Interactions among sucrose and concentrations of serum fetal bovine on the cryopreservation of somatic cells derived from red-rumped agoutis

BACKGROUND

The synergistic action among the different extracellular cryoprotectants could improve somatic cell quality after thawing and provide bases for the formation of biobanks for red-rumped agoutis.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the interactions among sucrose (SUC) and concentrations of serum fetal bovine (FBS) on the cryopreservation of somatic cells derived from red-rumped agoutis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cells were cryopreserved with 10% dimethyl sulfoxide and different concentrations of FBS (10%, 40%, and 90%) with or without 0.2 M SUC, totaling six comparison groups. Non-cryopreserved cells were used as a control. Cells were evaluated for viability, metabolic activity, proliferative activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis levels.

RESULTS

No difference was observed among cryopreserved with DMSO containing (10FBS, 10FBS-SUC, 40FBS, 40FBS-SUC, 90FBS, 90FBS-SUC) and non-cryopreserved groups for viability, metabolic activity, proliferative activity, and ROS levels. Interestingly, only cells cryopreserved with 90% FBS and SUC maintained the mitochondrial membrane potential like the control. This indicates that at high concentrations of FBS, SUC contributes to the maintenance of this parameter in cryopreserved cells. Moreover, at concentrations of 10% and 40% of FBS, SUC contributed to the maintenance of viability evaluated by the levels of apoptosis evaluated after thawing. In summary, we verified that 90% FBS and 0.2 M SUC promote greater ability of cells after thawing. Additionally, SUC positively acts in cryopreservation solutions containing 10% and 40% FBS.

CONCLUSION

This information is essential to an understanding of the mechanisms involved in the interactions of extracellular cryoprotectants in somatic cell cryopreservation solutions of red-rumped agoutis. DOI: 10.54680/fr23210110212.

FREQUÊNCIA DE TESTES RÁPIDOS POSITIVOS PARA SARS-COV-2 ENTRE DOADORES DE SANGUE

Introdução

A COVID-19 é síndrome respiratória aguda grave causada pelo Coronavírus SARS-CoV-2. Visando a segurança transfusional, novos critérios de triagem clínica foram estabelecidos considerando o risco de COVID-19 entre doadores.

Objetivo

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a frequência de testes positivos para SARS-Cov-2 entre doadores de sangue considerados aptos para doar.

Métodos

Foi realizado um estudo transversal retrospectivo com amostras de soro de doadores de sangue, que doaram entre janeiro e março de 2021 no Banco de Sangue do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. Essas amostras foram triadas para pesquisa de anticorpos IgG e IgM contra o epítopo RBD da proteína Spike do SARS-CoV-2 no Teste Rápido (TR) qualitativo Kit One Step COVID-2019 (CELER). Os dados foram compilados e analisados no sistema SPSS v. 18.

Resultados

Foram realizados TR para COVID-19 em 1837 amostras de soro, sendo que 245 apresentaram positividade, representando uma frequência de 13,3%. Dentre essas amostras positivas, 102 (41,63%) referiram não ter tido contato prévio com o Coronavírus nem serem vacinados. Por outro lado, 67 doadores (27,34%) com resultados positivos, informaram durante a triagem clínica estarem vacinados com a 1ª ou a 2ª dose contra o COVID-19, sendo que cerca de 37% dessas pessoas vacinadas já haviam apresentado diagnóstico prévio de COVID-19. Ainda entre os positivos, 18 doadores (7,3%) referiram ter tido COVID-19 há mais de 6 meses do ato da doação, enquanto que 68 (27,75%) apresentaram diagnóstico positivo há menos de 6 meses.

Conclusão

Os resultados encontrados demonstraram uma elevada taxa de positividade nos TR contra COVID-19 entre doadores de sangue. Fato que preocupa, é que uma parcela importante de doadores poderia estar assintomática no momento da doação, visto que a maior parte dos positivos afirmaram não ser vacinados e não ter tido contato prévio com o Coronavírus. Apesar da regulamentação acerca dos critérios para a triagem clínica dos doadores de sangue, a triagem laboratorial para COVID-19 não é obrigatória. Não há até o momento consenso na literatura quanto à transmissão transfusional do coronavírus. Desta forma, é necessário o acompanhamento dos pacientes que receberam hemocomponentes provenientes de doadores com testes positivos para SARS-CoV-2 a fim de comprovar ou descartar a transmissão de COVID-19 por transfusão sanguínea.

Chondroitin sulfate from fish waste exhibits strong intracellular antioxidant potential

Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is a type of glycosaminoglycan described as an antioxidant molecule that has been found in animal species such as fish. Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) represents an eco-friendly source of this compound, since its economical processing generates usable waste, reducing the negative environmental impact. This waste was used for CS extraction, purification, characterization by enzymatic degradation, and evaluation of its antioxidant effect. CS obtained from tilapia presented sulfation mainly at carbon 4 of galactosamine, and it was not cytotoxic at concentrations up to 200 µg/mL. Furthermore, 100 µg/mL of CS from tilapia reduced the levels of reactive oxygen species to 47% of the total intracellular reactive oxygen species level. The ability of CS to chelate metal ions in vitro also suggested an ability to react with other pathways that generate oxidative radicals, such as the Haber-Weiss reaction, acting intracellularly in more than one way. Although the role of CS from tilapia remains unclear, the pharmacological effects described herein indicate that CS is a potential molecule for further study of the relationship between the structures and functions of chondroitin sulfates as antioxidants.

Rotifers of Bahia State, Brazil: News records and limitations to studies

A first checklist of Rotifera species in freshwater environments in Bahia State, in northeastern Brazil, is provided. The list includes sampling data from 26 aquatic environments (lotic and lentic) undertaken from 2010 to 2016. One hundred and fifty-five species were recorded, with 68 new records for the state. The family Brachionidae and Lecanidae were the most representative (54.8%). The greatest richness was recorded in the Colônia River (57 species). Those results reflect the low numbers of studies previously undertaken in the region, indicating more research needs to be focused on Rotifera biodiversity in Bahia, the fifth largest state in Brazil (567,295 km2) with large numbers of freshwater bodies.

Effects of early aldosterone antagonism on cardiac remodeling in rats with aortic stenosis-induced pressure overload

Aldosterone plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of systolic heart failure. However, whether early aldosterone antagonism improves cardiac remodeling during persistent pressure overload is unsettled. We evaluated the effects of aldosterone antagonist spironolactone on cardiac remodeling in rats with ascending aortic stenosis (AS).

