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Biomedical subjects

J M Rodríguez

Publications and source records attributed to J M Rodríguez.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2006

Lactobacillus salivarius CECT 5713, a potential probiotic strain isolated from infant feces and breast milk of a mother-child pair.

In this study, Lactobacillus salivarius CECT 5713 was originally isolated from feces of a one-month-old breast-fed infant. Since it has been suggested that the gut microbiota of breast-fed infants reflects that of the maternal breast milk, we investigated if this specific strain was present in breast milk of the respective mother. RAPD and PFGE analysis revealed the presence of the strain L. salivarius CECT 5713 in this biological fluid. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a L. salivarius strain isolated from breast milk. L. salivarius CECT 5713 produced l-lactate, acetate and hydrogen peroxide, which may be responsible for its antimicrobial activity against most of the indicator organisms used in this study; in addition, this strain showed a high survival rate after exposition to conditions simulating those found in the gastrointestinal tract. Finally, it was strongly adhesive to Caco-2 and HT-29 cells did not produce biogenic amines and were unable to degrade gastric mucin in vitro.

Acetic Acid↗
PubMed2006

Attitudes of resident doctors toward different types of organ donation in a Spanish transplant hospital.

OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to analyze acceptance of cadaveric and living organ donation for transplantation among resident doctors, given that they are the new professionals of medicine who will have to encourage and develop transplant programs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A random survey was performed on resident doctors in a third-level hospital with an organ transplant program which is accredited for undergraduate and postgraduate education (n = 171). Attitudes toward cadaveric and living donation were evaluated using a questionnaire including various psychosocial variables that might affect such attitudes. We used the Student t test and the chi-square test. RESULTS: The sample was composed of responses by 171 resident doctors of mean age 28 +/- 4 years with 56% women. Attitudes toward cadaveric donation were favorable in 92% (n = 157). As for living donation, the percentage in favor of nonrelated donation was low: 23% for kidney and 19% for liver. However, when the donation was from a relative, the percentages increased to levels similar to those of cadaveric donation, namely 88% and 85% for kidney and liver, respectively. No differences were observed in attitudes toward cadaveric or living donation according to various psychosocial variables. CONCLUSIONS: The trainee doctors showed favorable attitudes toward human cadaveric organ donation as well as living related donation, which suggests a relaunch of living donors in the near future. However, there was not much acceptance of nonrelated donation, as has also been seen in studies of the general public in our geographical area.

Adult↗
PubMed2006

Antimicrobial potential of four Lactobacillus strains isolated from breast milk.

AIMS: The antimicrobial potential of four lactobacilli (Lactobacillus salivarius CECT5713, Lactobacillus gasseri CECT5714, L. gasseri CECT5715 and Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716), isolated from fresh human breast milk, was evaluated in this study and compared with Lactobacillus coryniformis CECT5711, a reuterin-producing strain isolated from an artisan goat's cheese. METHODS AND RESULTS: Agar diffusion tests, competitive adhesion assays and mucin expression assays were carried out in order to value the antibacterial properties of the lactobacilli strains. The antibacterial capability of the strains was tested in vivo by using a murine infection model with Salmonella choleraesuis. The results revealed that all the strains studied, displayed antibacterial properties against pathogenic bacteria. However, the antibacterial potential varied among the lactobacilli tested and, in fact, L. salivarius CECT5713 showed not only the best in vitro antibacterial activity, but also the highest protective effect against a Salmonella strain in the murine infection model. CONCLUSION: The four breast-milk lactobacilli, and particularly L. salivarius CECT5713, possess potent antibacterial activities that result in a higher protection against S. choleraesuis CECT4155 in a mouse infection model. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: These results suggest that lactobacilli from breast milk could contribute to an anti-infective protection in neonates and would be excellent candidates for the development of infant probiotic products.

Animals↗
PubMed2006

Hospital personnel faced with organ xenotransplantation: an attitudinal survey in a hospital with a pre-clinical liver xenotransplantation program.

