Journal of The American College of Cardiology, 2010
OBJECTIVESWe assessed the endothelial-dependent vasomotor function in nonrestenotic coronary arte... more OBJECTIVESWe assessed the endothelial-dependent vasomotor function in nonrestenotic coronary arteries more than six months following stent implantation, balloon angioplasty (BA), and directional atherectomy (DCA).BACKGROUNDCatheter-based coronary interventions are associated with extensive arterial injury. Endothelial function has been shown to remain chronically abnormal after vascular injury. The long-term effects of different percutaneous coronary interventions on endothelial function are not known.METHODSThirty-nine patients treated at least six months earlier with a coronary intervention for isolated proximal left anterior descending (LAD) stenosis, with no evidence of restenosis, were studied. Twelve patients had been stented, 15 had been treated with BA, and 12 had undergone DCA. Changes in diameter of the intervened LAD, and the unintervened circumflex coronary artery (Cx), in response to intracoronary acetylcholine infusions were assessed by quantitative angiography.RESULTSThe groups had similar angiographic characteristics and risk factors for endothelial dysfunction. The LAD constricted significantly more (p = 0.02) in previously stented patients (−21.8 ± 4.3%), as compared to patients previously treated with BA (−9.5 ± 2.8%) or with DCA (−9.1 ± 3.6%). In contrast, acetylcholine infusion resulted in mild constriction in the Cx, which was similar in the three groups (p = 0.47). By multiple regression analysis, previous implant of a stent was the only significant predictor of LAD constriction (p = 0.008).CONCLUSIONSMore severe endothelial dysfunction was observed long term after stenting as compared to BA or DCA. These findings may have implications with respect to the progression of atherosclerosis in coronary arteries subjected to percutaneous interventions.
Journal of The American College of Cardiology, 1998
at least one segment occurred In 30 of 43 patients (69",$) wlth ECHO and In 0 ol 43 patients (0%)... more at least one segment occurred In 30 of 43 patients (69",$) wlth ECHO and In 0 ol 43 patients (0%) with CMRI (p < 0,0001), Prospective CMRI study ot a subset of patients with severe lung disease or csrdtnc malformation who frequently have suboptimal ECHO study demonstrated Improvement In the evaluation of LV function, Conclusion: Our CMRI I~rovldes ¢llnl¢~llly reliable evaluation of LV font. lion and complements suboptimal ECHO while reducing scan time, patient dlseomfod, and a~seclatod coat, 4:15 i
Oxidation of sulfide- and carbonate-rich vein gold deposits under semiarid conditions can be repr... more Oxidation of sulfide- and carbonate-rich vein gold deposits under semiarid conditions can be represented as a three-stage process, each creating supergene environments conducive to dissolution and reprecipitation of gold-silver alloys. The three-stage weathering process of sulfide-carbonate gold veins is depth-dependent, and develops from the relatively young, lowermost weathering horizon just below the water table, through an intermediate weathering horizon in the oxidation zone above the water table, and culminating in the oxide-rich upper saprolite and oxisol.Neoformed gold crystals in the weathering profile have distinct composition and morphologic characteristics from the hypogene gold crystals associated with the sulfide- and carbonate-rich ores. Two distinct types of secondary gold are present in the weathering profile: (1) gold crystals associated with sulfates and arsenates; and (2) gold crystals associated with iron and aluminum oxides/hydroxides, or with kaolinite. The distinct crystal morphologies and mineralogical associations of primary and secondary gold are useful in prospecting for gold deposits in weathered terrains.
Objective: To investigate the origen and to reconstruct the onset date of the HIV-1 subtype C epi... more Objective: To investigate the origen and to reconstruct the onset date of the HIV-1 subtype C epidemic in Brazil.
