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P-105 A UNIQUE AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO ABDOMINAL DEFECT CORRECTION AFTER TRAM FLAP. Br J Surg 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znac308.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Aim
The Transverse Rectus Myocutaneous (TRAM) flap is a valid option in autologous breast reconstruction with acceptable aesthetic results, but the absence of the rectus muscle can be responsible for the discomfort and functional lost caused be the asymmetry of the abdominal wall with a slight bulge. It's also described that incisional hernias can develop following TRAM, and the management is often challenging. We want to present a case of a multidisciplinary surgery with immediate correction of the abdominal defect after the TRAM flap.
Material and Methods
We describe a case of a woman who, at the same surgical time, underwent skin-sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction with a TRAM flap and correction of the muscle defect of the abdominal wall with transverse abdominis release (TAR) with placement of a wide, macroporous polypropylene mesh with 48mg/m2 density in a retromuscular position.
Results
The association of the TAR with the placement of a wide mesh retromuscular allows a greater containment of intraabdominal force, with less bulging and better aesthetic results at the muscle donor site.
Conclusion
The correction of the muscle defect should be considered at the same time of the TRAM flap. The multidisciplinary approach in these cases can reduce the patient's surgical morbidity and allow better aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Note: we use a DIPROMED®, BULEVB5050 mesh
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Computer vision-based system for early diagnosis of stereoscopic vision alterations. Inform Health Soc Care 2022; 48:165-180. [PMID: 35822283 DOI: 10.1080/17538157.2022.2086464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Stereopsis is the three-dimensional perception capability, which is possible when binocular vision is present. Development of binocular vision system ends around 7-year-old, and after this time brain connections are already set, therefore, it will be difficult to recover stereopsis. Early diagnosis of Stereoscopic Visual Alterations (SVA) in the childhood is paramount to receive an appropriate treatment as soon as possible. Currently, to detect SVA, ophthalmologists commonly carry out tests based on cards. All these tests are based on the random-dot-stereogram principle, with different seconds of arc images, which allows doctors to graduate stereopsis. Some limits of this tests have been identified, such as monocular clues (e.g., the contours of the objects), or the non-standardized range levels depending on the test. This paper presents a novel concept of measuring stereopsis based on computer vision techniques. The system detects SVA in patients and calculates the degree of the perceived depth. As early diagnosis of SVA may suppose a therapeutic possibility, this platform is aimed at children by using stereoscopic models with varied and attractive designs. To validate the proposal, an early-stage prototype has been implemented and an objective evaluation of the measurement accuracy and reliability has been carried out with satisfactory results.
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Secretome profile of Cellulomonas sp. B6 growing on lignocellulosic substrates. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 126:811-825. [PMID: 30554465 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Lignocellulosic biomass deconstruction is a bottleneck for obtaining biofuels and value-added products. Our main goal was to characterize the secretome of a novel isolate, Cellulomonas sp. B6, when grown on residual biomass for the formulation of cost-efficient enzymatic cocktails. METHODS AND RESULTS We identified 205 potential CAZymes in the genome of Cellulomonas sp. B6, 91 of which were glycoside hydrolases (GH). By secretome analysis of supernatants from cultures in either extruded wheat straw (EWS), grinded sugar cane straw (SCR) or carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), we identified which proteins played a role in lignocellulose deconstruction. Growth on CMC resulted in the secretion of two exoglucanases (GH6 and GH48) and two GH10 xylanases, while growth on SCR or EWS resulted in the identification of a diversity of CAZymes. From the 32 GHs predicted to be secreted, 22 were identified in supernatants from EWS and/or SCR cultures, including endo- and exoglucanases, xylanases, a xyloglucanase, an arabinofuranosidase/β-xylosidase, a β-glucosidase and an AA10. Surprisingly, among the xylanases, seven were GH10. CONCLUSIONS Growth of Cellulomonas sp. B6 on lignocellulosic biomass induced the secretion of a diverse repertoire of CAZymes. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Cellulomonas sp. B6 could serve as a source of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes applicable to bioprocessing and biotechnological industries.
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Tackling frailty and functional decline: Background of the action group A3 of the European innovation partnership for active and healthy ageing. Maturitas 2018; 115:69-73. [PMID: 30049350 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Ageing populations represent a challenge to the sustainability of current healthcare systems. The need to balance these demographic changes with gains in healthy life years and quality of life (QoL) constitutes an additional challenge. Aware of this, the European Commission (EC) launched the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIPonAHA) in 2012. The EIPonAHA is an interdisciplinary and cross-sector initiative involving more than 3000 partners with two specific objectives: to increase the healthy life expectancy of Europeans by two years by 2020, while increasing their QoL. The initiatives of the EIPonAHA have been organized according to six thematic action groups (AGs), with the A3 group targeting areas relating to the prevention of functional decline and frailty. In addition to the good practices of partners, there are several on-going collaborative works. The involvement of the EC includes support through an elaborated research programme in which the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency (CHAFEA) and the Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CONNECT) are the main funding bodies. Screening approaches and preventive interventions constitute most of the initiatives within the A3 AG. Partners are distributed across five sub-groups according to good practices: i) cognitive decline, ii) food and nutrition, iii) physical activity, iv) caregivers, and v) frailty and functional decline. Regular updates of the progression of both good practices and collaborative works are presented in A3 AG meetings. The 2017 meeting in Valencia, Spain, showcased in this paper, provides an up-to-date overview of the current status of A3 activities.