METHODS

Three days after inducing AS, weaning rats were randomized to receive spironolactone (AS-SPR, 20mg/kg/day) or no drug (AS) for 18weeks, and compared with sham-operated rats. Myocardial function was studied in isolated left ventricular (LV) papillary muscles.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES

ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests.

RESULTS

Echocardiogram showed that LV diastolic (Sham 8.73±0.57; AS 8.30±1.10; AS-SPR 9.19±1.15mm) and systolic (Sham 4.57±0.67; AS 3.61±1.49; AS-SPR 4.62±1.48mm) diameters, left atrial diameter (Sham 5.80±0.44; AS 7.15±1.22; AS-SPR 8.02±1.17mm), and LV mass were higher in AS-SPR than AS. Posterior wall shortening velocity (Sham 38.5±3.8; AS 35.6±5.6; AS-SPR 31.1±3.8mm/s) was lower in AS-SPR than Sham and AS; E/A ratio was higher in AS-SPR than Sham. Developed tension was lower in AS and AS-SPR than Sham. Time to peak tension was higher in AS-SPR than Sham and AS after post-rest contraction. Right ventricle weight was higher in AS-SPR than AS, suggesting more severe heart failure in AS-SPR than AS. Interstitial collagen fractional area and myocardial hydroxyproline concentration were higher in AS than Sham. Metalloproteinase-2 and -9 activity, evaluated by zymography, did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSION

Early spironolactone administration causes further hypertrophy in cardiac chambers, and left ventricular dilation and dysfunction in rats with AS-induced chronic pressure overload.

Between-Habitat Variation of Benthic Cover, Reef Fish Assemblage and Feeding Pressure on the Benthos at the Only Atoll in South Atlantic: Rocas Atoll, NE Brazil

The Southwestern Atlantic harbors unique and relatively understudied reef systems, including the only atoll in South Atlantic: Rocas atoll. Located 230 km off the NE Brazilian coast, Rocas is formed by coralline red algae and vermetid mollusks, and is potentially one of the most "pristine" areas in Southwestern Atlantic. We provide the first comprehensive and integrative description of the fish and benthic communities inhabiting different shallow reef habitats of Rocas. We studied two contrasting tide pool habitats: open pools, which communicate with the open ocean even during low tides, thus more exposed to wave action; and closed pools, which remain isolated during low tide and are comparatively less exposed. Reef fish assemblages, benthic cover, algal turfs and fish feeding pressure on the benthos remarkably varied between open and closed pools. The planktivore Thalassoma noronhanum was the most abundant fish species in both habitats. In terms of biomass, the lemon shark Negaprion brevirostris and the omnivore Melichtys niger were dominant in open pools, while herbivorous fishes (mainly Acanthurus spp.) prevailed in closed pools. Overall benthic cover was dominated by algal turfs, composed of articulated calcareous algae in open pools and non-calcified algae in closed pools. Feeding pressure was dominated by acanthurids and was 10-fold lower in open pools than in closed pools. Besides different wave exposure conditions, such pattern could also be related to the presence of sharks in open pools, prompting herbivorous fish to feed more in closed pools. This might indirectly affect the structure of reef fish assemblages and benthic communities. The macroalgae Digenea simplex, which is uncommon in closed pools and abundant in the reef flat, was highly preferred in herbivory assays, indicating that herbivory by fishes might be shaping this distribution pattern. The variations in benthic and reef fish communities, and feeding pressure on the benthos between open and closed pools suggest that the dynamics in open pools is mostly driven by physical factors and the tolerance of organisms to harsh conditions, while in closed pools direct and indirect effects of species interactions also play an important role. Understanding the mechanisms shaping biological communities and how they scale-up to ecosystem functioning is particularly important on isolated near-pristine systems where natural processes can still be studied under limited human impact.

Serum hyaluronic acid in polymyositis: high serum levels tend to correlate with disease activity

OBJECTIVE

Polymyositis (PM) is a rare systemic idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is closely linked to inflammatory cellular reactions and disease activity. Increased serum levels of HA have been reported in several inflammatory diseases, but currently, there are no studies analysing the HA in PM. Thus, clinical association of HA with PM in patients was determined in the present study.

METHODS

The present cross-sectional study was performed at one centre from 2012 to 2013 and included 35 consecutive adult patients with PM (Bohan and Peter criteria, 1975) and 38 adult healthy volunteers. The serum HA was assessed with anti-HA antibody, using the specific ELISA/EIA kits according to the manufacturer's protocol.

RESULTS

The average age, distribution of females and ethnicity were comparable in patients with PM and the control group. Regarding disease status, patients with PM had a median patient visual analogue score (VAS) of 2 [0-6], physician VAS of 1 [0-3], MMT-8 of 74 [68-80] and HAQ of 0.48 [0.00-1.14]. The serum levels of HA were also significantly increased in patients with PM (390±412 ng/mL) compared to healthy subjects (129±119 ng/mL), p=0.001. In an additional analysis, the serum levels of HA did not correlate with PM demographic data (gender and ethnicity), current organ involvement or autoantibodies and were not been influenced by the use of prednisolone and/or immunosuppressives by the PM patients. However, there was a positive correlation between serum levels of HA and VAS (patient and physician), and a negative correlation between serum levels of HA and MMT-8.

CONCLUSION

High serum levels of HA were observed in patients with PM and tended to correlate with PM disease activity. Additional studies are needed to assess this correlation, as well as to understand the mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of PM by HA.

Dielectric study of the adhesion of mesenchymal stem cells from human umbilical cord on a sugarcane biopolymer

It is of current interest the identification of appropriate matrices for growing mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). These cells are able not only to regenerate themselves but also to differentiate into other type of functional cells, and so they have been extensively used in tissue engineering. In this work, we have evaluated the use of electric impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to follow the adhesion of MSC from Wharton's jelly of the human umbilical cord (hWJMSC) on sugarcane biopolymers (SCB). Impedance spectra of the systems were obtained in the frequency range of 10(2)-10(5) Hz. An EIS investigation showed that when deposited on a metallic electrode SCB films prevent the passage of electrons between the solution and the metallic interface. The impedance spectra of hWJMSCs adhered on SCB revealed that there is a significant increase in the magnitude of the impedance when compared to that of pure SCB. The corresponding resistance (real part of the impedance) was even higher for the SCB-hWJMSC system than for SCB without cells on their surface, in an indication of an increased blockage to the electron transfers. The resistance charge transfer is extracted by curve-fitting the impedance spectra to an equivalent circuit model. Also, a shift of the phase angle to higher frequencies was obtained for SCB-hWJMSC system as a result from hWJMSC adhesion. Our study demonstrates that EIS is an appropriate method to evaluate the adhesion of MSC. SCB can be considered as a promising biomaterial for tissue engineering.

