Galea spixii embryos have potential to produce steroid hormones

Estrogens and progestogens are hormones produced by maternal organs and it is required for recognition and maintenance of pregnancy. In addition, the embryo may also be a source. For this, the aim was to identify steroidogenic expression on Galea spixii embryos early in the embryonic period. Embryos were collected on Days 10 and 15 of gestation; some were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde for morphological and immunohistochemical analysis (P450arom), whereas others had RNA extracted to determine presence of CYP19a1 gene. In addition, for immunochemistry, maternal ovaries were collected as positive control tissues. Maternal tissues had positive staining for aromatase, whereas none of the embryos stained for P450 aromatase. Based on qPCR reactions, CYP19a1 gene were expressed in all embryos. Galea spixii embryos expressed steroidogenic genes during the post-implantation period, indicating they have the potential to produce steroid hormones.(AU)

Surgical sterilization of free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris): "Passos Nunes" uterine horn ligature

Capybaras are the primary hosts of Amblyomma sculptum tick, vectors of Rickettsia rickettsia bacteria, and the zoonotic agent of Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF). In this context, contraceptive methods have been suggested for population control in order to reduce the number of free-ranging capybaras cohabiting with humans in urban and rural areas and acting as disease amplifiers. To maintain the group's expected behavior and social hierarchy, sterilization techniques that preserve the gonads are recommended. On 126 female capybaras in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, a new surgical technique named "Passos Nunes" uterine horn ligature was performed after adequate general anesthesia. It achieved effective surgical sterilization, with an incision length of about 3 cm in the periumbilical linea alba, cranial to the pubis. After entering the abdominal cavity, the urinary bladder is pulled laterally to access the uterine horns and the cervix. The uterine horn is folded up, forming a strap; the distal portion of the strap is ligated and its distal end sectioned. The exact process is performed on the opposite horn. After the surgical procedure, the musculature is sutured in a sultan pattern and the subcutaneous tissue with a horizontal mattress pattern. The skin is sutured in a separate simple format, using nylon 2.0 for all steps. The wide exposure of the uterine horns facilitates the confirmation of pregnancy, allowing the surgeon to choose between salpingo hysterectomy or ligature of the uterine horns. The present study presents a new technique of surgical sterilization that can be used in female free-ranging mammals in which maintenance of the gonads is recommended, and births of offspring should not occur.(AU)

Morphology and immunolocalization of intertubular steroidogenic cell in mesonephros of Podocnemis expansa during gonadal differentiation

Sex steroid hormones are critical in gonadal differentiation in turtles. The gonads are not the only organs responsible for producing these hormones during this phase. Mesonephros play an important role in steroidogenesis. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of steroidogenic cells in mesonephros of Podocnemis expansa during gonadal differentiation and to evaluate their morphology and ultrastructure. Ten embryos of P. expansa were collected from 5 nests on day 36 of incubation, during spawning period on an artificial beach. Embryos were extracted from eggs by slicing the shell and euthanized. They were dissected under a stereoscopic microscope to collect the gonad-mesonephro complex, in which were fixed and subsequently processed for light microscopy, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy analysis. During histological analysis was observed mesonephros has typical morphological structure. Immunohistochemistry showed immunoreaction to aromatase in cells of intertubular space. Confirming these findings, it was possible to observe a type of intertubular cell in several regions of mesonephro, being more predominant in region close to blood vessels, distal and proximal tubules. In ultrastructural analysis these cells were characterized by having a clear, large, and rounded nucleus with evident nucleolus and cytoplasm rich in electron-dense droplets. This study demonstrated for the first time the presence of cells with morphological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural characteristics similar to steroid-producing cells in P. expansa mesonephrons, suggesting that this organ may contribute to gonadal differentiation in this species.(AU)

Prolonged use of letrozole causes morphological changes on gonads in Galea spixii

Letrozole is used as a therapeutic agent in reproductive disorders caused by high estrogen levels. Letrozole inhibits cytochrome P450 aromatase and reduces estrogen levels. However, the effects of longterm use on reproductive traits are unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prolonged use of letrozole in the gonads of rodents (Spix's yellow-toothed cavy; Galea spixii). Forty-eight rodents (24 males and 24 females) were randomly divided into the treated and control groups. Letrozole administration started at 15 days of age and continued weekly until 30, 45, 90, and 120 days of age. The body, testis, and ovary weights were analyzed, as well as the morphological progression of spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis. Macroscopically, body weight gain and gonads weight were increased in the letrozole group. Microscopically, the ovaries of treated females showed stratified epithelium and a cellular disorder of the tunica albuginea. In the testes of treated males, the development of seminiferous tubules was delayed and sperm was absent. The collective findings indicate that the prolonged use of letrozole alters secondary sexual characteristics, and causes weight gain, reproductive changes, and male infertility.(AU)

Digitalização e impressão tridimensional como uma ferramenta para estudo anatômico e ortopédico dos ossos da pelve e longos do membro pélvico de cães / Digitization and pinting as a tool for anatomical and orthopedic studies of pelvis and long bones of the pelvic limb of the dogs