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A soluble inorganic pyrophosphatase from the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus capable of hydrolysing polyphosphates. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 27:260-267. [PMID: 29271528 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Polyphosphates have been found in all cell types examined to date and play diverse roles depending on the cell type. In eukaryotic organisms, polyphosphates have been investigated mainly in mammalian cells, and only a few studies have addressed arthropods. Pyrophosphatases have been shown to regulate polyphosphate metabolism. However, these studies were restricted to trypanosomatids. Here we focus on the tick Rhipicephalus microplus, a haematophagous ectoparasite that is highly harmful to cattle. We produced a recombinant R. microplus pyrophosphatase (rRmPPase) with the aim of investigating its kinetic parameters using polyphosphates as substrate. Molecular docking assays of RmPPase with polyphosphates were also carried out. The kinetic and Hill coefficient parameters indicated that rRmPPase has a greater affinity, higher catalytic efficiency and increased cooperativity for sodium phosphate glass type 15 (polyP15 ) than for sodium tripolyphosphate (polyP3 ). Through molecular docking, we found that polyP3 binds close to the Mg2+ atoms in the catalytic region of the protein, participating in their coordination network, whereas polyP15 interactions involve negatively charged phosphate groups and basic amino acid residues, such as Lys56, Arg58 and Lys193; polyP15 has a more favourable theoretical binding affinity than polyP3 , thus supporting the kinetic data. This study shows, for the first time in arthropods, a pyrophosphatase with polyphosphatase activity, suggesting its participation in polyphosphate metabolism.
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Identification of the novel HLA-B*57:91
allele, by next-generation sequencing in a Spanish individual. HLA 2017; 91:69-70. [DOI: 10.1111/tan.13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Alzheimer's disease: can the retina be a window to the brain? Acta Ophthalmol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2017.01564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Acute macular neuroretinopathy type 2: an unusual case. Acta Ophthalmol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2017.0f045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cognitive and hedonic responses to meal ingestion correlate with changes in circulating metabolites. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2016; 28:1806-1814. [PMID: 27271780 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have previously shown that meal ingestion induces cognitive perception (sensations) with a hedonic dimension (well-being) that depends on the characteristics of the meal and the appropriateness of the digestive response. The aim of the present study is to identify metabolomic biomarkers of the cognitive response to meal ingestion. METHODS In 18 healthy subjects, the response to a test meal (Edanec, 1 kcal/mL) ingested until maximum satiation (50 mL/min) was assessed. Perception measurements and blood samples were taken before, at the end of the meal, and 20 min after ingestion. The cognitive response and the hedonic dimension were measured on 10 cm scales. Metabolomic analysis was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and values of triglycerides, insulin, peptide YY (PYY), and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) were determined using conventional laboratory techniques. KEY RESULTS Ingestion up to maximum satiation induced sensation of fullness and decreased digestive well-being. The total amount ingested by each subject correlated with the basal sensation of hunger, but not with other sensations or blood metabolite levels. Immediately after ingestion, satiation correlated with an increase in glucose (R = 0.49; p = 0.038) and valine levels (R = 0.48; p = 0.043). Twenty-minutes after finalizing ingestion, triglyceride levels had significantly increased which correlated with the recovery in well-being (R = 0.48; p = 0.046) and the decrease in desire to eat a food of choice (R = -0.56; p = 0.016). The increase in lipids inversely correlated with abdominal discomfort (R = -0.51; p = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Cognitive and hedonic responses to meal ingestion correlate with changes in circulating metabolites, which may serve as objective biomarkers of perception.
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EyeOP1 as a novel non-invasive surgical treatment of glaucoma: an Italian multicenter study. Acta Ophthalmol 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2016.0450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Early hydroxychloroquine retinal toxicity enhanced by multifocal electroretinogram and laser flare-cell meter. Acta Ophthalmol 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2016.0312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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High Grade Cellular Rejection and Infection Post Heart Transplantation: Is There a Link? J Heart Lung Transplant 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.01.546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Mild cognitive decline. A position statement of the Cognitive Decline Group of the European Innovation Partnership for Active and Healthy Ageing (EIPAHA). Maturitas 2015; 83:83-93. [PMID: 26520249 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2015.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a term used to describe a level of decline in cognition which is seen as an intermediate stage between normal ageing and dementia, and which many consider to be a prodromal stage of neurodegeneration that may become dementia. That is, it is perceived as a high risk level of cognitive change. The increasing burden of dementia in our society, but also our increasing understanding of its risk factors and potential interventions, require diligent management of MCI in order to find strategies that produce effective prevention of dementia. AIM To update knowledge regarding mild cognitive impairment, and to bring together and appraise evidence about the main features of clinical interest: definitions, prevalence and stability, risk factors, screening, and management and intervention. METHODS Literature review and consensus of expert opinion. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION MCI describes a level of impairment in which deteriorating cognitive functions still allow for reasonable independent living, including some compensatory strategies. While there is evidence for some early risk factors, there is still a need to more precisely delineate and distinguish early manifestations of frank dementia from cognitive impairment that is less likely to progress to dementia, and furthermore to develop improved prospective evidence for positive response to intervention. An important limitation derives from the scarcity of studies that take MCI as an endpoint. Strategies for effective management suffer from the same limitation, since most studies have focused on dementia. Behavioural changes may represent the most cost-effective approach.
