24 results
Capgras Syndrome as a Manifestation of a Neurodegenerative Disease – What do we know?
- M. Matias, L. Lopes, I. Grenha, M. Marques, M. Alves
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S359
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
The Capgras syndrome (CS), firstly described in 1899, is a delusional conviction that a person emotionally close has been replaced by an imposter or duplicate. It has been associated to primary psychiatric disturbances as well as neuropsychiatric syndromes. Its etiology and management have been debated throughout the years. We describe a case of a 75 years old male who was admitted to our psychiatric ward due to aggressiveness towards his spouse, believing she was an imposter.
ObjectivesIn light of this case, we aim to discuss its etiology and review the association between the Capgras syndrome and neurodegenerative diseases.
MethodsClassically, CS was associated to psychotic illnesses such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and substance abuse. However, recent studies shed light on other possible etiologies, such as neurodegenerative and nonneurodegenerative diseases. In older ages, it has been associated to Alzheimer’s and, most commonly, Lewy body dementia subtype. Research also shows that other misidentification syndromes are frequently present in association with CS. Patients are more likely to be aggressive towards caregivers under these circumstances. Studies suggest there is a higher prevalence of right hemisphere lesions in CS, namely frontal and temporal lobes, that impair facial processing. Various brain circuits are being proposed as possible etiopathogenesis.
In this case, parkinsonian signs were observed in our patient, such as resting tremor, imbalance gait and rigidity. Those had not been described before his hospitalization. His family stated memory loss and difficulty in executive functions were present for at least a year. This patient had no previous psychiatric history. Brain CT scan showed cortical atrophy.
ResultsA neurodegenerative cause was assumed, and the patient was started on a cholinesterase inhibitor and on a second-generation antipsychotic. Improvement was observed.
ConclusionsThis case is an example of the heterogenous etiology of the CS. It is important to consider different diagnosis, especially in older ages. More studies are needed to improve the knowledge on CS etiopathogenesis as well as the brains circuits involved. Psychopharmacology tackling theses syndromes is also a growing.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Development of ethical competences in mental health and psychiatry: simulation with nursing students
- R. Lopes, I. Moreira, M. Neves, C. Brás, R. Rodrigues
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, pp. S878-S879
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
Simulation as a pedagogical strategy contributes to improving the acquisition, consolidation and retention of knowledge and is very attractive for students.
In simulation learning, students come into contact with real clinical practices, allowing them to develop personal, psychosocial, ethical and clinical skills, facilitating learning for decision-making.
The creation of different and complex simulation scenarios within the scope of Mental Health and Psychiatry (MHP) allows the empowerment of nursing students, through the anticipation and prevention of errors and the creation of training opportunities, which culminate in the development of critical thinking and reflective on the ethical dimension of caring for people experiencing mental illness.
ObjectivesTo analyze the simulation as a strategy to develop ethical competences in MHP; To reflect on respect for autonomy, capacity for self-determination and dignity of the person; To reflect on care practices that promote respect and dignity for people experiencing mental illness.
MethodsAfter the careful design of the situation simulation scenario in MHP, the steps are as follows:
Prebriefing - transmit generic information about the scenario to the participants/students; request the participation of some students to assume the role of actors in the context they will encounter and prepare to start the case; explain to observers what will happen and the goals of the scenario.
- Scenario development.
- Debriefing - ask observers to analyse and reflect on positive aspects of performance; lead participants to analyse and reflect on their actions; investigate the basis of gaps/errors.
- Reflection - facilitating students’ structured thinking (reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action); review learning.
- Assessment - focus group interview; observation and/or filming.
ResultsThe evaluation revealed that the use of a simulation scenario allows the connection between the theoretical contents of ethics (principles, dignity of the person, human rights, informed consent, …) with what they saw and experienced in the scenario; facilitates understanding of concepts, helps to internalize knowledge and retain information; favors reflection, development of critical thinking through discussion and argumentation; makes it easier to understand the relationship between the subject taught and reality; and the discussion of the situation helped to structure the thought.
The diversity of scenarios is interesting and useful, it allows understanding the different role of nurses in the hospital context and in the context of primary care.
ConclusionsIt is concluded that the use of a simulation scenario in MHP is of great interest and usefulness for the development of ethical competences, allowing reflection on care practices that promote respect and dignity of the person with experience of mental illness.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder: A Diagnostic Challenge
- L. M. Lopes, M. Matias, M. Marques, I. M. Lopes, J. Reis
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S701
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
Bipolar disorder (BD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) appear as prevalent psychiatric conditions, with both being associated with increased morbidity and elevated suicide rates.
Borderline personality disorder is characterized by emotional instability and impulsivity, and patients are susceptible to dangerous behaviors such as unsafe sexual behavior, eating disorders and substance abuse. On the other hand, mania in BD patients contributes to impulsivity, hypersexuality and poor judgment, as well as a lack of inhibition. In both cases, individuals are at a higher risk of committing suicide due to emotional dysregulation and impulsive behaviours.
The symptomatic overlap in BPD and BD is prone to discussion and may lead to misdiagnosis. Some studies suggest that BPD and BD may lie on a spectrum, while others advocate them as separate entities that may coexist.
ObjectivesTo explore the clinical challenges associated with both the differential diagnosis and the comorbidity of BD and BPD.
MethodsWe performed a non-systematic review of the literature using the database PubMed and the following keywords: bipolar disorder borderline personality disorder comorbidity
ResultsPatients with borderline personality disorder seem to have significantly greater odds of a previous bipolar misdiagnosis, but no specific borderline criterion was shown unique in predicting this outcome.
Nonetheless, research studies have reported that approximately 20% of BPD were also diagnosed with BD and, similarly, 10% of people with BD I and 20% with BD II were diagnosed with BPD.
Comorbid BPD and BD are associated with marked psychosocial disability, with patients being more impulsive and aggressive than those with BPD and BD alone. They are also highly susceptible to anxiety disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and somatoform disorders. Studies have shown that comorbid BPD has a negative impact on the clinical course of Bipolar Disorder, as the patients have an unfavorable illness trajectory, with earlier onset of mood symptoms,higher likelihood of hospitalization, longer treatment duration and worse response to treatment. They are also at higher risk for depression and persistent unemployment, increased risk drug abuse, higher suicide risk, and greater utilization of ECT, compared to patients with BPD or BD alone.