Background: The 3D printer came in the 1980s. Since then, its innovation has allowed its use in many areas suchas: engineering, art, industry, education and medicine. The scanning and 3D printing of anatomical components hasgained relevance in recent years due to the advancement in the technology of scanning equipment and 3D printers.Since 3D models are useful in several areas of health, the present study aimed to standardize the three-dimensionalscanning and printing of the coxal bones and the long ones of the pelvic limbs of dogs. The aim was to build a dynamic3D digital collection, as well as generate templates for didactic use, or for use in both prostheses and orthopedicsurgical planning.Materials, Methods & Results: In present study, a 3D macroscopic scanning system, Creaform brand Go! Scan 3D modeland a Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D Printer (Stratasys Mojo Printer) were used. After proper maceration of thebones under study, these were scanned, edited, printed and washed. Replicas of the coxal and left femur, tibia and fibulabones were obtained, as well as generating digital files that can be converted into PDFs.Discussion: From the models scanned in 3D, a dynamic digital collection was built for anatomical study, which can beused to complement practical classes. The creation of a collection of anatomical pieces printed in 3D can reduce the useof cadavers in class. The printed material can also be used as a template for orthopedic surgical planning or serve as abasis for the manufacture of prostheses, contributing to the improvement of the surgical and orthopedic clinic. 3D printing can be successfully used in veterinary medicine through the production of prostheses for injured animals as well asfor surgical planning of orthopedic procedures. The scan allows the generation of a collection for bioprinting, just as thetomography does in medical practice. Such steps are important in the final generation of parts to be used for both...

Digitalização e impressão tridimensional como uma ferramenta para estudo anatômico e ortopédico dos ossos da pelve e longos do membro pélvico de cães / Digitization and pinting as a tool for anatomical and orthopedic studies of pelvis and long bones of the pelvic limb of the dogs

Background: The 3D printer came in the 1980s. Since then, its innovation has allowed its use in many areas suchas: engineering, art, industry, education and medicine. The scanning and 3D printing of anatomical components hasgained relevance in recent years due to the advancement in the technology of scanning equipment and 3D printers.Since 3D models are useful in several areas of health, the present study aimed to standardize the three-dimensionalscanning and printing of the coxal bones and the long ones of the pelvic limbs of dogs. The aim was to build a dynamic3D digital collection, as well as generate templates for didactic use, or for use in both prostheses and orthopedicsurgical planning.Materials, Methods & Results: In present study, a 3D macroscopic scanning system, Creaform brand Go! Scan 3D modeland a Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D Printer (Stratasys Mojo Printer) were used. After proper maceration of thebones under study, these were scanned, edited, printed and washed. Replicas of the coxal and left femur, tibia and fibulabones were obtained, as well as generating digital files that can be converted into PDFs.Discussion: From the models scanned in 3D, a dynamic digital collection was built for anatomical study, which can beused to complement practical classes. The creation of a collection of anatomical pieces printed in 3D can reduce the useof cadavers in class. The printed material can also be used as a template for orthopedic surgical planning or serve as abasis for the manufacture of prostheses, contributing to the improvement of the surgical and orthopedic clinic. 3D printing can be successfully used in veterinary medicine through the production of prostheses for injured animals as well asfor surgical planning of orthopedic procedures. The scan allows the generation of a collection for bioprinting, just as thetomography does in medical practice. Such steps are important in the final generation of parts to be used for both...(AU)

Placentation in primates / Placentação em primatas

In order to improve the knowledge of the structure and function of the primates placenta, this review discuss about the similarities of the primates placental structure comparing with human placentation. In this review article, we will consider the arrangement of the foetal membrane, the area of joint and maternal-foetal interdigitation, and the inter hematic barrier. In addition, the differences among the Old World, Neotropical and Prosimian primates in maternal-foetal relation are compared and gaps in knowledge identified for further research. We conclude that the Old World monkeys are ideal models for the detection of placental pathologies, given their close phylogenetic proximity to humans. There is a significant difference between the placental structure of Neotropical and Old World primates, including humans, and further studies are needed for a better understanding of the differences between the phyla of primates, especially Neotropical primates. (AU)

A fim de melhorar o conhecimento da estrutura e da função da placenta de primatas, esta revisão discutir sobre as semelhanças entre à estrutura placentária de primatas comparando com placentação humana. Neste artigo de revisão, vamos considerar o arranjo da membrana fetal, a área de interdigitação conjunta e materno-fetal, e a barreira hemática. Além disso, as diferenças entre os primatas do velho mundo, neotropicais e prossimios na relação materno-fetal são comparados e lacunas de conhecimento foram identificadas para futuras pesquisas. Conclui-se que os primatas do velho mundo são modelos ideais para a detecção de patologias placentárias, dada a sua proximidade filogenética para os seres humanos. Há uma diferença significativa entre a estrutura da placenta de primatas neotropicais e do velho mundo, incluindo seres humanos, e mais estudos são necessários para uma melhor compreensão das diferenças entre os filos de primatas, especialmente os primatas neotropicais. (AU)

Placentation in primates / Placentação em primatas

In order to improve the knowledge of the structure and function of the primates placenta, this review discuss about the similarities of the primates placental structure comparing with human placentation. In this review article, we will consider the arrangement of the foetal membrane, the area of joint and maternal-foetal interdigitation, and the inter hematic barrier. In addition, the differences among the Old World, Neotropical and Prosimian primates in maternal-foetal relation are compared and gaps in knowledge identified for further research. We conclude that the Old World monkeys are ideal models for the detection of placental pathologies, given their close phylogenetic proximity to humans. There is a significant difference between the placental structure of Neotropical and Old World primates, including humans, and further studies are needed for a better understanding of the differences between the phyla of primates, especially Neotropical primates.