Influence of protein supplementation during late pregnancy and lactation on the resistance of Santa Ines and Ile de France ewes to Haemonchus contortus

This experiment aimed to evaluate the effect of periparturient metabolizable protein (MP) nutrition on resistance to Haemonchus contortus in single rearing Ile de France and Santa Ines ewes. The restriction-fed iso-energetic diet was calculated to provide either 0.8 (low MP diet) or 1.3 (high MP diet) times MP, from three weeks before parturition until eight weeks into lactation. The ewes were experimentally infected with 1000 H. contortus infective larvae (L3) three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), starting five weeks before the predicted date for parturition until a total of 15,000 L3 had been administered. While both breeds showed elevated fecal egg counts (FEC), these values were significantly lower for Santa Ines ewes than Ile de France ewes, but were independent of level of MP feeding. The latter also did not affect lamb weight gain and ewe body weight variation in each breed. Packed cell volume and total plasma protein for Santa Ines in all periods were significantly higher than those for Ile de France ewes (P<0.01) but were not affected by nutrition. In contrast, levels of serum IgG and IgA antibodies against somatic H. contortus infective larvae and adult antigens were similar between breeds but higher in animals that received high MP diets (P<0.05). The reduced body score of ewes at the beginning of the experiment probably influenced their high susceptibility to incoming larvae. Since, unexpectedly, MP scarcity was not achieved in this experiment, our data support the view that Santa Ines ewes are more resistant to H. contortus than Ile de France ewes.

Permanent Genetic Resources added to Molecular Ecology Resources Database 1 June 2010 - 31 July 2010

This article documents the addition of 205 microsatellite marker loci to the Molecular Ecology Resources Database. Loci were developed for the following species: Bagassa guianensis, Bulweria bulwerii, Camelus bactrianus, Chaenogobius annularis, Creontiades dilutus, Diachasmimorpha tryoni, Dioscorea alata, Euhrychiopsis lecontei, Gmelina arborea, Haliotis discus hannai, Hirtella physophora, Melanaphis sacchari, Munida isos, Thaumastocoris peregrinus and Tuberolachnus salignus. These loci were cross-tested on the following species: Halobaena caerulea, Procellaria aequinoctialis, Oceanodroma monteiroi, Camelus ferus, Creontiades pacificus, Dioscorea rotundata, Dioscorea praehensilis, Dioscorea abyssinica, Dioscorea nummularia, Dioscorea transversa, Dioscorea esculenta, Dioscorea pentaphylla, Dioscorea trifida, Hirtella bicornis, Hirtella glandulosa, Licania alba, Licania canescens, Licania membranaceae, Couepia guianensis and 7 undescribed Thaumastocoris species.

Anemia versus disease activity as cause of fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is a common complaint in rheumatoid arthritis patients and contributes to loss of quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

To study the influence of hemoglobin levels and disease activity index upon fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

We studied 130 RA patients for DAS 28, hemoglobin levels and fatigue as measured by FACIT F.

RESULTS

No association between fatigue with hemoglobin levels was observed. A positive association with DAS-28 was found. Decomposing DAS-28, no association could be detected with sedimentation rate but a positive correlation with analogical scale for general health, number of swollen and painful joints was found.

CONCLUSION

Although a positive association of fatigue with DAS-28 is found it appears that the most important items in connection with fatigue are swollen and tender joints as well as general health status. Hemoglobin levels were not related to fatigue in our patients.

Immunological responses and cytokine gene expression analysis to Cooperia punctata infections in resistant and susceptible Nelore cattle

Cellular and humoral immune response, as well as cytokine gene expression, was assessed in Nelore cattle with different degrees of resistance to Cooperia punctata natural infection. One hundred cattle (male, weaned, 11-12 months old), kept together on pasture, were evaluated. Faecal and blood samples were collected for parasitological and immunological assays. Based on nematode faecal egg counts (FEC) and worm burden, the seven most resistant and the eight most susceptible animals were selected. Tissue samples of the small intestine were collected for histological quantification of inflammatory cells and analysis of cytokine gene expression (IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-12p35, IL-13, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, MCP-1, MCP-2, and MUC-1) using real-time RT-PCR. Mucus samples were also collected for IgA levels determination. Serum IgG1 mean levels against C. punctata antigens were higher in the resistant group, but significant differences between groups were only observed 14 days after the beginning of the experiment against infective larvae (L3) and 14 and 84 days against adult antigens. The resistant group also presented higher IgA levels against C. punctata (L3 and adult) antigens with significant difference 14 days after the beginning of the trial (P<0.05). In the small-intestine mucosa, levels of IgA anti-L3 and anti-adult C. punctata were higher in the resistant group, compared with the susceptible group (P<0.05). Gene expression of both T(H)2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) in the resistant group and T(H)1 cytokines (IL-2, IL-12p35, IFN-gamma and MCP-1) in the susceptible group was up-regulated. Such results suggested that immune response to C. punctata was probably mediated by T(H)2 cytokines in the resistant group and by T(H)1 cytokines in the susceptible group.

Description of electrophoretic and chromatographic hemoglobin profile of Rhinoclemmys punctularia

Studies of the hemoglobin pattern in Brazilian reptiles are important for determining ecological and phylogenetic relationships, but they are scarce. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 7 males and 18 females of Rhinoclemmys punctularia. The hematological profile was based on the total hemoglobin and hematocrit values. The hemoglobin profile was obtained using electrophoretic procedures at different pH, isoelectric focusing, globin chain electrophoresis, and HPLC. The hematocrit (31 +/- 2%) and total hemoglobin (7.5 +/- 0.2 g/dL) values did not indicate gender variations. Alkaline pH electrophoresis of the total blood samples treated with 1% saponin demonstrated the presence of four well-defined hemoglobin fractions, one major component (fraction I), showing cathodic migration and three others faster than fraction I with anodic migration. When the samples were precipitated with chloroform, only two hemoglobin fractions were observed, similar to fractions I and III from the first procedure. Isoelectric focusing and HPLC showed the same pattern. With acid and neutral pH electrophoresis, two fractions with anodic migration were observed. The globin chain identification at alkaline pH showed two fractions, but four fractions were observed at acidic pH, suggesting that different polypeptide chains are involved in the hemoglobin molecule. The chromatographic separation of the total blood sample demonstrated that the major fraction comprised 81.9% and the minor 18.1%. The results obtained demonstrated a similarity between these hemoglobin components and those of some Chelidae reported in the literature for both land and aquatic animals, reflecting the adaptation to environmental conditions.