ConclusionsA careful review of the patient’s history must be done to properly distinguish between BPD and BD and to make the right diagnosis. Further studies are needed to clarify the risk factors associated with the comorbidity between these two disorders, in order to develop effective clinical strategies for optimal outcomes for patients with both disorders, improve their clinical course and prevent the increased risk of suicidality.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Comorbid Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms in Schizophrenia - Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges
- J. A. Leal, J. C. Moura, T. C. Rocha, J. F. Cunha, S. P. Torres, D. Seabra, I. M. Lopes, M. E. Carneiro, S. M. Esteves, R. Cajão, G. Lima
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S1061
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
The comorbidity between Schizophrenia and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms represents almost 25% of schizophrenic patients and it is believed that almost 12% match the diagnostic criteria for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Some second-generation antipsychotics may worsen or even induce those symptoms, which makes the treatment of this patients a difficult challenge.
ObjectivesTo assess the link between Schizophrenia and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms, to discuss the diagnostic challenges and treatment options. To present a clinical case report of a schizophrenic patient with Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms, which improved with proper treatment.
MethodsWe performed a non-systematic review of the existent literature with the keywords “Schizophrenia” and “Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms”. Description of a clinical case report.
ResultsWe present the case report of a male, 21 years old, single, diagnosed with Schizophrenia. In the past year, he was admitted twice in a psychiatric ward for persecutory and mystic delusions, which lead him to erratic behaviour. Since his adolescence he manifested repeated washing and compulsive cleaning associated with the fear of being contaminated with multiple diseases. Those compulsions worsened when he started being treated with antipsychotics. However, with therapeutic adjustments and with the introduction of an antidepressant we were able to control those symptoms.
ConclusionsSome antipsychotics may induce or even aggravate Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms in psychotic patients. It is of extreme relevance to differentiate those symptoms as comorbid in Schizophrenia or if they existed prior to the first positive symptoms, since they can be representative of an Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Understanding this diagnostic and treatment complexity enables us to be more familiar with the development of Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms in schizophrenic patients.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
The impact of self-stigma in people with diagnosis of severe mental illness: a cross-sectional pilot study from a community psychiatry unit in Porto, Portugal
- A. S. Pinto, M. Almada, I. Fonseca, A. Sousa, A. Lopes
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, pp. S866-S867
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
Self-stigma refers to the process in which a person internalizes negative stereotypes, beliefs, and prejudices about their mental illness, adopting a stigmatized view of themselves. Severe mental illness is one of the most socially exclusive stigmata and is associated with poor clinical and functional outcomes and social withdrawal.
ObjectivesIn Portugal, investigation regarding self-stigma is scarce. In this study, we aim to evaluate the impact of self-stigma among people with diagnosis of severe mental illness (SMI). For this goal we assess the prevalence of self-stigma of psychiatric patients with diagnosis SMI; and investigate the correlates of elevated self-stigma levels.
MethodsFifty-one outpatients with SMI, were recruited from a community psychiatry unit from Porto, Portugal. After informed consent, evaluations included sociodemographic data, illness characteristics, and self-reported standardized scales. Self-stigma (ISMI), self-esteem (RSES) and quality of life (WHO-QoL) were assessed. Data analyses were performed using the SPSS version 28.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). p-values<0.05 were considered significant.
ResultsFrom the study sample, 66.7% were male, with mean age of 44.8±11.0 and 56.9% were single. 33.3% reported living with their parents while 31.4% were living with a partner/spouse. The majority of participants had a diagnosis of schizophrenia (60.8%). Concerning the level of education, 58.8% completed basic education, but most patients were retired due to illness (62.7%). In this study, moderate to high self-stigma levels was found in 31.4% participants. Proportion of elevated self-stigma was significantly higher in unemployed/retired patients vs. those who were active (39.0% vs. 0%; P=0.021). No significant correlations were found with age, level of education, age at diagnosis, duration of illness, and number of hospitalizations. In the correlations analysis, a negative correlation between self-stigma and self-esteem (rho=-0.745; P<0.001), as well as self-stigma and quality of life (rho=-0.585; P<0.001) was found. A positive relationship between self-esteem and quality of life (rho=0.551; P<0.001) was found.
ConclusionsThis study investigates, for the first time, the prevalence of self-stigma among outpatients with SMI in a community psychiatric unit from Porto. Our findings suggest a high prevalence of elevated levels of self-stigma among these patients. A significant association with being unemployed/retired was also found. Our results support previous evidence that internalized stigma is strongly associated with diminished self-esteem and impaired quality of life, in particular those aspects related to physical and psychological complaints. Targeting internalized stigma and self-esteem among patient with SMI will likely improve their quality of life, besides improving their clinical and functional outcomes.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Difficult patients in mental health care–who are they?
- I. M. Figueiredo, G. Soares, C. Lopes, A. C. Rodrigues, A. L. Falcão, A. Lourenço, I. Cargaleiro, M. Nascimento, C. Oliveira
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S900
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
Difficult patients are not something new and we can find innumerous definitions for this concept. However, they form a very heterogenous group and we need a less abstract definition focused more on the clinical reality and the difficulties experienced by patients and mental health professionals.
ObjectivesOur goal was to find a more precise and clinical definition of the difficult patient based on quantitative measures using a statistical analysis of a series of hospitalizations.
MethodsA cluster analysis of our hospital’s in-patient treatment from the last 5 years was made concerning the duration of the stay and the number of previous hospitalizations.
ResultsA sample of 8576 inpatient treatment episodes was used. 52.4% were male and 47.6% female patients between the age of 15 and 103 years old. The length of the treatment varied from 0 to 1007 days and the number of previous hospitalizations from 0 to 109; excluding the outliers the means were, respectively, 21 days and 2 previous hospitalizations.
The cluster analysis excluded 85 episodes and it found the presence of 3 clusters, being the number 1 the wider one (n=5861 episodes) and the other quite similar.
The Cluster 1 was characterized by a smaller length of hospital stay and number of hospitalizations; the Cluster 2 was defined by the episodes with the highest number of previous hospitalizations (`x =8.77) and the Cluster C by the longest hospital stays (`x =58.09 days). With a Kruskal-Wallis test we found both variables statistically different between all clusters (p<0.001). In Cluster 2 and 3, respectively, we found that 40,24% and 34.61% was taking the medication before being hospitalized, 6.42% and 3.15% were compulsive hospitalizations, and 40.5% and 21.89% had LAI prescribed.
