Molecular transduction in receptor-ligand systems by planar electromagnetic fields / Transdução molecular em sistemas receptor-ligante por campos electromagnéticos planares

The coupling of a ligand with a molecular receptor induces a signal that travels through the receptor, reaching the internal domain and triggering a response cascade. In previous work on T-cell receptors and their coupling with foreign antigens, we observed the presence of planar molecular patterns able to generate electromagnetic fields within the proteins. These planes showed a coherent (synchronized) behavior, replicating immediately in the intracellular domain that which occurred in the extracellular domain as the ligand was coupled. In the present study, we examined this molecular transduction - the capacity of the coupling signal to penetrate deep inside the receptor molecule and induce a response. We verified the presence of synchronized behavior in diverse receptorligand systems. To appreciate this diversity, we present four biochemically different systems - TCR-peptide, calcium pump-ADP, haemoglobin-oxygen, and gp120-CD4 viral coupling. The confirmation of synchronized molecular transduction in each of these systems suggests that the proposed mechanism would occur in all biochemical receptor-ligand systems.

A ligação de um ligante com um receptor molecular induz um sinal que viaja através do receptor, chegando ao domínio interno e disparando uma cascata de resposta. Em trabalhos anteriores em receptores de células T e sua ligação com antígenos estranhos, observamos a presença de padrões moleculares planares capazes de gerar campos eletromagnéticos dentro das proteínas. Esses planos mostraram um comportamento coerente (sincronizado), replicando, instantaneamente, no domínio intracelular o que ocorreu no domínio extracelular, enquanto o ligante era acoplado. No presente estudo, examinamos essa transdução ­ a capacidade de um sinal de acoplamento de penetrar profundamente a molécula receptora e induzir uma resposta. Verificamos a presença de um comportamento coerente em sistemas diversos de receptor-ligante. Para apreciar essa diversidade, apresentamos quatro sistemas bioquímicos diferentes: TCR-peptídeo, ADP-bomba de cálcio, hemoglobina-oxigênio e gp120-CD4 acoplamento viral. A confirmação de transdução molecular sincronizada em cada um desses sistemas sugere que o mecanismo proposto ocorreria em todos os sistemas bioquímicos receptor-ligante.

Repeated geophysical measurements in dry and wet soil conditions to describe soil water content variability

There is an increasing interest in the application of geophysical surveys to assess the soil water content (SWC) variation in both spatial and temporal scales. In this work, a geophysical survey was carried out at an experimental farm in dry and wet conditions. We determined the SWC data measured with the gravimetric method, apparent electrical conductivity by electromagnetic induction (EMI) and amplitude of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data at different frequencies. Geophysical sensors are an efficient tool for soil mapping at high resolution; however; there is a need to improve the knowledge on their capabilities and limitations under field conditions, especially for GPR. The geophysical survey provides an example of the application of these techniques to evaluate the spatial variability of SWC in two different water conditions. The contribution of geophysical data in understanding the spatial variability of SWC was investigated applying both the traditional analysis and spatial techniques. The results indicated that the geophysical data captured the spatial variation of SWC in non-invasively way especially in dry condition. However, they also showed the complex interplay between factors controlling SWC and geophysical responses and the drawbacks of geophysical sensors under inhomogeneous water conditions. Our findings also highlighted that EMI survey provides the potential to map the SWC variability within a relatively short time. The results obtained in this research are important from the agronomical viewpoint, since they allow increasing efficiency of irrigation practices, which is important in times characterized by climate change.

Repeated geophysical measurements in dry and wet soil conditions to describe soil water content variability

There is an increasing interest in the application of geophysical surveys to assess the soil water content (SWC) variation in both spatial and temporal scales. In this work, a geophysical survey was carried out at an experimental farm in dry and wet conditions. We determined the SWC data measured with the gravimetric method, apparent electrical conductivity by electromagnetic induction (EMI) and amplitude of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data at different frequencies. Geophysical sensors are an efficient tool for soil mapping at high resolution; however; there is a need to improve the knowledge on their capabilities and limitations under field conditions, especially for GPR. The geophysical survey provides an example of the application of these techniques to evaluate the spatial variability of SWC in two different water conditions. The contribution of geophysical data in understanding the spatial variability of SWC was investigated applying both the traditional analysis and spatial techniques. The results indicated that the geophysical data captured the spatial variation of SWC in non-invasively way especially in dry condition. However, they also showed the complex interplay between factors controlling SWC and geophysical responses and the drawbacks of geophysical sensors under inhomogeneous water conditions. Our findings also highlighted that EMI survey provides the potential to map the SWC variability within a relatively short time. The results obtained in this research are important from the agronomical viewpoint, since they allow increasing efficiency of irrigation practices, which is important in times characterized by climate change.(AU)

Efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica: um breve relato de caso