Treatment of portal venous thrombosis with selective superior mesenteric artery infusion of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator

Portal and mesenteric venous thrombosis is an uncommon condition that is usually treated with systemic anticoagulation. Catheter-directed thrombolysis via the superior mesenteric artery may be a viable adjunct to treatment of this potentially morbid condition. We present a case of portal and mesenteric venous thrombosis treated with systemic anticoagulation and catheter-directed infusion of tissue plasminogen activator via the superior mesenteric artery.

Fluoroscopy-assisted dual-catheter thromboembolectomy: a new technique useful in patients with embolization to arteries of disproportionate diameters

Distal embolization is a complication of aortoiliac aneurysm repair. Fluoroscopy-assisted catheter thromboembolectomy is useful in removing popliteal and tibial emboli from the femoral approach. Concomitant presence of aortoiliac and popliteal aneurysms, a known association, may present a difficult challenge to embolus extraction. Currently available embolectomy catheters large enough for thrombus extraction from a popliteal aneurysm are too large for safe tibial artery cannulation, and tibial balloon catheters cannot be enlarged sufficiently to transfer the thrombus through the aneurysmal popliteal segment. We treated a patient who embolized to his popliteal aneurysm and distal tibial circulation following aortoiliac aneurysm repair. A fluoroscopy-assisted dual-catheter technique was used to extract the thrombus through the femoral approach, eliminating the need for direct popliteal or tibial exploration. This technique uses two balloon catheters of graduated size, maneuvered concurrently under fluoroscopic guidance into the tibial and popliteal circulation. The smaller tibial catheter is inflated, and thrombus is withdrawn into the popliteal segment. The larger popliteal balloon catheter is then inflated distal to the smaller catheter, and both catheters are withdrawn simultaneously to deliver the clot through the femoral arteriotomy. This technique can be useful for successful balloon catheter extraction of thrombus via remote access, in an arterial system with variable diameter, eliminating the need for direct popliteal or tibial exploration.

Aortic reconstruction in the HIV infected patient

Major vascular reconstruction using prosthetic implantation is uncommon in the HIV infected patient. We describe a 52-year-old man with HIV infection and HIV-induced thrombocytopenia, who underwent successful aorto-bifemoral bypass for lower extremity ischemic symptoms. Postoperative progressive thrombocytopenia and subsequent hemorrhage were successfully treated with intravenous steroid replacement, platelet transfusion, alpha-globulin administration and expectant management. This report serves to illustrate that major vascular reconstruction can be successfully accomplished in the HIV infected population, even in the presence of significant hematologic dysfunction.

In-stent restenosis after carotid angioplasty-stenting: incidence and management

PURPOSE

Carotid angioplasty-stenting (CAS) has been advocated as an alternative to carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in patients with restenotic lesions after prior CEA, primary stenoses with significant medical comorbidities, and radiation-induced stenoses. The incidence of restenosis after CAS and its management remains ill defined. We evaluated the incidence and management of in-stent restenosis after CAS.

METHODS

Patients with asymptomatic (61%) and symptomatic (39%) carotid stenosis of > or = 80% underwent CAS between September 1996 and May 2000; there were 50 procedures and 46 patients (26 men and 20 women). All patients were followed up clinically and underwent duplex ultrasonography (DU) at 3- to 6-month intervals. In-stent restenoses > or = 80% detected with DU were further evaluated by means of angiography for confirmation of the severity of stenosis.

RESULTS

No periprocedural or late strokes occurred in the 50 CAS procedures during the 30-day follow-up period. One death (2.2%) that resulted from myocardial infarction was observed 10 days after discharge following CAS. During a mean follow-up period of 18 +/- 10 months (range, 1-44 months), in-stent restenosis was observed after four (8%) of the 50 CAS procedures. Angiography confirmed these high-grade (> or = 80%) in-stent restenoses, which were successfully treated with balloon angioplasty (3) or angioplasty and restenting (1). No periprocedural complications occurred, and these patients remained asymptomatic and without recurrent restenosis over a mean follow-up time of 10 +/- 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend CAS for post-CEA restenosis, primary stenoses in patients with high-risk medical comorbidities, and radiation-induced stenoses. In-stent restenoses occurred after 8% of CAS procedures and were managed without complications with repeat angioplasty or repeat angioplasty and restenting.

Mortality due to cardiovascular disease in women during the reproductive age (15 to 49 years), in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, from 1991 to 1995

OBJECTIVE

To describe mortality due to cardiovascular diseases in women during the reproductive age (15 to 49 years) in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 1991 to 1995.

METHODS

A list of all deaths and their underlying causes, coded according to the International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, multiple causes of death, and estimates of the female population according to age groups were provided by the SEADE Foundation. Specific coefficients for 100 thousand women for each year as well as the medians of these coefficients related to 5 years, and the percentage of death by subgroups were calculated.

RESULTS

Cerebrovascular diseases have the highest coefficients (14.24 for 100 thousand females), followed by ischemic heart disease (7.37), other heart diseases (6.39), hypertensive disease (3.03), chronic rheumatic heart disease (1.58), pulmonary vascular diseases (1.29), and active rheumatic fever (0. 05). Systemic arterial hypertension, as an associated cause, occurred in 55.3% to 57.8% of all the deaths due to intracerebral hemorrhage and in 30.4% to 30.8% due to subarachnoid hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

The significance of cerebrovascular diseases, coronary artery disease, and systemic arterial hypertension as causes of mortality suggests the need to emphasize preventive actions for young women who have the potential to reproduce to avoid possible complications in future pregnancies, and premature mortality.

Increasing use of autogenous fistulas: selection of dialysis access sites by duplex scanning and transposition of forearm veins

Although the autogenous radiocephalic fistula is considered to be the ideal access for hemodialysis, significant changes in the demographics of patients undergoing angioaccess have occurred since its initial description in the 1960s. Patients presenting for initial access evaluation in contemporary practice are less likely to have arteries and veins suitable for autogenous fistula (AF) formation in the classic location. Physical examination of the upper extremity alone may be inadequate for selection of arteries and veins that will mature into a functioning AF. The authors have used duplex ultrasound (DU) to assess upper-extremity vasculature for planning of dialysis access procedures. Criteria for selection of arteries and veins and a detailed description of our DU examination protocol are reviewed. Routine use of upper-extremity DU has identified many patients with forearm veins that are suitable for use, but in locations remote from the optimal arterial inflow or too deep to facilitate easy needle cannulation. Modifications to the single-incision radiocephalic fistula that allow for expanded use of forearm veins identified by DU are described, and the technique of superficial venous transposition of forearm veins in particular is reviewed in detail. On the basis of our experience, we recommend the combination of upper-extremity planning DU and superficial venous transposition in the forearm to increase use of AF and reduce reliance on prosthetic bridging grafts (BG) in patients requiring access for hemodialysis.