Concerning the diagnosis, Cluster 1 had more Depression, Neurotic and Somatoform disorders; Cluster 2 more Bipolar and Intellectual disability disorders and Cluster 3 more Dementia and Delusional disorders. Substance use disorders and Personality disorders were found more common in both Cluster 1 and 2, Schizophrenia in Cluster 2 and 3 and Psychosis non specified in Cluster 1 and 3.
ConclusionsWe can say Cluster 1 comprises the non-difficult patients and it’s not surprising that it includes more Depression and Neurotic and Somatoform disorders. The other diagnostic distributions among clusters were also expected and we can also theorize that Cluster 3 had higher percentages of social cases. Treatment with LAI is linked to a decrease in rehospitalizations and we found that in the majority of these episodes it wasn’t been applied. This research is important in order to identify the difficult patients and what challenges they can bring to the mental health services. Creating these patients’ profile will allow us to better understand their needs to create guidelines for a personalized inpatient treatment and to improve community services to prevent the rehospitalizations and prolonged hospital stays.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Capgras syndrome conceptualization: from a delusional disorder to a structural neurological phenomenon
- M. M. Marques, L. Lopes, I. Grenha, J. Reis, F. Araujo, T. Novo
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S1073
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Open access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
The Capgras syndrome, also known as the delusion of doubles, is a delusional misidentification syndrome, defined in 1923 by Joseph Capgras, who referred to it as “l’illusion des sosies”, which means “the illusion of look-alikes”. In this syndrome, people falsely believe that someone significant to them has been replaced by an identical-looking impostor.
ObjectivesTo review the evolution of the conceptualization of Capgras syndrome and its relationship with neurological disorders, such as dementia.
MethodsNon-systematic review of the literature with selection of scientific articles published in the last 10 years, using PUBMED as database and the following keywords: «Capgras syndrome» and «dementia». 11 studies were included.
ResultsOriginally, Capgras syndrome was seen exclusively as a psychiatric disorder: a delusional disorder, which can be associated to schizophrenia, bipolar or schizoaffective disorder. Since 1980, when organic brain lesions were identified in patients with Capgras syndrome, it started to be understood as a neuropsychiatric disorder. Previous studies revealed that in Capgras syndrome there is damage in the bifrontal, temporal cortex and the limbic system, structures that are involved in emotional arousal to familiar faces. In fact, Capgras Syndrome can be experienced in neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, dementia with Lewy body, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, cerebrovascular disease, subarachnoid hemorrhage, pituitary tumors and head injury. A 2014’s study showed that 73% of Capgras syndrome cases had comorbid diagnosis of schizophrenia, 26,4% had dementia and 16,7% had mood disorders. The prevalence of Capgras syndrome in neurodegenerative disorders is well known, and it is higher in dementia with Lewy body than in Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. In patients without a neurodegenerative disease, Capgras syndrome typically occurs at a younger age and is associated with psychiatric disease, cerebrovascular events, or illicit drug use. To date, it is unclear whether there are differences between Capgras syndrome as it occurs in neurodegenerative compared with non-neurodegenerative diseases.
ConclusionsCurrently, it is believed that Capgras syndrome can be associated not only with psychiatric diseases (a delusional syndrome, when belief evaluation is affected) but also with neurological diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, when addressing a Capgras syndrome it is necessary to rule out these neurological conditions. Also, correct early identification of the Capgras syndrome in dementia cases will improve the clinical management, outcome and quality of life of patients and caregivers.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
A Randomized Naturalistic Open Long-term Treatment of Panic Disorder with Clonazepam or Paroxetine
- A.E. Nardi, A.M. Valença, R.C. Freire, F.L. Lopes, I. Nascimento, A.L. King, A. Sardinha, M.N. Levitan, M.R. de Carvalho, V.L. de-Melo-Neto, M.A. Mezzasalma, G.L. Soares-Filho, A.C. de Cerqueira, R.T. da Costa, M. Versiani
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 24 / Issue S1 / January 2009
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 16 April 2020, 24-E313
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Export citation
-
Objective:
To describe with prospective methodology the therapeutic response to clonazepam or paroxetine in a 3-year treatment of panic disorder (PD).
Methods:A total of 120 PD outpatients (DSM-IV) were openly treated with clonazepam or paroxetine for 8 weeks. Those who responded entered a 3-year follow-up. Demographic and clinical features were compared in the two groups.
Results:Efficacy was evaluated by Intent to treat, last value carried forward. The Hamilton Scale for Anxiety (HAMA) did not differ between the groups at baseline and during the first two months. In the acute treatment phase and at the end of the long-term follow-up both groups had a significant and similar response - 86.8% of the clonazepam group and 73.0% of the paroxetine group had a complete remission of panic attacks. The mean dose for clonazepam was 1.9 ± 0.2 mg/day and for paroxetine 33.8 ± 9.8 mg/day. There was no difference in the scale scores, and the reduction in panic attacks from baseline to end-point did not differ significantly between the groups. The most common adverse events during treatment were tremor/shaking, nausea/vomiting, sexual dysfunction and appetite/weight change in the paroxetine group and drowsiness, sexual dysfunction and memory/concentration complains in the clonazepam group.
Conclusion:PD patients using clonazepam or paroxetine had an equivalent response during acute and long term treatment. The patients using clonazepam had significantly less side effects than the paroxetine group.
Acknowledgements: Brazilian Council for scientific and technological development (CNPq).
Grant: 554411/2005-9.
Validation of the Portuguese version of the consumer experiences of stigma questionnaire (CESQ)
- L. Mendonça, S. Azeredo-Lopes, I. Landeiro, J. Grácio, M. Gonçalves-Pereira
-
- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 41 / Issue S1 / April 2017
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 23 March 2020, pp. s812-s813
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Export citation
-
Introduction
Tackling stigma and discrimination is a major concern worldwide as demonstrated e.g. in the European Mental Health Action Plan. We need valid and feasible indicators to assess the stigma of mental illness. In Portugal, validated scales focused on mental health consumers’ personal experiences of stigma are scarce. The consumer experiences of stigma questionnaire (CESQ) (Wahl, 1999), developed in collaboration with the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, focuses on users’ real life experiences. Although it was validated in different countries, some psychometric properties (e.g. test-retest reliability) are to be tested.
ObjectivesTo further assess CESQ psychometric properties and to validate its Portuguese translation.
