Clinical and epidemiological characterization of newborns with necrotizing enterocolitis / Caracterização clínica e epidemiológica de recém-nascidos com enterocolite necrosante

INTRODUCTION: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe inflammatory disorder that can affect the whole gastrointestinal system, particularly the ileum, and is a major cause of morbidity in premature infants. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of newborns with NEC, seeking to identify the causes, evolution and severity of the disease. METHODS: The study selected 94 patients who developed NEC (cases) and 60 patients who did not develop the disease during hospitalization (controls) and presented similar clinical signs of the case group. The variables analyzed divided into maternal and neonatal. The frequency tests were applied using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 and comparative analysis using the GraphPad Prism® 5.0 software. RESULTS: There was a higher number of prenatal consultations in cases with NEC. Newborns with NEC had shorter hospital stay, longer parenteral nutrition and antibiotics use and a predominant use of infant formula. The Bell criteria modified by Walsh and Kleigman was negatively correlated to maternal age and positively correlated to gestational age, birth weight and time of parenteral nutrition. CONCLUSION: Although being a disease of the newborn, the present study indicated that maternal characteristics may be related to its onset of NEC. Therefore, the greater number of prenatal consultations and neonatal factors such as length of stay, prolonged use of parenteral nutrition and antibiotic therapy, and formula use may influence the development of the disease.

INTRODUÇÃO: A Enterocolite Necrosante (ECN) é um grave distúrbio inflamatório que pode afetar todo o sistema gastrointestinal, em particular o íleo, é uma causa de morbiletalidade em prematuros. OBJETIVO: Delinear o perfil clínico-epidemiológico de recém-nascidos com ECN, buscando identificar as causas, modo de evolução e gravidade da doença. MÉTODOS: Foram selecionados 94 pacientes que desenvolveram ECN (casos) e 60 pacientes que não desenvolveram a doença no período de internação (controles) e apresentavam sinais clínicos semelhantes do grupo caso. As variáveis analisadas foram classificadas em maternas e neonatais. Foram realizados testes de frequência usando o programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) versão 21.0 e análise comparativa usando o teste programa GraphPad Prism® 5.0. RESULTADOS: Nos casos com ECN houve maior número de consultas pré-natal. Os recém-nascidos com ECN apresentaram menor tempo de internação, maior tempo de nutrição parenteral e uso de antibióticos tiveram predomínio no uso de fórmula infantil. A classificação modificada de Bell por Walsh and Kleigman apresentou correlação negativa com idade materna e positiva com idade gestacional, peso ao nascer e o tempo de nutrição parenteral. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de ser uma doença do recém-nascido, esse estudo sugere que características maternas podem ter relação com o aparecimento da ECN. O número maior de consultas pré-natal e os fatores neonatais como o tempo de internação, uso prolongado de nutrição parenteral, antibioticoterapia e uso de fórmulas pode influenciar o desenvolvimento da doença.

Effect of radiofrequency on patellar ligament repair of Wistar rats.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of radiofrequency (RF) on patellar ligament repair through the analysis of type I and III collagens and immunostaining for TGF-ß3. To evaluate the effect of RF on patellar ligament repair of Wistar rats, cross-sectional incision (60% of the width - grade I) was performed in patellar ligaments of the groups: lesion (L, n = 7), treated with RF on the 5-day (5RF, n = 7) and 7-day (7RF, n = 7) post injury were compared to control group (C, n = 7). Histological evaluation, immunohistochemistry, morphometry and statistical analysis were performed. At 10 days post injury, ligament rupture were observed only in L. Active fibroblasts, type 3 collagen and TGF-ß3 in L, 5RF and 7RF was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than control (C). Type 1 collagen was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in C than L, 5RF and 7RF. A positive correlation (p < 0.05) was observed: TGF-ß3 vs active fibroblasts and TGF-ß3 vs type 3 collagen; otherwise, negative correlation (p < 0.05): type I collagen vs TGF-ß3. These results suggest that RF seemed to accelerate the wound healing process of the patellar ligament and may be used as a non-invasive treatment of partial ligament injuries.

Analysis of serum inflammatory mediators in type 2 diabetic patients and their influence on renal function.

