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Biomedical subjects

B Sánchez

Publications and source records attributed to B Sánchez.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

DNA typing methods for differentiation of yeasts related to dry-cured meat products.

RFLP analysis of the ITS and 18S rDNA, RAPD-PCR using mini- and microsatellite primers and RFLP analysis of mitochondrial DNA were examined to discriminate yeasts related to dry-cured meat products at species and strain level. Seven species and 35 strains of yeasts usually found in dry-cured meat products were tested. RFLP analysis of the ITS1-5.8S rDNA-ITS2 and 18S rDNA did not allow the separation at species level of all of the species tested. RAPD with a M13 primer was found to be useful for differentiation of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Candida zeylanoides, Yarrowia lipolytica, Debaryomyces hansenii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, no differences were observed between Debaryomyces polymorphus and Pichia carsonii. RAPD analysis with microsatellite primers (GACA)(4), (GTG)(5) and (GAC)(5) enabled discrimination at species and strain level. However, the degree of discrimination by means of RAPD-PCR depends highly on the primers used. Thus, the PCR fingerprinting with primer (GACA)(4) enabled a higher level of discrimination than primers (GAC)(5) and (GTG)(5). The RFLP analysis of mtDNA allowed the discrimination at the species and strain level except for R. mucilaginosa, where no polymorphisms were observed in the strains tested. RAPD analysis with primer (GACA)(4) and the restriction analysis of mtDNA used in the present work are useful for the differentiation at species and strain level of yeasts related to dry-cured meat products.

DNA Primers↗

High initial blood levels of tacrolimus in overweight renal transplant recipients.

For the purpose of both efficacy and safety, exposure to tacrolimus and other immunosuppressive drugs must be monitored, since initial levels influence the development of acute rejection episodes, nephrotoxicity, and posttransplantation diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for developing high initial tacrolimus blood levels. We analyzed clinical and biochemical parameters of 85 renal transplant recipients receiving tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive therapy by stratifying into subgroups of patients who displayed first tacrolimus concentrations higher and lower than 15 ng/mL. Patients with a first level of tacrolimus higher than 15 ng/mL were older (52 +/- 13 vs 40 +/- 12 years, P < .05) and had a larger body mass index (27 +/- 4 vs 23 +/- 3 kg/m2, P < .05) than patients with lower levels, despite receiving a lower weight-adjusted cumulative steroid dose (8.2 +/- 2.2 vs 9.3 +/- 2.5 mg/kg, P < .05). Upon logistic regression, age (RR 1.047, 95% CI 1.007 to 1.08, P = .021) and body mass index (RR 1.176, 95% CI 1.009 to 1.371, P = .036) remained significant risk factors for high initial blood levels of tacrolimus. As these subgroups of patients are most prone to develop posttransplantation glycemic disorders, attention must be paid to avoid high tacrolimus blood levels by diminishing initial tacrolimus doses or estimating them from ideal body weight.

Area Under Curve↗

Higher initial tacrolimus blood levels and concentration-dose ratios in kidney transplant recipients who develop diabetes mellitus.

Posttransplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a common complication of kidney transplantation, associated with poorer graft and patient outcomes. Tacrolimus is a strong immunosuppressive drug associated with low acute rejection rates, but a higher risk for PTDM. High trough levels of tacrolimus during the first month after transplantation have been found to be a significant risk factor for the development of PTDM. The aim of this single-center study was to identify the risk factors for the development of PTDM among kidney transplant recipients under tacrolimus therapy. We examined 73 cadaveric kidney transplant recipients receiving tacrolimus between 1994 and 2003. Age, donor and recipient gender, dialysis method, body mass index (BMI), first year weight gain, mismatches, incidence of acute rejection and delayed graft function, hepatitis C serology, first year cumulative steroid dose, first tacrolimus blood level, first tacrolimus blood level <15 ng/mL, and corresponding tacrolimus daily doses and concentration/dose ratios (CDR) were also collected. PTDM was defined as at least 2 fasting blood glucose values > or =126 mg/dL, according to the World Health Organization criteria. Incidence of first year PTDM was 27.4%. Patients with PTDM showed significantly higher age, BMI, first tacrolimus blood level, first tacrolimus CDR, and CDR with tacrolimus blood level <15 ng/mL as well as less 1-year weight gain. After logistic regression, age (relative risk [RR] 1.060, confidence interval [CI] 95%, 1.001-1.122; P = .043) and first tacrolimus blood level (RR 1.154; CI 95%, 1.038-1.283; P = .008) remain significant risk factors for developing PTDM. Older age and initial tacrolimus blood levels were the main risk factors for PTDM among our group of patients. Kidney transplant recipients who develop PTDM maintain a high CDR of tacrolimus.

