Multimodal MRI Longitudinal Assessment of White and Gray Matter in Different SPG Types of Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis

Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP) are a group of genetically and clinically heterogeneous neurologic disorders. Hereby we describe a relatively large group of patients (pts) affected by HSP studied at baseline (31 pts) and at follow-up (mean period 28.9 ± 8.4 months; 23 pts) with multimodal advanced MRI: high-resolution T1 images for voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). An age-matched healthy control (HC) group underwent the same neuroimaging protocol in a time schedule matched with the HSP patients. At baseline, VBM showed gray matter (GM) reduction in HSP in the right pre-frontal cortex and bilaterally in the thalami. MRS at baseline depicted in HSP patients compared to the HC group reduction of NAA/Cr ratio in the right pre-frontal region, increase of Cho/Cr ratio in the right pre-central regions, and increase of mI/Cr ratio on the left pre-central area. At cross-sectional follow-up analysis and longitudinal evaluation, no VBM and MRS statistically significant results were obtained. Tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) analysis showed widespread DTI brain white matter (WM) alterations in patients compared to HC at baseline, which are characterized by reduction of fractional anisotropy (FA) and increase of mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity, as confirmed on cross-analysis of the follow-up dataset. A longitudinal analysis with TBSS in HSP patients did not show significant variations, while upon applying region-based analysis we found increased FA and decreased MD and AD in specific brain WM fiber complex during follow-up. The changes were not correlated with the clinical presentation (pure vs complicated HSP), motor function, and motility indexes or history of specific treatments (botulinum toxin). In conclusion, the cross-sectional analysis of the multiparametric MRI data in our HSP patients confirmed the non-prominent involvement of the cortex in the primary motor regions but rather of other more associative areas. On the contrary, DTI demonstrated a widespread involvement of the brain WM, including the primary motor regions, which was confirmed at follow-up. The longitudinal analysis revealed an apparent inversion of tendency when considering the expected evolution of a neurodegenerative process: we detected an increase of FA and a decrease of MD and AD. These time-related modifications may suggest a repair attempt by the residual central WM fibers, which requires confirmation with a larger group of patients and with a longer time interval.

Physico-Chemical, Electrochemical and Structural Insights Into Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Grafted from Molecularly Engineered Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Surfaces

Composites of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) are attracting the attention of material scientists since more than a decade as potential next-generation optoelectronic materials for their peculiar features, arising from the combination of the intrinsic electrical, thermal and morphological properties of the two components. They are indeed a promising platform for the development of low-cost, portable and environmentally friendly electronic devices such as supercapacitors, sensors and actuators. Here a novel synthetic strategy for their preparation is envisaged, exploiting the possibility to covalently functionalize the external surface of MWCNTs with tailored molecular units, starting from which the growth of the conjugated polymer can be induced oxidatively. The approach demonstrates its value in being able to effectively promote the formation of PEDOT chains in direct contact with the surface of MWCNTs, differently from what results when the monomer is polymerized in the presence of the pristine carbon nanomaterial. In addition, significant differences are found in the physico-chemical properties and electrochemical behavior when MWCNT-PEDOT covalent composites are studied in comparison to a non-covalent analogue, here illustrated in detail. These evidences constitute a starting point for the future development of novel more finely tuned functional materials based on MWCNT-PEDOT composites, featuring the required optoelectronic properties to precisely target the desired application.

Imaging of activated complement using ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (USPIO)--conjugated vectors: an in vivo in utero non-invasive method to predict placental insufficiency and abnormal fetal brain development

In the current study, we have developed a magnetic resonance imaging-based method for non-invasive detection of complement activation in placenta and foetal brain in vivo in utero. Using this method, we found that anti-complement C3-targeted ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) nanoparticles bind within the inflamed placenta and foetal brain cortical tissue, causing a shortening of the T2* relaxation time. We used two mouse models of pregnancy complications: a mouse model of obstetrics antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and a mouse model of preterm birth (PTB). We found that detection of C3 deposition in the placenta in the APS model was associated with placental insufficiency characterised by increased oxidative stress, decreased vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor levels and intrauterine growth restriction. We also found that foetal brain C3 deposition was associated with cortical axonal cytoarchitecture disruption and increased neurodegeneration in the mouse model of APS and in the PTB model. In the APS model, foetuses that showed increased C3 in their brains additionally expressed anxiety-related behaviour after birth. Importantly, USPIO did not affect pregnancy outcomes and liver function in the mother and the offspring, suggesting that this method may be useful for detecting complement activation in vivo in utero and predicting placental insufficiency and abnormal foetal neurodevelopment that leads to neuropsychiatric disorders.