MethodsThe CESQ Portuguese translation was developed in collaboration with the author (Otto Wahl), using standard translation and back-translation procedures. The acceptability of items was assessed in pilot studies and discussed in groups also involving health professionals. The measure was then used in a convenience sample of 122 persons with severe mental illness. Assessments included test-retest reliability (n = 48). A factor analysis was also conducted.
ResultsOverall, the CESQ translation proved acceptable and missing items were few, not compromising the analysis. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for test-retest reliability was 0.83 [95% CI 0.71–0.90] and Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency was 0.80 [95% CI 0.75–0.85]. In the principal component analysis, factor loadings confirmed the two originally reported domains: stigma and discrimination.
ConclusionsThe CESQ Portuguese version demonstrated good validity and reliability, replicating research using the original version and adding to the documentation of its psychometric properties.
Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Effect of ractopamine and conjugated linoleic acid on performance of late finishing pigs
- J. C. Panisson, A. Maiorka, S.G. Oliveira, A. Saraiva, M. S. Duarte, K. F. Silva, E. V. Santos, R. L. S. Tolentino, I. M. G. Lopes, L. L. M. Guedes, B. A. N. Silva
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
The dietary inclusion of feed additives to improve the carcass characteristics of the final product is of great importance for the pork production chain. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of the association of ractopamine (RAC) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on the performance traits of finishing pigs during the last 26 days prior to slaughter. In total, 810 commercial hybrid barrows were used. Animals were distributed among treatments according to a randomised block design in a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement, with three RAC levels (0, 5 or 10 ppm) and three CLA levels (0, 0.3 or 0.6%). Pigs fed the diet with 5 ppm RAC had higher average daily feed intake (ADFI) (2.83 kg; P < 0.05) when compared with those fed 10 ppm RAC and the control diet (2.75 and 2.74 kg, respectively). Lower ADFI values (P < 0.01) were observed with the diets containing CLA compared with the control diet with no CLA (2.73 and 2.75 v. 2.85 kg/day, respectively). The average daily weight gain of pigs fed 5 and 10 ppm RAC was +148 and +173 g/dayhigher (P < 0.001), respectively, than those fed the control diet. Dietary RAC levels influenced (P < 0.001) feed conversion ratio (FCR), which was reduced as RAC levels increased, with the pigs fed 10, 5 and 0 ppm RAC presenting FCR values of 2.57, 2.71 and 3.05, respectively. FCR also improved (P < 0.05) with the inclusion of 0.6% CLA relative to the control diet (2.70 v. 2.84, respectively). There was a significant interaction between CLA × RAC levels (P < 0.01) for final BW, loin eye area (LEA) (P < 0.05) and backfat thickness (BT) (P < 0.05). The treatments containing 10 ppm RAC + 0.6% or 0.3% CLA increased LEA and reduced BT. In conclusion, the level of 10 ppm inclusion of RAC increased the overall performance parameters of pigs and therefore improved production efficiency. The combined use of RAC and CLA promoted a lower feed conversion ratio as well as better quantitative carcass traits, as demonstrated by the higher LEA and lower BT. The dietary inclusion of CLA at 0.3% improved feed efficiency, however, without affecting LEA or BT yields.
Dog hepatocytes are key effector cells in the liver innate immune response to Leishmania infantum
- A. Rodrigues, G. Alexandre-Pires, A. Valério-Bolas, D. Santos-Mateus, M. Rafael-Fernandes, M. A. Pereira, D. Ligeiro, T. Nunes, R. Alves-Azevedo, S. Lopes-Ventura, M. Santos, A. M. Tomás, I. Pereira da Fonseca, G. Santos-Gomes
-
- Journal:
- Parasitology / Volume 146 / Issue 6 / May 2019
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 18 December 2018, pp. 753-764
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
Hepatocytes constitute the majority of hepatic cells, and play a key role in controlling systemic innate immunity, via pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) and by synthesizing complement and acute phase proteins. Leishmania infantum, a protozoan parasite that causes human and canine leishmaniasis, infects liver by establishing inside the Kupffer cells. The current study proposes the elucidation of the immune response generated by dog hepatocytes when exposed to L. infantum. Additionally, the impact of adding leishmanicidal compound, meglumine antimoniate (MgA), to parasite-exposed hepatocytes was also addressed. L. infantum presents a high tropism to hepatocytes, establishing strong membrane interactions. The possibility of L. infantum internalization by hepatocytes was raised, but not confirmed. Hepatocytes were able to recognize parasite presence, inducing PRRs [nucleotide oligomerization domain (NOD)1, NOD2 and Toll-like receptor (TLR)2] gene expression and generating a mix pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine response. Reduction of cytochrome P 450s enzyme activity was also observed concomitant with the inflammatory response. Addition of MgA increased NOD2, TLR4 and interleukin 10 gene expression, indicating an immunomodulatory role for MgA. Hepatocytes seem to have a major role in coordinating liver's innate immune response against L. infantum infection, activating inflammatory mechanisms, but always balancing the inflammatory response in order to avoid cell damage.
Racial differences in seroprevalence of HAV and HEV in blood donors in the Western Cape, South Africa: a clue to the predominant HEV genotype?
- T. LOPES, R. CABLE, C. PISTORIUS, T. MAPONGA, S. IJAZ, W. PREISER, R. TEDDER, M. I. ANDERSSON
-
- Journal:
- Epidemiology & Infection / Volume 145 / Issue 9 / July 2017
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 30 March 2017, pp. 1910-1912
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- HTML
- Export citation
-
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a major cause of acute hepatitis worldwide. This infection causes major water-borne outbreaks in low- and middle-income countries, whilst in industrialised countries this infection is zoonotic. These differences in epidemiology are related to different HEV genotypes. HEV genotype 3 is a zoonotic infection, whilst genotype 2 causes large outbreaks. This study determined the seroprevalence of HEV in blood donors from the Western Cape. Anti-hepatitis A virus (anti-HAV) antibody was detected in 184/300 (61%) donors. Antibody to HEV (anti-HEV) was detected in 78 of 300 donors (26%). It was highest in mixed race donors (62/100), followed by white donors (23/100) and lowest in black donors (19/100) P = 0.019. Since it is thought that genotypes 1 and 2 predominate both viruses would be acquired by the oro-faecal route, it is surprising that HEV seroprevalence does not mirror that of HAV. We postulate that this may reflect differences in socio-economic status and consumption of dietary meat. So the marked divergence between HEV and HAV seroprevalence may be the result of different routes of transmission. Further data are needed to explore the risk factors associated with HEV infection.