A dor e estresse são achados que podem ser visualizados nos animais e que levam a distúrbios homeostáticos que comprometem o seu bem-estar. Dessa forma, a magnetoterapia surge como uma alternativa terapêutica para amenizar a dor, o estresse e suas consequências para o animal. Objetivou-se relatar o efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica. Acompanhou-se uma cadela de 10 anos com histórico de paraplegia. A mesma apresentava constantes recidivas de infecção urinária, quadro de insônia e dor. Diante do quadro, foi confeccionado um colchão o qual continha magneto e infravermelho longo. Após 06 meses de uso, verificou-se uma melhora significativa no quadro de dor e estresse do animal. Verificou-se também uma redução na frequência de recidivas de infecções do trato urinário. Conclui-se, nesse relato, que a utilização de magnetoterapia associada ao efeito do infravermelho longo parecem apresentar efeito analgésico e antiestressante em cadela paraplégica. Entretanto, são necessários maiores estudos.

Pain and stress are findings that can be seen in animals and lead to homeostatic disorders that compromise their well-being. In this way, magnetotherapy appears as a therapeutic alternative to relieve pain, stress and its consequences for the animal. The objective was to report the effect of magnetotherapy and infrared on the algesia and stress of a paraplegic bitch. We followed a 10-year-old female with a history of paraplegia. It had constant recurrences of urinary tract infection, insomnia and pain. Before the painting, a mattress was made which contained a magnet and a long infrared. After six months of use, there was a significant improvement in the pain and stress of the animal. There was also a reduction in the frequency of relapses of urinary tract infections. It is concluded, in this report, that the use of magnetotherapy associated to the effect of the long infrared seems to present analgesic and anti-stressant effect in a paraplegic bitch. However, further studies are needed.

Efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica: um breve relato de caso

A dor e estresse são achados que podem ser visualizados nos animais e que levam a distúrbios homeostáticos que comprometem o seu bem-estar. Dessa forma, a magnetoterapia surge como uma alternativa terapêutica para amenizar a dor, o estresse e suas consequências para o animal. Objetivou-se relatar o efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica. Acompanhou-se uma cadela de 10 anos com histórico de paraplegia. A mesma apresentava constantes recidivas de infecção urinária, quadro de insônia e dor. Diante do quadro, foi confeccionado um colchão o qual continha magneto e infravermelho longo. Após 06 meses de uso, verificou-se uma melhora significativa no quadro de dor e estresse do animal. Verificou-se também uma redução na frequência de recidivas de infecções do trato urinário. Conclui-se, nesse relato, que a utilização de magnetoterapia associada ao efeito do infravermelho longo parecem apresentar efeito analgésico e antiestressante em cadela paraplégica. Entretanto, são necessários maiores estudos.(AU)

Pain and stress are findings that can be seen in animals and lead to homeostatic disorders that compromise their well-being. In this way, magnetotherapy appears as a therapeutic alternative to relieve pain, stress and its consequences for the animal. The objective was to report the effect of magnetotherapy and infrared on the algesia and stress of a paraplegic bitch. We followed a 10-year-old female with a history of paraplegia. It had constant recurrences of urinary tract infection, insomnia and pain. Before the painting, a mattress was made which contained a magnet and a long infrared. After six months of use, there was a significant improvement in the pain and stress of the animal. There was also a reduction in the frequency of relapses of urinary tract infections. It is concluded, in this report, that the use of magnetotherapy associated to the effect of the long infrared seems to present analgesic and anti-stressant effect in a paraplegic bitch. However, further studies are needed.(AU)

Oxacillin magnetically targeted for the treatment of Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus infection in rats

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of oxacillin bonded to magnetic nanoparticles in local infection model in rat. Methods: Twelve Wistar rats weighing 290±18g were randomly divided into four groups (n=6, each) and all rats had a magnet ring sutured on their right thighs. In the biodistribution group rats 0.1mL of 99mTc-magnetite (0.66 MBq) was injected i.v and after 30 minutes, biodistribution of 99mTc-magnetite was evaluated in right and left thighs. The other groups were inoculated with MRSA in each thigh muscles. Group 1 rats were injected i.v. with magnetite, group 2 with Magnetite + Oxacillin, group 3 with saline twice a day. After 24 hours samples of muscle secretion were harvested for microbiological analysis; muscle, lungs and kidneys for histology. Results: 99mTc-magnetite uptake was three-fold higher in right thigh muscles (with external magnet) than in the left. In magnetite and oxacillin-magnetite groups, bacterial/CFU was significantly lower in thigh muscles than in saline-controls. The inflammatory reaction in muscles and lungs was significantly lower in oxacillin-magnetite group-rats than in other groups (p 0.001) . Conclusion: This study confirms the potential antimicrobial activity of magnetic nanoparticles for Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus strains, which in addition to concentrate the antibiotic at the infection site, positively influenced the treatment.(AU)

The effect of prenatal exposure to 1800 MHz electromagnetic field on calcineurin and bone development in rats