A fim de melhorar o conhecimento da estrutura e da função da placenta de primatas, esta revisão discutir sobre as semelhanças entre à estrutura placentária de primatas comparando com placentação humana. Neste artigo de revisão, vamos considerar o arranjo da membrana fetal, a área de interdigitação conjunta e materno-fetal, e a barreira hemática. Além disso, as diferenças entre os primatas do velho mundo, neotropicais e prossimios na relação materno-fetal são comparados e lacunas de conhecimento foram identificadas para futuras pesquisas. Conclui-se que os primatas do velho mundo são modelos ideais para a detecção de patologias placentárias, dada a sua proximidade filogenética para os seres humanos. Há uma diferença significativa entre a estrutura da placenta de primatas neotropicais e do velho mundo, incluindo seres humanos, e mais estudos são necessários para uma melhor compreensão das diferenças entre os filos de primatas, especialmente os primatas neotropicais.

Body and testicular biometric parameters of the scorpion mud turtle (Kinosternon scorpioides) / Parâmetros biométricos corporais e testiculares de tartaruga (Kinosternon scorpioides)

The reptile Kinosternon scorpioides is a freshwater chelonian, popularly known as jurará, and is found in the Baixada Maranhense, Maranhão State, Brazil. Due to the lack of scientific information on the reproductive biology of the species, current paper describes the body and testicular biometry and the gonad-somatic index (GSI) in adult specimens collected from the natural environment. Twenty male adults were collected in the rainy (n = 10) and dry (n = 10) seasons. Data were derived from the body, testis size and GSI and tests of correlation between these measures were performed. The body biometrics of free-living Kinosternon scorpioides is similar to those found in other studies for adult animals bred in captivity. The body weight was higher in animals collected in the rainy season than that in animals collected in the dry season. The testis size presents variations among animals captured during the rainy and dry season, but the gonadossomatic index did not vary between different groups of animals. Further studies were suggested related to the levels of sexual steroid hormones and behavioral studies to understand the factors related to the species´s reproductive cycle.(AU)

O réptil Kinosternon scorpioides é um quelônio de água doce popularmente conhecido como jurará, encontrado na Baixada Maranhense, Maranhão, Brasil. Diante da carência de informações científicas sobre a biologia reprodutiva desta espécie, objetivamos descrever a biometria testicular e corporal, assim como, e o índice gonadossomático (IGS), em espécimes adultos provenientes de habitat natural. Utilizamos 20 indivíduos machos adultos, coletados no período chuvoso (n = 10) e período seco (n = 10), dos quais extraímos informações da biometria corpórea e testicular, assim como o índice gonadossomático e testes de correlação entre estas medidas. Encontramos que a biometria corpórea de Kinosternon scorpioides de vida livre é semelhante ao encontrado em outros estudos com animais adultos criados em cativeiro. No entanto, o peso corpóreo foi maior em animais coletados no período chuvoso que o encontrado em animais coletados no período seco. A biometria testicular apresenta variações entre os animais de período chuvoso e seco, no entanto os índices gonadossomáticos não variaram entre os animais dos diferentes grupos, portanto sugerimos estudos relacionados a níveis de hormônios esteroides sexuais e estudos comportamentais para auxiliar na compreensão dos fatores relacionados ao ciclo reprodutivo da espécie.(AU)

Correlação entre o peso, comprimento e anexos fetais de mocós (Kerodon rupestris Wied, 1820) / Correlation between weight, length and fetal membranes of rock cavies (Kerodon rupestris Wied, 1820)

Foi avaliada a existência de correlação entre diferentes anexos fetais de mocós e determinada a relação entre peso do feto e peso da placenta, a relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do cordão umbilical e a relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do feto. Foram utilizados anexos fetais e fetos de três, cinco e seis fêmeas, respectivamente, no terço inicial, médio e final de gestação, obtidas no Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres (CEMAS-UFERSA). Os dados foram expressos em média ± desvio-padrão, bem como valores mínimos e máximos, avaliados pelo programa estatístico GraphPad Prism Versão 6.0. Após a análise dos pressupostos paramétricos, os dados foram submetidos aos Testes de Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney, e regressão linear. A relação entre peso do feto e peso da placenta demonstrou expressão y = 33,73 + 16,38x com cálculo do coeficiente de correlação entre o peso do feto e o peso da placenta elevado e positivo, evidenciando dependência entre as variáveis (R2 = 0,7251). A relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do cordão umbilical demonstrou expressão y = 35,64 + 25,64x e a análise de correlação entre as variáveis, positiva (R2 = 0,7201) indicando elevada dependência entre as variáveis. Quanto à relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do feto, identificou-se uma relação do tipo y = a + bx, cuja expressão definida foi y = 1,26 + 0,41x, com análise de correlação das variáveis apresentando elevada correlação considerando-se o valor de R2 = 0,7890. As variáveis analisadas demonstram uma influência direta no desenvolvimento embrionário e fetal em mocós confirmando a correlação destes com o tamanho do feto.(AU)

We evaluated the correlation between different fetal membranes of rock cavies and determined the relationship between fetal weight and placental weight, the relationship between fetal weight and length of the umbilical cord and the relationship between fetal weight and length of the fetus. The fetuses and fetal membranes of three, five and six females respectively in the first third, middle and late gestation were used, obtained from Multiplication Center for Wild Animals of the Federal University Rural of Semiarid (CEMAS-UFERSA). The data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, minimum and maximum values, evaluated by the statistical program GraphPad Prism version 6.0. After analysis of parametric assumptions, the data were subjected to Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitneys test and linear regression. The relationship between fetal weight and placental weight showed the expression y = 33.73 + 16.38x with an estimate of the coefficient of correlation between fetal weight and placental weight high and positive, showing dependence between variables (R2 = 0.7251). The relationship between fetal weight and length of the umbilical cord showed expression y = 35.64 + 25.64x and the correlation analysis between variables, positive (R2 = 0.7201) indicating high dependence between variables. Regarding the relationship between fetal weight and length of the fetus, we identified a relationship of the type y = a + bx, whose expression was defined y = 1.26 + 0.41x, with correlation analysis of the variables showing high correlation considering the value of R2 = 0.7890. The variables analyzed demonstrate a direct influence on embryonic andfetal development in rock cavies confirming the correlation of these with the size of the fetus.(AU)

