Anticonvulsant activity of bone marrow cells in electroconvulsive seizures in mice.

BACKGROUND: Bone marrow is an accessible source of progenitor cells, which have been investigated as treatment for neurological diseases in a number of clinical trials. Here we evaluated the potential benefit of bone marrow cells in protecting against convulsive seizures induced by maximum electroconvulsive shock (MES), a widely used model for screening of anti-epileptic drugs. Behavioral and inflammatory responses were measured after MES induction in order to verify the effects promoted by transplantation of bone marrow cells. To assess the anticonvulsant effects of bone marrow cell transplantation, we measured the frequency and duration of tonic seizure, the mortality rate, the microglial expression and the blood levels of cytokine IL-1, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α after MES induction. We hypothesized that these behavioral and inflammatory responses to a strong stimulus such as a convulsive seizure could be modified by the transplantation of bone marrow cells. RESULTS: Bone marrow transplanted cells altered the convulsive threshold and showed anticonvulsant effect by protecting from tonic seizures. Bone marrow cells modified the microglial expression in the analyzed brain areas, increased the IL-10 and attenuate IL-6 levels. CONCLUSIONS: Bone marrow cells exert protective effects by blocking the course of electroconvulsive seizures. Additionally, electroconvulsive seizures induced acute inflammatory responses by altering the pattern of microglia expression, as well as in IL-6 and IL-10 levels. Our findings also indicated that the anticonvulsant effects of these cells can be tested with the MES model following the same paradigm used for drug testing in pharmacological screening. Studies on the inflammatory reaction in response to acute seizures in the presence of transplanted bone marrow cells might open a wide range of discussions on the mechanisms relevant to the pathophysiology of epilepsies.

Hormonal and biochemical changes in female Proechimys guyannensis, an animal model of resistance to pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus.

The Amazon rodent Proechimys guyannensis is widely studied for hosting various pathogens, though rarely getting sick. Previous studies on male Proechimys have revealed an endogenous resistance to epilepsy. Here, we assess in female Proechimys, whether sex hormones and biochemical aspects can interfere with the induction of status epilepticus (SE). The lithium-pilocarpine ramp-up protocol was used to induce SE, and blood sera were collected at 30 and 90 min after SE, alongside brains, for biochemical, western blot and immunohistochemical analyses. Results from non-ovariectomised (NOVX) Proechimys were compared to ovariectomised (OVX) animals. Data from female Wistars were used as a positive control of SE inductions. SE latency was similar in NOVX, OVX, and female Wistars groups. However, the pilocarpine dose required to induce SE in Proechimys was higher (25- to 50-folds more). Despite a higher dose, Proechimys did not show strong SE like Wistars; they only reached stage 2 of the Racine scale. These data suggest that female Proechimys are resistant to SE induction. Glucose and progesterone levels increased at 30 min and returned to normal at 90 min after SE. A relevant fact because in humans and rodents, SE leads to hypoglycaemia after 30 min of SE and does not return to normal levels in a short time, a typical adverse effect of SE. In OVX animals, a decrease in GABAergic receptors within 90 min of SE may suggest that ovariectomy produces changes in the hippocampus, including a certain vulnerability to seizures. We speculate that progesterone and glucose increases form part of the compensatory mechanisms that provide resistance in Proechimys against SE induction.

Characterization of the estrous cycle in the Amazon spiny rat (Proechimys guyannensis).

Males of Proechimys guyannensis, a rodent living in the Amazon rainforest are studied in biomedical research because of their antiepileptogenic mechanism. Females are usually taken from experimental designs, because of limited data of this sex. This study aimed to characterize the estrous cycle to include females together with males in research in a more balanced approach. The estrous cycle of P. guyannensis based through exfoliative cytology, determination of the vaginal occlusion membrane state, and hormonal analysis. In this study, cytological analyses of vaginal smears were performed for three months, three times a day. The observed length of the estrous cycle was 247 ± 81 h (mean ± SD) with a reproductive phase of 27.08 ± 17.39 h (estrus stage). We observed a frequent presence of both the open and closed states of the vaginal membrane in the estrus stage (fertile period) although only the open stage is a prerequisite for successful copulation. High levels of progesterone and estradiol were detected in proestrus. Levels of follicle-stimulating hormone peaked at the estrus stage. These data will establish the parameters and subsidies to set the grounds for future research either for investigating the biology of this species or to use P. guyannensis in research that previously excluded females. Information regarding female Proechimys is relevant to not only describe the species but also explain the interaction between sex hormones and physiological responses. Moreover, the present results will enhance rigor and reproducibility in preclinical studies. In conclusion, P. guyannensis reproductive cycles can occur spontaneously and cyclically independent of mating stimulation and the high levels of FSH in the estrus stage, suggest that ovulation occurs in the late phase of the estrus.

Modification of the natural progression of epileptogenesis by means of biperiden in the pilocarpine model of epilepsy.