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Reduced Incidence of Cytomegalovirus Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients Receiving Everolimus and Reduced Tacrolimus Doses. Am J Transplant 2015; 15:2655-64. [PMID: 25988935 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This study compared the incidence of CMV infection/disease in de novo kidney transplant recipients receiving everolimus or mycophenolate and no CMV pharmacological prophylaxis. We randomized 288 patients to receive a single 3 mg/kg dose of antithymocyte globulin, tacrolimus, everolimus, and prednisone (r-ATG/EVR, n = 85); basiliximab, tacrolimus, everolimus, and prednisone (BAS/EVR, n = 102); or basiliximab, tacrolimus, mycophenolate, and prednisone (BAS/MPS, n = 101). The primary end-point was the incidence of first CMV infection/disease in the intention-to-treat population at 12 months. Patients treated with r-ATG/EVR showed a 90% proportional reduction (4.7% vs. 37.6%, HR 0.10, 95% CI 0.037-0.29; p < 0.001), while those treated with BAS/EVR showed a 75% proportional reduction (10.8% vs. 37.6%, HR 0.25, 95% CI 0.13-0.48; p < 0.001) in the incidence of CMV infection/disease compared to BAS/MPS. There were no differences in the incidence of acute rejection (9.4 vs. 18.6 vs. 15.8%, p = 0.403), wound-healing complications, delayed graft function, and proteinuria. Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was lower in BAS/EVR (65.7 ± 21.8 vs. 60.6 ± 20.9 vs. 69.5 ± 21.5 ml/min, p = 0.021). In de novo kidney transplant recipients receiving no pharmacological CMV prophylaxis, reduced-dose tacrolimus and everolimus was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of CMV infection/disease compared to standard tacrolimus dose and mycophenolate (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01354301).
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Digestive, cognitive and hedonic responses to a meal. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2015; 27:389-96. [PMID: 25557693 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gut dysfunctions may be associated to digestive symptoms. We hypothesized that the gut can also originate pleasant sensations, and wished to demonstrate the hedonic component of the digestive response to a meal. METHODS Healthy subjects (n = 42) were evaluated during basal fasting conditions and during experimentally induced fullness sensation (either by gastric distension or duodenal nutrient infusion). In each set of studies, a 240 mL test meal (12 kcal broth) and water, as inert control meal, were administered on separate days in a randomized, cross-over design. Gastric accommodation, the cognitive response and the hedonic dimension (both by 10 score scales) were measured 9 min before and 60 min after the meal. KEY RESULTS In basal conditions, the test meal induced a significantly greater gastric relaxation than the control meal (166 ± 28 mL isotonic volume increase 67 ± 14 mL; p = 0.002). Both meals induced epigastric fullness (3.8 ± 0.7 score and 3.2 ± 0.8 score, respectively; p = 0.740), but contrary to the inert meal, with the active meal this conscious sensation had a pleasant dimension (digestive comfort increase by 1.3 ± 0.6 score with active meal vs -1.1 ± 0.6 decrease with inert meal; p = 0.015). Experimentally induced fullness was associated to a decrease in digestive well-being or abdominal discomfort, which improved only after the active meal but not the inert meal. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES When appropriate conditions are met, the response to a meal includes a hedonic dimension involving pleasant sensation of digestive well-being.
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Fiebre recurrente transmitida por garrapatas en área rural del sur de España. An Pediatr (Barc) 2015; 82:e73-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2013.10.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
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Minor H antigen matches and mismatches are equally distributed among recipients with or without complications after HLA identical sibling renal transplantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 82:312-6. [DOI: 10.1111/tan.12209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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AB0632 Efficacy of hydroxychloroquine therapy on whole salivary components in patients with primary sjogren’s syndrome. Ann Rheum Dis 2013. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2012-eular.632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Structure-Activity Relationships for Sorption of Alkyl Trimethyl Ammonium Compounds on Activated Sludge. TENSIDE SURFACT DET 2013. [DOI: 10.3139/113.100229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Association of quaternary ammonium based surfactants with activated sludge from wastewater treatment plants has been studied. Adsorption isotherms on activated sludge particles and surface properties of a series of alkyl trimethyl ammonium compounds have been investigated. The effect of alkyl chain length and the water hardness in those physical-chemical properties have been evaluated. Adsorption on sludge increased with increasing the alkyl chain length in the cationic surfactant molecule. Linear relationships between critical micelle concentration (-log CMC) and efficiency of adsorption at the liquid/gas interface (pC20), and the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chain length were found for the alkyl trimethyl ammonium compounds. Water hardness decreased the CMC values of the tested alkyl trimethyl ammonium homologues and the extent of their sorption to activated sludge. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms described satisfactorily the equilibrium adsorption of the cationic surfactants on activated sludge.