BACKGROUND: In situations of extreme urgency when there is a need for vital organs, xenotransplantation could provide a bridge until the arrival of a human organ. However, it is important to find out the level of acceptance of this potential therapy among the health care workers who would be involved in its implementation. The objective of this study is to analyze attitude among personnel in a hospital with a pre-clinical xenotransplantation program toward xenotransplantation and to determine the variables that influence this attitude. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A random sample (n=1168) was taken and stratified according to job category and service. Attitude toward xenotransplantation was evaluated using a validated questionnaire. Contact was made with the head of each service who was given an explanation of the project. This person was made responsible for the distribution and collection of the survey in each service in randomly selected work shifts. Such a survey was completed anonymously and was self-administered. A random sample of 250 individuals from our regional community was used as a control group. RESULTS: The survey completion rate was 98% (n=1148). Most respondents are in favor (67%), 7% are against and 26% undecided. Such an attitude is more favorable in the control group (74% vs. 67%; P=0.0378). The following factors are positively related to such an attitude: (1) male sex (P<0.0005); (2) a younger age (P=0.013); (3) participation in prosocial voluntary activities (P=0.002); (4) knowing that the church has a positive attitude toward donation and transplantation (P<0.0005); (5) a partner's favorable attitude toward transplantation (P<0.0005); (6) a physician's job category (P<0.0005); (7) a resident physician's job contract situation (P=0.017); (8) a respondent's belief that he or she may need a transplant in the future (P<0.0005); and (9) a favorable attitude toward human donation, whether this be cadaveric or living (P<0.0005). In the multivariate analysis, the following persist as independent variables: (1) sex (odds ratio=1.6); (2) participation in prosocial voluntary activities (odds ratio=2.2); (3) a partner's unfavorable attitude toward transplantation (odds ratio=0.3); (4) a favorable attitude toward cadaveric donation (odds ratio=2); and (5) attitude toward living liver donation (odds ratio=3.8). CONCLUSIONS: Attitude toward xenotransplantation is not as favorable among hospital personnel as it is in the general public and this is determined by many factors. It will be necessary for research groups to periodically carry out awareness-raising activities about our findings in our own centers, to avoid the rejection that could be generated by a lack of awareness.

Adult↗
PubMed2006

[Management of rectorrhagia having uncertain origin].

Rectorrhagia is a very frequent reason for hospital and Primary Health Care medical visits. Its main problem is that it is made up of a very heterogeneous group of patients and a correct diagnosis is difficult to make. The main diagnostic test is the colonoscopy, and in severe cases, the arteriography. When these examinations do not provide the diagnosis, small intestine disease should be suspected. In most of the cases, rectorrhagia abates spontaneously or is controlled with conservative measures, and the subsequent treatment with depend on the etiology that caused the bleeding. The great problem arises in 0.5%-4% of rectorrhagies that do not abate and unstabilize the patient, emergency surgery due to the bleeding being required.

Algorithms↗
PubMed2006

A pharmacokinetic study investigating the rate of absorption of a 500 mg dose of a rapidly absorbed paracetamol tablet and a standard paracetamol tablet.