Contributors
-
- By Mitchell Aboulafia, Frederick Adams, Marilyn McCord Adams, Robert M. Adams, Laird Addis, James W. Allard, David Allison, William P. Alston, Karl Ameriks, C. Anthony Anderson, David Leech Anderson, Lanier Anderson, Roger Ariew, David Armstrong, Denis G. Arnold, E. J. Ashworth, Margaret Atherton, Robin Attfield, Bruce Aune, Edward Wilson Averill, Jody Azzouni, Kent Bach, Andrew Bailey, Lynne Rudder Baker, Thomas R. Baldwin, Jon Barwise, George Bealer, William Bechtel, Lawrence C. Becker, Mark A. Bedau, Ernst Behler, José A. Benardete, Ermanno Bencivenga, Jan Berg, Michael Bergmann, Robert L. Bernasconi, Sven Bernecker, Bernard Berofsky, Rod Bertolet, Charles J. Beyer, Christian Beyer, Joseph Bien, Joseph Bien, Peg Birmingham, Ivan Boh, James Bohman, Daniel Bonevac, Laurence BonJour, William J. Bouwsma, Raymond D. Bradley, Myles Brand, Richard B. Brandt, Michael E. Bratman, Stephen E. Braude, Daniel Breazeale, Angela Breitenbach, Jason Bridges, David O. Brink, Gordon G. Brittan, Justin Broackes, Dan W. Brock, Aaron Bronfman, Jeffrey E. Brower, Bartosz Brozek, Anthony Brueckner, Jeffrey Bub, Lara Buchak, Otavio Bueno, Ann E. Bumpus, Robert W. Burch, John Burgess, Arthur W. Burks, Panayot Butchvarov, Robert E. Butts, Marina Bykova, Patrick Byrne, David Carr, Noël Carroll, Edward S. Casey, Victor Caston, Victor Caston, Albert Casullo, Robert L. Causey, Alan K. L. Chan, Ruth Chang, Deen K. Chatterjee, Andrew Chignell, Roderick M. Chisholm, Kelly J. Clark, E. J. Coffman, Robin Collins, Brian P. Copenhaver, John Corcoran, John Cottingham, Roger Crisp, Frederick J. Crosson, Antonio S. Cua, Phillip D. Cummins, Martin Curd, Adam Cureton, Andrew Cutrofello, Stephen Darwall, Paul Sheldon Davies, Wayne A. Davis, Timothy Joseph Day, Claudio de Almeida, Mario De Caro, Mario De Caro, John Deigh, C. F. Delaney, Daniel C. Dennett, Michael R. DePaul, Michael Detlefsen, Daniel Trent Devereux, Philip E. Devine, John M. Dillon, Martin C. Dillon, Robert DiSalle, Mary Domski, Alan Donagan, Paul Draper, Fred Dretske, Mircea Dumitru, Wilhelm Dupré, Gerald Dworkin, John Earman, Ellery Eells, Catherine Z. Elgin, Berent Enç, Ronald P. Endicott, Edward Erwin, John Etchemendy, C. Stephen Evans, Susan L. Feagin, Solomon Feferman, Richard Feldman, Arthur Fine, Maurice A. Finocchiaro, William FitzPatrick, Richard E. Flathman, Gvozden Flego, Richard Foley, Graeme Forbes, Rainer Forst, Malcolm R. Forster, Daniel Fouke, Patrick Francken, Samuel Freeman, Elizabeth Fricker, Miranda Fricker, Michael Friedman, Michael Fuerstein, Richard A. Fumerton, Alan Gabbey, Pieranna Garavaso, Daniel Garber, Jorge L. A. Garcia, Robert K. Garcia, Don Garrett, Philip Gasper, Gerald Gaus, Berys Gaut, Bernard Gert, Roger F. Gibson, Cody Gilmore, Carl Ginet, Alan H. Goldman, Alvin I. Goldman, Alfonso Gömez-Lobo, Lenn E. Goodman, Robert M. Gordon, Stefan Gosepath, Jorge J. E. Gracia, Daniel W. Graham, George A. Graham, Peter J. Graham, Richard E. Grandy, I. Grattan-Guinness, John Greco, Philip T. Grier, Nicholas Griffin, Nicholas Griffin, David A. Griffiths, Paul J. Griffiths, Stephen R. Grimm, Charles L. Griswold, Charles B. Guignon, Pete A. Y. Gunter, Dimitri Gutas, Gary Gutting, Paul Guyer, Kwame Gyekye, Oscar A. Haac, Raul Hakli, Raul Hakli, Michael Hallett, Edward C. Halper, Jean Hampton, R. James Hankinson, K. R. Hanley, Russell Hardin, Robert M. Harnish, William Harper, David Harrah, Kevin Hart, Ali Hasan, William Hasker, John Haugeland, Roger Hausheer, William Heald, Peter Heath, Richard Heck, John F. Heil, Vincent F. Hendricks, Stephen Hetherington, Francis Heylighen, Kathleen Marie Higgins, Risto Hilpinen, Harold T. Hodes, Joshua Hoffman, Alan Holland, Robert L. Holmes, Richard Holton, Brad W. Hooker, Terence E. Horgan, Tamara Horowitz, Paul Horwich, Vittorio Hösle, Paul Hoβfeld, Daniel Howard-Snyder, Frances Howard-Snyder, Anne Hudson, Deal W. Hudson, Carl A. Huffman, David L. Hull, Patricia Huntington, Thomas Hurka, Paul Hurley, Rosalind Hursthouse, Guillermo Hurtado, Ronald E. Hustwit, Sarah Hutton, Jonathan Jenkins Ichikawa, Harry A. Ide, David Ingram, Philip J. Ivanhoe, Alfred L. Ivry, Frank Jackson, Dale Jacquette, Joseph Jedwab, Richard Jeffrey, David Alan Johnson, Edward Johnson, Mark D. Jordan, Richard Joyce, Hwa Yol Jung, Robert Hillary Kane, Tomis Kapitan, Jacquelyn Ann K. Kegley, James A. Keller, Ralph Kennedy, Sergei Khoruzhii, Jaegwon Kim, Yersu Kim, Nathan L. King, Patricia Kitcher, Peter D. Klein, E. D. Klemke, Virginia Klenk, George L. Kline, Christian Klotz, Simo Knuuttila, Joseph J. Kockelmans, Konstantin Kolenda, Sebastian Tomasz Kołodziejczyk, Isaac Kramnick, Richard Kraut, Fred Kroon, Manfred Kuehn, Steven T. Kuhn, Henry E. Kyburg, John Lachs, Jennifer Lackey, Stephen E. Lahey, Andrea Lavazza, Thomas H. Leahey, Joo Heung Lee, Keith Lehrer, Dorothy Leland, Noah M. Lemos, Ernest LePore, Sarah-Jane Leslie, Isaac Levi, Andrew Levine, Alan E. Lewis, Daniel E. Little, Shu-hsien Liu, Shu-hsien Liu, Alan K. L. Chan, Brian