Role of tissue factor in feto-maternal development: a xiphos

In this review, the dual role of tissue factor (TF) in pregnancy is described. On the one hand, TF is required for embryonic and placental development in a successful pregnancy, and on the other hand, pathologic expression of TF can lead to serious pregnancy complications in humans and mice. Human studies show increased TF levels in plasma, amniotic fluid and and/or placentas of abnormal pregnancies affected by miscarriages, preterm birth, or pre-eclampsia. Interestingly, using two mouse models, we found that blood-borne TF plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications. TF on neutrophils and monocytes is a critical mediator in trophoblast injury and embryo damage in pregnancy loss induced by antiphospholipid antibodies and in the antibody-independent CBA/J × DBA/2 model of miscarriages. Blockade of TF or genetic diminution prevented pregnancy complications, suggesting that TF may be a good target for therapy in patients with recurrent miscarriages, pregnancy loss, and pre-eclampsia. In addition, statins, which downregulate TF, may constitute a good therapeutic option for women with pregnancy complications. Clinical trials should be conducted to confirm these observations in women.

Tissue factor in antiphospholipid antibody-induced pregnancy loss: a pro-inflammatory molecule

Fetal loss in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) has been ascribed to thrombosis of placental vessels. However, we have shown that inflammation, specifically complement activation with generation of the anaphylotoxin C5a, is an essential mediator of fetal injury. We have analysed the role of tissue factor (TF) in a mouse model of aPL-induced pregnancy loss. TF is the major cellular activator of the coagulation cascade but also has cell signaling activity. Mice that received aPL-IgG showed strong TF staining throughout the decidua and on embryonic debris. This TF staining was not associated with either fibrin staining or thrombi in deciduas. The absence of fibrin deposition and thrombi suggests that TF-dependent activation of coagulation does not mediate aPL-induced pregnancy loss.We found that either blockade of TF with a monoclonal antibody in wild type mice or a genetic reduction of TF prevented aPL-induced inflammation and pregnancy loss indicated a pathogenic role for TF in aPL-induced pregnancy complications. In response to aPL-generated C5a, neutrophils express TF potentiating inflammation in the deciduas and leading to miscarriages. Importantly, we showed that TF in myeloid cells, but not fetal-derived cells (trophoblasts), was associated with fetal injury, suggesting that the site for pathologic TF expression is neutrophils. We found that TF expression in neutrophils contributes to respiratory burst and subsequent trophoblast injury and pregnancy loss induced by aPL. The identification of TF, acting as an important pro-inflammatory mediator in aPL-induced fetal injury, provides a new target for therapy to prevent pregnancy loss in the aPL syndrome.

Activation of complement mediates antiphospholipid antibody-induced pregnancy loss

Although it is clear that the specific antigenic reactivity of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies is critical to their effect, the pathogenic mechanisms that result in injury in vivo are incompletely understood. We hyphothesized that aPL antibodies targeted to the placenta activate complement locally, generating split products that mediate placental injury and lead to foetal loss and growth retardation. To test this hypothesis, we used a murine model of APS in which pregnant mice are injected with human IgG containing aPL antibodies. Mice treated with inhibitors of complement activation and mice deficient in complement components were protected from aPL antibody-induced foetal damage. Although the cause of tissue injury in this disease is probably multifactoral, we have shown that complement activation is an absolute requirement for foetal loss and growth restriction and, therefore, thatthis pathway acts upstream of other important effector mechanisms. Identification of complement activation as a mechanism that is necessary for aPL-induced tissue damage and definition ofthe complement components necessary to trigger such injury is likely to lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of vascular and tissue injury in SLE and to new and improved treatments.