Adult↗

Epithelioid malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour in a dog.

An unusual morphological variant of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour, in which the cells exhibited a predominantly epithelial morphology, was diagnosed in a dog. The animal had a history of progressive ataxia. Post-mortem examination revealed an infiltrative growth in the sublumbar region, encroaching on the L1 and L2 vertebral bodies; additional masses were observed in the kidneys, liver and lungs. Histologically, the subcutaneous mass was composed of a dense population of spindle-shaped cells arranged in fascicles. The internal masses were composed of epithelioid cells arranged in a nodular pattern. Immunohistochemically, the spindle-shaped cells of the subcutaneous mass were positive for S-100, and the epithelioid cells of the internal growths exhibited weak S-100 immunoreactivity.

Animals↗

Complement component C7 deficiency in a Spanish family.

Different genetic mutations have been described in complement component C7 deficiency, a molecular defect which is clinically associated with an increased susceptibility to neisserial recurrent infections, although some cases remain asymptomatic. In this work we report the genetic bases of C7 deficiency in one Spanish family. Exon-specific PCR and sequencing revealed a novel point mutation at nucleotide 615 (exon 6) leading to a stop codon (UGG to UGA) in the patient, his mother, and sister. This transversion causes the premature truncation of the C7 protein (W183X). Additionally, we detected a missense mutation at position 1135 (exon 9) located in the first nucleotide of the codon GGG (CGG), resulting in an amino acid change (G357R) in the patient, his father, as well as in his sister. This latter mutation had been previously described in individuals from Moroccan Sephardic Jewish ancestry. Since both heterozygous mutations were found in the patient as well as in his asymptomatic sister, we analyse other meningococcal defence mechanisms such as polymorphisms of the opsonin receptors on polymorphonuclear cells. Results showed that the patient and his sister bore identical combinations of FcgammaRIIA-H/R131 and FcgammaRIIIB-NA1/2 allotypes. Our results provide further evidence that the molecular pathogenesis of C7 deficiency as well as susceptibility to meningococcal disease are heterogeneous, since different families carry different molecular defects, although many of the C7 defects appear to be homogeneous in individuals from certain geographical areas. The missense mutation G357R would make an interesting topic of analysis with regard to meningococcal disease susceptibility in the Spanish population.

Base Sequence↗

Fibroblastic growth factor receptor (FGF-R) expression during uterine involution in goat.

To investigate the possible participation of fibroblastic growth factors (FGFs) in endometrial involution, 20 multiparous goats, slaughtered on days 0, 1, 4, 10, 16 and 22 postpartum (pp), were used. Samples of different parts of the previous pregnant horns were taken and processed using streptoavidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method to analyse FGF receptor (FGF-R) expression. The percentage of positive cells in luminal epithelium, superficial and deep glands and stroma was evaluated. Epithelial, glandular and stromal cells exhibited FGF-R immunoreactivity. No differences between caruncular and inter-caruncular epithelium were observed and staining was most evident in the superficial glands. The greatest degree of FGF-R expression was seen on days 10 and 16 pp, coinciding with epithelial and stromal cellular regeneration. These results suggest that caprine uterine involution is associated with variations in the expression of FGF-R.

Animals↗

Transient topographical disorientation.

Transient topographical disorientation (TTD) is a short-lasting inability to find one's way in a familiar environment, while the patient remains conscious and is able to recall what happened. We report the study of 10 patients with episodes of TTD, studied on the days following the last episode. The episodes of TTD could be separated into two types: the patients either reported difficulties in spatial orientation with preserved abilities to recognize landmarks and objects, or the difficulties appeared with the recognition of landmarks. Tests exploring spatial orientation, as well as higher visuoperceptive capacities were altered in most of the patients and brain SPECT showed hypoperfusion of the right hemisphere in all patients, which could also be demonstrated 2 years later in some cases. Altogether, our findings suggest that TTD is frequently associated with a more persistent right hemisphere dysfunction of unknown cause. This chronic alteration could represent either a sequel of the acute episode or a preexisting right hemisphere deficit, which inclined the acute insult to be manifested as TTD.

