glycine at position 102. C3 variants are associated with complement-mediated diseases and outcome in transplantation. In this work C3 genotyping is achieved by a Real Time PCR - High Resolution Melting (RT-PCR-HRM) optimized method. In an analysis of 49 subjects, 10.2% were C3FF, 36.7% were C3SF and 53.1% were C3SS. Allelic frequencies (70% for C3S and 30% for C3F) were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and similar to those published previously. When comparing RT-PCR-HRM with the currently used Tetraprimer-Amplification Refractory Mutation System PCR (T-ARMS-PCR), coincidence was 93.8%. The procedure shown here includes a single primer pair and low DNA amount per reaction. Detection of C3 variants by RT-PCR-HRM is accurate, easy, fast and low cost, and it may be the method of choice for C3 genotyping.
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Affiliation(s)
- D.M. Valero-Hervás
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
- Immunodeficiencies and Transplant Immunology, Institute for Research Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - P. Morales
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
- Immunodeficiencies and Transplant Immunology, Institute for Research Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - M.J. Castro
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
- Immunodeficiencies and Transplant Immunology, Institute for Research Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - P. Varela
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Castillo-Rama
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - E. Moreno
- Digestive and Abdominal Transplant Surgery, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - J.C. Meneu
- Digestive and Abdominal Transplant Surgery, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - S. Mora-Díaz
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - P. Talayero
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
- Immunodeficiencies and Transplant Immunology, Institute for Research Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - E. Paz-Artal
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
- Immunodeficiencies and Transplant Immunology, Institute for Research Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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Escosteguy-Neto JC, Fallopa P, Varela P, Filev R, Tabosa A, Santos-Junior JG. Electroacupuncture inhibits CB1 upregulation induced by ethanol withdrawal in mice. Neurochem Int 2012; 61:277-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2012.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Duarte R, Campainha S, Cotter J, Rosa B, Varela P, Correia A, Canhão H, Fonseca JE. Position paper on tuberculosis screening in patients with immune mediated inflammatory diseases candidates for biological therapy. Acta Reumatol Port 2012; 37:253-259. [PMID: 23348114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic immunosuppression is a known risk factor for tuberculosis. Our aim was to reach a consensus on screening and prevention of tuberculosis in patients with immune mediated inflammatory diseases candidates to biologic therapy. METHODS Critical appraisal of the literature and expert opinion on immunosuppressive therapies and risk of tuberculosis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The currently recommended method for screening is the tuberculin skin test and the interferon gamma assay, after exclusion of active tuberculosis. Positively screened patients should be treated for latent tuberculosis infection. Patients may start biological therapy after 1 to 2 months, as long as they are strictly adhering to and tolerating their preventive regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Duarte
- Centro de Referência de Tuberculose Multi-resistente da Região Norte.
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Balo-Otero J, Villasenin C, Rivas-Mundina B, Martin B, Varela P. Comparison of the damage in root dentine during the rotatory Instrumentation with Universal Protaper vs WaveOne. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal 2012. [DOI: 10.4317/medoral.17643823] [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: 11/05/2022] Open
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Abstract
UNLABELLED The present study analyzed the nutritional knowledge of Spanish consumers and its relationship with the correct use of food labels. Consumers were asked about their nutritional knowledge and some functional foods and about their understanding of food labeling and their use of it to select healthy food. A 2-part questionnaire was employed. The 1st part concerned their knowledge of nutritional facts, including their knowledge about macronutrients and perception of certain functional foods, while the 2nd part addressed some questions regarding food labels. The results revealed no statistically significant differences in nutritional knowledge by either age or gender, but a direct relationship with educational level. The association between nutritional knowledge and the perception and understanding of food labeling showed that the nutritional label rarely influenced the food purchases of the group with low nutritional knowledge, who considered that this information was too technical. More than half of the consumers did not consider the calorie or sugar content important for selecting food. In addition, the group with low nutritional knowledge stated that they never or rarely looked at the food labels to check whether it was low-fat food that they were buying. PRACTICAL APPLICATION Knowing the status of the consumer's nutritional knowledge allows health campaigns to be designed; considering the influence of cultural factors and the perception of food labeling is very useful for promoting better nutritional information.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Carrillo
- Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Paterna (Valencia), Spain
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Fioretti C, Natali J, Galán A, Rivera MC, Moine R, Varela P, Varela M, Bonino F, Quinteros R. Características Mecánicas Dinámicas del Fémur Aislado de Perro, Sometido a Prueba de Impacto. INT J MORPHOL 2011. [DOI: 10.4067/s0717-95022011000300009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Varela P, Silva A, da Silva F, da Graça S, Manso ME, Conway GD. Improved time-frequency analysis of ASDEX Upgrade reflectometry data using the reassigned spectrogram technique. Rev Sci Instrum 2010; 81:10D925. [PMID: 21061480 DOI: 10.1063/1.3499636] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The spectrogram is one of the best-known time-frequency distributions suitable to analyze signals whose energy varies both in time and frequency. In reflectometry, it has been used to obtain the frequency content of FM-CW signals for density profile inversion and also to study plasma density fluctuations from swept and fixed frequency data. Being implemented via the short-time Fourier transform, the spectrogram is limited in resolution, and for that reason several methods have been developed to overcome this problem. Among those, we focus on the reassigned spectrogram technique that is both easily automated and computationally efficient requiring only the calculation of two additional spectrograms. In each time-frequency window, the technique reallocates the spectrogram coordinates to the region that most contributes to the signal energy. The application to ASDEX Upgrade reflectometry data results in better energy concentration and improved localization of the spectral content of the reflected signals. When combined with the automatic (data driven) window length spectrogram, this technique provides improved profile accuracy, in particular, in regions where frequency content varies most rapidly such as the edge pedestal shoulder.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Varela
- Associação EURATOM/IST, Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear-Laboratório Associado, Instituto Superior Técnico, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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