Variant genotypes associated with reduced expression of RhCE antigens among Brazilian blood donors.

Background: The genetic diversity of the RHCE gene locus has been explored in diverse populations of different racial backgrounds. Data referring to the diversity of RHCE encoding weakened expression of C, c, E, and e in multiethnic populations is still incomplete.

Methods: Samples from Brazilian blood donors presenting reduced expression of C, c, E, or e on gel method were selected for the study.

Weak D types 38 and 11: determination of frequencies in a Brazilian population and validation of an easy molecular assay for detection.

Recent evidence shows that, among Brazilians, the distribution of weak D types significantly differs from that represented in people of European descent, with a high percentage of weak D types 38 and 11. Our goal was to determine the population frequencies of weak D types 38 and 11 in a Brazilian population and to validate a molecular approach to identify these two variants. Blood donors were sequentially enrolled in the study in a 5-year period.

Effectiveness of strategies to screen for blood donors with RH variants in a mixed population.

Introduction: Patients with RH variants presenting antibodies directed to RH high frequency antigens or multiple RH antibodies might, in some occasions, be better served with RH genotype-matched units, requiring screening for RH variants among blood donors. To date, strategies to identify donors with RH variants were restricted to selecting individuals of African descent based on self-reported race, what can be inaccurate in racially mixed population. Our goal was to: 1) Screen for donors with RH variants in a mixed population using self-declared race and Rh phenotype as selection criteria; and 2) Verify if including the Duffy null genotype in the screening algorithm increases its effectiveness.

High frequency of variant RHD genotypes among donors and patients of mixed origin with serologic weak-D phenotype.

Background: The current transfusion policy recommended for individuals with serologic weak-D phenotype is based on data derived from European-descent populations. Data referring to the distribution of RH alleles underlying weak-D phenotype among people of mixed origin are yet incomplete, and the applicability of European-based transfusion guidelines to this specific population is questionable.

Goal: To evaluate the distribution of RHD variant genotype among individuals with serologic weak-D phenotype of both African and European descent.

Evaluation of the applicability and effectiveness of a molecular strategy for identifying weak D and DEL phenotype among D- blood donors of mixed origin exhibiting high frequency of RHD*Ψ.

Background: Molecular tests designed to detect the presence of active RHD gene among D- donors have been successfully applied in people of European ancestry, but not in admixed populations with a considerable frequency of RHD*Ψ. Our goal was to evaluate the performance of a molecular screening tool for identifying active RHD alleles among Brazilian blood donors classified as D- C+ and/or E+.

Study Design And Methods: Pools of five DNA samples of serologically D- C+ and/or E+ donors were checked by a RHD polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay specific for RHD Intron 4 and Exon 7.

Intensity modulated radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer: rigid compliance to dose-volume constraints as a warranty of acceptable toxicity?

Background: To report the toxicity after intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for patients with localized prostate cancer, as a sole treatment or after radical prostatectomy.

Methods: Between August 2001 and December 2003, 132 patients with prostate cancer were treated with IMRT and 125 were evaluable to acute and late toxicity analysis, after a minimum follow-up time of one year. Clinical and treatment data, including normal tissue dose-volume histogram (DVH) constraints, were reviewed.

Isolation and identification of fungi from vaginal flora in three species of captive Leontopithecus.

The ability to reproduce in captivity is an essential component of lion tamarin (Leontopithecus) conservation programs. However, infections such as vaginitis, cervicitis, and endometritis are important diseases that may influence the reproduction of these animals. Therefore, it is important to detect continuous or occasional vaginal microbial populations, and to understand their potential role as an endogenous source of infection [Collins, 1964; Blue, 1983; Pugh et al.