O peixe-sapo L. gastrophysus foi identificado como um dos principais alvos no atual processo de e... more O peixe-sapo L. gastrophysus foi identificado como um dos principais alvos no atual processo de expansão da pesca demersal para áreas profundas da Zona Econômica Exclusiva brasileira. A pescaria dessa espécie iniciou-se em 2001 e foi analisada a partir do monitoramento de desembarques em Santa Catarina e de programas de observadores de bordo e de rastreamento remoto. Em 2001 foram produzidas, aproximadamente, 8.823 t, equivalentes a US$ 20.730.924,00 em exportações. A explotação dessa espécie de peixe-sapo pela frota nacional foi responsável por 60% dos desembarques totais, sendo liderada pela atividade multiespecífica de arrasteiros duplos, principalmente sediados nos Estados do Rio de Janeiro e de Santa Catarina, que direcionaram grande parte das viagens a profundidades maiores que 125 m. Além dessa espécie, que compôs, em média, de 10 a 15% dos desembarques (entre 2 e 3 t por viagem), foram significativas as participações da merluza (Merluccius hubbsi) e da abrótea-deprofundidade (Urophycis cirrata). A frota de emalhe arrendada, composta de nove embarcações, direcionou suas operações ao peixe-sapo L. gastrophysus, ocupando, ao longo do ano, as áreas de pesca, compreendidas entre os paralelos 22º e 34ºS e as isóbatas de 130 e 645 m, e produzindo 36% dos desembarques totais em 2001. A atividade foi baseada em viagens de 30 a 60 dias, que produziram, em média, 22,3 t (± 3,7 EP) de "colas" processadas e congeladas a bordo. O peixe-sapo predominou numericamente nas capturas da rede de emalhe, porém, a captura incidental de caranguejos-deprofundidade (Chaceon spp.), cherne-poveiro (Polyprion americanus) e tubarões foi freqüente e pouco aproveitada pelas embarcações. O estudo indica que o desenvolvimento de uma pescaria nacionalizada de L. gastrophysus deveria priorizar o uso das redes de emalhe, porém adaptadas a embarcações menores, mais adequadas à realidade econômica e aos limitados níveis de sustentabilidade do estoque. Palavras-chave: Lophius gastrophysus; pesca profunda; pesca de emalhe; pesca de arrasto; sudeste e sul do Brasil
A recente pesca de arrasto de talude do Sudeste-Sul do Brasil é descrita neste trabalho a partir ... more A recente pesca de arrasto de talude do Sudeste-Sul do Brasil é descrita neste trabalho a partir de 1.570 viagens realizadas por arrasteiros duplos e arrasteiros simples da frota nacional entre janeiro de 2001 e dezembro de 2003, todas monitoradas nos portos de Santa Catarina. A atividade produziu cerca de 32.000 t, das quais 80% foram desembarcadas por arrasteiros duplos e 20%, por arrasteiros simples. Essa pescaria estruturou-se em torno de três espécies-alvo: a abrótea-deprofundidade (Urophycis mystacea), a merluza (Merluccius hubbsi) e o peixe-sapo (Lophius gastrophysus). O calamar-argentino (Illex argentinus) teve destacada importância durante o inverno, quando inúmeras viagens foram direcionadas à espécie. A frota de arrasteiros concentrou-se em dois estratos de profundidade, a saber, 100-250 m (borda da plataforma) e 250-500 m (talude superior). No estrato mais profundo, as três espécies de peixe predominaram, tornando-se alvo da maioria das viagens. No estrato mais raso, a pesca teve natureza multiespecífica. Arrasteiros duplos e simples atuaram principalmente ao norte e ao sul de 29 o S, respectivamente, tendo os arrasteiros simples obtido capturas maiores e mais seletivas. Os níveis de produção, abundância e esforço de pesca indicam que a atividade atingiu seu máximo em 2002, e vem, a partir daí, apresentando um franco declínio. Sugere-se que a pesca de arrasto de talude se desenvolveu nos moldes das "corridas-do-ouro" e que seu potencial de sustentação parece ser incompatível com a elevada capacidade instalada das frotas de arrasteiros da Região Sudeste-Sul do Brasil.