Loar, Lawrence B. Lombard, John Longeway, Dominic McIver Lopes, Michael J. Loux, E. J. Lowe, Steven Luper, Eugene C. Luschei, William G. Lycan, David Lyons, David Macarthur, Danielle Macbeth, Scott MacDonald, Jacob L. Mackey, Louis H. Mackey, Penelope Mackie, Edward H. Madden, Penelope Maddy, G. B. Madison, Bernd Magnus, Pekka Mäkelä, Rudolf A. Makkreel, David Manley, William E. Mann (W.E.M.), Vladimir Marchenkov, Peter Markie, Jean-Pierre Marquis, Ausonio Marras, Mike W. Martin, A. P. Martinich, William L. McBride, David McCabe, Storrs McCall, Hugh J. McCann, Robert N. McCauley, John J. McDermott, Sarah McGrath, Ralph McInerny, Daniel J. McKaughan, Thomas McKay, Michael McKinsey, Brian P. McLaughlin, Ernan McMullin, Anthonie Meijers, Jack W. Meiland, William Jason Melanson, Alfred R. Mele, Joseph R. Mendola, Christopher Menzel, Michael J. Meyer, Christian B. Miller, David W. Miller, Peter Millican, Robert N. Minor, Phillip Mitsis, James A. Montmarquet, Michael S. Moore, Tim Moore, Benjamin Morison, Donald R. Morrison, Stephen J. Morse, Paul K. Moser, Alexander P. D. Mourelatos, Ian Mueller, James Bernard Murphy, Mark C. Murphy, Steven Nadler, Jan Narveson, Alan Nelson, Jerome Neu, Samuel Newlands, Kai Nielsen, Ilkka Niiniluoto, Carlos G. Noreña, Calvin G. Normore, David Fate Norton, Nikolaj Nottelmann, Donald Nute, David S. Oderberg, Steve Odin, Michael O’Rourke, Willard G. Oxtoby, Heinz Paetzold, George S. Pappas, Anthony J. Parel, Lydia Patton, R. P. Peerenboom, Francis Jeffry Pelletier, Adriaan T. Peperzak, Derk Pereboom, Jaroslav Peregrin, Glen Pettigrove, Philip Pettit, Edmund L. Pincoffs, Andrew Pinsent, Robert B. Pippin, Alvin Plantinga, Louis P. Pojman, Richard H. Popkin, John F. Post, Carl J. Posy, William J. Prior, Richard Purtill, Michael Quante, Philip L. Quinn, Philip L. Quinn, Elizabeth S. Radcliffe, Diana Raffman, Gerard Raulet, Stephen L. Read, Andrews Reath, Andrew Reisner, Nicholas Rescher, Henry S. Richardson, Robert C. Richardson, Thomas Ricketts, Wayne D. Riggs, Mark Roberts, Robert C. Roberts, Luke Robinson, Alexander Rosenberg, Gary Rosenkranz, Bernice Glatzer Rosenthal, Adina L. Roskies, William L. Rowe, T. M. Rudavsky, Michael Ruse, Bruce Russell, Lilly-Marlene Russow, Dan Ryder, R. M. Sainsbury, Joseph Salerno, Nathan Salmon, Wesley C. Salmon, Constantine Sandis, David H. Sanford, Marco Santambrogio, David Sapire, Ruth A. Saunders, Geoffrey Sayre-McCord, Charles Sayward, James P. Scanlan, Richard Schacht, Tamar Schapiro, Frederick F. Schmitt, Jerome B. Schneewind, Calvin O. Schrag, Alan D. Schrift, George F. Schumm, Jean-Loup Seban, David N. Sedley, Kenneth Seeskin, Krister Segerberg, Charlene Haddock Seigfried, Dennis M. Senchuk, James F. Sennett, William Lad Sessions, Stewart Shapiro, Tommie Shelby, Donald W. Sherburne, Christopher Shields, Roger A. Shiner, Sydney Shoemaker, Robert K. Shope, Kwong-loi Shun, Wilfried Sieg, A. John Simmons, Robert L. Simon, Marcus G. Singer, Georgette Sinkler, Walter Sinnott-Armstrong, Matti T. Sintonen, Lawrence Sklar, Brian Skyrms, Robert C. Sleigh, Michael Anthony Slote, Hans Sluga, Barry Smith, Michael Smith, Robin Smith, Robert Sokolowski, Robert C. Solomon, Marta Soniewicka, Philip Soper, Ernest Sosa, Nicholas Southwood, Paul Vincent Spade, T. L. S. Sprigge, Eric O. Springsted, George J. Stack, Rebecca Stangl, Jason Stanley, Florian Steinberger, Sören Stenlund, Christopher Stephens, James P. Sterba, Josef Stern, Matthias Steup, M. A. Stewart, Leopold Stubenberg, Edith Dudley Sulla, Frederick Suppe, Jere Paul Surber, David George Sussman, Sigrún Svavarsdóttir, Zeno G. Swijtink, Richard Swinburne, Charles C. Taliaferro, Robert B. Talisse, John Tasioulas, Paul Teller, Larry S. Temkin, Mark Textor, H. S. Thayer, Peter Thielke, Alan Thomas, Amie L. Thomasson, Katherine Thomson-Jones, Joshua C. Thurow, Vzalerie Tiberius, Terrence N. Tice, Paul Tidman, Mark C. Timmons, William Tolhurst, James E. Tomberlin, Rosemarie Tong, Lawrence Torcello, Kelly Trogdon, J. D. Trout, Robert E. Tully, Raimo Tuomela, John Turri, Martin M. Tweedale, Thomas Uebel, Jennifer Uleman, James Van Cleve, Harry van der Linden, Peter van Inwagen, Bryan W. Van Norden, René van Woudenberg, Donald Phillip Verene, Samantha Vice, Thomas Vinci, Donald Wayne Viney, Barbara Von Eckardt, Peter B. M. Vranas, Steven J. Wagner, William J. Wainwright, Paul E. Walker, Robert E. Wall, Craig Walton, Douglas Walton, Eric Watkins, Richard A. Watson, Michael V. Wedin, Rudolph H. Weingartner, Paul Weirich, Paul J. Weithman, Carl Wellman, Howard Wettstein, Samuel C. Wheeler, Stephen A. White, Jennifer Whiting, Edward R. Wierenga, Michael Williams, Fred Wilson, W. Kent Wilson, Kenneth P. Winkler, John F. Wippel, Jan Woleński, Allan B. Wolter, Nicholas P. Wolterstorff, Rega Wood, W. Jay Wood, Paul Woodruff, Alison Wylie, Gideon Yaffe, Takashi Yagisawa, Yutaka Yamamoto, Keith E. Yandell, Xiaomei Yang, Dean Zimmerman, Günter Zoller, Catherine Zuckert, Michael Zuckert, Jack A. Zupko (J.A.Z.)