AIM: To evaluate the serum concentrations of inflammatory mediators in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or without renal alteration (RA) function. METHODS: Serum samples from 76 patients with T2DM and 24 healthy individuals were selected. Patients with T2DM were divided into two groups according to eGFR (> or < 60mL/min/1.73m2). Cytokines, chemokines and adipokines levels were evaluated using the Multiplex immunoassay and ELISA. RESULTS: TNFR1 and leptin were higher in the T2DM group with RA than in the T2DM group without RA and control group. All patients with T2DM showed increased resistin, IL-8, and MIP-1α compared to the control group. Adiponectin were higher and IL-4 decreased in the T2DM group with RA compared to the control group. eGFR positively correlated with IL-4 and negatively with TNFR1, TNFR2, and leptin in patients with T2DM. In the T2DM group with RA, eGFR was negatively correlated with TNFR1 and resistin. TNFR1 was positively correlated with resistin and leptin, as well as resistin with IL-8 and leptin. CONCLUSION: Increased levels of TNFR1, adipokines, chemokines and decrease of IL-4 play important role in the inflammatory process developed in T2DM and decreased renal function. We also suggest that TNFR1 is a strong predictor of renal dysfunction in patients with T2DM.

Focal and Segmental Glomerulosclerosis and Membranous Nephropathy overlapping in a patient with Nephrotic Syndrome: a case report / Glomeruloesclerose Segmentar e Focal e Nefropatia Membranosa sobrepostas em paciente com Síndrome Nefrótica: relato de caso

Abstract Introduction: Some cases of membranous nephropathy (MGN) present focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) typically associated with disease progression. However, we report a case of a patient who seemed to have MGN and FSGS, both primary. Case presentation: A 17-year-old female, Caucasian, presenting lower extremity edema associated with episodes of foamy urine and high blood pressure, had physical and laboratorial exams indicating nephrotic syndrome. A renal biopsy was performed and focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis were observed under light microscopy in some glomeruli presented as tip lesion, and in others it was accompanied by podocyte hypertrophy and podocyte detachment in urinary space, compatible with podocytopathy FSGS. Besides, there were thickened capillary loops with basement membrane irregularities due to "spikes" compatible with MGN stage II. Immunofluorescence showed finely granular IgG, IgG4, and PLA2R deposits in capillary loops and, in electron microscopy, subepithelial deposits and foot process effacement. These morphological findings are compatible with FSGS and MGN stage II. Conclusions: In the present case, clinical and morphological characteristics showed a possible overlap of primary FSGS and MGN as focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis does not seem to be related with MGN progression but with the podocytopathy FSGS.

Resumo Introdução: Alguns casos de nefropatia membranosa (NM) apresentam glomeruloesclerose segmentar e focal (GESF) tipicamente associada a progressão da doença. Contudo, relatamos o caso de uma paciente que parece ter NM e GESF, ambas primárias. Apresentação do caso: Uma jovem branca de 17 anos de idade com edema de membros inferiores associado a episódios de urina espumosa e hipertensão apresentou-se com achados físicos e laboratoriais sugestivos de síndrome nefrótica. Foi realizada biópsia renal. GESF foi observada por microscopia de luz em alguns glomérulos que apresentavam lesões de ponta, enquanto em outros o achado era acompanhado por hipertrofia podocitária e descolamento de podócitos no espaço urinário, compatíveis com podocitopatia GESF. Além disso, as alças capilares estavam espessadas com irregularidades na membrana basal devido a "espículas" compatíveis com NM estágio II. Imunofluorescência revelou depósitos finamente granulares de IgG, IgG4 e PLA2R nas alças capilares. Microscopia eletrônica exibiu depósitos subepiteliais e apagamento de pedicelos. Tais achados morfológicos são compatíveis com GESF e NM estágio II. Conclusões: No presente caso, as características clínicas e morfológicas revelaram uma possível sobreposição de GESF primária e NM, uma vez que a glomeruloesclerose segmentar e focal não parece estar relacionada com a progressão da NM, mas com a podocitopatia GESF.

Mast cells in the kidney biopsies of pediatric patients with lupus nephritis.