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Video endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy: surgical and oncological results. Actas Urol Esp 2013; 37:305-10. [PMID: 23433745 DOI: 10.1016/j.acuro.2012.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We evaluated the reproducibility of video endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (VEIL) and we report our initial experience in the treatment of penile cancer with palpable inguinal lymph nodes. MATERIAL AND METHODS From July 2006 to November 2010 were conducted 33 VEIL in 20 patients as complementary treatment for penile cancer in two referral hospitals in Latin America. We analyzed the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients and surgical and oncologic outcomes. RESULTS Fifty-five percent of the patients included were clinical stage N0 and 45% were N +. Thirteen patients underwent bilateral VEIL and the remaining seven underwent VEIL unilateral and conventional open surgery in the contralateral limb. The average operative time for VEIL was 119 minutes and mean resected lymph nodes was 8 per lymphadenectomy. The overall complication rate was 33.2%. No patient had skin necrosis. The lymphatic complication rate was 27.2%. Of the 6 cases in which the saphenous vein was preserved (18.2%) there were no lymphatic complications (P=,2). The overall survival rate was 80% and cancer-specific survival was 90%. Mean follow-up was 20 months. CONCLUSIONS VEIL in the adjunctive treatment of penile cancer is safe, reproducible and may be an alternative to conventional lymphadenectomy. Patients with palpable lymphadenopathy also may benefit from this technique. Oncological results seem to be adequate however require longer follow-up to be confirmed.
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Building PulseNet Latin America and Caribbean Salmonella regional database: First conclusions of genetic subtypes of S. Typhi, S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis circulating in six countries of the region. Food Res Int 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2011.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Magnifying lens for 800 MeV proton radiography. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2011; 82:103709. [PMID: 22047305 DOI: 10.1063/1.3652974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This article describes the design and performance of a magnifying magnetic-lens system designed, built, and commissioned at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) for 800 MeV flash proton radiography. The technique of flash proton radiography has been developed at LANL to study material properties under dynamic loading conditions through the analysis of time sequences of proton radiographs. The requirements of this growing experimental program have resulted in the need for improvements in spatial radiographic resolution. To meet these needs, a new magnetic lens system, consisting of four permanent magnet quadrupoles, has been developed. This new lens system was designed to reduce the second order chromatic aberrations, the dominant source of image blur in 800 MeV proton radiography, as well as magnifying the image to reduce the blur contribution from the detector and camera systems. The recently commissioned lens system performed as designed, providing nearly a factor of three improvement in radiographic resolution.
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Assessment of routine malaria diagnosis in the Venezuelan Amazon. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2011; 105:262-8. [PMID: 21376357 DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Revised: 01/13/2011] [Accepted: 01/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The quality of routine malaria diagnosis is a crucial topic of malaria control. The aim of this assessment was to monitor and evaluate the quality of routine malaria diagnosis in Amazonas (Venezuela) and to improve the quality control system. The traditional non-blinded quality control system was found to be overburdened with diagnostic samples. A modified sampling system with fewer samples to be tested was proposed. Expert microscopists blindly double-checked 1000 slides and 550 rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) (OptiMAL-IT) from health posts (HP). For Plasmodium vivax, HP microscopy and OptiMAL-IT showed sensitivies of 86% and 63%, respectively. For P. falciparum, HP microscopy and OptiMAL-IT showed sensitivities of 68% and 89%, respectively. Both methods lost accuracy when fewer parasites occurred in the sample. HP microscopists from different municipalities displayed significant differences in diagnostic quality. Overall, quality of routine malaria diagnosis in the Venezuelan Amazon is good but not optimal. The change from the traditional non-blinded quality control system to blinded cross-checking of a minimal selection of samples is - comparatively - a low cost intervention with possibly high impact on the quality of routine malaria diagnosis. The introduction of RDTs should be discussed carefully in order not to displace an existing network of HP microscopists.
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Disruption of sarcolemmal dystrophin and β-dystroglycan may be a potential mechanism for myocardial dysfunction in severe sepsis. Crit Care 2010. [PMCID: PMC3254972 DOI: 10.1186/cc9157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Impaired Il-10 Production in Response to Bacterial Stimuli But Not Bifidobacterium Colonization in Neonate is Associated with Eczema in 7 Months of Age. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2008.12.1077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Feasibility study of the anaerobic digestion of dewatered pig slurry by means of polyacrylamide. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2008; 99:387-95. [PMID: 17276675 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2006.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2004] [Revised: 09/20/2006] [Accepted: 12/06/2006] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Liquid livestock waste can be managed by separating liquid and solid fractions then treating each separately by applying best available technology, such as anaerobic digestion for the solid fraction. There is an increasing use of polyacrylamide (PAM) as a flocculant agent to improve solid-liquid separation. In the present work, the anaerobic toxicity of PAM residues and the optimal range of total solids concentration for maximum methane production were studied as a function of PAM dosage. Results showed that dry matter and its volatile solids content increased significantly with increasing PAM dosage. Batch anaerobic tests showed that methane yield decreased linearly with increasing total solids, while the methane production per unit of raw substrate reached a maximum at 16.4% total solids. No PAM toxicity was measured for PAM concentrations below 415 g/kg total solids, but some indirect inhibitory phenomena were observed, such as a limited hydrolysis rate due to particle aggregation, and inhibition of methanogenesis by high ammonia concentration.