- Edited by Robert Audi, University of Notre Dame, Indiana
-
- Book:
- The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy
- Published online:
- 05 August 2015
- Print publication:
- 27 April 2015, pp ix-xxx
-
- Chapter
- Export citation
Diphenyl diselenide and sodium selenite associated with chemotherapy in experimental toxoplasmosis: influence on oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers and cytokine modulation
- CLEBER F. BARBOSA, ALEXANDRE A. TONIN, ALEKSANDRO S. DA SILVA, MARIA I. DE AZEVEDO, DANIELI U. MONTEIRO, EMILY P. WACZUK, THIAGO DUARTE, CARINE HERMES, GIOVANA CAMILLO, FERNANDA F. VOGEL, LUCIANA FACCIO, PAULA T. TONIN, PATRICIA WOLKMER, MARTA R. LEAL, MARTA M. M. F. DUARTE, RAFAEL N. MORESCO, SONIA T. A. LOPES, MARIO L. DE LA RUE
-
- Journal:
- Parasitology / Volume 141 / Issue 13 / November 2014
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 08 August 2014, pp. 1761-1768
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
The aim of this study was to assess the effect of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (ST) supplemented with diphenyl diselenide and sodium selenite in experimental toxoplasmosis, on oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers and cytokine levels. Eighty-four BALB/c mice were divided in seven groups: group A (negative control), and groups B to G (infected). Blood and liver samples were collected on days 4 and 20 post infection (p.i.). Levels of thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reactive substances and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) were assessed in liver samples. Both biomarkers were significantly increased in infected groups on day 4 p.i., while they were reduced on day 20 p.i., compared with group A. Glutathione reductase (GR) activity significantly (P<0·01) increased on day 4 p.i., in group G, compared with group A. INF-γ was significantly increased (P<0·001) in both periods, day 4 (groups B, C, F and G) and 20 p.i. (groups C, F and G). IL-10 significantly reduced (P<0·001) on day 4 p.i. in group B; however, in the same period, it was increased (P<0·001) in groups C and G, compared with group A. On day 20 p.i., IL-10 increased (P<0·001) in groups F and G. Therefore, our results highlighted that these forms of selenium, associated with the chemotherapy, were able to reduce lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, providing a beneficial immunological balance between the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Stellar variability in the VVV survey: overview and first results
- M. Catelan, D. Minniti, P. W. Lucas, I. Dékány, R. K. Saito, R. Angeloni, J. Alonso-García, M. Hempel, K. Hełminiak, A. Jordán, R. Contreras Ramos, C. Navarrete, J. C. Beamín, A. F. Rojas, F. Gran, C. E. Ferreira Lopes, C. Contreras Peña, E. Kerins, L. Huckvale, M. Rejkuba, R. Cohen, F. Mauro, J. Borissova, P. Amigo, S. Eyheramendy, K. Pichara, N. Espinoza, C. Navarro, G. Hajdu, D. N. Calderón Espinoza, G. A. Muro, H. Andrews, V. Motta, R. Kurtev, J. P. Emerson, C. Moni Bidin, A.-N. Chené
-
- Journal:
- Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union / Volume 9 / Issue S301 / August 2013
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 18 February 2014, pp. 395-396
- Print publication:
- August 2013
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Export citation
-
The Vista Variables in the Vía Láctea (VVV) ESO Public Survey is an ongoing time-series, near-infrared (IR) survey of the Galactic bulge and an adjacent portion of the inner disk, covering 562 square degrees of the sky, using ESO's VISTA telescope. The survey has provided superb multi-color photometry in 5 broadband filters (Z, Y, J, H, and Ks), leading to the best map of the inner Milky Way ever obtained, particularly in the near-IR. The main part of the survey, which is focused on the variability in the Ks-band, is currently underway, with bulge fields observed between 34 and 73 times, and disk fields between 34 and 36 times. When the survey is complete, bulge (disk) fields will have been observed up to a total of 100 (60) times, providing unprecedented depth and time coverage in the near-IR. Here we provide a first overview of stellar variability in the VVV data.
The cellular and flagella morphologies of ulcerogenic Helicobacter pylori paediatric strains.
- I. Vitoriano, K.D. Saraiva-Pava, A.P.A. Matos, F.F. Vale, A. Santos, A.I. Lopes, M. Oleastro, M. Roxo-Rosa
-
- Journal:
- Microscopy and Microanalysis / Volume 19 / Issue S4 / August 2013
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 06 August 2013, pp. 21-22
- Print publication:
- August 2013
-
- Article
-
- You have access Access
- Export citation
-
Helicobacter pylori is a pathogenic spiral-shaped, microaerophilic, gram-negative bacterium, that inhabits the human stomach. Infection is usually acquired during childhood and always elicits an acute immune response that is, however, inefficient in bacteria clearance. Therefore, in the absence of effective treatment, infection and gastritis (non ulcer dyspepsia, NUD) persist throughout the patient’s life. Depending on its severity and pattern, in about 15% of infected adults, this silent destruction of the gastric mucosa may further progress to peptic ulcer disease (PUD) (gastric and duodenal ulcers, GU and DU respectively) and/or gastric cancer. Infection with H. pylori is also the major cause for the development of paediatric PUD, a rare event that may occur shortly after infection. In addition to the still undisclosed genetic susceptibility of these young patients, the virulence of the implicated H. pylori strain plays a crucial role in the paediatric PUD pathogenesis. Recently, we proved by in vitro infection assays that, compared with paediatric NUD-associated isolates, a group of paediatric ulcerogenic-strains present a greater ability to induce a marked decrease in the gastric cells viability and to cause them severe cytoskeleton damage and mucins’ production/secretion impairment. Moreover, we showed that their enhanced virulence result from a synergy between the ability to better adapt to the hostility of their niche and the expression of cagA, vacAs1, oipA ‘‘on’’ status, homB and jhp562 virulence factors. Accordingly, these ulcerogenic strains share a particular proteome profile, providing them with better antioxidant defences, a metabolism favouring the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids and higher motility.