Correlação entre o peso, comprimento e anexos fetais de mocós (Kerodon rupestris Wied, 1820) / Correlation between weight, length and fetal membranes of rock cavies (Kerodon rupestris Wied, 1820)

Foi avaliada a existência de correlação entre diferentes anexos fetais de mocós e determinada a relação entre peso do feto e peso da placenta, a relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do cordão umbilical e a relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do feto. Foram utilizados anexos fetais e fetos de três, cinco e seis fêmeas, respectivamente, no terço inicial, médio e final de gestação, obtidas no Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres (CEMAS-UFERSA). Os dados foram expressos em média ± desvio-padrão, bem como valores mínimos e máximos, avaliados pelo programa estatístico GraphPad Prism Versão 6.0. Após a análise dos pressupostos paramétricos, os dados foram submetidos aos Testes de Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney, e regressão linear. A relação entre peso do feto e peso da placenta demonstrou expressão y = 33,73 + 16,38x com cálculo do coeficiente de correlação entre o peso do feto e o peso da placenta elevado e positivo, evidenciando dependência entre as variáveis (R2 = 0,7251). A relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do cordão umbilical demonstrou expressão y = 35,64 + 25,64x e a análise de correlação entre as variáveis, positiva (R2 = 0,7201) indicando elevada dependência entre as variáveis. Quanto à relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do feto, identificou-se uma relação do tipo y = a + bx, cuja expressão definida foi y = 1,26 + 0,41x, com análise de correlação das variáveis apresentando elevada correlação considerando-se o valor de R2 = 0,7890. As variáveis analisadas demonstram uma influência direta no desenvolvimento embrionário e fetal em mocós confirmando a correlação destes com o tamanho do feto.

We evaluated the correlation between different fetal membranes of rock cavies and determined the relationship between fetal weight and placental weight, the relationship between fetal weight and length of the umbilical cord and the relationship between fetal weight and length of the fetus. The fetuses and fetal membranes of three, five and six females respectively in the first third, middle and late gestation were used, obtained from Multiplication Center for Wild Animals of the Federal University Rural of Semiarid (CEMAS-UFERSA). The data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, minimum and maximum values, evaluated by the statistical program GraphPad Prism version 6.0. After analysis of parametric assumptions, the data were subjected to Kruskal-Wallis’ test and Mann-Whitney’s test and linear regression. The relationship between fetal weight and placental weight showed the expression y = 33.73 + 16.38x with an estimate of the coefficient of correlation between fetal weight and placental weight high and positive, showing dependence between variables (R2 = 0.7251). The relationship between fetal weight and length of the umbilical cord showed expression y = 35.64 + 25.64x and the correlation analysis between variables, positive (R2 = 0.7201) indicating high dependence between variables. Regarding the relationship between fetal weight and length of the fetus, we identified a relationship of the type y = a + bx, whose expression was defined y = 1.26 + 0.41x, with correlation analysis of the variables showing high correlation considering the value of R2 = 0.7890. The variables analyzed demonstrate a direct influence on embryonic andfetal development in rock cavies confirming the correlation of these with the size of the fetus.

Classificação morfofuncional dos dentes de saguis-de-tufo-branco (Callithrix jacchus, Callitrichidae), saguis-de-tufo-preto (C. penicillata) e saguis-de-cara-branca (C. geoffroyi) / Morphofunctional classification of teeth of marmosets-tufted white (Callithrix jacchus, Callitrichidae), marmosets-tufted black (C. penicillata), and marmosets white-face (C. geoffroyi)

A study was conducted to analyze the morphology of the teeth of white-tufted-ear-marmoset (C. jacchus) black-tufted-ear-marmoset (C. penicillata) and marmosets-white-faced (C. geoffroyi), to compare them among themselves and with other species described in the literature. Teeth of the three species were submitted to macroscopic, microscopic and ultrastructural analyzes. The results were correlated with those of other species. We concluded that: the three species have a similar dental formula, reaching a total of 32 teeth, expressed in the formula 2x: incisors 2/2; canines 1/1, pre-molars 3/3 and molars 2/2, ich are classified as diplodont, anelodont, bunodont and brachyodont.

Realizou-se um estudo para analisar morfologicamente os dentes do saguis-de-tufo-branco (C. jacchus), saguis-de-tufo-preto (C. penicillata) e saguis-de-cara-branca (C. geoffroyi), para compara-los entre si e com outras espécies já descritas na literatura. Utilizou-se dentes das três espécies para analises macroscópicas, microscópicas e ultraestrutural e os resultados correlacionados com os obtidos com outras espécies citadas na literatura. Chegou-se a conclusão de que: as três espécies apresentaram uma fórmula dentária idêntica, chegando a um total de 32 dentes, expressa na fórmula 2x: incisivos 2/2; caninos 1/1; pré-molares 3/3 e molares 2/2, estes são classificados como diplodontes, anelodontes, bunodontes, e braquiodontes.