PURPOSE:To investigated the effects of exposure to an 1800 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) on bone development during the prenatal period in rats.METHODS:Pregnant rats in the experimental group were exposed to radiation for six, 12, and 24 hours daily for 20 days. No radiation was given to the pregnant rats in the control group. We distributed the newborn rats into four groups according to prenatal EMF exposure as follows: Group 1 was not exposed to EMF; groups 2, 3, and 4 were exposed to EMF for six, 12, and 24 hours a day, respectively. The rats were evaluated at the end of the 60th day following birth.RESULTS:Increasing the duration of EMF exposure during the prenatal period resulted in a significant reduction of resting cartilage levels and a significant increase in the number of apoptotic chondrocytes and myocytes. There was also a reduction in calcineurin activities in both bone and muscle tissues. We observed that the development of the femur, tibia, and ulna were negatively affected, especially with a daily EMF exposure of 24 hours.CONCLUSION:Bone and muscle tissue development was negatively affected due to prenatal exposure to 1800 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic field.(AU)

Exposure to 50 Hz electromagnetic field changes the efficiency of the scorpion alpha toxin

Background Extremely low-frequency (50 Hz) electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) is produced by electric power transmission lines and electronic devices of everyday use. Some phenomena are proposed as "first effects" of ELF-EMF: the discrete changes in the membrane potential and the increase of the calcium channel activity as well as the intracellular concentration of Ca 2+ . Interaction of the scorpion alpha toxin with the sodium channel depends on the orientation of the charges and may be perturbed by changes in the membrane polarization. The toxin induces overexcitability in the nervous system and an increase in the neurotransmitters released with different consequences, mainly the paralysis of muscles. We assumed that the exposure to ELF-EMF 0.7 mT will change the effects of the insect selective scorpion alpha toxin (recombinant LqhαIT from Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus) at the level of the cercal nerve function, the synaptic transmission and on the level of entire insect organism. Taking into account the compensatory mechanisms in organisms, we tested in addition ten times higher ELF-EMF on whole insects.Methods Experiments were performed in vivo on cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) and in vitro - on isolated cockroach abdominal nerve cord with cerci. In biotests, the effects of LqhαIT (10 −8 M) were estimated on the basis of the insect ability to turn back from dorsal to ventral side. Three groups were compared: the control one and the two exposed to ELF-EMF - 0.7 and 7 mT. Bioelectrical activity of the cercal nerve and of the connective nerve that leaves the terminal abdominal ganglion was recorded using extracellular electrodes. LqhαIT (5 × 10 −8 M) induced modifications of neuronal activity that were observed in the control cockroach preparations and in the ones exposed to ELF-EMF (0.7 mT). The exposure to ELF-EMF was carried out using coils with a size appropriate to the examined objects.Results The exposure to ELF-EMF (0.7 mT) modified the effects of LqhαIT (5 × 10−8 M) on activity of the cercal nerve and of the connective nerve. We observed a decrease of the toxin effect on the cercal nerve activity, but the toxic effect of LqhαIT on the connective nerve was increased. Biotests showed that toxicity of LqhαIT (10 −8 M) on cockroaches was reduced by the exposure to ELF-EMF (0.7 and 7 mT).Conclusions The exposure to 50 Hz ELF-EMF modified the mode of action of the anti-insect scorpion alpha toxin LqhαIT at cellular level of the cockroach nervous system and in biotests. Toxin appeared as a usefull tool in distinguishing between the primary and the secondary effects of ELF-EMF.(AU)

Exposure to 50 Hz electromagnetic field changes the efficiency of the scorpion alpha toxin

Background Extremely low-frequency (50 Hz) electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) is produced by electric power transmission lines and electronic devices of everyday use. Some phenomena are proposed as first effects of ELF-EMF: the discrete changes in the membrane potential and the increase of the calcium channel activity as well as the intracellular concentration of Ca 2+ . Interaction of the scorpion alpha toxin with the sodium channel depends on the orientation of the charges and may be perturbed by changes in the membrane polarization. The toxin induces overexcitability in the nervous system and an increase in the neurotransmitters released with different consequences, mainly the paralysis of muscles. We assumed that the exposure to ELF-EMF 0.7 mT will change the effects of the insect selective scorpion alpha toxin (recombinant LqhIT from Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus) at the level of the cercal nerve function, the synaptic transmission and on the level of entire insect organism. Taking into account the compensatory mechanisms in organisms, we tested in addition ten times higher ELF-EMF on whole insects.Methods Experiments were performed in vivo on cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) and in vitro on isolated cockroach abdominal nerve cord with cerci. In biotests, the effects of LqhIT (10 8 M) were estimated on the basis of the insect ability to turn back from dorsal to ventral side. Three groups were compared: the control one and the two exposed to ELF-EMF 0.7 and 7 mT. Bioelectrical activity of the cercal nerve and of the connective nerve that leaves the terminal abdominal ganglion was recorded using extracellular electrodes. LqhIT (5 × 10 8 M) induced modifications of neuronal activity that were observed in the control cockroach preparations and in the ones exposed to ELF-EMF (0.7 mT). The exposure to ELF-EMF was carried out using coils with a size appropriate to the examined objects.Results The exposure to ELF-EMF (0.7 mT) modified the effects of LqhIT (5 × 108 M) on activity of the cercal nerve and of the connective nerve. We observed a decrease of the toxin effect on the cercal nerve activity, but the toxic effect of LqhIT on the connective nerve was increased. Biotests showed that toxicity of LqhIT (10 8 M) on cockroaches was reduced by the exposure to ELF-EMF (0.7 and 7 mT).Conclusions The exposure to 50 Hz ELF-EMF modified the mode of action of the anti-insect scorpion alpha toxin LqhIT at cellular level of the cockroach nervous system and in biotests. Toxin appeared as a usefull tool in distinguishing between the primary and the secondary effects of ELF-EMF.