OBJECTIVE: A rapidly absorbed tablet formulation of paracetamol containing sodium bicarbonate (PS) has been previously shown to be absorbed at least twice as fast as a standard paracetamol tablet (P) at a 1 g dose. In South America and Asia it is customary for patients to take a 500 mg dose of analgesic. The objective of this pharmacokinetic study was to compare the rate of absorption of PS versus P at a 500 mg dose. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: An open, randomized, single dose, cross-over study. Thirty Hispanic healthy volunteers randomly received a 500 mg dose taken orally with 50 mL of water 2 h after a standard breakfast. Blood samples were taken up to 10 h post-dose. Plasma concentrations of paracetamol were determined by HPLC with UV detection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: AUC(0-30 min), C(plasma 30 min) and T(max) were analyzed non-parametrically by the Wilcoxon's rank sum test. A linear mixed effects model was used to analyze the logarithmically transformed AUC(0-alpha) and C(max). Bioequivalence was accepted if the 90% confidence intervals (CI) for the ratio of the means of the primary pharmacokinetic variable AUC(0-alpha) lay completely within the range 0.80-1.25. RESULTS: AUC(0-30 min) and C(plasma 30 min) were significantly greater and T(max) was significantly shorter (all p < 0.0001) for PS versus P. The formulations were bioequivalent for AUC(0-alpha) (90% CI 0.99:1.05) and no statistical difference was seen for C(max) (95% CI 0.91:1.14). CONCLUSIONS: Paracetamol was absorbed at least twice as fast from PS compared to P at a 500 mg dose. The extent of absorption was equivalent for both formulations.

Absorption↗
PubMed2006

Sudden death associated with Clostridium sordellii in captive lions (Panthera leo).

In the spring of 2003, a series of sudden deaths in a group of adult lions (Panthera leo) with a previous history of depression, inanition, and lethargy, was investigated. Five animals died within 24 to 36 hours after onset of signs of disease. Serologic screening for viral disease detection was negative, evidence of parasites was not detected, and results of a complete blood count and serum biochemical analysis were within reference intervals in all lions. The most relevant lesions observed were multiple areas of necrosis and hemorrhage in the intestinal outer muscular layer, and cellulitis with an intense bloody edema in the mesenteric and the pericardial fat tissue. On the basis of the fulminant course of the disease, the gross and histologic findings, and the isolation and identification of Clostridium sordellii, a diagnosis of infectious myositis and cellulitis associated with acute clostridiosis was made. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of sudden death associated with C. sordellii in felines.

Animal Diseases↗
PubMed2006

Acute lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage originating in the small intestine.

INTRODUCTION: Lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage (LGIH) is generally self-limiting, and the most frequent etiologies are located at colonic level. The objective here is to analyze the diagnostic and therapeutic handling of acute LGIH when its etiology was located in the small intestine. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 1975 and March 2002, 12 acute cases of LGIH originating in the small intestine were admitted to our service. All consulted the hospital with acute rectorrhage, requiring a transfusion of at least 3 units of concentrated red blood cells. The mean age was 54 +/- 21 years, 58% were women, and 83% had experienced previous episodes of LGIH. RESULTS: in eleven cases (92%) an urgent lower and upper endoscopy was performed without locating the source of bleeding. An arteriography was indicated in 7 patients (58%), which located the bleeding origin in 5 of them. In two cases a scintigraphy was performed, showing a Meckel's diverticulum in one patient and a normal image in another. All were operated on; in 8 cases (67%), surgery was urgent; in 9 cases, a tumor was found, and in three additional patients, a case of Meckel's diverticulum was found, with a resection being carried out for all lesions. Histology showed a leiomyoma in 7 cases, a Meckel's diverticulum in 3 cases, a leiomyoblastoma in 1, and an angioma in the remaining case. After a mean follow-up of 132 +/- 75 months, the leiomyoblastoma resulted in death, and there was a relapse in the case of angioma, which was successfully embolized with interventional radiology. CONCLUSIONS: Acute LGIH originating in the small intestine should be considered a possible etiology when digestive endoscopy does not locate the source of bleeding, with arteriography being a useful diagnostic technique for bleeding localization. Surgery is the definitive treatment--it confirms the etiology and rules out the presence of malignancy.

Acute Disease↗
PubMed2005

Characterization of a reuterin-producing Lactobacillus coryniformis strain isolated from a goat's milk cheese.