Classificação morfofuncional dos dentes de saguis-de-tufo-branco (Callithrix jacchus, Callitrichidae), saguis-de-tufo-preto (C. penicillata) e saguis-de-cara-branca (C. geoffroyi) / Morphofunctional classification of teeth of marmosets-tufted white (Callithrix jacchus, Callitrichidae), marmosets-tufted black (C. penicillata), and marmosets white-face (C. geoffroyi)

A study was conducted to analyze the morphology of the teeth of white-tufted-ear-marmoset (C. jacchus) black-tufted-ear-marmoset (C. penicillata) and marmosets-white-faced (C. geoffroyi), to compare them among themselves and with other species described in the literature. Teeth of the three species were submitted to macroscopic, microscopic and ultrastructural analyzes. The results were correlated with those of other species. We concluded that: the three species have a similar dental formula, reaching a total of 32 teeth, expressed in the formula 2x: incisors 2/2; canines 1/1, pre-molars 3/3 and molars 2/2, ich are classified as diplodont, anelodont, bunodont and brachyodont.(AU)

Realizou-se um estudo para analisar morfologicamente os dentes do saguis-de-tufo-branco (C. jacchus), saguis-de-tufo-preto (C. penicillata) e saguis-de-cara-branca (C. geoffroyi), para compara-los entre si e com outras espécies já descritas na literatura. Utilizou-se dentes das três espécies para analises macroscópicas, microscópicas e ultraestrutural e os resultados correlacionados com os obtidos com outras espécies citadas na literatura. Chegou-se a conclusão de que: as três espécies apresentaram uma fórmula dentária idêntica, chegando a um total de 32 dentes, expressa na fórmula 2x: incisivos 2/2; caninos 1/1; pré-molares 3/3 e molares 2/2, estes são classificados como diplodontes, anelodontes, bunodontes, e braquiodontes.(AU)

Morphology and involution of the yolk sac during early gestation bovine (Bos indicus)

Background: The bovine yolk sac derives from visceral endoderm and its development occurs between days 18-23 of gestation. The study of this membrane is important for comparative data and has already been performed in rodents, sheep and in cattle, especially Bos taurus. In species Bos indicus the yolk sac has not quite been studied and is believed that there are morphological differences between these species. The yolk sac undergoes a process of involution and degeneration during embryonic development and none vestige of it is found in late gestation. The period in which occurs the involution of the yolk sac coincides with the period of increased pregnancy loss in cattle, and changes in the morphology of this membrane may indicate the reasons for such high loss rates. Thus, considering that the yolk sac is important for embryonic circulation and metabolic transmission, besides participating actively in the process of cattle placentation, this study aimed characterize morphologically the involution of the bovine yolk sac. Materials, Methods & Results: The early gestational period was determined between days 20 and 70 post-insemination (p.i), according to the exterior characteristics of embryo/fetus. For macroscopic analyzes the uterus was dissected to expose the fetal membranes and subsequently the embryo/fetus was photographed. The samples were fi xed for light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The yolk sac that emerges from the ventral part of the embryo was prominent and composed by a central part with two thin peripheral projections of different lengths. The bovine yolk sac with about 9 cm on day 25 p. i. of pregnancy permanently decreased its total length during this study. Histologically, the yolk sac is composed of three cell layers: the mesothelium, the mesenchyme and the endoderm. In mesenchyme are found blood islets. In the endoderm are formed cells invaginations toward the mesenchyme originating small canaliculi. The ultrastructure of yolk cells presented many mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum, vesicles, euchromatin and the presence of two nucleoli. Discussion: The real first blood circulation in the bovine is attached with the development of yolk sac, differently from other membranes, such as the corium, that does not present evidence of vascularization by the age of 20-30 days. The erythroblasts found in the yolk sac are related to vasculogenesis and the process of differentiation of blood cells during the erythropoiesis. It could be observed on the histology of the yolk sac, in embryos of 30-50 days old, the presence of canaliculi and small folds of the epithelium. The canaliculi collapse is associated with the degeneration of the endoderm wall of the yolk sac. The organelles present in the endoderm cells of the yolk sac are associated with the function of protein metabolism and in the exchange of substances between the mesenchyme and the mesothelium. For these findings, could be observed that the yolk sac epithelium is found active until the 50th day of gestation, and thereafter regresses. However, remnants of this membrane may be present until the 70th day. These features may represent a presence of an active chorionvitelline placenta in this period responsible for the maintenance of pregnancy whereas the chorioallantoic placenta is not definitively established.

Descrição morfológica do diafragma do sagui-de-tufo-branco (Callithrix jacchus) / Morphological description of diaphragm of white-tufted-ear-marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)