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Biodegradability and ecotoxicity of amine oxide based surfactants. CHEMOSPHERE 2007; 69:1574-8. [PMID: 17631946 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2007.05.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2006] [Revised: 05/23/2007] [Accepted: 05/23/2007] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The aerobic and anaerobic biodegradability as well as the aquatic toxicity of two fatty amine oxides and one fatty amido amine oxide were investigated. Aerobic biodegradation was evaluated using the CO(2) headspace test (ISO 14593) and biodegradation under anaerobic conditions was assessed employing a standardised batch test. The three amine oxide based surfactants tested were readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions but only the alkyl amido amine oxide was found to be easily biodegradable under anaerobic conditions. Toxicity to Photobacterium phosphoreum and Daphnia magna was evaluated. Bacteria (EC(50) from 0.11 to 11 mg l(-1)) proved to be more sensitive to the toxic effects of the amine oxide based surfactants than crustacea (IC(50) from 6.8 to 45 mg l(-1)). The fatty amido amine oxide showed the lowest aquatic toxicity.
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Abstract
The SHARON process allows partial nitrification of wastewaters with high ammonium content and, when coupled with the Anammox process, represents a more sustainable alternative for N-removal than a conventional nitrification-denitrification. In this work, a mathematical model describing a continuously aerated SHARON reactor is presented. Special attention was given to the pH, because it affects substrates availability and inhibition phenomena, implementing an algorithm for its calculation. Since ammonium-oxidizing and nitrite-oxidizing organisms are inhibited by their own substrates, ammonia and nitrous acid respectively, Haldane kinetics was used in both nitrification steps. A preliminary evaluation of the model using historical experimental data generated in a lab-scale SHARON reactor, fed with synthetic substrate, is also presented, corroborating that the quality of the obtained effluent is highly dependent on pH.
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Cr(VI) and Cr(VI)-diphenylcarbazide removal from aqueous solutions using an iron rotating disc electrode. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2007; 28:1-9. [PMID: 17283943 DOI: 10.1080/09593332808618758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents the results of the investigation on the removal of Cr(VI) and the complex Cr(VI)-diphenylcarbazide from aqueous solutions using an electrochemical reactor, with iron electrodes. A maximum value of 99% Cr(VI) removal from aqueous solutions is observed for both Cr(VI) and Cr(VI)-diphenylcarbazide, at initial concentrations from 150 to 800 mg l(-1). Cyclic voltammetry experiments of water show the presence of electroactive species in the oxidation and reduction zones previous to the treatment and how this presence diminishes as the electrochemical treatment is applied to the wastewater. UV-Vis analyses corroborate the improvement on the quality of aqueous solutions treated. Finally, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersion spectra show that Cr and Fe are present as constituents of the sludge formed during the electrochemical treatment. It was demonstrated that the use of electrochemical methods for the treatment of Cr(VI) and Cr(VI)-diphenylcarbazide aqueous solutions is an effective and economical method.
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Effect of linear alkylbenzene sulphonates (LAS) on the anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge. WATER RESEARCH 2006; 40:2958-64. [PMID: 16844184 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2006.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2005] [Revised: 05/11/2006] [Accepted: 05/18/2006] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Batch anaerobic biodegradation tests with different alkylbenzene sulphonates (LAS) at increasing concentrations were performed in order to investigate the effect of LAS homologues on the anaerobic digestion process of sewage sludge. Addition of LAS homologues to the anaerobic digesters increased the biogas production at surfactant concentrations 5-10 g/kg dry sludge and gave rise to a partial or total inhibition of the methanogenic activity at higher surfactant loads. Therefore, at the usual LAS concentration range in sewage sludge, no adverse effects on the anaerobic digesters functioning of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) can be expected. The increase of biogas production at low surfactant concentrations was attributed to an increase of the bioavailability and subsequent biodegradation of organic pollutants associated with the sludge, promoted by the surfactant adsorption at the solid/liquid interface. When the available surfactant fraction in the aqueous phase instead of the nominal surfactant concentration was used to evaluate the toxicity of LAS homologues, a highly significant relationship between toxicity and alkyl chain length was obtained. Taking into account the homologue distribution of commercial LAS in the liquid phase of the anaerobic digesters of a WWTP, an EC(50) value of 14 mg/L can be considered for LAS toxicity on the anaerobic microorganisms.
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Solid phase reduction of 99mTcO 4− with zinc : A method for the preparation of difficult 99m complexes. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2006. [DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.2580271113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Relationship between glutathione S-transferase, catalase, oxygen consumption, lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in eggs and larvae of Boophilus microplus (Acarina: Ixodidae). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2006; 146:688-94. [PMID: 16798037 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2006.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2006] [Revised: 04/20/2006] [Accepted: 04/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are enzymes that act in excretion of physiologic and xenobiotic substances, protecting cells against chemical toxicity and stress. In this work, we characterized the enzymatic activity of GST in eggs and larvae of cattle tick Boophilus microplus, on different days after oviposition and eclosion. The results showed that the GST activity varied depending on the time elapsed after oviposition and eclosion. Molecules involved in mechanism of protection from oxidative stress are correlated with the increase in GST activity. The oxygen consumption kinetics showed a positive correlation with the increase in GST activity during embryogenesis. A high content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were observed in egg and larva extracts, indicating that ticks face high oxidative stress during embryogenesis and aging. In eggs and larvae, GST activity can be correlated to kinetic parameters of oxidative stress such as catalase and glutathione. In addition, GST activity showed strong positive correlation with lipid peroxidation, an indication that it plays a role in oxidant defences in eggs.