INTRODUCTION: Mast cells may be involved in inflammation and contribute to the onset of fibrosis in lupus nephritis (LN). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to correlate the presence of mast cells in kidney biopsy specimens of pediatric patients with LN with activity (AI) and chronicity (CI) indices and assess how effectively mast cells may be used as a prognostic factor. METHOD: The study included 40 patients aged 6-18 years diagnosed with LN at the Renal Disease Service of the Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro between 1996 and 2015. Workup and epidemiological data were evaluated vis-à-vis AI, CI, and mast cell counts (MCC). RESULTS: Significant positive correlations were found between mast cell counts (MCC) and AI (p = 0.003; r: 0.66) and MCC and CI (p = 0.048; r: 0.48). The ROC curve showed that mast cells were highly sensitive and specific in the differentiation of patients with an AI > 12 from individuals with an AI ≤ 12. Serum creatinine levels were higher in individuals with class IV LN than in patients with class V disease [1.50 (0.40-20.90) vs. 0.70 (0.62-0.90), p = 0.04]. Blood urea nitrogen had a positive significant correlation with MCC (p = 0.002; r: 0.75). A trend toward a negative correlation was observed between MCC and serum albumin (p = 0.06; r: -0.5459). Kidney biopsies of patients with nephrotic syndrome had higher MCC [2.12 (0.41-5.140) vs. 0.53 (0.0-3.94), p = 0.07]. CONCLUSION: Inflammatory cell infiltration and morphological differences between cell types in the inflammatory infiltrate are relevant factors in the assessment of the LN. Mast cell analysis and AI/CI assessment may be relevant prognostic indicators for pediatric patients with LN.

Focal and Segmental Glomerulosclerosis and Membranous Nephropathy overlapping in a patient with Nephrotic Syndrome: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Some cases of membranous nephropathy (MGN) present focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) typically associated with disease progression. However, we report a case of a patient who seemed to have MGN and FSGS, both primary. CASE PRESENTATION: A 17-year-old female, Caucasian, presenting lower extremity edema associated with episodes of foamy urine and high blood pressure, had physical and laboratorial exams indicating nephrotic syndrome. A renal biopsy was performed and focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis were observed under light microscopy in some glomeruli presented as tip lesion, and in others it was accompanied by podocyte hypertrophy and podocyte detachment in urinary space, compatible with podocytopathy FSGS. Besides, there were thickened capillary loops with basement membrane irregularities due to "spikes" compatible with MGN stage II. Immunofluorescence showed finely granular IgG, IgG4, and PLA2R deposits in capillary loops and, in electron microscopy, subepithelial deposits and foot process effacement. These morphological findings are compatible with FSGS and MGN stage II. CONCLUSIONS: In the present case, clinical and morphological characteristics showed a possible overlap of primary FSGS and MGN as focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis does not seem to be related with MGN progression but with the podocytopathy FSGS.

Alterações na Epiderme de Pacientes com Aids Autopsiados em Uso da Terapia Antirretroviral / Changes in the Epidermis of Autopsied AIDS Patients Using Antiretroviral Therapy

Objetivo: Avaliar a influência da terapia na morfologia da epiderme de pacientes com Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida - AIDS. Metodologia: Estudo transversal desenvolvido na Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Brasil. Foram selecionados pacientes com AIDS de ambos os sexos, que foram agrupados de acordo com o tratamento com Terapia antir-retroviral de alta eficiência: pacientes em uso de HAART (n = 14) e pacientes sem uso de HAART (n = 14). Outras informações foram coletadas do prontuário clínico. Resultados: A idade média dos pacientes em tratamento foi de 49,07 ± 7,89 anos e dos pacientes sem TARV foi de 55,11 ± 10,17 anos. A maioria dos pacientes na terapia utilizada pertencia ao sexo feminino, 9 (64,28%). Estes apresentaram espessamento epidérmico (150,04 x 86,09µm), número de camadas celulares (8,0 x 5,5 camadas) e densidade de células de Langerhans superiores àquelas que não utilizaram a terapia, com diferença significativa. Conclusão: Nossos achados sugerem que o HAART propor-ciona a recuperação dos constituintes da epiderme alterados pela doença, melhorando sua função como barreira chave na proteção do corpo contra microorganismos ambientais. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the influence of therapy in the morphology of the epidermis of patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Methodology: Cross-sectional study developed at the Triangulo Mineiro Federal University, Brazil. This study has been approved by Triângulo Mineiro Federal University Research Ethics Committee on protocol number 1780/2010. Patients with AIDS, of both genders were selected and arranged according to treatment with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy: patients in use of HAART (n = 14), and patients without use of HAART (n = 14). Other information was collected from the clinical record. Results: The mean age of the patients undergoing therapy was 49.07±7.89 years, and of the patients without HAART was 55.11±10.17 years. The majority of the patients using the therapy, belonged to the female gender, 9 (64.28%). These showed epidermal thickness (150.04 x 86.09µm), number of cell layers (8.0 x 5.5 layers) and density of Langerhans cells higher than those who did not use the therapy, with a significant difference. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the HAART provides recovery of epidermis constituents altered by the disease, improving its function as a key barrier in protecting the body against environmental microorganisms. (AU)