We have developed improved analyzer multilayers for the detection of aluminium (Al) and boron (B)... more We have developed improved analyzer multilayers for the detection of aluminium (Al) and boron (B) on silicon (Si) wafers with wavelength-dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectrometers. For the detection of Al on Si wafers we show that WSi(2)/Si and Ta/Si multilayers provide detection limits that are 42% and 60% better, respectively, than with currently used W/Si multilayers. For the detection of B on Si wafers we show that La/B(4)C multilayers improve the detection limit by approximately 28% compared with a conventionally used Mo/B(4)C multilayer.
Single species responses have the potential to measure impacts at earlier stages than more tradit... more Single species responses have the potential to measure impacts at earlier stages than more traditional methods based in community structure. This study evaluates a bioassay with biological (survival, development, growth) and functional (post-exposure feeding rate) responses of Chironomus riparius larvae to assess water quality and contamination in rivers. The bioassay with C. riparius third instar larvae was performed, in autumn and spring, in reference sites and in organic and metal contaminated sites in Portuguese rivers. Biotic, physical and chemical parameters were determined for each site. The relationship between both bioassays responses and biotic indices (IBMWP and IASPT) and the physical and chemical parameters of respective sites were determined. In general biotic indices were able to discriminate between contaminated and not contaminated sites although they demonstrated a poor ability to detect low level of metal contamination during autumn. IASPT was negatively related to ammonia concentrations in both seasons. No significant differences in survival and post-exposure feeding rate were found between sites. Development was inhibited in the most metal contaminated site during autumn, but pH and ammonia concentrations in water accounted for 82% of developmental variation during this season. Growth was highly inhibited in the most metal contaminated site during both seasons. In autumn, growth was also inhibited in the low metal contaminated site and, during this season, pH and Mn and Fe concentrations in water samples accounted for 97% of growth variation between sites. The results suggest that in situ bioassay with C. riparius larvae using growth as the endpoint is a responsive and suitable tool that can be used as bioindicator of metal pollution and to biomonitor water quality in metal contaminated rivers.
Several Sendai virus (SV) preparations, propagated through eggs from the same viral seed, exhibit... more Several Sendai virus (SV) preparations, propagated through eggs from the same viral seed, exhibited significantly different capacities to induce interferon (IFN) in human leukocytes (nHu-IFN-alpha). The amount of induced IFN and the numbers of SV IFN-inducing particles (IFP) per cell were determined in dose (SV concentration)-response (IFN yield) curves, kinetics of IFN production, and coinfection experiments with SV preparations that differed in IFN-inducing capacities. The possible role of leukocyte sources and the quality of the SV preparations and of allantoic fluids in affecting the IFN-inducing capacity of SV populations also were tested. The data indicate that different SV preparations induced different amounts of IFN per leukocyte and contained approximately the same concentrations of IFN-inducing particles. There was no apparent correlation between the IFN induced and the apparent quality of the SV preparations examined (EID50, HAU, and EID50/HAU). The leukocyte source and the allantoic impurities of SV preparations did not have any influence on the magnitude of the IFN yield. Similar shapes of the dose-response curves, the absence of any lag in the kinetics of IFN production, and the ability of a viral preparation that induced low yields of IFN to suppress partially a high-yielding inducer suggest that a common mechanism of induction is always present. Hence, propagation of SV in eggs from low multiplicity produced virus stocks that differed significantly in their inducing capacity, suggesting that genetic bottlenecks may be operative.