Exposure to 50 Hz electromagnetic field changes the efficiency of the scorpion alpha toxin

Background Extremely low-frequency (50 Hz) electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) is produced by electric power transmission lines and electronic devices of everyday use. Some phenomena are proposed as first effects of ELF-EMF: the discrete changes in the membrane potential and the increase of the calcium channel activity as well as the intracellular concentration of Ca 2+ . Interaction of the scorpion alpha toxin with the sodium channel depends on the orientation of the charges and may be perturbed by changes in the membrane polarization. The toxin induces overexcitability in the nervous system and an increase in the neurotransmitters released with different consequences, mainly the paralysis of muscles. We assumed that the exposure to ELF-EMF 0.7 mT will change the effects of the insect selective scorpion alpha toxin (recombinant LqhIT from Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus) at the level of the cercal nerve function, the synaptic transmission and on the level of entire insect organism. Taking into account the compensatory mechanisms in organisms, we tested in addition ten times higher ELF-EMF on whole insects.Methods Experiments were performed in vivo on cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) and in vitro on isolated cockroach abdominal nerve cord with cerci. In biotests, the effects of LqhIT (10 8 M) were estimated on the basis of the insect ability to turn back from dorsal to ventral side. Three groups were compared: the control one and the two exposed to ELF-EMF 0.7 and 7 mT. Bioelectrical activity of the cercal nerve and of the connective nerve that leaves the terminal abdominal ganglion was recorded using extracellular electrodes. LqhIT (5 × 10 8 M) induced modifications of neuronal activity that were observed in the control cockroach preparations and in the ones exposed to ELF-EMF (0.7 mT). The exposure to ELF-EMF was carried out using coils with a size appropriate to the examined objects.Results The exposure to ELF-EMF (0.7 mT) modified the effects of LqhIT (5 × 108 M) on activity of the cercal nerve and of the connective nerve. We observed a decrease of the toxin effect on the cercal nerve activity, but the toxic effect of LqhIT on the connective nerve was increased. Biotests showed that toxicity of LqhIT (10 8 M) on cockroaches was reduced by the exposure to ELF-EMF (0.7 and 7 mT).Conclusions The exposure to 50 Hz ELF-EMF modified the mode of action of the anti-insect scorpion alpha toxin LqhIT at cellular level of the cockroach nervous system and in biotests. Toxin appeared as a usefull tool in distinguishing between the primary and the secondary effects of ELF-EMF.(AU)

Integridade de DNA e morfologia espermática de ratos submetidosa campos eletromagnéticos de baixa frequência durante diferentesperíodos do desenvolvimento / DNA integrity and sperm morphology of Wistar rats exposed to low frequency electromagnetic fields during different periods of development

A exposição da sociedade a Campos Eletromagnéticos (CEM) vemaumentando vertiginosamente em virtude da ampla expansão tecnológica observada nosúltimos anos. Tanto a geração, como a distribuição e a utilização de energia elétrica podemgerar Campos Eletromagnéticos de baixa freqüência (50 e 60 Hz). Pesquisas vêmdemonstrando que a exposição a estes CEM podem proporcionar alterações fisiológicassignificativas, apesar disto, ainda não estão totalmente esclarecidos a extensão destes efeitos,nem os mecanismos de ação que envolve a interação dos CEM com os organismosbiológicos. O presente trabalho teve como principal objetivo verificar os efeitos dos CEM(60 Hz e 1 mT) sobre a integridade de DNA e morfologia espermática de ratos sexualmentemaduros, que foram expostos ao CEM durante diferentes períodos do seudesenvolvimento. Os resultados obtidos neste trabalho não encontraram indícios dealterações no DNA dos espermatozóides, porém, foram observadas alterações significativasna morfologia dos espermatozoides após a exposição ao CEM. Estas alterações namorfologia espermática podem reduzir o potencial reprodutivo. Portanto, devemosconsiderar o CEM como um potencial risco a saúde pública, recomendando-se a realizaçãode mais pesquisas buscando estabelecer níveis seguros de exposição aos CEM.(AU)