Evaluation of the Diagnostic Potential of uPAR as a Biomarker in Renal Biopsies of Patients with FSGS.

Minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are primary glomerulopathies leading to proteinuria, known as podocytopathies, which share syndromic and morphological similarities. Morphological similarity occurs in cases of FSGS in which the sclerotic lesion was not sampled in renal biopsy, due to the focal nature of the disease. Differentiating these entities is very important, especially in cases of suspected FSGS but with sclerotic lesion not sampled, as they are diseases that apparently have different pathogenic mechanisms and prognosis. The difference in uPAR expression in situ among these two entities may be related to a distinct molecular mechanism involved in pathogenesis. Thus, finding biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis and that can also help in differential diagnosis is very relevant. The aim of this work was to evaluate the potential of urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) as a biomarker in renal biopsies of patients with podocytopathies (n = 38). Immunohistochemistry showed that FSGS (n = 22) had increased uPAR expression in podocytes compared with both the MCD group (n = 16; p = 0.0368) and control group (n = 21; p = 0.0076). ROC curve (p = 0.008) showed that this biomarker has 80.95% of specificity in biopsies of patients with FSGS. Therefore, uPAR presented a high specificity in cases of podocytopathies associated with sclerosis and it can be considered a potential biomarker for FSGS.

Podocin and uPAR are good biomarkers in cases of Focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis in pediatric renal biopsies.

There are controversies whether Minimal Change Disease (MCD) and Focal and Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are distinct glomerular lesions or different manifestations within the same spectrum of diseases. The uPAR (urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor) and some slit diaphragm proteins may be altered in FSGS glomeruli and may function as biomarkers of the disease in renal biopsies. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the diagnostic potential of uPAR and glomerular proteins for differentiation between MCD and FSGS in renal pediatric biopsy. Renal biopsies from 50 children between 2 and 18 years old were selected, with diagnosis of MCD (n = 29) and FSGS (n = 21). Control group consisted of pediatric autopsies (n = 15) from patients younger than 18 years old, with no evidences of renal dysfunction. In situ expressions of WT1, nephrin, podocin and uPAR were evaluated by immunoperoxidase technique. Renal biopsy of patients with MCD and FSGS expressed fewer WT1 (p≤0.0001, F = 19.35) and nephrin (p<0.0001; H = 21.54) than patients in the control group. FSGS patients expressed fewer podocin than control (p<0.0359, H = 6.655). FSGS cases expressed more uPAR than each of control and MCD (p = 0.0019; H = 12.57) and there was a positive and significant correlation between nephrin and podocin (p = 0.0026, rS = 0.6502) in these cases. Podocin had sensitivity of 73.3% and specificity of 86.7% (p = 0.0068) and uPAR had sensitivity of 78.9% and specificity of 73.3% (p = 0.0040) for diagnosis of FSGS patients. The main limitation of the study is the limited number of cases due to the difficulty in performing biopsy in pediatric patients. Podocin and uPAR are good markers for FSGS and differentiate these cases from MCD, reinforcing the theory of distinct glomerular diseases. These findings suggest that podocin and uPAR can be used as biomarkers in the routine analysis of renal biopsies in cases of podocytopathies when the lesion (sclerosis) is not sampled.