According to median sensory latency &gt;/= 3.7 ms (wrist-index finger [WIF], 14 cm), median/u... more According to median sensory latency &gt;/= 3.7 ms (wrist-index finger [WIF], 14 cm), median/ulnar sensory latency difference to ring finger &gt;/= 0.5 ms (14 cm) or median midpalm (8 cm) latency &gt;/= 2.3 ms (all peak-measured), 141 Brazilian symptomatic patients (238 hands) have CTS confirmation. Wrist ratio (depth divided by width, WR) and a new wrist/palm ratio (wrist depth divided by the distance between distal wrist crease to the third digit metacarpophalangeal crease, WPR) were measured in all cases. Previous surgery/peripheral neuropathy were excluded; mean age 50.3 years; 90.8% female. Control subjects (486 hands) have mean age 43.0 years; 96.7% female. The mean WR in controls was 0.694 against 0.699, 0.703, 0.707 and 0.721 in CTS groups of progressive WIF severity. The mean WPR in controls was 0.374 against 0.376, 0.382, 0.387 and 0.403 in CTS groups of WIF progressive severity. Both were statistically significant for the last two groups (WIF &gt; 4.4 ms, moderate, and, WIF unrecordable, severe). BMI increases togetherwith CTS severity and WR. It was concluded that both WR/WPR have a progressive correlation with the severity of CTS but with statistically significance only in groups moderate and severe. In these groups both WR and BMI have progressive increase and we believe that the latter could be a risk factor as important as important WR/WPR.
Objectives. Monti et al. recently described a technique for the construction of a continent cathe... more Objectives. Monti et al. recently described a technique for the construction of a continent catheterizable conduit using short segments of small bowel in a canine model. We review our experience with 25 adult and pediatric patients in whom the Monti procedure was used in their reconstructive efforts.Methods. Since October 1995, 25 patients (13 males and 12 females), aged 4 to 67 years (median 29), underwent the construction of 29 catheterizable stomas with a short (2.5 cm) segment of bowel following the Monti technique. Twenty-seven tubes were created as urinary stomas and two as part of the Malone antegrade continent enema procedure (MACE). Continence is based on the Mitrofanoff flap valve mechanism. Tubes were created when the appendix was unavailable as part of urinary reconstructive efforts or after exenterative oncologic surgery of the lower urinary tract. Tubes were created using ileum (24) and sigmoid colon (5). Ten tubes (34.5%) were done in combination with a simultaneous bowel patch in the same pedicle for bladder augmentation. Tubes were implanted in the ileum (13), bladder (9), sigmoid colon (3), stomach (1), and descending colon (1). The two tubes created to do a MACE procedure were anastomosed into the cecum. Double tubes were necessary in 7 adult patients for adequate length. The length of the tubes varied from 6 to 14 cm.Results. Follow-up ranged between 3 and 26 months (mean 13). One adult patient (4%) with bladder cancer died of myocardial infarction 14 days postoperatively. Three patients (12%) received a new Monti tube because of ischemic stenosis of the tube. All of them were continent at a follow-up of 1, 6, and 20 months, respectively. Two patients (8%) experienced leakage through the stoma, requiring additional procedures and pharmacologic manipulation to become continent. All patients used intermittent catheterization through the stoma without problems.Conclusions. Although the appendix remains the tissue of choice, the Monti procedure has substantial advantages over other efferent catheterizable tubes, including the need for a very short segment of bowel (2.5 cm), adequate lumen size (16F to 18F), length, reliable blood supply, and the versatility to combine with a simultaneous bowel patch in the same pedicle for bladder augmentation.
Presently, urinary diversion with continence mechanisms based on the Mitrofanoff principle is fre... more Presently, urinary diversion with continence mechanisms based on the Mitrofanoff principle is frequently used. For its construction, the critical issue is related to the choice of efferent conduit; the most widely used are the appendix and the tapered ileum. Here, we present two alternative techniques for construction of tubes applicable to the same function. Ten dogs underwent operations with two different types of tubes constructed through transversal tubularization of small segments of ileum. These tubes were implanted in the bladder. The dogs were followed up for 30 days, during which all were continent. Their tubes were easily catheterized. The techniques described met the criteria defined for an efferent tube to be used according to the Mitrofanoff principle. Copyright 1997 by Elsevier Science Inc. UROLOGY 49: 1 12-l 15, 1997.