Lactobacillus coryniformis CECT 5711, a strain isolated from a goat's milk cheese, displayed a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity; as a consequence, its ability to produce the antagonistic compounds associated to lactic acid bacteria, including bacteriocins, hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, acetic acid, and reuterin (3-hydroxypropionaldehyde, 3-HPA) was investigated. Production of bacteriocins or hydrogen peroxide by this strain could not be detected. However, in addition to lactic acid and acetic acid, it produced reuterin and cobalamin, a cofactor required for conversion of glycerol to 3-HPA through a glycerol dehydratase. The gene encoding a glycerol dehydratase subunit was detected by PCR and the corresponding amplicon was sequenced. This strain showed a high survival after exposition to conditions simulating those existing in the gastrointestinal tract as well as a notable ability to adhere to intestinal cells, which suggests that its reuterin-producing ability may be used for the host benefit. In addition, the strain showed a strong beta-galactosidase activity. Production of biogenic amines and degradation of mucin could not be detected.

Aldehydes↗
PubMed2005

Attitude toward xenotransplantation among residents.

INTRODUCTION: The deficit in transplant organs has made it necessary to search for alternatives, among them research into xenotransplantation. However, the use of animal organs may cause rejection in society and among health professionals. The objective was to analyze the acceptance of this therapy among Residents, given that they would be the professionals most involved in its application if such a therapy proves to be useful. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A random sample stratified by the services of the Residents in a third-level hospital with an organ transplant program and accredited for teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels (n = 171). The attitude toward xenotransplantation was evaluated using a questionnaire that analyzes different pychosocial variables that may influence such attitude.(5) RESULTS: The sample consisted of 171 residents (mean age 28 +/- 4 years; 56% women). Attitudes toward xenotransplantation, whether the results were similar to those obtained with human organs, were positive in 81% (n = 138) of cases, with 16% (n = 27) having doubts and 3% (n = 6) being against. The attitude was more favorable among residents in favor of cadaveric donation (83% vs 57%; P < .05) and of living donation either of the kidney (90% vs 55%; P < .001) or of the liver (88% vs 56%; P < .001), and among those who consider that they might need a transplant at a given point in the future (88% vs 73%; P < .05). CONCLUSION: Residents have a positive attitude toward the application of a possible xenotransplantation in safe conditions similar to those that currently exist in human organ donation. Such a favorable attitude was greatly influenced by a positive attitude toward human organ donation, in cadaveric as well as in living donation, and when considering oneself to be a possible candidate for a transplant.

Adult↗
PubMed2005

Definitive treatment for persistent hypoparathyroidism in a kidney transplant patient: parathyroid allotransplantation.

Post-surgical hypocalcemia is usually a transitory complication in thyroid and parathyroid surgery that can be resolved quickly, although it becomes a delicate matter when the problem persists. Parathyroid transplantation is the choice of treatment; however, the associated immunosuppression can cause side effects. The following case study shows the transplantation of parathyroid tissue from a patient with secondary hyperparathyroidism to another kidney transplant patient with severe hypocalcemia that was medically intractable. The graft is functioning after 2 years.

Adult↗
PubMed2005

[The Sister Joseph's nodule-like manifestation of carcinoma of unknown origin: presentation of one case].

The Sister Joseph's nodule represents an umbilical cutaneous metastasis. It is related to one intraabdominal neoplasia habitually. We presents a 71-year-old male, with the Sister Joseph's nodule, detected in the context of unknown origin carcinoma. The fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of the Sister Joseph's nodule showed carcinoma. We comments the usefulness diagnosis of this clinical sign and the poor prognosis that it represents.

Adenocarcinoma↗
PubMed2004

Risk factors for malignancy in multinodular goitres.