Thesocietys exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) has been growing considerable due tothe great technological expansion observed in the last few years. Generation as well asdistribution and use of electric energy can generate low frequency electromagnetic fields(50 and 60 Hz). Issues have been demonstrating that EMF exposure could provokesignificantly physiological changes, however, the extension of EMF effects werent totallyclarified. The major objective of this issue was to evaluate the EMF (60 Hz and 1 mT)effects on DNA integrity and sperm morphology in Wistar rats with mature sexuality thatwere exposed during different stages of testicular development. According to our results,EMF did not change DNA integrity, but we could observe morphological changes in spermafter exposure to EMF. These changes in sperm morphology may reduce the reproductivepotential. Therefore, we should consider the EMF as a potential risk to public health,recommending the implementation of further research seeking to establish safe levels ofexposure to EMF.(AU)

EFEITOS DO CAMPO ELETROMAGNÉTICO DE 27,12 MHZ EMITIDO POR EQUIPAMENTO DE ONDAS CURTAS N A ESPERMATOGÊNESE DE RATOS WISTAR ADULTOS

O avanço da tecnologia e o aumento significativo das redes de radiofrequências e telecomunicações, faz com que, cada vez mais, as pessoas fiquem expostas e imersas em campos eletromagnéticos, cujos efeitos aparentam ser controversos e parâmetro-dependentes, e a curto prazo podem não representar um risco iminente quando aplicados de forma controlada, no entanto, como estes comportar-se-ão com a imersão de formas crônicas em nosso cotidiano é inconclusivo e sem estudos suficientes. Por outro lado, os campos eletromagnéticos de ondas curtas (27,12 MHz) representam uma alternativa nos tratamentos com eletroterapias para algias e processos inflamatórios, que atingem milhares de pessoas pelo mundo. Este trabalho realizou aplicação do campo de ondas curtas em três grupos de ratos wistar divididos pelos tempos de exposição diário em 15, 30 e 60 dias consecutivos e seus controles, foi estudado os efeitos que os campos eletromagnéticos podem gerar nos testículos e sobre a espermatogênese. Com esta irradiação observou-se mudanças principalmente sobre as células de Leydig e uma variação na dosagem de testosterona entre os grupos, bem como uma diminuição do peso da próstata a longo prazo. Embora não tenham ocorridas alterações nos pesos testiculares e nenhum indicativo de lesões na análise histopatológica com a microscopia óptica.

The advancement of technology and the significant increase in radio networks and telecommunications, causes, increasingly, people are exposed and immersed in electromagnetic fields, the effects appear to be controversial and parameter-dependent, and short-term can not represent an imminent risk when applied in a controlled manner, however, as these will behave with the immersion chronic forms in our daily lives is inconclusive and without sufficient studies. On the other hand, the short-wave electromagnetic fields (27.12 MHz) represent an alternative in treatment with electrotherapies for pains and inflammatory processes that affect millions of people worldwide. This work conducted application of short wave field into three groups of Wistar rats divided by daily exposure times of 15, 30 and 60 consecutive days and controls was studied the effects of electromagnetic fields may generate the testes and on spermatogenesis. With such irradiation observed changes primarily on Leydig cells and a variation in testosterone dose between groups, as well as a reduction in long-term prostate weight. Although no alterations in testicular weights and no indication of lesions histopathology with optical microscopy.