[Female mortality in reproductive age in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil, 1991-1995: underlying causes of death and maternal mortality]

OBJECTIVE

To describe female mortality in the reproductive age (15 to 49 years old) in the State of S. Paulo, Brazil, from 1991 to 1995, according to the age and underlying causes of death.

METHODS

Underlying causes of death, according to the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, were determined in the program Automated Classification of Medical Entities (ACME), developed by "Fundação Seade", which provided us data files and estimated women population by age groups and numbers of live births during the 1991 - 1995 period. Specific rates were calculated per 100,000 women and maternal mortality rates were given per 100,000 live births. Percentages of death were calculated for sub-groups. The median of the rates for a five-year-period was calculated to allow the comparison among the leading underlying causes of death.

RESULTS

"Cellular immunity deficiency" increased from 1991 to 1995 in women aged 25 or more which seems to be concomitant to the spreading of the AIDS epidemic among women. Lesions and poisonings were the leading causes of death in younger women, but after the age of 35 cardiovascular diseases and neoplasms became the chief causes. Infectious and parasitic diseases were rated in the 7th or 8th positions in all ages. Accidents and homicides were high. Maternal mortality rates ranged from 43.7 to 49.6 per 100,000 live births, their leading causes were presented and discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Women in the reproductive age were exposed to external factors, chronic diseases and AIDS. The majority of maternal causes of death are preventable diseases. There is a lack of adequate and extensive antenatal care as well as in delivery and postpartum care.

Mandibular subluxation for distal internal carotid exposure: technical considerations

PURPOSE

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has become one of the most commonly performed vascular procedures, because of the beneficial outcome it has when compared with medical therapy alone and because of the anatomic accessibility of the artery. In cases of distal carotid occlusive disease, high cervical carotid bifurcation, and some reoperative cases, access to the distal internal carotid artery may limit surgical exposure and increase the incidence of cranial nerve palsies. Mandibular subluxation (MS) is recommended to provide additional space in a critically small operative field. We report our experience to determine and illustrate a preferred method of MS.

METHODS

Techniques for MS were selected based on the presence or absence of adequate dental stability and periodontal disease. All patients received general anesthesia with nasotracheal intubation before subluxation. Illustrations are provided to emphasize technical considerations in performing MS in 10 patients (nine men and one woman) who required MS as an adjunct to CEA (less than 1% of primary CEAs). Patients were symptomatic (n = 7) or asymptomatic (n = 3) and had high-grade stenoses demonstrated by means of preoperative arteriography.

RESULTS

Subluxation was performed and stabilization was maintained by means of: Ivy loop/circumdental wiring of mandibular and maxillary bicuspids/cuspids (n = 7); Steinmann pins with wiring (n = 1); mandibular/maxillary arch bar wiring (n = 1); and superior circumdental to circummandibular wires (n = 1). MS was not associated with mandibular dislocation in any patient. No postoperative cranial nerve palsies were observed. Three patients experienced transient temporomandibular joint discomfort, which improved spontaneously within 2 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Surgical exposure of the distal internal carotid artery is enhanced with MS and nasotracheal intubation. We recommend Ivy loop/circumdental wiring as the preferred method for MS. Alternative methods are used when poor dental health is observed.

Dermal tissue fibrosis in patients with chronic venous insufficiency is associated with increased transforming growth factor-beta1 gene expression and protein production

PURPOSE

Pathologic dermal degeneration in patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is characterized by aberrant tissue remodeling that results in stasis dermatitis, tissue fibrosis, and ulcer formation. The cytochemical processes that regulate these events are unclear. Because transforming growth factor-beta(1) (TGF-beta(1)) is a known fibrogenic cytokine, we hypothesized that the increased production of TGF-beta(1) would be associated with CVI disease progression.

METHODS

Seventy-eight punch biopsy specimens of the lower calf (LC) and the lower thigh (LT) of 52 patients were snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and stratified into four groups according to the Society for Vascular Surgery/International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery CEAP classification (C, clinical; E, etiologic; A, anatomic distribution; and P, pathophysiology). One set of LC biopsy specimens were analyzed for TGF-beta(1) gene expression with quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction: healthy skin, n = 6; class 4, n = 6; class 5, n = 5; and class 6, n = 7. A second set of biopsy specimens from the LC and LT were analyzed for the amount of bioactive TGF-beta(1) with a certified cell line 64 mink lung epithelial bioassay: healthy skin, n = 8; class 4, n = 23; class 5, n = 13; and class 6, n = 10. The location of TGF-beta(1) was determined at the light and electron microscopy level with immunocytochemistry and immunogold (IMG) labeling. Multiple comparisons were analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance and the Student-Newman-Keuls post hoc tests. The LC and LT comparisons were analyzed with a two-tailed unpaired t test.

RESULTS

The TGF-beta(1) gene transcripts for control subjects and patients in classes 4, 5, and 6 were 7.02 +/- 7.33, 43.33 +/- 9.0, 16.13 +/- 7.67, and 7.22 +/- 0.56 x 10(-14) mol/microg total RNA, respectively. The transcripts were significantly elevated in class 4 patients only (P </=.05). The amount of active TGF-beta(1) in picograms/gram of tissue from LC and LT biopsy specimens as compared with healthy skin biopsy specimens were as follows: healthy skin, <1. 0 pc/g; class 4: LC, 5061 +/- 1827 pc/g; LT, 317.3 +/- 277 pc/g; class 5: LC, 8327 +/- 3690 pc/g; LT, 193 +/- 164 pc/g; and class 6: LC, 5392 +/- 1800 pc/g; LT, 117 +/- 61 pc/g. Differences between healthy skin and the skin of the patients in classes 4 and 6 were significant (P </=.05 and P </=.01, respectively). Differences between the LC and LT biopsy specimens within each CVI group were also significant: class 4, P </=.003; class 5, P </=.008; and class 6, P </=.02. Immunocytochemistry results of healthy skin showed TGF-beta(1) staining of epidermal basal cells only. CVI dermal biopsy results demonstrated positive staining in epidermal basal cells, fibroblasts, and leukocytes. Many leukocytes had positive staining of intracellular granules, which appeared morphologically similar to mast cells. IMG labeling results demonstrated gold particles in the leukocytes and collagen fibrils of the extracellular matrix.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicated that activated leukocytes traverse perivascular cuffs and release active TGF-beta(1). Positive TGF-beta(1) staining results of dermal fibroblasts were observed and suggest that fibroblasts are the targets of activated interstitial leukocytes. Increased protein production, despite normal levels of gene transcripts in patients in classes 5 and 6, suggests that alternate mechanisms other than gene transcription regulate protein production. A potential mechanism for quick access and release is storage of TGF-beta(1) in the extracellular matrix. IMG labeling to collagen fibrils support this possibility. Furthermore, TGF-beta(1) was exclusively elevated in areas of clinically active disease, indicating a regionalized response to injury. These data suggest that alterations in tissue remodeling occur in patients with CVI and that dermal tissue fibrosis in CVI is regulated by TGF-beta(1).