O músculo diafragma, encontrado apenas nos mamíferos, é o principal músculo no processo respiratório, servindo de fronteira entre as cavidades torácica e abdominal. Sua importância também ganha destaque em pesquisas realizadas no âmbito dos enxertos, empregando-se diversos tipos de membranas biológicas para o reparo de defeitos diafragmáticos, os quais podem gerar hérnias diafragmáticas. Apesar de muitos estudos já conduzidos para com os primatas não humanos, especialmente no que tange a espécie do novo mundo Callithrix jacchus (Sagui-de-tufo-branco), oriundo do nordeste brasileiro, as pesquisas envolvendo o uso do diafragma em tal espécie é inexistente. Deste modo objetivou-se caracterizar a morfologia e a biometria do diafragma na espécie Callithrix jacchus de ambos os sexos, analisando possíveis divergências estruturais entre machos e fêmeas. Para tal foram utilizados quatros animais, 2 machos e 2 fêmeas, adultos, que vieram a óbito por causas naturais, provenientes de um criadouro comercial. Após fixação em solução de formaldeído 10% os animais foram devidamente dissecados para fotodocumentação e em seguida o diafragma coletado para efetuação da biometria (comprimento e largura) com o uso de um paquímetro e para o processamento histológico por meio da coloração de hematoxilina-eosina e tricrômio de masson, da porção muscular. As mensurações feitas permitiram concluir que não houve diferenças signifcativas entre machos e femeas. A topografia e a presença de três aberturas (forame da veia cava caudal, hiato aórtico e esofágico) na extensão do diafragma corroboram com descrições na literatura classica para outros mamíferos. A presença de um centro tendíneo em "V" difere do encontrado para animais como o peixe-boi e porquinho-da-india, mas é similar ao encontrado para o gambá-de-orelhas-brancas e rato albino. No que diz respeito aos achados histológicos conclui-se que as fibras musculares estão dispostas de forma organizada, apresentam diâmetro grande e núcleos basais, tendo, portanto, características similares do músculo estriado esquelético tanto nos animais machos como nas fêmeas.(AU)

The diaphragm muscle found only in mammals is the main muscle in the respiratory process, serving as the border between the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Its significance also is highlighted in research conducted with grafts using various types of biological membranes for the repair of diaphragmatic defects which may cause diaphragmatic hernias. In spite of many studies already conducted in non-human primates, especially in regard to the new world species Callithrix jacchus (white-tufted-ear-marmoset) from northeastern Brazil, research involving use of the diaphragm in such species is nonexistent. Thus, the objective was to characterize the morphology and biometry of the diaphragm in C. jacchus of both sexes, analyzing possible structural differences between males and females. To this end, we used four adult white-tufted-ear-marmosets from a commercial breeder, two males and two females that had died of natural causes. After fixed in 10% formaldehyde solution, the animals were dissected for photo documentation, the diaphragm was collected for biometrics (length and width) with a caliper, and for histological processing by hematoxylin-eosin and Trichrome Masson. The measurements showed that there were no significant differences between males and females. The topography and the presence of three openings (foramen vena cava, aortic et esophageal hiatus) in the extension of the diaphragm corroborate descriptions in classical literature for other mammals. Regarding the histological findings, it was concluded that the muscular fibers are arranged in an organized shape, with a large diameter and basal nuclei, and showed similar characteristics of skeletal muscle in males and females.(AU)

Abnormalities in bovine conceptus development during the embryonic phase after In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and cloning by nuclear transfer (NT)

Background: Embryonic mortality is a major cause of reproductive failure in cattle, resulting in a lot of problems to the industry. Recently, many techniques have been used in the production of genetically modified animals mainly related to improve the animal production. The possibility to genetically manipulate living organisms through the addition or inactivation of genes has revolutionized the understanding of biological and molecular mechanisms. Herein, we showed data about what is known about the abnormalities in bovine conceptus using IVF and NT techniques. Review: The establishment of pregnancy results from the interaction between the trophoblast and maternal tissues. Embryonic/ fetal loss occurs throughout pregnancy in cattle; however, it is concentrated mainly in the first 42 days after breeding. Recently data have showed that approximately 50% of cloned bovine embryos do not establish the gestation after the transference of the blastocyst. In addition, placental abnormalities occur in high levels in cloned animals during the initial and in the end of gestation. Low viability of cloned embryos is mainly expressed by the reduction in the rate of deployment, the increased rate of perinatal mortality and fetal, and the various anomalies observed in newborn animals. Among the pregnancy complications from placental transfer of manipulated embryos (IVF and NT) there are changes in the morphology of the placentome, in the region of the fetal-maternal contact, increase of allantoic or amniotic fluid, vascularity, lower number of cotyledons, and increased of the interplacentomal area "Offspring Syndrome". In addition, the placenta, fetal membranes and umbilical cord from cloned animals have rudimentary development. According to Wells et al., the overall efficiency of cloning in bovine is limited to 5- 6%. In IVF pregnancies the placentome percentage, fetal villi, density and volume of binucleated cells is reduced. However, the volume of blood vessels in increased maternal wattles, believing there is a compensatory mechanism in the vascular network of the placentae. Conclusion: Many technological innovations could help to obtain a better quality production and significant improvements in animal breeding such as those brought about by nuclear transfer and in vitro fertilization. New studies on the dynamics of development in cattle embryology derived from nuclear transfer techniques and in vitro fertilization are necessary, focusing on different systems in order to find greater success in the artificial producing and selection of interest characteristics.

Caracterização da fusão caruncular em gestações naturais e de conceptos bovinos clonados / Characterization of the caruncular fusion in gestations of natural and cloned bovine conceptuses