Randomized trial of salbutamol via metered-dose inhaler with spacer versus nebulizer for acute wheezing in children less than 2 years of age

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of salbutamol delivered via a metered-dose inhaler with a spacer and facial mask (MDI-S) vs. a nebulizer (NEB) for the treatment of acute exacerbations of wheezing in children. In a single-blind, prospective, randomized clinical trial, 123 outpatients (1-24 months of age), presenting with "moderate to severe" wheezing, were seen in the emergency department. Children were randomly assigned to one of two salbutamol treatment groups. In the first hour, the MDI-S group received 2 puffs (100 microg/puff) every 10 min for 5 doses, and the NEB group received 0.25 mg/kg every 13 min for 3 doses. If the clinical score was >5 at the end of the first hour, the patients received another hour of the same treatment and also betamethasone (0.5 mg/kg intramuscular). On enrollment and after the first and the second hour of treatment each child had a validated clinical score assigned by a blinded investigator. There were no differences at the time of admission to the emergency department between groups in clinical score or demographic data. Success (clinical score </=5) after the first hour of treatment was 90% (56/62) in the MDI-S group and 71% (43/61) in the NEB group (odds ratio 3.9, 95% confidence interval 1.5-10.4, P = 0.01). After the second hour, the success was 100% in the MDI-S and 94% in the NEB (P > 0.05). We conclude that in this study population, children less than 2 years of age with moderate-severe exacerbations of wheezing responded faster to salbutamol delivered by MDI with a spacer and facial mask than to salbutamol delivered by nebulizer.

[Emergence and postoperative course after anesthesia with sevoflurane versus propofol]

BACKGROUND

To compare the postoperative period, with particular regard to occurrence of adverse effects at the time of emergence from anaesthesia, recovery parameters, any post-surgical analgesia requirements and laboratory tests changes in 80 ASA I and II patients undergoing sevoflurane or propofol anaesthesia for elective extracavity surgery.

DESIGN

A prospective randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

Patients were randomly allocated into two groups: in the first group, thiopentone was administered for induction of anaesthesia and sevoflurane for maintenance; the second group received propofol either for induction of anaesthesia and maintenance. All patients received vecuronium for neuromuscular blockade and fentanyl as needed. At the end of surgery, the occurrence of adverse effects, recovery parameters, time of discharge from recovery area, any post-surgical analgesia requirements, time of walking resumption and any laboratory tests changes were recorded.

RESULTS

In the sevoflurane group times of discharges from recovery area were significantly faster. In both groups total bilirubin increase was recorded until 72 hours after the end of anaesthesia.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant differences of postoperative adverse effects and laboratory tests changes were not recorded in both groups of anaesthetics.

Relation between pulse oximetry and clinical score in children with acute wheezing less than 24 months of age

The aim of this study was to determine the relation between transcutaneous hemoglobin oxygen saturation, measured by pulse oximetry (SpO2), and clinical score values in 138 infants (mean+/-SD, 6.6+/-5.5 months of age) with acute wheezing episodes presenting in a primary care outpatient setting. A single investigator evaluated the severity of the acute wheezing episodes by assigning a clinical score and was unaware of the SpO2 values. Another investigator measured SpO2 values on all subjects. The mean (+/-SD) SpO2 value was 98.2+/-1.1% for children with clinical scores of 2-5 (n = 32); 95.4+/-1.5% for those with scores of 6-7 (n = 82), and 92.9+/-2% for children with scores of 8-10 (n = 24), (P < 0.001 by Bonferroni's multiple comparison, when all two-way comparisons were done for each pair of results). The clinical score showed a good correlation with SpO2 (r = -0.76; 95% CI, -0.83 to -0.68). We conclude that if pulse oximetry is not available, it is advisable to include oxygen in the therapy of wheezy infants with clinical scores values >8.

Verapamil protection against mercuric chloride-induced renal glomerular injury in rats

We have examined the effects of the calcium channel blocker verapamil on the renal glomerular structural damage produced by mercuric chloride in rats. Verapamil (75 micrograms/kg body wt iv) was administered 30 min prior to mercuric chloride injection (HgCl2, 5 mg/kg body wt sc). Verapamil prevented the glomerular proteinuria observed in HgCl2-treated rats. Isolated glomeruli from mercury-treated rats 1 h after injection presented a diminished cross-sectional area as compared with control glomeruli (control [micron2], 26,310 +/- 2545; HgCl2 [micron2], 18,474 +/- 1828) and increased glomerular calcium content (control, 23 +/- 6 nmol/mg protein; HgCl2, 43 +/- 7 nmol/mg protein). Verapamil pretreatment prevented glomerular cross-sectional area (GCSA) diminution and glomerular calcium content rise (GCSA [micron2] Vp + Hg, 28,281 +/- 4654, Ca2+ [nmol/mg protein] Vp + Hg, 18 +/- 5). Renal sections prepared for immunohistochemical detection and histochemical analysis showed increased deposits of fibronectin and lipids and enhanced cellularity in glomerular structures from HgCl2-treated rats. Renal sections from animals pretreated with verapamil showed fibronectin and lipid contents not different from control sections and their histological studies did not show any changes when compared with control. Verapamil pretreatment also protected glomeruli from enhanced leukocyte content (myeloperoxidase activity/mg protein): control, 59 +/- 7; HgCl2, 134 +/- 10; Vp + Hg, 79 +/- 11). HgCl2 also contracts GCSA in vitro; Vp prevented this GCSA diminution. The results described in this study indicate that mercuric chloride nephrotoxicity may be associated not only with changes in renal glomerular haemodynamics, but also with a direct effect on glomerular cells.