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Rezende E, Ísola A, Silva Júnior J, Urtado P, Magno L, Campos E, Nunes A, Sanches L, Mendes C. Crit Care 2006; 10:P115. [DOI: 10.1186/cc4462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Anaerobic digestion of linear alkyl benzene sulfonates: biodegradation kinetics and metabolite analysis. CHEMOSPHERE 2005; 60:1636-43. [PMID: 16083770 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2005.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2004] [Revised: 02/01/2005] [Accepted: 02/14/2005] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In the present work the effect of the alkyl chain length and the position of the sulfophenyl substituent of the linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) on their anaerobic biodegradability have been investigated. Degradation kinetics of the linear alkyl benzene sulfonates homologues, 2phiC10LAS, 2phiC12LAS and 2phiC14LAS, have been studied. It has been also investigated the effect of the isomer type on the degradation rate of the LAS molecule through the comparative study of the 2phiC10LAS and 5phiC10LAS isomers. Batch anaerobic biodegradation tests were performed using sludge from the anaerobic digester of a wastewater treatment plant as microorganisms source. Ultimate biodegradation was evaluated from the biogas production whereas primary biodegradation was determined by specific analysis of the surfactant. LAS homologues and isomers showed a negligible primary biodegradation under anaerobic conditions. Furthermore, analysis of sulfophenyl carboxilates (SPC) by LC-MS indicated a low and constant level of these LAS degradation metabolites over the test period. These data are consistent with a minimal transformation of the LAS parent molecule in the anaerobic digesters. On the other hand, the addition of the shortest alkyl chain length homologues, decyl and dodecylbenzene sulfonates, reduces the biogas production whereas the most hydrophobic homologue, the tetradecylbenzene sulfonate, enhances the biogas production. This LAS homologue seems to increase the availability of organic compounds sorbed on the anaerobic sludge promoting their biodegradation.
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Clinical efficacy and safety of telmisartan 80 mg once daily compared with enalapril 20 mg once daily in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension: results of a multicentre study. Int J Clin Pract 2005:23-8. [PMID: 15617455 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-1241.2004.00406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficacy and safety of once-daily telmisartan 80 mg vs. once-daily enalapril 20 mg in the treatment of essential hypertension were evaluated in a multicentre, single-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial. In total, 68 patients (49 females, 19 males) with mild-to-moderate hypertension, defined as morning supine systolic blood pressure (SBP) 141-149 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) 95-114 mmHg, were enrolled. After a 4-week placebo run-in phase, patients were randomly assigned to treatment with telmisartan or enalapril administered once daily in the morning for 8 weeks. No statistically significant differences were found in the baseline characteristics of patients in either group. Both SBP and DBP were decreased in both treatment groups, but the reductions were statistically different in favour of telmisartan (SBP, p = 0.013; DBP, p = 0.002). The incidence of adverse effects was lower in the telmisartan group, with the absence of cough. In conclusion, telmisartan is more effective and better tolerated than enalapril for the treatment of hypertension and has the advantage that it does not cause cough.
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Enfermedad de Mondor. Descripción de un caso clínico. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN GINECOLOGIA Y OBSTETRICIA 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/s0210-573x(05)73471-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Clinical efficacy and safety of telmisartan 80 mg once daily vs. atenolol 50 mg once daily in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension. Int J Clin Pract 2004:35-9. [PMID: 15617457 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-1241.2004.00408.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this open-label, parallel-group comparative study was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of once-daily treatment for 8 weeks with telmisartan 80 mg in comparison with atenolol 50 mg on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension (morning supine SBP 141-199 mmHg, DBP 95-114 mmHg). A total of 58 patients were enrolled. The comparability of the two treatment groups was statistically documented at the beginning of the study. Telmisartan was more effective than atenolol, with a decrease in SBP of 21.7 mmHg vs. 11.8 mmHg (p = 0.03) and a non-significant decrease in DBP of 14.7 mmHg vs. 10.1 mmHg. The safety profiles of both drugs were very similar; both drugs were well tolerated. In conclusion, once-daily telmisartan 80 mg is more effective than once-daily atenolol 50 mg in lowering SBP with no negative chronotropism. Furthermore, telmisartan was as well tolerated as atenolol in the treatment of mild-to-moderate essential hypertension in adults.
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Multimodal synchronization of chaos. CHAOS (WOODBURY, N.Y.) 2004; 14:48-54. [PMID: 15003044 DOI: 10.1063/1.1624651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
An elementary notion of master-slave synchronization that accepts multimodal synchronization is introduced. We prove rigorously that the attractor of a coupled pair in a regime of multimodal synchronization is the graph of a multivalued function. Our framework provides the theoretical basis for some practical tools for detection of multimodal synchrony in experiments. Results are illustrated with the analysis of experiments with coupled electronic oscillators.