Journal of The American College of Cardiology, 2010
OBJECTIVESWe assessed the endothelial-dependent vasomotor function in nonrestenotic coronary arte... more OBJECTIVESWe assessed the endothelial-dependent vasomotor function in nonrestenotic coronary arteries more than six months following stent implantation, balloon angioplasty (BA), and directional atherectomy (DCA).BACKGROUNDCatheter-based coronary interventions are associated with extensive arterial injury. Endothelial function has been shown to remain chronically abnormal after vascular injury. The long-term effects of different percutaneous coronary interventions on endothelial function are not known.METHODSThirty-nine patients treated at least six months earlier with a coronary intervention for isolated proximal left anterior descending (LAD) stenosis, with no evidence of restenosis, were studied. Twelve patients had been stented, 15 had been treated with BA, and 12 had undergone DCA. Changes in diameter of the intervened LAD, and the unintervened circumflex coronary artery (Cx), in response to intracoronary acetylcholine infusions were assessed by quantitative angiography.RESULTSThe groups had similar angiographic characteristics and risk factors for endothelial dysfunction. The LAD constricted significantly more (p = 0.02) in previously stented patients (−21.8 ± 4.3%), as compared to patients previously treated with BA (−9.5 ± 2.8%) or with DCA (−9.1 ± 3.6%). In contrast, acetylcholine infusion resulted in mild constriction in the Cx, which was similar in the three groups (p = 0.47). By multiple regression analysis, previous implant of a stent was the only significant predictor of LAD constriction (p = 0.008).CONCLUSIONSMore severe endothelial dysfunction was observed long term after stenting as compared to BA or DCA. These findings may have implications with respect to the progression of atherosclerosis in coronary arteries subjected to percutaneous interventions.
Journal of The American College of Cardiology, 1998
at least one segment occurred In 30 of 43 patients (69",$) wlth ECHO and In 0 ol 43 patients (0%)... more at least one segment occurred In 30 of 43 patients (69",$) wlth ECHO and In 0 ol 43 patients (0%) with CMRI (p < 0,0001), Prospective CMRI study ot a subset of patients with severe lung disease or csrdtnc malformation who frequently have suboptimal ECHO study demonstrated Improvement In the evaluation of LV function, Conclusion: Our CMRI I~rovldes ¢llnl¢~llly reliable evaluation of LV font. lion and complements suboptimal ECHO while reducing scan time, patient dlseomfod, and a~seclatod coat, 4:15 i
Oxidation of sulfide- and carbonate-rich vein gold deposits under semiarid conditions can be repr... more Oxidation of sulfide- and carbonate-rich vein gold deposits under semiarid conditions can be represented as a three-stage process, each creating supergene environments conducive to dissolution and reprecipitation of gold-silver alloys. The three-stage weathering process of sulfide-carbonate gold veins is depth-dependent, and develops from the relatively young, lowermost weathering horizon just below the water table, through an intermediate weathering horizon in the oxidation zone above the water table, and culminating in the oxide-rich upper saprolite and oxisol.Neoformed gold crystals in the weathering profile have distinct composition and morphologic characteristics from the hypogene gold crystals associated with the sulfide- and carbonate-rich ores. Two distinct types of secondary gold are present in the weathering profile: (1) gold crystals associated with sulfates and arsenates; and (2) gold crystals associated with iron and aluminum oxides/hydroxides, or with kaolinite. The distinct crystal morphologies and mineralogical associations of primary and secondary gold are useful in prospecting for gold deposits in weathered terrains.
Objective: To investigate the origen and to reconstruct the onset date of the HIV-1 subtype C epi... more Objective: To investigate the origen and to reconstruct the onset date of the HIV-1 subtype C epidemic in Brazil.