Morphological and histopathological evaluation of autopsied patients with hypertensive cardiopathy.

BACKGROUND: Physiopathological processes in hypertensive heart disease are controlled by complex interactions between cardiomyocytes, extracellular matrix, microvasculature and other cells present in the myocardium. OBJECTIVE: To analyze morphological changes in hypertensive cardiopathy and to describe and compare findings in order to help clarify determinant factors. METHODS: 42 fragments of the left ventricular myocardium and circumflex branch of the left coronary artery were obtained from individuals autopsied at the Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM) in the period ranging from 1984 to 2018. Groups were split into individuals with hypertensive heart disease (HD) and individuals without heart disease (ND). Wall thickness was measured with a digital caliper and Computed Tomography. Quantification of collagen fibers was conducted by computerized morphometry and mast cell density was assessed by immunohistochemical methods. RESULTS: There was a significant increase of heart weight in the HD group compared to the ND group, (p = 0.0002). There was a significant increase of thickness of the middle third of the free wall in the HD group compared to the ND group, (p = 0.04). There was a significant increase of collagen fibers in the left ventricle in the HD group compared to the ND group, (p < 0.0001). Concerning mast cell density, there was a significant increase in the left ventricle of individuals with HD immuno-labeled by the set anti-chymase/anti-tryptase (p < 0.0001). There was a significant increase of mast cell density in the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery of individuals with HD immuno-labeled by the set anti-chymase/anti-tryptase (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Mast cells are involved in the development of hypertensive heart disease, contributing to the remodeling of collagen fibers in this disease.

Pulmonary coinfection by Pneumocystis jiroveci, Cryptococcus neoformans and cytomegalovirus in hiv patient without antiretroviral treatment

Pulmonary diseases are among the main causes of morbidity and mortality in HIV patients. Here, we present the fatal case of a 30 year-old AIDS patient, who did not undergo antiretroviral treatment, presenting pulmonary coinfection by Pneumocystis jiroveci, Cryptococcus neoformans and cytomegalovirus diagnosed in the postmortem histological examination. Concurrent pulmonary infection by these three agents is not common and, to date, apparently had not been reported in the literature.

Upregulation of Cardiac IL-10 and Downregulation of IFN-γ in Balb/c IL-4-/- in Acute Chagasic Myocarditis due to Colombian Strain of Trypanosoma cruzi.

Inflammatory response in Chagas disease is related to parasite and host factors. However, immune system regulation has not been fully elucidated. Thus, this study is aimed at evaluating IL-4 influence on acute phase of Trypanosoma cruzi experimental infection through dosage of cytokine levels in cardiac homogenate of infected Balb/c WT and Balb/c IL-4-/- as well as its histopathological repercussions. For such purpose, mice were divided into two groups: an infected group with 100 forms of the Colombian strain and an uninfected group. After 21 days of infection, animals were euthanized and the blood, spleen, and heart were collected. The spleen was used to culture splenic cells in 48 h. Subsequently, cytokines TNF-α, IL-12p70, IL-10, IFN-γ, and IL-17 were measured in the blood, culture supernatant, and heart apex by ELISA. The base of the heart was used for histopathological analysis. From these analysis, infected Balb/c IL-4-/- mice showed milder inflammatory infiltrate compared to Balb/c WT, but without changes in nest density and collagen deposition. IL-4 absence culminated in lower cardiac tissue IFN-γ production, although it did not affect TNF-α expression in situ. It also decreased TNF-α systemic production and increased IL-10, both systemically and in situ. In addition, IL-4 absence did not influence IL-17 expression. Splenocytes of IL-4-deficient mice produced higher amounts of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17 and lower amounts of IL-10. Thus, IL-4 absence in acute phase of experimental infection with T. cruzi Colombian strain reduces myocarditis due to lower IFN-γ production and greater IL-10 production in situ and this pattern is not influenced by splenocyte general repertoire.

Intrauterine infection, immune system and premature birth.