ESTUDO NEUROANATÔMICO DO ENCÉFALO BOVINO POR RESSONÂNCIA MAGNÉTICA

A imagem originada por ressonância magnética (MRI) revolucionou a medicina veterinária na área de diagnóstico por imagem. Tecnologia considerada atualmente como a metodologia mais sensível para análise de tecidos moles, como o encéfalo, ultrapassando os demais métodos diagnósticos. Essa tecnologia fundamenta-se no fenômeno da ressonância magnética nuclear que ocorre quando os núcleos atômicos com propriedades magnéticas presentes no corpo dos humanos e dos animais são submetidos a um campo magnético intenso. Suas vantagens na produção de imagens do encéfalo são método não invasivo, caracteriza-se por alta resolução, intenso contraste, plano bidimensional, em tons de cinza, produz menos artefatos e não utiliza formatos ionizantes de energia eletromagnética. Não apresenta riscos comprovados para o paciente e profissionais submetidos ao exame. Apesar da MRI ser a técnica de eleição para examinar o encéfalo, essas informações são escassas quando relacionadas com características anatômicas encefálicas em ruminantes domésticos. A finalidade deste estudo é descrever neuroanatomia encefálica bovina (Bos taurus domesticus) normal objetivando correlações com achados normais de ressonância magnética. Este trabalho reveste-se de importância pois, a definição neuroanatômica normal propiciará diagnósticos acurados de diferentes enfermidades traumáticas, vasculares, infecciosas, degenerativas ou neoplásicas, dentre outras Os cérebros foram cuidadosamente extraídos e fixados em formol para cortes anatômicos convencionais. Cortes transversais e sagitais de MRI foram obtidos de duas cabeças frescas de bovinos adultos pelo aparelho ESAOTE 0.25 T Vet-MR GRANDE através da bobina C-shaped coil nas sequências efetuadas no plano transversal T1 e T2 no plano sagital, T1 e T2 e no plano dorsal. Após a aquisição, imagens foram transferidas em formato DICON para o aplicativo Synapse® Pacs e analisadas por um observador pelo programa ClearCanvas Workstation. As estruturas neuroanatômicas de maior interesse clínico foram indicadas segundo metodologia de Yokoshi & Rohen e nomeadas segundo textos de neuroanatomia.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has revolutionized veterinary medicine in the field of diagnostic imaging. Technology currently considered as the most sensitive method for the analysis of soft tissues such as the brain, bypassing the other diagnostic methods. This technology is based on nuclear magnetic resonance phenomenon that occurs when atomic nuclei with magnetic properties present in the body of humans and animals are subjected to an intense magnetic field. Its advantages in the production of brain images are noninvasive, is characterized by high resolution, high contrast, two-dimensional plane, grayscale, produces less artifacts and does not use ionizing formats of electromagnetic energy. Presents no risk to the patient and proven professionals submitted to the examination. Although MRI is the preferred technique to examine the brain, this information is scarce when related brain anatomical features in domestic ruminants. The purpose of this study is to describe normal bovine brain neuroanatomy (Bos taurus domesticus) order correlations with normal magnetic resonance imaging findings. This research is of importance because, normal neuroanatomical definition will provide accurate diagnosis of different diseases traumatic, vascular, infectious, degenerative or neoplastic, among other. Brains were carefully extracted and fixed for conventional anatomical cuts. Transverse and sagittal MRI were obtained from two fresh heads of adult cattle at 0.25T ESAOTE Vet-MR GRANDE device through the coil C-shaped coil in the sequences performed in the transverse plane T1 and T2 sagittal, T1 and T2 and the plan dorsal. After the acquisition, images were transferred in DICON format for Synapse® PACS application and analyzed by an observer at ClearCanvas Workstation program. The most clinical interest neuroanatomical structures were set according to the methodology of Yokoshi & Rohen and named after neuroanatomy texts.

Effects of the Electromagnetic field, 60 Hz, 3 µT, on the hormonal and metabolic regulation of undernourished pregnant rats

Epidemiological studies have implicated maternal protein-calorie deficiency as an important public health problem in developing countries. Over the last decades, a remarkable diffusion of electricity and an increased level of the electromagnetic field (EMF) in the environment have characterized modern societies. Therefore, researchers are concerned with the biological effects of 50-60 Hz, EMF. The aim of this paper is to show the effects of EMF of 60 Hz, 3 T, exposure for two hours per day in the regulation of the hormonal and metabolic concentrations in pregnant rats, which were fed by Regional Basic Diet (RBD) during their pregnancy as compared with pregnant rats fed a standard diet. Pregnant rats exposed to EMF of 60 Hz, 3 T, over the pregnancy and fed with RBD presented an increase in glucose release when compared with the Group subjected only to the RBD ration. Rats fed RBD presented a decrease in their insulin and cortisol serum levels when compared with the Group fed with casein. The T3 and T4 concentrations presented the greatest variation among the Groups. The relation T4:T3 was much exaggerated in the Group subjected to RDB and exposed to EMF when compared to the others. In conclusion, the group subjected to the association of EMF and undernutrition suffered a decrease in its serum concentration of T4 and T3 when compared to the well-nourished group and the relationship T4:T3 in the former group was almost eighteen-fold the later one.

Estudos epidemiológicos têm mostrado que a deficiência proteico-calórica é um importante problema nos países em desenvolvimento. Durante as últimas décadas, a sociedade moderna tem sido caracterizada pelo aumento no número de equipamentos elétricos e como consequência um aumento no nível do campo eletromagnético (CEM) no ambiente. No entanto, os pesquisadores estão preocupados com os efeitos biológicos dos CEM de 50-60 Hz. O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar os efeitos do CEM de 60 Hz, 3 T, nas concentrações hormonais e metabólicas de ratas prenhes, expostas duas horas por dia ao CEM, alimentadas pela Dieta Básica Regional (DBR) comparando com ratas submetidas às mesmas condições, mas alimentas com dieta padrão. Ratas prenhes expostas ao CEM de 60 Hz, 3 T, durante a prenhez e alimentadas com a DBR apresentaram um aumento na liberação de glicose quando comparadas com o grupo alimentado pela DBR sem CEM. As ratas alimentadas pela DBR apresentaram uma diminuição nos níveis de insulina e cortisol quando comparadas com o grupo alimentado pela caseína. As concentrações de T3 e T4 apresentaram a maior variação entre os grupos. A relação T4:T3 foi muito exagerada no grupo alimentado pela DBR e exposto ao CEM quando comparado com os outros. Conclusão, os animais que foram submetidos à desnutrição e ao CEM sofreram uma diminuição na concentração sérica de T4 e T3 quando comparados com os animais bem nutridos e a relação T4:T3 no primeiro grupo foi quase 18 vezes a relação de T4:T3 no grupo bem nutrido.