O peixe-sapo L. gastrophysus foi identificado como um dos principais alvos no atual processo de e... more O peixe-sapo L. gastrophysus foi identificado como um dos principais alvos no atual processo de expansão da pesca demersal para áreas profundas da Zona Econômica Exclusiva brasileira. A pescaria dessa espécie iniciou-se em 2001 e foi analisada a partir do monitoramento de desembarques em Santa Catarina e de programas de observadores de bordo e de rastreamento remoto. Em 2001 foram produzidas, aproximadamente, 8.823 t, equivalentes a US$ 20.730.924,00 em exportações. A explotação dessa espécie de peixe-sapo pela frota nacional foi responsável por 60% dos desembarques totais, sendo liderada pela atividade multiespecífica de arrasteiros duplos, principalmente sediados nos Estados do Rio de Janeiro e de Santa Catarina, que direcionaram grande parte das viagens a profundidades maiores que 125 m. Além dessa espécie, que compôs, em média, de 10 a 15% dos desembarques (entre 2 e 3 t por viagem), foram significativas as participações da merluza (Merluccius hubbsi) e da abrótea-deprofundidade (Urophycis cirrata). A frota de emalhe arrendada, composta de nove embarcações, direcionou suas operações ao peixe-sapo L. gastrophysus, ocupando, ao longo do ano, as áreas de pesca, compreendidas entre os paralelos 22º e 34ºS e as isóbatas de 130 e 645 m, e produzindo 36% dos desembarques totais em 2001. A atividade foi baseada em viagens de 30 a 60 dias, que produziram, em média, 22,3 t (± 3,7 EP) de "colas" processadas e congeladas a bordo. O peixe-sapo predominou numericamente nas capturas da rede de emalhe, porém, a captura incidental de caranguejos-deprofundidade (Chaceon spp.), cherne-poveiro (Polyprion americanus) e tubarões foi freqüente e pouco aproveitada pelas embarcações. O estudo indica que o desenvolvimento de uma pescaria nacionalizada de L. gastrophysus deveria priorizar o uso das redes de emalhe, porém adaptadas a embarcações menores, mais adequadas à realidade econômica e aos limitados níveis de sustentabilidade do estoque. Palavras-chave: Lophius gastrophysus; pesca profunda; pesca de emalhe; pesca de arrasto; sudeste e sul do Brasil
A recente pesca de arrasto de talude do Sudeste-Sul do Brasil é descrita neste trabalho a partir ... more A recente pesca de arrasto de talude do Sudeste-Sul do Brasil é descrita neste trabalho a partir de 1.570 viagens realizadas por arrasteiros duplos e arrasteiros simples da frota nacional entre janeiro de 2001 e dezembro de 2003, todas monitoradas nos portos de Santa Catarina. A atividade produziu cerca de 32.000 t, das quais 80% foram desembarcadas por arrasteiros duplos e 20%, por arrasteiros simples. Essa pescaria estruturou-se em torno de três espécies-alvo: a abrótea-deprofundidade (Urophycis mystacea), a merluza (Merluccius hubbsi) e o peixe-sapo (Lophius gastrophysus). O calamar-argentino (Illex argentinus) teve destacada importância durante o inverno, quando inúmeras viagens foram direcionadas à espécie. A frota de arrasteiros concentrou-se em dois estratos de profundidade, a saber, 100-250 m (borda da plataforma) e 250-500 m (talude superior). No estrato mais profundo, as três espécies de peixe predominaram, tornando-se alvo da maioria das viagens. No estrato mais raso, a pesca teve natureza multiespecífica. Arrasteiros duplos e simples atuaram principalmente ao norte e ao sul de 29 o S, respectivamente, tendo os arrasteiros simples obtido capturas maiores e mais seletivas. Os níveis de produção, abundância e esforço de pesca indicam que a atividade atingiu seu máximo em 2002, e vem, a partir daí, apresentando um franco declínio. Sugere-se que a pesca de arrasto de talude se desenvolveu nos moldes das "corridas-do-ouro" e que seu potencial de sustentação parece ser incompatível com a elevada capacidade instalada das frotas de arrasteiros da Região Sudeste-Sul do Brasil.