Early manifestations of nephropathy in alloxan-treated rats

An early stage of diabetic nephropathy was studied. Rat renal function was evaluated by clearance techniques, 7 or 15 days after alloxan administration (groups A7 and A15). Significant diminutions of glomerular filtration rate (inulin clearance) and p-aminohippurate clearance were observed in alloxan-treated rats. Diabetic animals presented glucosuria and enhanced water excretion. A natriuretic response was only observed in A15-rats. Arterial pressure increased along time, and enlarged lipid deposits in glomeruli and vessels of A7-kidney sections were observed. Thus, a vascular compromise at this time was suggested. To better characterize the set up of the renal dysfunction, other studies were performed in A7-group. Urinary protein excretion remained unchanged while a higher level of glycosylation of urinary proteins was observed in A7-rats. Histological studies revealed a normal general morphology in kidneys from diabetic rats. Immunohistochemical analysis in renal sections showed enlarged deposits of fibronectin in glomeruli and interstitium of alloxan-treated rats. Higher myeloperoxidase activity was observed in renal cortex from diabetic animals indicating leukocytes infiltration. These results indicated that 7 days after hyperglycemia induction, the animals presented a renal dysfunction characterized by hemodynamic alterations associated with vascular and glomerular structural impairments, without modifications in tubular function. The higher level of protein glycosylation and the inflammatory process at this early stage could be responsible for the beginning of diabetic nephropathy.

Osteitis caused by bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccination: an emergent problem in Chile?

SETTING

Osteitis caused by bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCGOST) vaccination has not been described in Latin American countries.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence, clinical features and prognosis of patients with BCGOST in one of the most populated areas of Santiago, Chile.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of medical records kept over twenty years (1976-1995).

RESULTS

In ten children (four in the last five years), diagnostic criteria of BCGOST were fulfilled. Six were boys, the mean age was 11 months (range 6.5-21), symptoms were present with a mean of 31 days (range 15-60) before diagnosis and the sites of predilection of osteitis were the lower extremity (8/10 cases). Culture was positive in one case, and nine patients had typical histopathological lesions (two with acid-fast bacilli). All had normal chest X-ray. Mantoux testing was performed in four cases (mean 21.5 mm, range 16-28). None of the ten patients had a history of underlying immunodeficiency. In this area BCG coverage was 90.2 +/- 9.7% of all newborn infants, and the annual risk of tuberculosis infection was 24.6/100,000 population per year.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated an estimated incidence for BCGOST in this area of 3.2/100,000 vaccinated newborns. Based on the epidemiological situation of tuberculosis in Chile (29.5/100,000), universal BCG vaccination in newborns should be encouraged.

[Anesthesia with sevoflurane vs propofol in elective extracavity surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the cardiovascular effects and recovery characteristics of sevoflurane and propofol anesthesia in 80 ASA I and II patients undergoing elective extracavity surgery expected to last at least one hour.

DESIGN

A prospective randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

After meperidine and atropine premedication, the patients were randomly allocated into two groups: in the sevoflurane group thiopentone was administered for induction of anesthesia and sevoflurane for maintenance; the propofol group received propofol either for induction of anesthesia or maintenance. All patients received N2O, vecuronium, artificial ventilation and fentanyl as needed. Vital parameters were monitored during anesthesia and two hours later. Recovery times were recorded after anesthesia. Statistical analysis was performed with SAS (Statistical Analysis System).

RESULTS

In the sevoflurane group, heart rate and diastolic pressure were slightly higher than in the propofol group. Recovery time was faster after sevoflurane anesthesia.