O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar as fusões carunculares em gestações de conceptos não clonados (CNC) e conceptos clonados (CC). Os CNC foram divididos segundo o período de gestação em Grupo I (2-3 meses, n=9), Grupo II (4-6 meses, n=9), Grupo III (7-8 meses, n=10) e Grupo IV (9 meses, n=7). Os CC formaram o Grupo V (9 meses, n=4). As carúnculas foram observadas macroscopicamente (número e dimensões: comprimento, largura e altura), microscopicamente e submetidas à análise estatística (5 por cento de significância). Observaram-se três tipos de fusões carunculares macroscópicas: ovais (morfologicamente normais); duas carúnculas adjacentes unidas e do tipo lobuladas, caracterizadas por regiões com várias carúnculas unidas apresentando falsa fusão ou deformação do parênquima caruncular. O comprimento das carúnculas foi de 1,55±0,57; 2,45±0,55; 4,66±2,00 e 5,72±1,90cm para os Grupos I, II, III e IV, respectivamente. Quanto à altura, as carúnculas apresentaram um crescimento linear durante a gestação e foram de 0,40±0,15; 0;57±0,21; 1,00±0,48 e 1,80±0,91cm, para os respectivos Grupos I, II, III e IV. A largura das carúnculas foi semelhante entre os Grupos I e II (0,97±0,30 e 1,42±0,71cm) e os Grupos III e IV (2,68±1,22 e 3,52±1,16cm). Quando o Grupo V foi comparado ao Grupo IV, as carúnculas do Grupo V apresentaram maior comprimento (5,72±1,90 vs. 7,88±2,13cm) e largura (3,52±1,16 vs. 4,93±1,46cm), porém foram semelhantes em altura (1,80±0,91 e 2,25±0,67cm). Verificou-se que em gestações de CC, as carúnculas apresentaram maior desenvolvimento que em gestações de CNC. As carúnculas fusionadas apresentaram medidas estatisticamente semelhantes às isoladas em todos os parâmetros e grupos. Sob microscopia de luz, observou-se a formação de um eixo estromal, da base da carúncula ao ápice da fissura fusional, de constituição histológica semelhante ao estroma endometrial. Também foram ineditamente definidos três formatos microscópicos: fusão propriamente ...(AU)

The objective of the study was to compare the characteristics of the caruncular fusion in gestations of non-cloned and cloned conceptuses. The non-cloned conceptuses were divided according to the gestation period: Group I (2 to 3 months; n=9), II (4 to 6; n=9); III (7 to 8; n=10) and IV (9 n=7). The cloned conceptuses formed the Group V: 9 months; n=4. The caruncles were observed macroscopically (number and dimensions: length, width and height), microscopically and submitted to statistical analysis (5 percent of significance). We observed three types of macroscopic caruncular fusions: oval (morphologically normal); two united adjacent caruncles and the lobulated type, characterized by regions with several united caruncles presenting a false fusion or deformation of the caruncular parenchyma. The length of the caruncles was 1.55±0.57; 2.45±0.55; 4.66±2.0 and 5.72±1.90cm for the groups I, II, III, IV respectively. As for the height, the caruncles presented a lineal growth during the gestation: 0.40±0.15; 0.57±0.21; 1.0±0.48 and 1.80±0.91cm, for the respective groups I, II, III and IV. The width of the caruncles was similar between the groups I and II (0.97±0.30 e 1.42±0.71cm) and the groups III and IV (2.68±1.22 and 3.52±1.16cm). When the group V was compared to the IV, the caruncles of the group V presented a larger length (5.72±1.90 vs. 7.88±.13cm) and width (3.52±1.16 vs. 4.93±1.46cm), however they were similar in height (1.80±0.91 and 2.25±0.67cm). We verified that in gestations of cloned conceptuses the caruncles presented a larger development than in gestations of non-cloned conceptuses. The fusioned caruncles presented measurements statistically similar to the isolated ones in all the parameters and groups. Under light microscopy, we observed the formation of a stromal axis from the basis of the caruncle to the apex of the fusional fissure, with the histological constitution similar to the endometrial stroma. Three microscopic shapes ...(AU)

Testicular arteries systematization based on different levels of scrotal configuration in caprines / Sistematização da artéria testicular em caprinos segundo a configuração escrotal

The objective of this study was to describe the distribution of testicular arterial vessels in caprines with different degrees of scrotal division. Scrotal configurations were classified as follows; Group I: scrotum without bipartition; Group II: scrotum showing a ventral division until the middle of the testis; and, Group III: scrotal separation extended beyond the middle of the testis. A colored vinyl acetate solution was injected into 60 testicular arteries (30 pairs). After, the samples were submitted to corrosion cast method to obtain tubular vascular models for macroscopic analysis. We observed that the testicular arteries emerge from the abdominal aorta, cross the inguinal canal to become coiled and involved by the pampiniform plexus. Close to the caudal extremity of the testis, the arteries become divided in cranial and caudal branches that emit collateral vessels to originate emerging branches. Testicles with intermediate level of scrotal division (group II) showed a smaller amount of those branches than the others, being the most populated the ventrolateral and the dorsolateral quadrants. The origin, distribution and localization of the testicular arteries did not show any differences related to the degree of scrotal division in caprines.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a distribuição dos vasos arteriais nos testículos em caprinos com diferentes graus de divisão escrotal. A configuração escrotal foi classificada da seguinte forma: Grupo I: constituído por caprinos com escroto único, Grupo II: com escroto separado até a metade do testículo e Grupo III: com separação escrotal estendendo-se além da metade do testículos. As artérias foram injetadas e coradas com solução de acetado de vinil, sendo os orgãos (30 pares) submetidos à corrossão para obtenção dos moldes vasculares. As artérias testiculares emergem da aorta abdominal, com trajeto retilíneo, atravessam o canal inguinal, apresentam-se espiraladas e envolvidas parcialmente pelo plexo pampiniforme. Próximo à extremidade caudada do testículo, dividem-se mais freqüentemente nos ramos cranial e caudal, os quais emitem vasos colaterais, de onde emergem ramos penetrantes. Os testículos dos animais com nível intermediário de divisão escrotal (Grupo II) apresentam menor quantidade destes ramos, sendo os quadrantes mais povoados o ventrolateral e o dorsolateral. Conclui-se que a origem, o trajeto e a distribuição das artérias testiculares não apresentam variações relacionadas ao grau de divisão escrotal em caprinos.(AU)