We have developed improved analyzer multilayers for the detection of aluminium (Al) and boron (B)... more We have developed improved analyzer multilayers for the detection of aluminium (Al) and boron (B) on silicon (Si) wafers with wavelength-dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectrometers. For the detection of Al on Si wafers we show that WSi(2)/Si and Ta/Si multilayers provide detection limits that are 42% and 60% better, respectively, than with currently used W/Si multilayers. For the detection of B on Si wafers we show that La/B(4)C multilayers improve the detection limit by approximately 28% compared with a conventionally used Mo/B(4)C multilayer.
Single species responses have the potential to measure impacts at earlier stages than more tradit... more Single species responses have the potential to measure impacts at earlier stages than more traditional methods based in community structure. This study evaluates a bioassay with biological (survival, development, growth) and functional (post-exposure feeding rate) responses of Chironomus riparius larvae to assess water quality and contamination in rivers. The bioassay with C. riparius third instar larvae was performed, in autumn and spring, in reference sites and in organic and metal contaminated sites in Portuguese rivers. Biotic, physical and chemical parameters were determined for each site. The relationship between both bioassays responses and biotic indices (IBMWP and IASPT) and the physical and chemical parameters of respective sites were determined. In general biotic indices were able to discriminate between contaminated and not contaminated sites although they demonstrated a poor ability to detect low level of metal contamination during autumn. IASPT was negatively related to ammonia concentrations in both seasons. No significant differences in survival and post-exposure feeding rate were found between sites. Development was inhibited in the most metal contaminated site during autumn, but pH and ammonia concentrations in water accounted for 82% of developmental variation during this season. Growth was highly inhibited in the most metal contaminated site during both seasons. In autumn, growth was also inhibited in the low metal contaminated site and, during this season, pH and Mn and Fe concentrations in water samples accounted for 97% of growth variation between sites. The results suggest that in situ bioassay with C. riparius larvae using growth as the endpoint is a responsive and suitable tool that can be used as bioindicator of metal pollution and to biomonitor water quality in metal contaminated rivers.
Several Sendai virus (SV) preparations, propagated through eggs from the same viral seed, exhibit... more Several Sendai virus (SV) preparations, propagated through eggs from the same viral seed, exhibited significantly different capacities to induce interferon (IFN) in human leukocytes (nHu-IFN-alpha). The amount of induced IFN and the numbers of SV IFN-inducing particles (IFP) per cell were determined in dose (SV concentration)-response (IFN yield) curves, kinetics of IFN production, and coinfection experiments with SV preparations that differed in IFN-inducing capacities. The possible role of leukocyte sources and the quality of the SV preparations and of allantoic fluids in affecting the IFN-inducing capacity of SV populations also were tested. The data indicate that different SV preparations induced different amounts of IFN per leukocyte and contained approximately the same concentrations of IFN-inducing particles. There was no apparent correlation between the IFN induced and the apparent quality of the SV preparations examined (EID50, HAU, and EID50/HAU). The leukocyte source and the allantoic impurities of SV preparations did not have any influence on the magnitude of the IFN yield. Similar shapes of the dose-response curves, the absence of any lag in the kinetics of IFN production, and the ability of a viral preparation that induced low yields of IFN to suppress partially a high-yielding inducer suggest that a common mechanism of induction is always present. Hence, propagation of SV in eggs from low multiplicity produced virus stocks that differed significantly in their inducing capacity, suggesting that genetic bottlenecks may be operative.