Effects of clenbuterol as a repartitioning agent on beta-adrenoceptor concentrations in heart, bronchi and brain of veal calves

The effects induced by dietary clenbuterol (20 micrograms kg-1 body weight day-1 for 40 days) on beta-adrenergic receptor (beta-AR) subtypes in the heart, bronchial smooth muscles and the CNS of veal calves were investigated using a binding method. Clenbuterol exposure caused a significant (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.001) decrease in beta 1-AR and beta 2-AR in both cardiac atria and ventricles of treated animals (excluding the beta 2-AR of the right atrium). Similarly, a significant (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) down-regulation of beta-AR subtypes in bronchial smooth muscles of treated calves was observed. In the CNS (cerebral cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus and cerebellum) the down-regulation was limited to beta 2-AR, with the exception of the hippocampus in which both beta 1-AR and beta 2-AR concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05; P < 0.01) reduced. Scatchard analysis of the binding of the beta-AR antagonist, (-) [3H]CGP 12177, revealed that the down-regulation of beta-AR was not associated with any modification in binding affinity, as Kd values were unaffected by clenbuterol treatment. Data obtained indicated that prolonged clenbuterol exposure induced a remarkable beta-AR down-regulation in the heart, bronchi and brain of veal calves.

Glomerular compromise in mercuric chloride-induced nephrotoxicity

We have examined the effects of mercuric chloride on renal glomerular structure. Isolated glomeruli from mercury-treated rats (HgCl2, 5 mg/kg body wt, s.c.) 1 hour post injection presented a diminished cross-sectional area as compared with control glomeruli [control (micron2) = 26,310 +/- 2,545, HgCl2 (micron2) = 18,474 +/- 1,828] and higher glomerular calcium content (control = 23 +/- 6 nmoles/mg prot, HgCl2 = 43 +/- 7 nmoles/mg prot). Renal sections prepared for immunohistochemical and histochemical analysis showed larger deposits of fibronectin and lipids and enhanced cellularity in glomerular structures from HgCl2-treated rats. Moreover, mieloperoxidase activity measured in isolated glomeruli were also increased as compared with control preparations [MPO (U/mg prot): control = 59 +/- 7, HgCl2 = 134 +/- 10]. When the animals were studied 24 hours post HgCl2 injection, glomerular cross-sectional area values were not different from control values (25,276 +/- 1,983 micron2), while calcium contents were higher than values observed 1 hour after treatment (92 +/- 9 nmoles/mg prot). A similar pattern was observed in fibronectin deposits. Hypercellularity in glomerular structures and the higher mieloperoxidase levels were maintained at this time (MPO HgCl2-rats 24 h = 148 +/- 31 U/mg prot). The effects observed in this study are consistent with an inflammatory response in the glomerular structure of HgCl2-treated rats that could explain the altered renal function described in previous reports in our laboratory.

[Evaluation of the synergism between ketorolac and morphine in the treatment of postoperative pain]

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study is to determine what concentration of ketorolac and morphine administered together i.v. achieve best synergic effect between NSAID antiinflammatory and opioids analgesic properties.

DESIGN

Randomized comparative study was carried out on 180 patients, ASA II-IV, undergoing major general surgery, in an University Clinic.

METHODS

Postoperative pain therapy by i.v. PCA: group 1 morphine 0.75 mg.ml + ketorolac 0.75 mg.ml; group 2 morphine 0.50 mg.ml + ketorolac 1.50 mg.ml; group 3 morphine 0.25 mg.ml + ketorolac 1.50 mg.ml; in saline solution. Initial bolus: 2 ml. Continuous infusion 1.5 ml.h. Demand bolus: 0.2 ml. Lockout time: 30 minutes. Evaluations included: pain intensity (T0, T3, T18); total amount of infused drugs (T18); number of valid demands and attempts (T18); amount of autoadministered analgesic drugs in percent of highest available amount (T18); side effects (T18); patient's judgment.

DATA ANALYSIS

ANOVA and Student's "t"-test.

RESULTS

A statistically significant reduction of pain intensity was found after 3 and 18 hours in the three groups, no differences were found among the groups. Group 2 required an amount of autoadministered drugs significantly lower than other groups. Rare side effects. Patient's judgment was generally positive.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest a greater synergetic effect between morphine and ketorolac in concentrations used in group 2.