We are now characterizing/comparing the cellular and flagella morphologies of H. pylori strains isolated from Portuguese children, associated with DU, GU or NUD, belonging to the vast and multiethnic collection of the Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge (Portugal). For that, bacteria were grown in H. pylori selective medium (Biogerm, Maia, Portugal) at 37ºC in a microaerobic environment (Anoxomat®, MART Microbiology BV, Drachten, The Netherlands) for 24 h. For Leifson staining analysis, a drop of each bacterial suspension (in PBS) was spread in cleaned microscope slides, stained with the Leifson dye solution until a golden film developed on the dye surface and a precipitate appeared throughout the sample, and analysed by optical microscopy. For Transmission-Electronic-Microscopy (TEM) studies bacterial pellets were fixed sequentially in glutaraldehyde, osmium tetroxide and uranyl acetate, dehydrated in ethanol and embedded in Epon-Araldite. Thin sections contrasted with uranyl acetate and lead citrate were observed with a JEOL 100-SX electron microscope.
Corroborating the better swimming abilities of the PUD strains, as previously shown by motility assays, optical microscopy analysis of Leifson stained slides demonstrated marked differences in the morphology of the studied strains (Figure 1). The H. pylori strain associated with DU (Hp 1152/04) seem longer than all the others and, in contrast, that associated with GU (Hp 499/02) is the shortest one and presents a, more pronounced, spiral morphology. Moreover, our preliminary data on TEM analysis indicate the presence of more abundant and apparently more organized flagella in the GU-associated strain Hp 499/02, in contrast to the NUD control strain, Hp 655/99 (Figure 2).
Work supported by Research Grant 2011 – Sociedade Portuguesa de Gastrenterologia.
Radiological survey in Tejo River (Portugal)
- J. Barescut, M. J. Madruga, M. M. Sequeira, L. Silva, I. Lopes, A. R. Gomes, F. Rodrigues
-
- Journal:
- Radioprotection / Volume 44 / Issue 5 / 2009
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 06 June 2009, pp. 171-176
- Print publication:
- 2009
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
The Tejo River flows between Spain and Portugal discharging in the Atlantic Ocean. In its Spanish section receives discharges from three nuclear power plants (NPP) being the Almaraz NPP located nearby the Portuguese border. This paper summarizes and analyses the radionuclide concentrations in surface water, sediments and fish in Tejo River from the years 2001 to 2005. The surface waters, following radiochemical procedures, were analysed for total and residual beta, 137Cs and 90Sr by beta measurements using proportional counters and for 3H by liquid scintillation counting, after isotopic enrichment. Radionuclide concentrations were determined in sediments and fish by gamma spectrometry. The results obtained for 137Cs and 90Sr in surface waters are low and of the order of magnitude of the background. Regarding the 3H, the activities are higher than those obtained for other rivers. The levels of artificial and natural radionuclides in fish are below the minimum detectable activity with the exception to 40K. For sediments, the 228Ra, 226Ra and 137Cs concentrations increase with the decreasing of the sediment size. An opposite behaviour was observed for 40K. The data show that the radioactivity levels in Tejo River are low and within the values measured in other Portuguese rivers except for 3H in water which values are higher due to the influence of the Almaraz NPP.
Measurements of Strontium-90 in portuguese milk samples using liquid scintillation counting technique
- J. Barescut, I. Lopes, M. J. Madruga
-
- Journal:
- Radioprotection / Volume 44 / Issue 5 / 2009
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 06 June 2009, pp. 217-220
- Print publication:
- 2009
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
The objective of this study is the implementation of a method combining extraction chromatography and liquid scintillation counting (LSC) technique to the determination of 90Sr in milk samples. The strontium separation is performed using the commercially available Sr-resin (Eichrom) and the beta counting is carried out using a liquid scintillation detector system (Tri-Carb 3170 TR/SL, Packard). Firstly, the trials are performed with 300 mL of milk and 0.7 g of resin. Validation trials are carried out using spiked milk samples with different 90Sr activities and the accuracy of the methodology is also been tested with an IAEA 152 reference milk sample. The results obtained had shown good accuracy of expected value. The minimum detectable activity (MDA) obtained for a confidence level of 95% and 60 minutes of sample counting time was 0.20 Bq L-1. In order to improve the detection limits for 90Sr, 1 liter of milk and 3 g of resin were used and the MDA value in these conditions was improved to 0.012 Bq L-1. The method was applied to the determination of the 90Sr concentrations in milk samples from different regions of Portugal.
Multidimensional Models for Methodological Validation in Multifractal Analysis
- R. Lopes, I. Bhouri, S. Maouche, P. Dubois, M. H. Bedoui, N. Betrouni
-
- Journal:
- Mathematical Modelling of Natural Phenomena / Volume 3 / Issue 6 / 2008
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 24 December 2008, pp. 33-47
- Print publication:
- 2008
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
Multifractal analysis is known as a useful tool in signal analysis. However, the methods are often used without methodological validation. In this study, we present multidimensional models in order to validate multifractal analysis methods.
Effect of calcium sources on calcium flows in sheep: comparison of two models
- D M S S Vitti, A P Roque, E Kebreab, J B Lopes, A L Abdalla, L A Crompton, R S Dias, I C S Bueno, J France
-
- Journal:
- Proceedings of the British Society of Animal Science / Volume 2006 / March 2006
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 23 November 2017, p. 155
- Print publication:
- March 2006
-
- Article
- Export citation
-
Calcium is needed for bone formation, muscle contraction, nerve transmission and a variety of other functions in the organism. Experiments has been carried out to study phosphorus metabolism in sheep and cattle, by using isotope dilution techniques however, there is very little information on Ca metabolism in sheep. The objective of this experiment was to study the effects of various Ca sources on the Ca flows in sheep by two models.