According to median sensory latency &gt;/= 3.7 ms (wrist-index finger [WIF], 14 cm), median/u... more According to median sensory latency &gt;/= 3.7 ms (wrist-index finger [WIF], 14 cm), median/ulnar sensory latency difference to ring finger &gt;/= 0.5 ms (14 cm) or median midpalm (8 cm) latency &gt;/= 2.3 ms (all peak-measured), 141 Brazilian symptomatic patients (238 hands) have CTS confirmation. Wrist ratio (depth divided by width, WR) and a new wrist/palm ratio (wrist depth divided by the distance between distal wrist crease to the third digit metacarpophalangeal crease, WPR) were measured in all cases. Previous surgery/peripheral neuropathy were excluded; mean age 50.3 years; 90.8% female. Control subjects (486 hands) have mean age 43.0 years; 96.7% female. The mean WR in controls was 0.694 against 0.699, 0.703, 0.707 and 0.721 in CTS groups of progressive WIF severity. The mean WPR in controls was 0.374 against 0.376, 0.382, 0.387 and 0.403 in CTS groups of WIF progressive severity. Both were statistically significant for the last two groups (WIF &gt; 4.4 ms, moderate, and, WIF unrecordable, severe). BMI increases togetherwith CTS severity and WR. It was concluded that both WR/WPR have a progressive correlation with the severity of CTS but with statistically significance only in groups moderate and severe. In these groups both WR and BMI have progressive increase and we believe that the latter could be a risk factor as important as important WR/WPR.
Objectives. Monti et al. recently described a technique for the construction of a continent cathe... more Objectives. Monti et al. recently described a technique for the construction of a continent catheterizable conduit using short segments of small bowel in a canine model. We review our experience with 25 adult and pediatric patients in whom the Monti procedure was used in their reconstructive efforts.Methods. Since October 1995, 25 patients (13 males and 12 females), aged 4 to 67 years (median 29), underwent the construction of 29 catheterizable stomas with a short (2.5 cm) segment of bowel following the Monti technique. Twenty-seven tubes were created as urinary stomas and two as part of the Malone antegrade continent enema procedure (MACE). Continence is based on the Mitrofanoff flap valve mechanism. Tubes were created when the appendix was unavailable as part of urinary reconstructive efforts or after exenterative oncologic surgery of the lower urinary tract. Tubes were created using ileum (24) and sigmoid colon (5). Ten tubes (34.5%) were done in combination with a simultaneous bowel patch in the same pedicle for bladder augmentation. Tubes were implanted in the ileum (13), bladder (9), sigmoid colon (3), stomach (1), and descending colon (1). The two tubes created to do a MACE procedure were anastomosed into the cecum. Double tubes were necessary in 7 adult patients for adequate length. The length of the tubes varied from 6 to 14 cm.Results. Follow-up ranged between 3 and 26 months (mean 13). One adult patient (4%) with bladder cancer died of myocardial infarction 14 days postoperatively. Three patients (12%) received a new Monti tube because of ischemic stenosis of the tube. All of them were continent at a follow-up of 1, 6, and 20 months, respectively. Two patients (8%) experienced leakage through the stoma, requiring additional procedures and pharmacologic manipulation to become continent. All patients used intermittent catheterization through the stoma without problems.Conclusions. Although the appendix remains the tissue of choice, the Monti procedure has substantial advantages over other efferent catheterizable tubes, including the need for a very short segment of bowel (2.5 cm), adequate lumen size (16F to 18F), length, reliable blood supply, and the versatility to combine with a simultaneous bowel patch in the same pedicle for bladder augmentation.
Presently, urinary diversion with continence mechanisms based on the Mitrofanoff principle is fre... more Presently, urinary diversion with continence mechanisms based on the Mitrofanoff principle is frequently used. For its construction, the critical issue is related to the choice of efferent conduit; the most widely used are the appendix and the tapered ileum. Here, we present two alternative techniques for construction of tubes applicable to the same function. Ten dogs underwent operations with two different types of tubes constructed through transversal tubularization of small segments of ileum. These tubes were implanted in the bladder. The dogs were followed up for 30 days, during which all were continent. Their tubes were easily catheterized. The techniques described met the criteria defined for an efferent tube to be used according to the Mitrofanoff principle. Copyright 1997 by Elsevier Science Inc. UROLOGY 49: 1 12-l 15, 1997.
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