Preterm birth accounts for nearly one million deaths among children under five years of age, and although its etiopathogenesis is not fully elucidated, ascending intrauterine infection and fetal inflammatory response seem to be the main triggers. The intense inflammatory response mediated by IL-1ß, TNF-α, PAF, IFN-γ and IL-6, PGE2 and MMP-1 and MMP-9 causes fetal membrane damage and rupture, increased uterine contractions and biochemical and structural changes in the cervix. Furthermore, preterm neonates have deficient innate and adaptive immune responses characterized by reduced levels of IgG, opsonization and phagocytosis, as well as increased activation of Th1 cells in relation to Th2 cells. Therefore, this triad is favors the occurrence of neonatal complications, such as respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Due to serious maternal and child health complications of intrauterine infection, several studies have tried to identify biomarkers for the early diagnosis of this entity. This literature review aims to discuss the main scientific findings regarding the association between ascending intrauterine infection, immune system and preterm birth.

Angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors in preeclampsia.

BACKGROUND: Pre-eclampsia is a multifactorial hypertensive disorder that is triggered by placental insufficiency and that accounts for up to 15% of maternal deaths. In normal pregnancies, this process depends on the balance between the expression of angiogenic factors and antiangiogenic factors, which are responsible for remodeling the spiral arteries, as well as for neoangiogenesis and fetal development. PURPOSE: The aim of this review is to discuss the main scientific findings regarding the role of angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors in the etiopathogenesis of preeclampsia. METHODS: An extensive research was conducted in the Pubmed database in search of scientific manuscripts discussing potential associations between angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors and preeclampsia. Ninety-one papers were included in this review. RESULTS: There is an increased expression of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor and soluble endoglin in pre-eclampsia, as well as reduced placental expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor. Systemic hypertension, proteinuria and kidney injury - such as enlargement and glomerular fibrin deposit, capillary occlusion due to edema, and hypertrophy of endocapillary cells - are some of these changes. The complex etiopathogenesis of preeclampsia instigates research of different biomarkers that allow for the early diagnosis of this entity, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, placental growth factor, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor, soluble endoglin, placental glycoprotein pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A and protein 13. CONCLUSION: Even though it is possible to establish an efficient and effective diagnostic tool, three key principles must be observed in the management of preeclampsia: prevention, early screening and treatment.

Alterações do Baço no Envelhecimento de Acordo com Diferentes Causas de Morte / Age-Related Spleen Changes According to Different Causes of Death

Objetivo: Avaliar as alterações esplênicas de idosos autopsiados de acordo com diferentes causas de morte. Material e Métodos: Foram selecionados 38 idosos autopsiados no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro entre 1996 e 2012. As causas de morte foram agrupadas em cardiovascular (n=13), infecciosa (n=15) e neoplásica (n=10). Os fragmentos de baço foram analisados para determinação da densidade dos folículos linfoides, da área das arteríolas centro foliculares e da porcentagem de fibras colágenas e elásticas. Resultados: Os idosos acometidos pela causa de morte neoplásica apresentaram maior peso esplênico (234,00 vs 126,23g) e menor densidade folicular (0,16 vs 0,36 folículos/mm2) quando comparado aos acometidos pela causa cardiovascular. O grupo de causa neoplásica apresentou maior área das arteríolas centro foliculares quando comparado ao de causa infecciosa (817,00 vs 701,10µm2). Houve uma correlação negativa e significativa entre o peso do baço e a densidade folicular nos grupos com causa cardiovascular e neoplásica (rS=-0,382; p=0,018). Os idosos acometidos pela causa de morte cardiovascular apresentaram significativamente maior porcentagem de fibras colágenas que os idosos com causa infecciosa (0,81 vs 0,65%, p=0,002). O grupo acometido pela causa de morte infecciosa apresentou significativamente maior porcentagem de fibras elásticas quando comparado ao da causa neoplásica (6,01 vs 3,47%, p=0,001). Conclusão: As diferentes causas de mortes influenciam de modo distinto as alterações histomorfométricas do baço durante o envelhecimento. As doenças neoplásicas estiveram associadas ao aumento da área das arteríolas centro foliculares e a diminuição da densidade folicular, enquanto as doenças cardiovasculares contribuíram para o aumento da fibrose esplênica. (/AU)

