I think the growth in the first picture is new aerator roots. That is a good sign. I have a den in the same condition, and was wondering if I should cut the canes or toss it. There are no leaves on them, and have not been any in a while, but the canes are still green. I was thinking that maybe that canes were taking up too much energy for new growth, but now I am pretty sure. Going to be cutting my canes shortly.