Adult↗

Fluorescence resonance energy transfer analysis of CCR-V64I and SDF1-3'a polymorphisms: prevalence in southern Spain hiv type 1+ cohort and noninfected population.

The relationship between host genotype and AIDS, as well as the different genotype frequencies observed in different populations, have become important topics in HIV research. Therefore, the development of methods that provide faster and reliable results may contribute to further development and knowledge of those topics. We present the results of genotyping SDF1-3'A and CCR2-V64I in 440 HIV-1-infected people and 100 noninfected controls from southern Spain, using a novel method based on real-time PCR with LightCycler technology and fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Frequencies obtained were 23.8% for SDF1-3'A and 9.5% for CCR2-V64I for both HIV+ cohort and general population. Both polymorphisms are in accordance with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium law and no differences between patients and controls have been observed.

Alleles↗

Environmental light-darkness conditions induce changes in brain and peripheral pyroglutamyl-peptidase I activity.

To evaluate the influence of light and darkness on brain pyroglutamyl-peptidase I (pGluPI) activity, four experimental groups of rats were compared at the same time-point (10.00 h). Two groups were designed with a standard 12-12 h light-dark cycle: In group A, the lights were on from 7.00 h to 19.00 h, and the experiment was done under light conditions; in group B, the lights were on from 19.00 h to 7.00 h, and the experiment was done under darkness conditions. Two additional groups were designed with nonstandard light-dark conditions: In group C, the animals were subjected to constant light, and the experiment was done under light conditions. In group D, animals were subjected to constant darkness, and the experiment was done under darkness conditions. Light (vs darkness) and standard (vs nonstandard) conditions produced significant changes on pGluPI activity in specific structures; the data suggested that endogenous substrates of pGluPI such as thyrotropin-releasing hormone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone, might be modified in parallel. There was left predominance in the retina under light conditions on a standard schedule (group A). The regional pattern of distribution of activity was similar in groups on a standard schedule (A vs B) and in groups tested under constant light-dark conditions (C vs D). However, this pattern differed between groups subjected to standard vs constant light-dark conditions (A and B vs C and D). These results support an influence of environmental light and darkness on pGluPI activity, which may reflect concomitant changes in its susceptible substrates and consequently in their functions.

Animals↗

Serologic and parasitologic demonstration of Trypanosoma cruzi infections in an urban area of central Mexico: correlation with electrocardiographic alterations.

Trypanosoma cruzi infection in central Mexico has not been fully documented, yet some data suggest its presence. In this work, sera from 211 subjects living in the state of Morelos and at risk of T. cruzi infection due to their living in contact with the vector were analyzed for the presence of antibodies to a total antigen extract of a Mexican isolate of T. cruzi. A seropositivity of 20% was demonstrated by both an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blotting. Furthermore, parasites were isolated from five seropositive individuals, and these were genetically characterized as T. cruzi by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis. A case-control electrocardiographic study was conducted that included the seropositive individuals and twice as many seronegative controls living in the same area. A significant correlation was found between seropositivity and electrocardiographic alterations. These findings have important implications for perception of the prevalence of Chagas' disease in Mexico. Moreover, the presence of this disease in rural communities rapidly transforming into urban ones might have important epidemiologic consequences.

Adolescent↗

[Control of inhaled triggering factors decreases prolonged drug therapy requirements in patients with asthma].