Lobação, ramificação brônquica e distribuição arterial no pulmão da cutia (Dasyprocta sp., Mammalia Rodentia) / Lobation, bronchial tree and distribution of the pulmonary artery in Agouti (Dasyprocta sp., Mammalia - Rodentia)

Esta pesquisa objetivou estudar as características anatômicas do pulmão da cutia, particularmente os aspectos relativos a lobação, distribuição dos ramos da artéria pulmonar e sua relação com os brônquios. Para tal utilizaram-se dez conjuntos coração-pulmão, dos quais oito tiveram a artéria pulmonar injetada com látex neoprene corado. Os conjuntos foram fixados em solução de formol a 10% e os ramos arteriais no parênquima pulmonar foram dissecados. Em dois pulmões injetou-se vinil corado nas artérias e estes foram submetidos à corrosão no ácido clorídrico a 30%. O pulmão da cutia é dividido externamente por fissuras bastante pronunciadas, separando os lobos pulmonares, tanto à direita quanto à esquerda. O pulmão direito apresenta quatro lobos: cranial, médio, caudal e acessório, e o esquerdo dois lobos: cranial e caudal, sendo o lobo cranial dividido em segmentos cranial e caudal. Do brônquio principal direito derivam os brônquios lobares cranial direito, médio, caudal direito e acessório. O brônquio principal esquerdo origina um pequeno tronco, que emite o brônquio lobar cranial, o qual se bifurca, fornecendo ramos para as porções cranial e caudal do lobo cranial esquerdo, e segue como brônquio lobar caudal esquerdo. A artéria pulmonar direita origina, respectivamente, ramos para os lobos cranial, médio, acessório e caudal, e a esquerda fornece, isoladamente, os ramos ascendente e descendente para os segmentos cranial e caudal do lobo cranial esquerdo, prosseguindo para o lobo caudal. Conclui-se que, no pulmão da cutia, as artérias pulmonares seguem as ramificações bronquiais, caracterizando a segmentação anátomo-cirúrgica broncoarterial.(AU)

This research aimed to study the anatomical characteristics of theagoutis lung, particularly the lobation, the distribution of pulmonaryarterys ramus, and its relation with bronchi. Ten heart-lungs blockswere used; in eight of these blocks, colored Neoprene Latex wasinjected in the pulmonary artery. Afterwards, the samples were fixedin aqueous solution of formoaldehyde 10%, and the arterial ramusdissected on the parenchyma of the organ. Into the two remainedlungs colored vinyl acetate was injected and soon after the pieces wassubmitted to corrosion with chloridric acid 30%. It was observe thatthe lung of the agouti is divided outside by pronounced fissures thatseparate the pulmonary lobes, as much on the right side as on the left.The right one, with four lobes: cranial, medial, caudal and accessory,and the left lung with two lobes: cranial and caudal. The cranial lobe isdivided into two segments: cranial e caudal. From the right mainbronchus originates the right cranial, medial, right caudal and accessorylobes bronchi. The left main bronchus originates the cranial lobarbronchus, which bifurcates, giving rise to the to cranial and caudalportion branches of left cranial lobe, continuing to the caudal lobe.The right pulmonary artery originates, respectively, branches to thecranial, medial, accessory and caudal lobes, and the left one originate, separately, ascendant and descendant branches to the cranial and caudalsegments of left cranial lobe, and proceed to the caudal lobe. It can beconcluded that pulmonary arteries follow the bronchi ramificationcharacterizing the bronchoarterial anatomic-surgical segmentation. (AU)

Aspectos morfológicos da tuba uterina de cutias (Dasyprocta aguti, Mammalia: Rodentia) / Morphological aspects of the uterine tube in agouti (Dasyprocta aguti, Mammalia: Rodentia)

Foi analisada a estrutura da tuba uterina de cutias utilizando-se três fêmeas adultas, oriundas do Núcleo de Estudos e Preservação de Animais Silvestres da Universidade Federal do Piauí. Após anestesia, foi realizada a eutanásia dos animais, em seguida, obtidos fragmentos da tuba uterina correspondentes às regiões cranial, média e caudal. Cortes de 3 a 5m de espessura foram corados pela Hematoxilina/Eosina e analisados e fotografados ao microscópio de luz. Foi evidenciado que, a parede da tuba uterina da cutia apresenta três camadas histologicamente distintas: mucosa, muscular e serosa, caracterizando as regiões infundíbulo, ampola e istmo. A mucosa, revestida por tecido epitelial simples colunar apresentando células ciliadas e não ciliadas, e, com grande quantidade de pregas em diferentes níveis. No epitélio de revestimento da mucosa do istmo, foram observadas áreas com células variando de cúbicas a pavimentosas. A luz do órgão, nas porções cranial e média, mostrase bem maior e mais irregular que na porção caudal. A lâmina própria, constituída de tecido conjuntivo frouxo, desprovida de glândulas, e na região da ampola, torna-se mais estreita e bastante celularizada. A camada muscular, formada por fibras musculares lisas dispostas em uma subcamada circular interna e outra longitudinal externa. A serosa mostra-se bastante vascularizada. As tubas uterinas da cutia guardam muita semelhança com as dos demais mamíferos quanto aos aspectos microscópicos.(AU)