Objective: To evaluate the changes in the spleens of elderly autopsied according to different causes of death. Material and Methods: We selected 38 elderly autopsied between 1996 and 2012 at the Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro. The causes of death were grouped into cardiovascular (n=13), infectious (n=15) and neoplastic (n=10). Spleen fragments were analyzed to determine the lymphoid follicle density, follicular arteriole area, and the percentage of collagen and elastic fibers. Results: The elderly affected by neoplastic causes had a higher splenic weight (234.00 vs 126.23g) and a lower follicular density (0.16 vs 0.36 follicles/mm2) than those affected by cardiovascular death. The neoplastic cause group presented greater area of central follicular arterioles when compared to that of infectious death (817.00 vs 701.10ìm2). There was a significant negative correlation between spleen weight and follicular density in the groups with cardiovascular and neoplastic causes (rS=- 0.382; p=0.018). The elderly affected by cardiovascular death presented had a significantly higher percentage of collagen fibers than the elderly with infectious death (0.81 vs 0.65%, p=0.002). The group affected by infectious death had a significantly higher percentage of elastic fibers when compared to the neoplastic death group (6.01 vs 3.47%, p=0.001). Conclusion: The different causes of death influence differentially histomorphometric changes of the spleen during aging. Neoplastic diseases were associated with an increase in the area of central follicular arterioles and decreased follicular density, while cardiovascular diseases contributed to the increase of splenic fibrosis. (AU)

Correlação entre cardiopatias hipertensivas e aterosclerose na artéria aorta / Correlation between hypertension cardiopathies and atherosclerosis in the aortic artery

A hipertensão arterial sistêmica é uma doença multifatorial, comportando-se como fator desencadeador das doenças cardiovasculares e da aterosclerose. O objetivo foi descrever a associação de idade, gênero, cor da pele e o grau de aterosclerose na artéria aorta na cardiopatia hipertensiva em indivíduos autopsiados. Foram avaliados 34 seguimentos de artérias aortas abdominais de indivíduos autopsiados com cardiopatia hipertensiva (20) e sem cardiopatia hipertensiva (14). A idade, gênero, cor da pele e causa de morte foram coletadas do laudo de autopsia, a quantificação da intensidade de aterosclerose e o grau de aterosclerose através de escala padronizada. Neste estudo, a causa de morte e a intensidade da aterosclerose apresentaram associação significativa com a cardiopatia hipertensiva; houve prevalência de placas de ateroma de maior extensão entre os indivíduos com esta entidade. Desse modo, a aterosclerose deve ser investigada em indivíduos com cardiopatia hipertensiva visando prevenir graves repercussões, que podem culminar com o óbito.

Systemic arterial hypertension is a multifactorial disease, behaving as a triggering factor for cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. The objective was to describe the association of age, gender, skin color and, the atherosclerosis level in the aortic artery in hypertensive cardiopathy of autopsied individuals. We assessed 34 parts of abdominal aortic arteries of autopsied individuals with hypertensive cardiopathy (20) and without hypertensive cardiopathy (14). We collected age, gender, skin color and cause of death from the autopsy report; the quantification of the atherosclerosis intensity and the atherosclerosis level were determined using a standardized scale. In this study, the cause of death and atherosclerosis intensity had a significant association with hypertensive cardiopathy; there was a prevalence of large atheroma plaques among individuals with this entity. Thus, atherosclerosis should be investigated in individuals with hypertensive cardiopathy to prevent severe repercussions which could lead to death.

An overview of maternal and fetal short and long-term impact of physical activity during pregnancy.

PURPOSE: To explore information available in the literature about the possible benefits resulting from physical activity (PA) in non-risky pregnant women, repercussion on maternal organism, fetal development, and on long-term offspring health. METHODS: Critical narrative review using online databases. RESULTS: Through critical discussion of studies focused on PA practiced during pregnancy, it was observed that some of the outcomes investigated on both mother and offspring showed conflicting findings. Considering the impact of maternal PA in certain offspring characteristics, due to the fact that their findings come from studies with small samples, they do not allow the stablishment of scientific evidence. However, a feature that shows broad consensus among studies is the view of PA during pregnancy as a safe intervention for mother and fetus. In situations where studies employing PA of moderate-intensity have not enough power to ensure a positive influence on certain clinical outcomes, what is observed is the lack of their influence, not negative impacts. Regarding epigenetic modulations measured late in the offspring, it has been attributed to PA a positive modulatory role on metabolic, hemodynamic and even on behavioral characteristics. However, possible mechanisms involved in these epigenetic changes have not been sufficiently explored. CONCLUSION: Maternal PA appears to be safe for both mother and fetus, and additional studies are needed to confirm the real influence of this practice in the offspring, as well as the perpetuation and transfer of these features between generations.