Evidence for renal ischaemia as a cause of mercuric chloride nephrotoxicity

The present study was undertaken to investigate if the source of oxidative stress and the renal injury produced by mercuric chloride could be renal ischaemia. Verapamil Vp was used because it was described that calcium channel blockers protect cells from nephrotoxicants and from ischaemia. Vp (75 micrograms/kg, i.v.; 30 min before HgCl2 injection) prevented mercuric chloride renal injury observed 1 h post-HgCl2 injection as measured by clearance techniques. Vp also prevented the diminution of non-protein-sulfhydryls (NPSH) and the increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) induced by HgCl2 in renal tissue. Hg2+ toxicokinetic alterations were not observed in Vp plus HgCl2 treated rats, nor was Vp ability found as a free radical scavenger in renal tissue homogenates. The results described in this study give some evidence for the role of renal ischaemia in the production of oxidative stress, generating LPO and functional and morphological renal injury described in mercuric chloride treated rats.

Mercuric chloride effects on rat renal redox enzymes activities: SOD protection

This study was done to determine the effect of mercuric chloride treatment on the redox cycle enzymes in rat kidney ex-vivo. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (Cat) activities were measured in kidney homogenates from rats with different nonprotein sulfhydrils levels and different mercury content. The results indicated that GSH-Px activity was enhanced in mercury-treated rats in direct relationship with kidney mercury content, whereas Cat activity was increased in the presence of the highest mercury kidney content obtained. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was administered to rats prior to mercury chloride injection and renal function, development of lipid peroxidation and renal glutathione level were measured 1 h later. Renal function, renal glutathione, and renal lipid peroxidation production were maintained similar to control values. Moreover, SOD pretreatment also protected kidney from mercuric chloride histological alterations observed 24 h post mercury treatment. Thus, an inhibition of renal redox cycle enzymes "in vivo," did not appear to be an important determinant of the increased lipid peroxidation observed during mercuric chloride nephrotoxicity.

[Anesthesia with isoflurane in air and with isoflurane and nitrous oxide]

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to control the depth, the quality of recovery of total inhalation isoflurane anesthesia with or without nitrous oxide.

DESIGN

Controlled comparative study was carried out on 51 patients, aged 40-54 yr, ASA 1, undergoing saphenectomy, in an University Clinic.

METHODS

Induction: thiopental (3.5 mg kg), atracurium (0.6 mg kg) i.v. Patients were randomly assigned to: group 1 (26 patients), 5% isoflurane in air, by mask; group 2 (25 patients), 3% isoflurane and 60% N2O, by mask. Maintenance: group 1, 2% isoflurane in air; group 2, 1.2% isoflurane and 60% N2O. During anesthesia, consciousness and analgesia level were monitored by EEG Compressed Spectral Array, and clinical signs of pain by Evans' test; arousal time evaluation by "Time to correct response test". The subjective impressions, eventual dreams and recalls were collected using a standard set of questions one hour after the end of anesthesia and 24 hours later. One hour before anesthesia and two hours after the end of surgical procedures, a psychomotor performance recovery evaluation was performed using Zazzo's "deux barrages" test.

DATA ANALYSIS

Student's "t" test.

RESULTS

Adequate anesthetic depth was documented in all patients. Recovery time was statistically longer in isoflurane group (group 1 16.7 sd 2.2 minutes vs 10.3 sd 1.9 minutes group 2, p < 0.01). No patient reported recalls relative to anesthetic period. Two hours after recovery no significant differences in psychomotor performance tests were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

Isoflurane anesthesia in air, in adequate concentrations, provides a sufficient level of analgesia, hypnosis, amnesia, without clinical side effects.

[Effect of dopexamine in splanchnic perfusion during surgery of the abdominal aorta]

Abdominal aortic surgery has significant effects on cardiac and splanchnic perfusion. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of dopexamine, an inodilator drug, on hemodynamic and splanchnic perfusion with measurement of gastric intramucosal pH, by the method of gastric tonometry, during abdominal aneurysm resection. Twenty-five patients undergoing excision of an aortic abdominal aneurysm were randomly divided into two groups. During aortic cross-clamping Group II patients received dopexamine infusion, at a dose of 1 microgram/kg/m, and at a dose of 0.5 micrograms/kg/m from declamping to the end of the surgery. Whereas Group I patients did not receive a dopexamine infusion. During aortic cross-clamping the intramucosal pH value decreased in Group I patients, but did not change in Group II patients. Heart rate, cardiac index, and mixed venous oxygen saturation increased significantly during dopexamine infusion, whereas systemic vascular resistance was reduced. During aortic cross-clamping dopexamine was a useful agent in improving splanchnic blood flow, cardiac index venous saturation. Also, since the drug produces dose related hemodynamic changes of rapid onset and reversibility, it is possible to interrupt the infusion before aortic declamping to avoid the decrease in the intramucosal pH value.