BACKGROUND: Multinodular goitre (MNG) is quite often associated with thyroid carcinoma, but the risk factors for malignancy are not well known. The aim is to analyse patients with thyroid carcinoma associated with MNG to determine the clinical risk factors for malignancy. METHOD: From a series of 672 MNGs we analysed a subgroup of 59 patients presenting with an associated thyroid carcinoma. The variables analysed were age, sex, family history, cervical radiation therapy, residence in areas of endemic goitre, prior thyroid surgery, time of evolution, asymptomatic status, hyperthyroidism, compressive syndromes, intrathoracic prolongation, goitre consistency and cervical adenopathies. These were compared to MNGs not developing malignancy using the Chi-squared test, Student's t test and a logistic regression test. RESULTS: Of the 59 cases, 37 corresponded to a microcarcinoma (< or =1 cm). The most common histological type was papillary (n=48), followed by follicular (n=6). In 20 cases the carcinoma was multifocal, and capsular involvement was noted in 16 patients, lymph node involvement in five and vascular involvement in another five. The multivariate analysis confirmed the following as independent variables associated with the presence of carcinoma: family history of thyroid pathology (RR=1.6), history of cervical radiation therapy (RR=1.8), recurrent goitre (RR=2.1) and presence of adenopathies on physical exploration (RR=1.6). CONCLUSION: The risk factors for carcinoma associated with MNG are family history of thyroid pathology, personal history of cervical radiation therapy, prior surgery and presence of cervical adenopathies.

Adenocarcinoma, Follicular↗
PubMed2004

Study of resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs in five districts of Equatorial Guinea: rates, risk factors, genotyping of gene mutations and molecular epidemiology.

SETTING: Five districts in Equatorial Guinea, March 1999 to February 2001. OBJECTIVES: To determine tuberculosis drug resistance among new and previously treated cases, the risk factors associated with resistance, and the mutations associated with isoniazid and rifampicin (katG, inhA and rpoB genes) resistance, and to genotype resistant strains. RESULTS: A positive culture identified as Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex was obtained in 240/499 patients. Susceptibility testing was performed in 236 strains. The overall resistance rate in new cases was 16.9% compared to 41.6% in previously treated cases. Isoniazid resistance was the most frequent (respectively 12.5% and 16.6%) in the two groups, while multidrug resistance was observed in 1.7% and 25% of new and previously treated cases, respectively. Female sex was statistically associated with resistance in new cases. Of 41 isoniazid-resistant strains, 33 (80.5%) had mutations in the inhA gene; none had mutations in the katG gene and eight had no mutations in either gene. All strains had low-level isoniazid resistance. Of eight strains resistant to rifampicin, six had mutations in the rpoB gene. Genotyping defined seven clusters. CONCLUSIONS: Moderate resistance was found in new cases. Low-level isoniazid resistance predominated among mutations in the inhA gene, with a high percentage of clustering in resistant strains.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2004

Molecular epidemiology of tuberculosis in the Bata and Malabo districts of Equatorial Guinea.

SETTING: Bata and Malabo districts, Equatorial Guinea, 1 March 1999 to 28 February 2001. OBJECTIVE: To study the molecular epidemiology of tuberculosis (TB). RESULTS: During the study period, 429 patients were diagnosed with TB in the Bata and Malabo districts. A positive culture was obtained in 206 (48%) TB patients, with RFLP analysis being performed in 185 (89.8%). Ninety-two different patterns were identified. Single patterns were found in 71 strains (38.3%) and the remaining 114 strains (61.6%) were classified into 21 clusters (of 2 to 25 patients). In addition, 37 of the typing strains were resistant to one or more anti-tuberculosis drugs, and 30 were included in clusters (81%), with 21 low level isoniazid (MIC < or = 1 microg/ml) resistance strains in the same cluster. Statistical analysis showed that resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs (OR 3.1; 95% CI 1.2-7.6; P = 0.014), and positive smear results (4+ grade smear) (OR 4.3; 95% CI 1.5-12; P = 0.005), were significantly more frequent among patients with clustered strains. No epidemiological links were related to clustering. CONCLUSIONS: The level of clustering (61.6%) observed suggests a high degree of recent transmission and a predominance of determined patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains among the population of Equatorial Guinea.

Adult↗