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Concentration of pig slurry by evaporation: anaerobic digestion as the key process. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2003; 48:189-194. [PMID: 14531439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Nutrient redistribution between areas with a structural pig slurry surplus and those with a shortage, is limited by the high cost of transportation and spreading, due to the high water content in slurry (more than 90%) and its relative low nutrient concentration. Water can be removed from slurry by evaporation, through the application of waste heat from a power plant or from other processes. Apart from obtaining a concentrate with an obviously higher nutrient concentration than the original slurry, another objective is to obtain clean water as condensate. The objective of this work was to study the batch vacuum evaporation of pig slurry liquid fraction, to evaluate the economic feasibility and to evaluate condensate quality as a function of both pH (4, 5 and 6) and pig slurry type (fresh slurry and anaerobically digested slurry). Results showed that condensate characteristics (ammonia nitrogen, VFA, COD) were strongly dependent on these variables. Previous anaerobic digestion presented clear advantages: it provided a fraction of the required energy and it removed organic matter, preventing its volatilisation in the evaporation process and providing higher quality condensates. These advantages make the combined treatment strategy economically more feasible than the evaporation process alone.
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Symbiotic efficiency of autochthonous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (G. mosseae) and Brevibacillus sp. isolated from cadmium polluted soil under increasing cadmium levels. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2003; 126:179-189. [PMID: 12927489 DOI: 10.1016/s0269-7491(03)00195-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The effect of inoculation with indigenous naturally occurring microorganisms (an arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus and rhizosphere bacteria) isolated from a Cd polluted soil was assayed on Trifolium repens growing in soil contaminated with a range of Cd. One of the bacterial isolate showed a marked PGPR effect and was identified as a Brevibacillus sp. Mycorrhizal colonization also enhanced Trifolium growth and N, P, Zn and Ni content and the dually inoculated (AM fungus plus Brevibacillus sp.) plants achieved further growth and nutrition and less Cd concentration, particularly at the highest Cd level. Increasing Cd level in the soil decreased Zn and Pb shoot accumulation. Coinoculation of Brevibacillus sp. and AM fungus increased shoot biomass over single mycorrhizal plants by 18% (at 13.6 mg Cd kg(-1)), 26% (at 33.0 mg Cd kg(-1)) and 35% (at 85.1 mg Cd (kg(1)). In contrast, Cd transfer from soil to plants was substantially reduced and at the highest Cd level Brevibacillus sp. lowered this value by 37.5% in AM plants. Increasing Cd level highly reduced plant mycorrhization and nodulation. Strong positive effect of the bacterium on inocula, are important in plant Cd tolerance and development in Cd polluted soils.
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Structure-activity relationships for association of linear alkylbenzene sulfonates with activated sludge. CHEMOSPHERE 2002; 49:279-286. [PMID: 12363306 DOI: 10.1016/s0045-6535(02)00182-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Sorption of linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) on sludge particles from wastewater treatment plants was studied. The effect of alkyl chain length and the water hardness were investigated. Sorption on sludge increases with increasing alkyl chain length in the LAS molecules. The results are interpreted in terms of a hydrophobic bonding mechanism being the critical micelle concentration a good index of the surfactant hydrophobicity. The increase in free energy of adsorption for the addition of successive methylene groups to the alkyl chain was estimated as 2.4 kJ/mol. Water hardness clearly enhances the sorption of LAS homologues on sludge and seems to promote cooperative sorption at high surfactant and calcium ion concentrations. An empirical equation was provided that allow to estimate the partition coefficient between aqueous and solid phases for LAS homologues as a function of the alkyl chain length and the water hardness.
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Restricted genetic and antigenic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum under mesoendemic transmission in the Venezuelan Amazon. Parasitology 2002; 124:569-81. [PMID: 12118712 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182002001713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The study of genetic diversity in malaria populations is expected to provide new insights for the deployment of control measures. Plasmodium falciparum diversity in Africa and Asia is thought to reflect endemicity. In comprehensive epidemiological surveys reported here the genetic and antigenic structure of P. falciparum in the Venezuelan Amazon were studied over a 2-year period. DNA polymorphisms in glutamate-rich protein (GLURP), merozoite-surface protein 1 (MSP1) and MSP2 genes, in a multicopy element (PfRRM), all showed low diversity, 1 predominant genotype, and virtually no multi-clonal infections. Moreover, linkage disequilibrium was seen between GLURP, MSP1 and MSP2. Specific antibody responses against MSP1 and MSP2 recombinant antigens reflected the low genetic diversity observed in the parasite population. This is unexpected in a mesoendemic area, and suggests that the low diversity here may not only relate to endemicity but to other influences such as a bottleneck effect. Linkage disequilibrium and a predominant genotype may imply that P. falciparum frequently propagates with an epidemic or clonal population structure in the Venezuelan Amazon.