Effect of different renal glutathione levels on renal mercury disposition and excretion in the rat

Mercury renal disposition has been studied following HgCl2 injection (5.0 mg/kg body wt., s.c.) in controls, diethylmaleate and N-acetylcysteine-treated rats. The different treatments were used to generate statistically different degrees of non-protein sulfhydryls concentration in kidneys. Diethylmaleate (4 mmol/kg body wt., i.p.) diminished kidney glutathione levels to 25% and N-acetylcysteine (2 mmol/kg body wt., i.p.) increased kidney non-protein sulfhydryls levels up to 75% compared with new controls. The amount of mercury in the kidneys, the mercury excretion rate in urine and the mercury plasma disappearance curves were calculated during 3 h post HgCl2 injection. BUN was measured in plasma at the same time period to determine the onset of kidney damage. The results indicate a higher HgCl2 renal clearance in N-acetylcysteine-treated rats compared to controls and less renal mercury accumulation. The data agree with diminished renal toxicity. On the other hand, renal mercury accumulation was higher and mercury renal clearance lower in diethylmaleate-treated animals, associated with higher renal toxicity. The results suggest that non-protein sulfhydryl levels (principally glutathione) might determine renal accumulation of mercury as well as its elimination rate and hence might enhance or mitigate the nephrotoxicity induced by the metal.

Acetaminophen nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats

Acute acetaminophen (APAP) nephrotoxicity was studied in male Wistar rats 1 h after different APAP single doses (200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body wt, i.p.). Significant impairments in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and clearance of p-aminohippuric acid (ClPAH) were observed in a dose-dependent way, although tubular parameters measured, water and electrolyte fractional excretion, remained at control values, while the urine to plasma osmolality ratios (Uosm/Posm) were diminished in APAP-1000 rats (control = 2.93 +/- 0.20, APAP-1000 = 1.40 +/- 0.04). The time course of renal function was also studied in APAP-1000 mg/kg-treated animals; parallel impairments were observed in GFR, ClPAH and tubular functions. Maximal alteration was observed at 16 h and restorement began at 24 h post-injection. Glucose renal handling, either at low or at high tubular glucose loads, remained at control values. Thus, our data suggest that the early stage of acetaminophen nephrotoxicity might be due to renal hemodynamic changes which might induce an alteration in tubular function principally in distal structures of medullary tissue, as shown by the Uosm/Posm results. These effects occurred coupled with a diminution in hepatic glutathione (GSH) levels at every APAP dose and in renal GSH levels in APAP-1000 mg/kg-treated rats. Moreover, renal damage was observed both in the presence or absence of hepatic damage.

Effectiveness of N-acetylcysteine in protecting against mercuric chloride-induced nephrotoxicity

Mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced nephrotoxicity, as measured by functional and biochemical parameters was evaluated in rats at different kidney non-protein sulfhydryls (NPS) levels. Diethylmaleate (DEM) induced a 75% of NPS diminution 1 h after the administration. Renal function (clearance) and biochemical measurements (gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase activity in urine, and lipoperoxides in kidney tissue) were impaired when the animals were HgCl2-treated. Values were highly impaired when the kidneys were NPS-depleted and were improved when NPS pools were previously increased although they were not similar to control values. DEM treatment promoted a higher accumulation of HgCl2 in both kidney and liver while NAC-treatment reduced significantly the metal content in these organs. These data are in favour of a positive relationship among mercury content and organ injury. On the other hand, mercury content increased while NPS levels diminished. NPS might play a role in the HgCl2 detoxification and thus avoids mercury accumulation and mercury effects.

[Tuberculin reaction in healthy infants vaccinated with BCG at birth]

Tuberculin test with PPD RT-23 with Tween 80 (2 TU strength), was performed to 228 infants under two years of age. None of them had any history of contact with tuberculosis. All were healthy, well-nourished infants, and had been vaccinated with BCG at birth. A positive PPD reaction (greater than 6 mm), was found only in 8.8%, of them and 16.2% had no BCG scar on examination; 14.9% of the studied infants had negative PPD (0-5 mm) reactions together with absent BCG scars. These findings are significantly different from those previously reported by chilean authors, which showed higher proportion of positive (greater than = 6 mm) reaction to 2 TU PPD in infants from similar populations that had been vaccinated with different BCG preparations than our patients. These results suggest the need to evaluate the efficacy of the BCG vaccines that are currently being used in our country to determine the factors that may affect it and the protection that they afford.