Effects of the Electromagnetic field, 60 Hz, 3 µT, on the hormonal and metabolic regulation of undernourished pregnant rats

Epidemiological studies have implicated maternal protein-calorie deficiency as an important public health problem in developing countries. Over the last decades, a remarkable diffusion of electricity and an increased level of the electromagnetic field (EMF) in the environment have characterized modern societies. Therefore, researchers are concerned with the biological effects of 50-60 Hz, EMF. The aim of this paper is to show the effects of EMF of 60 Hz, 3 T, exposure for two hours per day in the regulation of the hormonal and metabolic concentrations in pregnant rats, which were fed by Regional Basic Diet (RBD) during their pregnancy as compared with pregnant rats fed a standard diet. Pregnant rats exposed to EMF of 60 Hz, 3 T, over the pregnancy and fed with RBD presented an increase in glucose release when compared with the Group subjected only to the RBD ration. Rats fed RBD presented a decrease in their insulin and cortisol serum levels when compared with the Group fed with casein. The T3 and T4 concentrations presented the greatest variation among the Groups. The relation T4:T3 was much exaggerated in the Group subjected to RDB and exposed to EMF when compared to the others. In conclusion, the group subjected to the association of EMF and undernutrition suffered a decrease in its serum concentration of T4 and T3 when compared to the well-nourished group and the relationship T4:T3 in the former group was almost eighteen-fold the later one.

Estudos epidemiológicos têm mostrado que a deficiência proteico-calórica é um importante problema nos países em desenvolvimento. Durante as últimas décadas, a sociedade moderna tem sido caracterizada pelo aumento no número de equipamentos elétricos e como consequência um aumento no nível do campo eletromagnético (CEM) no ambiente. No entanto, os pesquisadores estão preocupados com os efeitos biológicos dos CEM de 50-60 Hz. O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar os efeitos do CEM de 60 Hz, 3 T, nas concentrações hormonais e metabólicas de ratas prenhes, expostas duas horas por dia ao CEM, alimentadas pela Dieta Básica Regional (DBR) comparando com ratas submetidas às mesmas condições, mas alimentas com dieta padrão. Ratas prenhes expostas ao CEM de 60 Hz, 3 T, durante a prenhez e alimentadas com a DBR apresentaram um aumento na liberação de glicose quando comparadas com o grupo alimentado pela DBR sem CEM. As ratas alimentadas pela DBR apresentaram uma diminuição nos níveis de insulina e cortisol quando comparadas com o grupo alimentado pela caseína. As concentrações de T3 e T4 apresentaram a maior variação entre os grupos. A relação T4:T3 foi muito exagerada no grupo alimentado pela DBR e exposto ao CEM quando comparado com os outros. Conclusão, os animais que foram submetidos à desnutrição e ao CEM sofreram uma diminuição na concentração sérica de T4 e T3 quando comparados com os animais bem nutridos e a relação T4:T3 no primeiro grupo foi quase 18 vezes a relação de T4:T3 no grupo bem nutrido.

Influence of a 60 Hz, 3 µT, electromagnetic field on the somatic maturation of wistar rat offspring fed a regional basic diet during pregnancy

The aim of the present study was to observe how the exposition of pregnant rats to an electromagnetic field (EMF), with frequency of 60 Hz, and a magnetic field of 3 µT for 2 hours per day and/or using the so-called Regional Basic Diet (RBD), influenced the somatic maturation in their offspring. Four groups were formed: Group A (casein), B (casein and EMF), C (RBD) and D (RBD and EMF). The diet manipulation occurred during pregnancy. The somatic maturation indexes - assessed daily between 12:00 AM and 2:00 PM - were: Eye Opening (EO), Auricle Opening (AO), Auditory Canal Opening (ACO), Low Incisor Eruption (LIE), and Upper Incisor Eruption (UIE). The association between EMF and deficient diet caused a delay in all Somatic Maturation Indexes (SMI) and the RBD caused delay only in the AO. Furthermore, the EMF caused delay in AO, ACO, LIE. In relation to the body weight, the EMF associated with the deficient diet caused change in the twenty-first day of life. The RBD, during pregnancy, caused lower body weight in the offspring in the first and third day of life. The body weight of the offspring whose mothers were fed casein and exposed to the EMF during pregnancy was lower in the third and sixth day of life. In conclusion, the EMF associated with under-nutrition caused delay in all SMI. In relation to the body weight, the EMF associated with under-nutrition caused a decrease in the body weight at the sixth day of life.