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Abstract
The most common causes of pulmonary lobectomy in children are congenital lung malformations (CLM) and bronchiectasias. Our aim was to present the causes and clinical course and lung function of lobectomized patients. Between 1990 and July 1999 27 lobectomies were performed on patients whose ages ranged from newborn to 14 years. Lobectomies were performed to correct CLM in 124 cases and for acquired pulmonary disease (APD) in 13. Among CLM cases, half (n = 7) had cystic adenomatoid malformation. Among the APD patients, 10 had bronchiectasias, with etiological confirmation in 6 cases (3 secondary to serious adenovirus infection). Mean hospital stay was 4.6 days among those who experienced no postoperative complications. Symptoms resolved after surgery for most symptomatic patients. Lung function tests could be carried out with 8 patients over 6 years old whose operations had taken place 7 to 78 months earlier (x = 35 months) and whose age at the time of surgery was a mean 7 years 6 months (range 60 to 144 months). Spirometry showed normal forced vital capacity for 7 of 8 patients (87 to 143% of theoretical value). Arterial oxygen saturation measured during and after a 6-minute walking test was normal for 7 of 8 patients. Chest films showed reduced lung volume on the affected side in 5 of 8 patients. In summary, lobectomy is a procedure with few complications. It requires a short hospital stay and has good postoperative prognosis. Function and x-ray studies show adequate lung growth and development, with normal lung function in those who could be so examined because they were old enough to cooperate.
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Abstract
We report here the identification of a novel DQB1*06 allele, DQB1*0618, found in a bone marrow donor. The new allele was detected during routine DNA-based HLA typing by an ambiguous pattern of probe hybridization, obtained by polymerase chain reaction using sequence-specific oligonucleotides (PCR-SSO). Molecular cloning and sequencing confirmed that the new allele is identical to DQB1*0609 at exon 2 except for 3 nucleotide substitutions at positions 353, 356 and 367, also found in other alleles. These nucleotide changes may explain its anomalous reactivity.
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Abstract
In this report we describe the identification of a novel DRB1*04 allele, DRB1*0437, found in a Spanish individual. The routine HLA typing, in the context of bone marrow transplantation, by polymerase chain reaction-sequence-based typing (PCR-SBT) made possible the identification of this new allele. This allele is identical to DRB1*0402 except for a single nucleotide substitution at position 286 (A-->C), changing the encoded Isoleucine to a Leucine. The DRB1*0437 allele conserves the same two acidic residues at codons 70 and 71 that confer to DRB1*0402 its association to some autoimmune diseases.
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Changes in peripheral blood leukocyte populations in pigs with natural postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2001; 81:37-44. [PMID: 11498245 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-2427(01)00326-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to analyze, by flow cytometry, changes in PBMC subsets in pigs having postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), a new condition associated to porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infection. Thirteen acutely PMWS affected pigs were selected from a farm seronegative to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and to Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV); 11 clinically healthy pigs were selected from a high health farm with no history of PMWS and free of the major swine pathogens, and used as a control group. All pigs were necropsied, and tissue samples were fixed in formalin; blood with EDTA anticoagulant was used to perform the flow cytometric analysis. PBMC were incubated with mAb against porcine CD3, CD4, CD8, CD25, CD45, IgM, SWC3, and SLA-Class II. Flow cytometric analysis showed substantial changes in leukocyte subsets in the peripheral blood of PMWS-affected pigs, which were characterized by an increase of monocytes, a reduction of T (mainly CD4(+)) and B-lymphocytes, and the presence of low-density immature granulocytes. Altogether, these changes would suggest an inability of acutely PMWS-affected pigs to mount an effective immune response.
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Identification and sequence characterization of a novel HLA-A11 serological variant (HLA-A*1108). TISSUE ANTIGENS 2001; 57:543-5. [PMID: 11556985 DOI: 10.1034/j.1399-0039.2001.057006543.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this report we describe the identification of a novel HLA-A*11 allele, HLA-A*1108, found in two individuals of a Spanish family. This new allele was detected during routine HLA typing by an atypical serological reactivity pattern and by inconclusive patterns obtained in DNA-based typing methods. The nucleotide sequence of exons 2 and 3 of HLA-A*1108 was identical to HLA-A*11011 except for two nucleotide substitutions at codons 152 (GCG-->GAG) and 156 (CAG-->CGG). These mutations change the non-charged amino acid alanine, at codon 152, to negative glutamic acid, and also non-charged glutamine, at codon 156, to positive arginine, which may explain its anomalous serological reactivity.
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Study of thermal hydrolysis as a pretreatment to mesophilic anaerobic digestion of pig slurry. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2001; 44:109-116. [PMID: 11575073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Feasibility of anaerobic digestion of pig slurry is dependent, among other factors, on the biogas production rate, which is low compared with other organic wastes, and on the profitable uses of surplus thermal energy produced, a limiting factor in warm geographical areas. The objectives of this work are determining whether low temperature thermal pretreatment (< 90 degrees C) improves pig slurry anaerobic digestion, and determining whether organic matter degradation during the thermal pretreatment is due to thermal phenomena (80 degrees C) or to enzymatic ones (60 degrees C). The thermal degradation tests showed that hydrolysis occurring during the thermal pretreatment is due to thermal phenomena. The increase in soluble substances were significantly larger at 80 degrees C than at 60 degrees C (both during 3 h). Two types of slurry were used in the batch anaerobic digestion tests. The effect of thermal pretreatment differed with the type of slurry: it was positive with almost non-degraded slurries containing low NH4(+)-N concentration, and negative (inhibition of the anaerobic digestion process) when using degraded slurries with high NH4(+)-N content.
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