Sensory impairment: a feature of chronic venous insufficiency

OBJECTIVE

Clinical and microscopic evidence suggests the existence of sensory neuropathy in patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). A clinical evaluation was conducted to determine whether a sensory neuropathy was present and, if so, to determine its extent and distribution.

METHODS

The study was performed in a university-affiliated Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Twenty-three limbs were studied in 14 male veterans with mild or moderate CVI. The exclusions included diabetes, previous ipsilateral extremity surgery, or other diseases associated with neuropathy. Sensory thresholds in the limbs with CEAP class 2 disease (n = 11) were compared with the thresholds in the limbs with CEAP class 5 disease (n = 12) at nine different sites on the foot, ankle, calf, thigh, and palm. Thenar and hypothenar thresholds were measured as internal controls. Thresholds were determined by a pressure aesthesiometer consisting of 20 graduated filaments that ranged from 1.65 to 6.65 (log(10)mg)(10) of pressure. A complete, sensory motor assessment of the limb was performed by an experienced neurosurgeon who specialized in peripheral nerve evaluation. The clinical variables assessed were deep tendon reflexes, vibration, proprioception, and light touch. Venous reflux was determined with duplex ultrasound scanning and air plethysmography.

RESULTS

Sensory thresholds at the most common site of venous ulceration-just proximal to the medial malleolus--were significantly (P <.05) different between mild (class 2) and severe (class 5) CVI. Sensory abnormalities coincided with the extent of trophic changes and did not reflect specific dermatomal or cutaneous nerve distributions. In addition to light touch or pinprick, vibration sense and deep tendon reflexes were also significantly worse in those with severe CVI.

CONCLUSION

Sensory neuropathy is a feature of severe CVI, and its distribution is coincident with trophic changes. Because this is often unappreciated by the patient, it probably contributes to the propensity for deterioration from minor trauma.

Patency and limb salvage for polytetrafluoroethylene bypasses with vein interposition cuffs

Polytetrafluoroethelene (PTFE) is often utilized in patients with limb-threatening ischemia requiring infrainguinal revascularization in the absence of autologous saphenous vein. To increase long-term patency of PTFE grafts, vein interposition cuffs have been recommended as adjunctive procedures. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of vein interposition cuffs on the long-term patency and limb salvage of patients requiring prosthetic bypass grafts for limb-threatening ischemia. Prosthetic bypass grafts with vein interposition cuffs (PTFE/VC) were performed on 56 limbs in 55 patients (32 men, 23 women; mean age of 67 years) from October 1993 to January 1998. Grafts were prospectively evaluated every 3 months for the first 12 months and biannually thereafter with duplex ultrasonography. PTFE/VC and PTFE bypasses at the popliteal level appear to have comparable patencies. However, PTFE/VC appear to offer an improved patency and limb salvage for infrapopliteal bypasses in patients with critical limb ischemia. When infrapopliteal revascularization is required in the absence of autologous saphenous vein, we recommend the use of PTFE with vein interposition cuffs.

Hemodialysis access: influence of the human immunodeficiency virus on patency and infection rates

PURPOSE

The complication rate for patients who are dialysis dependent and infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the role of viral indicators (CD4 counts) as predictors of these complications are poorly characterized. To determine the influence of HIV status and viral activity on graft patency and infection rates, we retrospectively reviewed our results.

METHODS

Between June 1993 and March 1997, the charts of 104 patients (HIV+, n = 42; HIV-, n = 62) who required 112 hemodialysis access grafts were reviewed. Of the 112 procedures, 55 (48%) were autologous arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) procedures (HIV+, n = 23; HIV-, n = 32) and 57 (52%) were prosthetic expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafting procedures (HIV+, n = 27; HIV-, n = 30). Transcutaneous catheter procedures were excluded from the study. The autologous AVF procedures consisted of direct and transposed AVFs. Patency rates were determined by means of life-table analysis. Infection rates and CD4 counts were compared with the chi2 test and the Fisher exact test. Significance was accepted at a P value of.05 or less.

RESULTS

The cumulative 12-month and 24-month patency rates for prosthetic grafts in patients who were HIV+ were 49% and 21%, respectively, versus 77% and 45% for patients who were HIV-. The differences in the prosthetic graft patency rates between these two groups were significant (P </=.05). The cumulative 12-month and 24-month patency rates for autologous AVF procedures did not differ significantly. The AVF procedure patency rates were 72% and 51%, respectively, in patients who were HIV+ versus 54% and 50% for patients who were HIV-. The prosthetic graft infection rate for patients who were HIV+ and HIV- were 30% and 7%, respectively ( P =.04). However, the infection rates in autologous AVF procedures did not differ between the groups (9% vs 0%; P>.05). The mean CD4+ cell counts were 174: CD4+ counts that were less than 200 did not correlate with or predict the development of infection (P >.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that prosthetic graft infection rates were increased and patency rates were decreased in patients who were HIV+ as compared with patients who were HIV- and HIV+ with autologous AVFs. There were no differences in patency rates or infection rates in patients who had undergone autologous access procedures. Long-term graft patency rates were not affected by HIV status, and CD4+ lymphocyte counts were not predictive of infection development. Because the prosthetic graft infection rates exceeded those rates of autologous access procedures, we recommend the vigorous use of autologous AVFs in all patients who are HIV+, regardless of CD4+ count.

Carotid restenosis: operative and endovascular management

PURPOSE

Surgical management of carotid restenosis (CR) after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has been associated with a higher perioperative complication rate than that of primary CEA. We recently used carotid angioplasty-stenting (CAS) as an alternative to operative management in patients who had undergone CEA within three years, and we retrospectively compared these results with those of operative management of CR and the overall results of CEA.

METHODS

CEA was performed on 1065 adult patients (58% symptomatic, 42% asymptomatic), 62% of whom were men (n = 660) and 38% of whom were women (n = 405), from 1989 to 1997. Before our initiation of a program of CAS, 16 operative procedures (1.9% of CEAs) were performed for CR in 14 adult patients (7 women and 7 men). During the last 20 months, CAS was used in the management of 17 CRs (16 patients; 9 women and 7 men).