The past decade of research has led to a greater understanding of the pathogenesis of asthma and, in particular, the pivotal role of the underlying inflammatory process. Along with inheritance in atopic patients, the presence of inhaled triggering allergens are considered the predominant predisposing factors in the development of the disease. We have conducted a longitudinal clinical therapeutic study, which included 45 pediatrics patients with asthma, in order to evaluate whether the removal of any potential inhaled triggering factor, could decrease the requirement of drug based anti-inflammatory therapy. Patients admitted in this study presented at least, two monthly asthma attacks during the last four months. A single treatment with theophylline (group A), beclomethasone (group B) or salbutamol (group C), was prescribed during the first 2 weeks, along with specific instructions to avoid inhaled allergens. Regardless of the drug used, patients showed impressive and prolonged clinical improvement during 6 months, reduction of total IgE serum levels in the three groups (p < 0.02; 0.005 and 0.02 respectively) and favorable modification of force expiratory volume at the first second, forced vital capacity and flow expiratory peak. During the observation period a constant monitoring of mites allergens concentrations was performed, showing a decrease of these antigens, associated with clinical improvement, and only in those patients who remained symptomatic (group A 31%, group B 29% and group C 9%), failures performing the measures designed to reduce their exposure to environmental allergens, was demonstrated. These results suggest that reduction of inhaled triggering factors may decrease the requirement of anti-inflammatory drug therapy to control the symptoms in patients with asthma.

Adolescent↗

[Assessment of a preconception preventive program in a community].

Primary Health Care (PHC) is the basic health support that includes health promotion and disease prevention, considering social and developmental factors. It is the main axis to pregestational health programs with the basic elements for the women's self-care. This study evaluated the impact on health behavior and adherence to a community based pregestational preventive program in 224 women of reproductive age from Mexico City. The women were exposed to a health education intervention for twelve months, with free clinical examination every six months in a mobile screening unit close to their homes. Food and hygiene one to one orientation was offered, together with anthropometric, blood pressure and biochemical evaluations. Program adherence was 55%. Most of the women were less than 25 years of age, education above nine years, non-single, housework occupation as housewives, from an extended family, with social security and two or less live children and desire for more. No differences were found in the evaluated factors between those who continued and those who left the program. When comparing initial and final data, a significant larger proportion did breast self-examination, while this was not the case for the Pap smear test, no differences were found in prevalence of anemia or overweight. Drop-out was mainly due to a lack of interest, school or work problems and change of address. While breast self examination showed a positive effect, the negative or no effect on the other factors requires the intervention of other health professionals and implies more effort from the women. If one of the objectives of the PHC is health promotion, nurse intervention is a prominent role in the community.

Adolescent↗

[Cefepime in the treatment of osteomyelitis caused by Gram negative bacilli].

We conducted a prospective, randomized, open-label trial to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of cefepime in the treatment of osteomyelitis caused by Gram-negative bacilli. Hospitalized patients with diagnosis of osteomyelitis due to Gram-negative bacilli susceptible to cefepime were elegible for enrollment. Cefepime was administered intravenously or intramuscularly (2 g every 8 or 12 hours). Microorganisms were considered susceptible to cefepime when the MIC was <8 mg/l. Forty-five patients with bone infections were enrolled, forty-three with osteomyelitis (22 chronic and 21 acute) and two with arthritis. In the per protocol analysis 42 patients were evaluated: 30 (71.4%) were cured. In the intent to treat analysis 45 patients were evaluated: 33 (73.3%) were cured. Our trial suggests that cefepime is as effective as other modern parenteral beta-lactam antibiotics in the treatment of osteomyelitis due to Gram-negative bacilli.

Acute Disease↗

Reduction of immune system activation in HIV-1-infected patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy.

The aim of this work was to analyze the effects of highly active antiretroviral therapy on the chronically activated immune system of 26 antiretroviral-naive HIV-1-infected patients. Samples from baseline to week 24 or 36 of treatment were tested for serum levels of beta2-microglobulin, tumor necrosis factor alpha and soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor type II, as well as for human leukocyte antigen-DR expression on T cells. After starting therapy, the mean HIV-1 RNA serum levels decreased and the mean CD4 + cell counts increased from baseline to week 36 (P< 0.001). Mean levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor type II, tumor necrosis factor alpha and beta2-microglobulin as well as expression of human leukocyte antigen-DR were significantly reduced at the end of follow-up (P<0.01). Deactivation kinetics of these parameters was similar in patients with CD4+ counts>200 cells/microl at baseline versus those with CD4 + counts < 200 cells/microl at baseline, despite higher activation at baseline in the group with <200 cells/microl. In summary, this study shows that highly active antiretroviral therapy is able to induce a strong deactivation of the immune system of HIV-1-infected patients.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome↗