Influence of the Expression of Inflammatory Markers on Kidney after Fetal Programming in an Experimental Model of Renal Failure.

Objective. To evaluate the expression of inflammatory markers in experimental renal failure after fetal programming. Methods. The offspring aged two and five months were divided into four groups: CC (control dams, control offspring); DC (diabetic dams, control offspring); CFA (control dams, folic acid offspring, 250 mg/Kg); and DFA (diabetic dams, folic acid offspring). Gene expression of inflammatory markers MCP-1, IL-1, NOS3, TGF-ß, TNF-α, and VEGF was evaluated by RT-PCR. Results. MCP-1 was increased in the CFA and DFA groups at two and five months of age, as well as in DC5 when compared to CC5. There was a higher expression of IL-1 in the CFA2, DFA2, and DC2 groups. There was a decrease in NOS3 and an increase in TNF-α in DFA5 in relation to CFA5. The gene expression of TGF-ß increased in cases that had received folic acid at two and five months, and VEGF decreased in the CFA5 and DFA5 groups. DC5 showed increased VEGF expression in comparison with CC5. Conclusions. Gestational diabetes mellitus and folic acid both change the expression of inflammatory markers, thus demonstrating that the exposure to harmful agents in adulthood has a more severe impact in cases which underwent fetal reprogramming.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in pediatric nephropathies.

INTRODUCTION: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process in which epithelial cells may express mesenchymal cell markers with subsequent change in their functions, and it may be part of the etiopathogenesis of kidney disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunexpression of some EMT inducers and markers in frequent nephropathies in pediatric patients. METHODS: 59 patients aged 2-18 years old were selected and divided into 6 groups of frequent nephropathies in children and adolescents, as well as one control group. Urea and creatinine data of the patients were recorded. TGF-ß3, fibronectin, α-SMA and vimentin were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Glomerular TGF-ß3 was higher in the Lupus Nephritis and Acute Diffuse Glomerulonephritis (ADGN) groups than in the control group. Glomerular fibronectin was higher in the Podocytopathy, Lupus Nephritis, ADGN and Membranous Glomerulopathy patients than in control subjects. The expression of α-SMA was higher in the tubulointerstitial compartment of ADGN and Membranous Glomerulopathy groups than in the control group. Glomerular α-SMA was higher in ADGN patients than in control and Berger's Disease groups. Glomerular vimentin was higher in individuals with ADGN than in those with Podocytopathy, Lupus Nephritis, Berger's Disease and Thin Basement Membrane Disease/Alport Syndrome. There was a positive correlation between fibronectin in the tubulointerstitial compartment and creatinine levels, between α-SMA and vimentin in both tubulointerstitial and glomerular compartments, and between urea and creatinine levels of patients, regardless of their nephropathy (p<0.05 for all results). CONCLUSION: These markers may possibly be used as indicators of renal functional impairment in various nephropathies in pediatric patients.

Diagnosis of congenital and infantile nephrotic syndromes in renal biopsies in Minas Gerais, Brazil: Six case reports.

Congenital or infantile nephrotic syndromes (CNS/INS) correspond to a heterogeneous group of rare diseases in which glomerular renal dysfunction and proteinuria are prominent. The aim of this study is to present six cases of possible CNS/INS with diagnoses based on clinical findings and especially histological, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical characteristics of renal biopsies. Four cases are presented with diffuse mesangial sclerosis, one of them possibly part of Denys-Drash syndrome and two cases with CNS probably of the Finnish type in patients between 3 months old and 13 years old. The study focuses on the late evolution of Denys-Drash syndrome to end-stage renal disease in a 13-year-old patient and the diagnosis of diffuse mesangial sclerosis in an 8-year-old patient. Thus, it contributes to a better epidemiological characterization of these syndromes, demonstrating cases of CNS/INS in infrequent age groups.