RESULTS

The 30-day stroke morbidity-death rate for all CEAs (n = 1065) was 1.4%; 11 strokes (1. 0%) occurred (4 major strokes with disability and 7 strokes with minor or no disability), and 4 deaths (0.4%) occurred (2 deaths caused by myocardial infarction, 1 caused by intracranial hemorrhage, and 1 caused by stroke). Operative management of CR (n = 16) included patch angioplasty in 12 cases (autologous vein patches in 10 cases and synthetic patches in 2 cases), whereas interposition grafting was used in 4 cases (saphenous vein in 3 instances and synthetic [polytetrafluoroethylene] in one case). No strokes or deaths were observed. One recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred (6.2%). Among the 16 patients undergoing 17 CAS procedures, the technical procedures were accomplished in all patients. No strokes or deaths occurred. No recurrent restenoses (50% or greater) have been identified within or adjacent to the CAS procedures.

CONCLUSION

CR caused by myointimal hyperplasia can be managed by operative techniques or CAS with comparable periprocedural complications. Although long-term follow-up will be required to determine the incidence of recurrent restenosis, CAS may become the preferred procedure in these cases. A randomized clinical trial ultimately will be necessary to determine the role of CAS, as compared with that of operative management.

Retinoblastoma protein: a molecular regulator of chronic venous insufficiency

PURPOSE

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose vein (VV) formation is characterized histologically by the transformation of smooth muscle cells (SMC) from a contractile to a secretory phenotype and by intense collagen deposition. The subcellular regulation point for these processes may be the retinoblastoma protein (pRb), a known inhibitor of cellular proliferation and regulator of differentiation. We hypothesize that pRb phosphorylation is associated with VV formation and functions as a possible subcellular regulator.

METHODS

Patients were separated into two groups. Group 1 (n = 6) consisted of vein specimens obtained from patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Group 2 (n = 6) consisted of patients with symptomatic CVI and duplex confirmed refluxing greater saphenous veins (GSVs) who required GSV stripping. Western blots of GSV protein extracts were performed with anti-human pRb monoclonal antibodies and the degree of nonphosphorylated and phosphorylated pRb was determined. Results were quantified using image analysis of band intensities (computer calibrated intensity units). The ultrastructural appearance of SMCs and the vein wall architecture were qualitatively analyzed with electron microscopy in both groups.

RESULTS

Phosphorylated pRb from varicose GSVs exhibited intensities of 523 +/- 188 units, while phosphorylated pRb from normal GSVs demonstrated intensities of 153 +/- 41 units (P < 0.05). SMCs in varicosed GSVs were surrounded by disorganized collagen deposits and displayed a secretory phenotype with spherical vacuolated cells. SMCs from normal GSVs appeared spindle shaped with a purported contractile phenotype and a well-structured extracellular matrix.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that VV formation, in patients with CVI, is associated with phosphorylated pRb and the transformation of SMCs from a contractile to a secretory ultrastructural morphology. The data suggest that SMC dedifferentiation is regulated by pRb and the disinhibition of this protein (phosphorylation) may be an significant factor in the development of lower extremity varicosities.

Patency of infrainguinal polytetrafluoroethylene bypass grafts with distal interposition vein cuffs

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) prosthetic bypasses in the lower extremity have poor patency rates, particularly in limb salvage cases. Patency and limb salvage rates of PTFE bypasses supplemented by distal interposition vein cuffs were assessed in patients requiring revascularization for critical limb ischemia, in the absence of a suitable autologous saphenous vein. Between October 1993 and April 1996, 163 patients underwent 185 infrainguinal bypasses. Forty-three limbs in 42 patients (12 women, 30 men; mean age 67 years) did not have a suitable autologous saphenous vein (24%) and had femoropopliteal (20) and infrapopliteal (23) bypasses performed. Patients were examined prospectively at 3-month intervals during the first year and at 6-month intervals thereafter to determine graft patency and limb salvage. Postoperative anticoagulation with warfarin was used in 26 patients. Indications for operation included limb salvage in 41 extremities (21 rest pain/ulceration or gangrene, 20 rest pain alone), and disabling claudication in two. Patients were followed clinically for 2-30 months (mean 10 months). Cumulative 2-year life-table patencies for all grafts, femoropopliteal and infrapopliteal bypasses were 64%, 75% and 62%, respectively. Previous primary patencies at the authors' institution for PTFE bypasses without vein cuffs were 35%, 46% and 12% for the same categories. Cumulative life-table limb salvage for all PTFE/vein cuff bypasses in the present series was 76% compared with 37% in previous PTFE bypasses without vein cuffs. Adjunctive use of distal interposition vein cuffs improves prosthetic graft patency, while producing satisfactory limb salvage. Postoperative anticoagulation did not influence graft patency. PTFE/vein cuff for lower-extremity revascularization shows good 2-year patency and is an acceptable alternate conduit in patients with critical limb ischemia when autologous saphenous vein is absent.

A strategy for increasing use of autogenous hemodialysis access procedures: impact of preoperative noninvasive evaluation

PURPOSE

We studied the efficacy of preoperative noninvasive assessment of the upper extremity to identify arteries and veins suitable for hemodialysis access to increase our use of autogenous fistulas (AF).

METHODS

From Sep. 1, 1994, to Apr. 1, 1997, 172 patients who required chronic hemodialysis underwent segmental upper extremity Doppler pressures and duplex ultrasound with mapping of arteries and veins. The following criteria were necessary for satisfactory arterial inflow: absence of a pressure gradient between arms, patent palmar arch, and arterial lumen diameter 2.0 mm or more. The criteria necessary for satisfactory venous outflow were venous luminal diameter greater than or equal to 2.5 mm for AF and greater than or equal to 4.0 mm for synthetic bridging grafts (BG) and continuity with distal superficial veins in the arm. Intraoperative and duplex ultrasound measurements were compared. Contemporary experience was compared with the 2-year period (1992 to 1994) before implementation of the protocol.

RESULTS

During the period from Sep. 1, 1994, to Apr. 1, 1997, 108 patients (63%) had AF, 52 (30%) had prosthetic BG, and 12 (7%) had permanent catheters (PC) placed. Early failure was seen in 8.3% of AFs. Primary cumulative patency rates were 83% for AF and 74% for BG at 1 year (p < 0.05), with a mean clinical follow-up of 15.2 months. No postoperative infections were observed with AF, whereas six infections (12%) were observed with BG and two (17%) with PC insertion. During the period from June 1, 1992, to Aug. 31, 1994, 183 procedures were performed with a distribution of 14% AF, 62% BG, and 24% PC. In this earlier period the AF early failure rate was 36%, and the patency rates were 48%, 63%, and 48% for AF, BG, and PC, respectively (mean follow-up, 13.8 months).