[Effects of extracorporeal circulation and hypothermia on cellular immune activity in patients undergoing heart surgery]

Aspecific cellular reactivity was assessed in patients who underwent open heart surgery. The authors conclude that depressed PMN activity measured as O2- production is not linked to anaesthesiological procedures, hemodilution and hypothermia. No conclusive reports are possible on the role of pulmonary reinfusion or plasmatic and cellular mechanism of depression.

[Therapy with ketotifen in breast-fed infants with asthma]

Fifty asthmatic infants under 10 months of age included in a double blind placebo controlled trial lasting nine months. The whole group received continuous bronchodilator therapy with fenoterol + ipratropium in the first month. This was gradually discontinued in the second month, and half of the children began to receive ketotifen 0.35 mg each 12 hours, and the other placebo. The treatment was maintained for months. During this period, both groups received bronchodilators only in the presence of wheezing attacks. Bronchodilator consumption, symptoms registered in a diary card, results of a medical examination practiced each 10 days, and symptoms/bronchodilator requirements relationship were considered in the evaluation. Both groups showed a significant reduction in their symptom after the continuous bronchodilator use period. Control group did not experience further improvement within the next months, despite raising bronchodilators use. Ketotifen group improved all parameters evaluated and diminished their bronchodilator consumption. These changes reached statistical significance after three months ketotifen treatment. In the follow-up posttreatment, ketotifen group remained with significative less symptoms (p less than 0.001).

Bronchodilator effect of fenoterol and ipratropium bromide in infants with acute wheezing: use of MDI with a spacer device

Twenty-eight infants admitted to Exequiel González Cortes Children's Hospital because of acute wheezing (AW) were randomly assigned to three study groups. Fenoterol (FNT), ipratropium bromide (IB), and placebo were administered respectively to children in the different groups by means of metered dose inhalers (MDI) with spacers, using doses of 3 puffs every hour, for 4 hours. The degree of bronchial obstruction was assessed clinically and scored with the single-blind method every hour prior to each treatment. The criterion of a bronchodilator effect was a significant decrease in the degree of bronchial obstruction at subsequent scorings. The scores of the three groups were compared using the Student's t test for matched samples. The same test was also applied to the independent samples for determining the superiority of one treatment, FNT or IB, over the other. The results indicated a significant decrease in the scores of the groups receiving FNT and IB (P less than 0.05); this did not occur in the group in which placebo was used. FNT produced a more rapid and sustained effect than IB (P less than 0.05). Significant bronchodilator effect was obtained in infants with AW when repeated doses of FNT or IB were administered with MDI and spacers. This effect was significantly greater in the group treated with FNT.

Use of nebulized bronchodilators in infants under 1 year of age: analysis of four forms of therapy

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate four different forms of treatment in young infants admitted for acute wheezing (AW). Seventy-nine infants less than one year of age were randomly assigned to one of five groups. Group 1 received nebulized fenoterol plus ipratropium bromide, group 2 fenoterol, group 3 fenoterol plus steroids, and group 4 aminophylline, IV, plus steroids and oral fenoterol; the control group, or group 5, received nebulized normal saline solution. Clinical evaluation was done by means of a scoring system. The effectiveness of treatments was estimated by a score decrease in the first 24 hours, by the percentage of patients whose scores did not decrease during the same period, and by the number of days in the hospital. All infants had significantly decreased scores, except those in the control group; the aminophylline group included a greater percentage of patients who did not abate their scores, and they stayed in the hospital for more days than those in the other groups. The fenoterol group had the shortest hospital stay. All four treatments produced objective clinical improvement in bronchial obstruction. However, the nebulized bronchodilator treatments were more effective than aminophylline IV in decreasing scores on the first day, and they resulted in shorter hospitalization.

Effects of nebulized fenoterol, associated with ipratropium or steroids, on the heart rate of infants under one year of age with acute wheezing

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of fenoterol alone or associated with ipratropium bromide or steroid on the heart rate in young children. Ninety-four infants less than 1 year of age were randomly allocated to receive nebulized fenoterol alone, fenoterol plus ipratropium bromide, fenoterol plus corticosteroids, or normal saline solution. An increase in heart rate was observed in all four groups. The increases were statistically significant (P less than 0.001) in all three treatment groups, and no difference between them was observed (F = 0.65, NS). However, the heart rate remained within clinically acceptance limits. We conclude that nebulized fenoterol alone or combined with ipratropium or steroids can be safely used in the treatment of wheezy infants.