O objetivo deste estudo foi observar a influência do campo eletromagnético (CEM), com freqüência de 60Hz, campo magnético de 3 µT, durante 2 horas por dia, associado ou não à dieta básica regional (DBR) no desenvolvimento somático da prole. Quatro grupos foram formados: Grupo A (caseína), B (caseína e CEM), C (DBR) e D (DBR e CEM). A manipulação dietética ocorreu durante a prenhez. Os índices de maturação somática - Abertura dos Olhos (AO), Abertura do Pavilhão Auditivo (APA), Abertura do Conduto Auditivo (ACA), Erupção do Incisivo Inferior (EII), e Erupção do Incisivo Superior (EIS) - foram avaliados diariamente entre 12 e 14 horas. A associação entre o CEM e a dieta deficiente causou retardo em todos os índices de maturação somática (IMS) e a DBR causou retardo somente na APA. O CEM causou retardo na APA, ACA, EII. Em relação ao peso corporal, o CEM associado à dieta deficiente causou mudanças no 21º dia de vida. A DBR, durante a prenhez, causou diminuição do peso corporal dos filhotes no 1º e no 3º dia de vida. O peso corporal dos filhotes, cujas mães foram alimentadas pela caseína e expostas ao CEM, durante a prenhez, apresentaram uma diminuição no 3º e 6º dia de vida. Conclusão: o CEM, associado com a desnutrição, causou retardo em todos os IMS. Em relação ao peso corporal, o CEM, associado à desnutrição, causou uma diminuição no peso corporal no 6º dia de vida.

Microwave oven use for soil moisture content determination in different soils / Uso do forno de microondas na determinação da umidade em diferentes tipos de solo

In the present research the use of a microwave oven for the soil moisture content determination was analyzed, comparing the results with the values given by the conventional oven drying, using nine soils, with different textures. The results obtained by either method did not show appreciable differences for the soil samples. When the microwave oven was used, the variation among replicates decreased with the sample size and with the fine particles percentage in the soil. The regression analysis showed that a power law, y = kxn, adjusted the date with a large correlation (R = 0.9997) for all the soils. The n exponent values, near to the unity, indicated that the water removal mechanism showed a behavior near to the linearity in function of the time and that neither the initial water content nor the soil mass influenced the process. The k values in the regression equations showed that the process acts more intensively on clayey soils than on sandy ones. The experimental results allowed to conclude that the microwave oven may be used as an alternative to soil content measurement, resulting in time economy.

No presente trabalho estudou-se a utilização do forno de microondas na determinação da umidade no solo, comparando-se os resultados com os valores fornecidos pelo método da estufa convencional, usando-se nove solos, com diferentes texturas. Os resultados obtidos por meio de qualquer um dos dois métodos não diferiram entre si. Quando se usou o método do microondas, as variações entre repetições diminuíram com o tamanho da amostra e com a percentagem de partículas finas no solo. A análise de regressão entre as variáveis tempo e umidade apresentou ajuste potencial do tipo y = kxn, com elevada correlação (R = 0,9997) para todos os solos estudados. Os valores do expoente n, todos próximos da unidade, indicaram que o mecanismo de retirada da água por microondas apresentou um comportamento quasi-linear em função do tempo e que os teores de umidade inicial e a massa de solo não influenciaram o processo. Os valores de k nas equações de regressão indicaram que o processo de secagem no forno de microondas tem maior efeito sobre solos argilosos em relação àqueles arenosos. O forno de microondas pode ser empregado na determinação da umidade em solos, ocasionando significativa economia de tempo.

Microwave oven use for soil moisture content determination in different soils / Uso do forno de microondas na determinação da umidade em diferentes tipos de solo

In the present research the use of a microwave oven for the soil moisture content determination was analyzed, comparing the results with the values given by the conventional oven drying, using nine soils, with different textures. The results obtained by either method did not show appreciable differences for the soil samples. When the microwave oven was used, the variation among replicates decreased with the sample size and with the fine particles percentage in the soil. The regression analysis showed that a power law, y = kxn, adjusted the date with a large correlation (R = 0.9997) for all the soils. The n exponent values, near to the unity, indicated that the water removal mechanism showed a behavior near to the linearity in function of the time and that neither the initial water content nor the soil mass influenced the process. The k values in the regression equations showed that the process acts more intensively on clayey soils than on sandy ones. The experimental results allowed to conclude that the microwave oven may be used as an alternative to soil content measurement, resulting in time economy.

No presente trabalho estudou-se a utilização do forno de microondas na determinação da umidade no solo, comparando-se os resultados com os valores fornecidos pelo método da estufa convencional, usando-se nove solos, com diferentes texturas. Os resultados obtidos por meio de qualquer um dos dois métodos não diferiram entre si. Quando se usou o método do microondas, as variações entre repetições diminuíram com o tamanho da amostra e com a percentagem de partículas finas no solo. A análise de regressão entre as variáveis tempo e umidade apresentou ajuste potencial do tipo y = kxn, com elevada correlação (R = 0,9997) para todos os solos estudados. Os valores do expoente n, todos próximos da unidade, indicaram que o mecanismo de retirada da água por microondas apresentou um comportamento quasi-linear em função do tempo e que os teores de umidade inicial e a massa de solo não influenciaram o processo. Os valores de k nas equações de regressão indicaram que o processo de secagem no forno de microondas tem maior efeito sobre solos argilosos em relação àqueles arenosos. O forno de microondas pode ser empregado na determinação da umidade em solos, ocasionando significativa economia de tempo.