CONCLUSION

A protocol of noninvasive assessment increased use of AFs. The cumulative patency rate of AFs was improved, and early failure rates were reduced when compared with the preceding institutional experience. Routine noninvasive assessment is recommended to document adequacy of arterial inflow and delineate venous outflow to maximize opportunities for AF.

Vein transposition in the forearm for autogenous hemodialysis access

PURPOSE

We describe a technique of superficial venous transposition in the forearm used for the formation of an arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis access. These modifications of the single-incision radiocephalic fistula are designed to increase options for arteriovenous fistulas by using veins and arteries that are suitable for use but are not in immediate proximity.

METHODS

Arteries and veins suitable for a primary arteriovenous fistula were identified and mapped using duplex ultrasound in 89 patients. Separate incisions were used in the majority of cases, and the selected forearm vein was mobilized, angiodilated, and transposed into a subcutaneous tunnel on the volar aspect of the forearm. Before initiation of hemodialysis, duplex ultrasound scanning was performed, and the location that was most suitable for cannulation was identified. Repeat scans were performed at 3-month intervals for analysis of patency.

RESULTS

Superficial venous transpositions were performed using a single incision in 13 instances in which the vein was in immediate proximity to the radial artery (type A). Dorsal-to-volar forearm transposition (type B) was performed in 30 veins with anastomoses to the radial (n = 26), ulnar (n = 2), or brachial (n = 2) arteries. Volar-to-volar forearm transposition (type C) was performed in the remaining 46 veins, with anastomoses to the radial (n = 42), ulnar (n = 2), or brachial arteries (n = 2). Successful hemodialysis was accomplished in 81 of 89 patients (91%). The primary cumulative patency rate was 84% at 1 year and 69% at 2 years. The mean duration of follow-up was 14.3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of superficial venous transposition for the formation of autogenous hemoaccess was associated with ease of cannulation by dialysis personnel, high maturation rates, reduced early failure rates, and enhanced patency rates. We recommended the use of these technical modifications to increase the use of autogenous fistulas in the forearm.

Morphometric assessment of the dermal microcirculation in patients with chronic venous insufficiency

PURPOSE

Ultrastructural assessments of the dermal microcirculation in patients with chronic venous insufficiency have been limited to qualitative morphologic descriptions of venous ulcer edges or venous stasis dermatitis. The purpose of this investigation was to quantify differences in endothelial cell structure and local cell type with emphasis on leukocytes and their relationship to arterioles, capillaries, and postcapillary venules (PCVs).

METHODS

Two 4.0 mm punch biopsies were obtained from areas of dermal stasis skin changes in the gaiter region of the leg, as well as from noninvolved areas of skin in the ipsilateral thigh, from 35 patients: CEAP class 4 (11 patients), class 5 (9 patients), class 6 (10 patients), and five normal skin biopsies from patients without chronic venous insufficiency. Electron microscopy was performed on sections at 6700x and 23,800x magnification. At 6700x endothelial cell thickness was determined, and the number of fibroblasts, leukocytes, and mast cells were recorded relative to their proximity to arterioles, capillaries, and PCVs. Similarly, at 23,800x endothelial cell vesicle density, interendothelial junctional widths, and basal lamina thickness (cuff width) were measured. Preliminary evaluation for the presence of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) was performed on three patients using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

Quantitative measurements demonstrated increased mast cell content for class 4 and 5 patients around arterioles and PCVs and increased macrophage numbers for class 6 patients around PCVs (p < 0.05). Fibroblasts were the most common cells observed; however, no differences were demonstrated between groups. No differences were observed in interendothelial junctional widths or vesicle densities in arterioles, capillaries, or PCVs. Basal lamina thickness was increased only at the capillary level (p < 0.05). The results of RT-PCR for TGF-beta 1 messenger RNA were positive in the three patients studied.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that (1) mast cells play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic venous insufficiency; (2) the effects of mast cells, macrophages, or both may be mediated in part by TGF-beta 1; and (3) capillary cuff formation is not associated with widened interendothelial gap junctions, but may be a result of enhanced vesicular transport rate or conformational changes in the interendothelial glycocalyx.

The diagnostic value of Gram stain for initial identification of the etiologic agent of peritonitis in CAPD patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Gram stain in the initial diagnosis of the etiologic agent of peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).

DESIGN

Retrospective study analyzing the sensitivity (S), specificity (SS), positive predictive value (+PV), and negative predictive value (-PV) of the Gram stain relating to the results of cultures in 149 episodes of peritonitis in CAPD. The data were analyzed in two studies. In the first, only the cases with detection of a single agent by Gram stain were taken (Study 1). In the second, only the cases with two agents in Gram stain were evaluated (Study 2).

SETTING

Dialysis Unit and Laboratory of Microbiology of a tertiary medical center.

PATIENTS

Sixty-three patients on regular CAPD who presented one or more episodes of peritonitis from May 1992 to May 1995.

RESULTS

The positivity of Gram stain was 93.2% and the sensitivity was 95.7%. The values of S, SS, +PV, and -PV were respectively: 94.9%, 53.5%, 68.3%, and 90.9% for gram-positive cocci and 83.3%, 98.8%, 95.2%, and 95.6% for gram-negative bacilli. The association of gram-positive cocci plus gram-negative bacilli were predictive of growth of both in 6.8%, growth of gram-positive cocci in 13.7%, and growth of gram-negative bacilli in 72.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

The Gram stain is a method of great value in the initial diagnosis of the etiologic agent of peritonitis in CAPD, especially for gram-negative bacilli.

Outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in dairy goats in Brazil

An outbreak of cryptosporidiosis is reported among 22 suckling kids aged one to two weeks which were maintained for experimental purposes at the veterinary hospital of the University of Minas Gerais. They were divided into three groups. Group A consisted of 10 animals with acute diarrhoea; initially their faeces were pasty but later they were excreted in watery streams. The animals were treated with gentamicin and fluid therapy but did not respond to treatment and died within a week. Postmortem examination revealed liquid intestinal contents, enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes, and hyperaemia and haemorrhage were observed in the final third of the small intestine of some of the animals. Of the 10 animals in group B four had diarrhoea and six were normal; postmortem examination showed that the macroscopic changes were similar to those observed in group A. Three of the animals with diarrhoea had a massive Cryptosporidium infection in the final third of the small intestine, caecum and colon. Four of the six normal animals had a moderate Cryptosporidium infection in the same organs. The two kids in group C died; they had pasty faeces, and there were many Cryptosporidium oocysts in the faecal smears.