Brain injuries are often associated with the later development of epilepsy. Evidence suggests that morphological and functional changes occur in the remaining neural tissue during a silent (or latent) period in which no seizures are expressed. It is believed that this silent (reorganization) period may provide a therapeutic window for modifying the natural history of disease progression. Here we provide evidence that biperiden, a muscarinic anticholinergic agent, is able to alter disease progression in an animal model of epilepsy. We observed that biperiden was capable of slowing the manifestation of the first spontaneous epileptic seizure and effectively reduced the severity and number of recurrent, spontaneous epileptic seizures during the animals' lifespan. Biomolecular (microdialysis) and electrophysiological (extracellular field recordings) studies determined that biperiden was capable of elevating the threshold of hippocampal excitability, thereby making the hippocampal glutamatergic pathways less responsive to stimuli when high concentrations of potassium were used in vivo or in vitro. Notably, there was no hindrance of long-term memory or learning (a potential problem given the amnestic nature of biperiden). We conclude that biperiden has antiepileptogenic potential and may represent an opportunity for the prevention of post-traumatic epilepsy.

The pattern of c-Fos expression and its refractory period in the brain of rats and monkeys.

Intense activation of neurons triggers the appearance of immediate expression genes, including c-Fos. This gene is related to various signal cascades involved in biochemical processes such as neuronal plasticity, cell growth and mitosis. Here we investigate the expression pattern and the refractory period of c-Fos in rats and monkey's brains after stimulation with pentylenetetrazol. Rats and monkeys were sacrificed at various times after PTZ-induced seizure. Here we show that rats and monkeys already showed c-Fos expression at 0.5 h after seizure. Yet, the pattern of protein expression was longer in monkeys than rats, and also was not uniform (relative intensity) across different brain regions in monkeys as opposed to rats. In addition monkeys had a regional brain variation with regard to the temporal profile of c-Fos expression, which was not seen in rats. The refractory period after a second PTZ stimulation was also markedly different between rats and monkeys with the latter even showing a summatory effect on c-Fos expression after a second stimulation. However, assessment of c-Fos mRNA in rats indicated a post-transcriptional control mechanism underlying the duration of the refractory period. The difference in the protein expression pattern in rodents and primates characterizes a functional aspect of brain biochemistry that differs between these mammalian orders and may contribute for the more developed primate cognitive complexity as compared to rodents given c-Fos involvement in cognitive and learning tasks.

Replacement of Asymmetric Synaptic Profiles in the Molecular Layer of Dentate Gyrus Following Cycloheximide in the Pilocarpine Model in Rats.

Mossy fiber sprouting is among the best-studied forms of post-lesional synaptic plasticity and is regarded by many as contributory to seizures in both humans and animal models of epilepsy. It is not known whether mossy fiber sprouting increases the number of synapses in the molecular layer or merely replaces lost contacts. Using the pilocarpine (Pilo) model of status epilepticus to induce mossy fiber sprouting, and cycloheximide (CHX) to block this sprouting, we evaluated at the ultrastructural level the number and type of asymmetric synaptic contacts in the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus. As expected, whereas Pilo-treated rats had dense silver grain deposits in the inner molecular layer (IML) (reflecting mossy fiber sprouting), pilocarpine + cycloheximide (CHX + Pilo)-treated animals did not differ from controls. Both groups of treated rats (Pilo group and CHX + Pilo group) had reduced density of asymmetric synaptic profiles (putative excitatory synaptic contacts), which was greater for CHX-treated animals. For both treated groups, the loss of excitatory synaptic contacts was even greater in the outer molecular layer than in the best-studied IML (in which mossy fiber sprouting occurs). These results indicate that mossy fiber sprouting tends to replace lost synaptic contacts rather than increase the absolute number of contacts. We speculate that the overall result is more consistent with restored rather than with increased excitability.

The Anti-Tumor Effects of Adipose Tissue Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transduced with HSV-Tk Gene on U-87-Driven Brain Tumor.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an infiltrative tumor that is difficult to eradicate. Treating GBM with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that have been modified with the HSV-Tk suicide gene has brought significant advances mainly because MSCs are chemoattracted to GBM and kill tumor cells via a bystander effect. To use this strategy, abundantly present adipose-tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) were evaluated for the treatment of GBM in mice. AT-MSCs were prepared using a mechanical protocol to avoid contamination with animal protein and transduced with HSV-Tk via a lentiviral vector. The U-87 glioblastoma cells cultured with AT-MSC-HSV-Tk died in the presence of 25 or 50 µM ganciclovir (GCV). U-87 glioblastoma cells injected into the brains of nude mice generated tumors larger than 3.5 mm2 after 4 weeks, but the injection of AT-MSC-HSV-Tk cells one week after the U-87 injection, combined with GCV treatment, drastically reduced tumors to smaller than 0.5 mm2. Immunohistochemical analysis of the tumors showed the presence of AT-MSC-HSV-Tk cells only within the tumor and its vicinity, but not in other areas of the brain, showing chemoattraction between them. The abundance of AT-MSCs and the easier to obtain them mechanically are strong advantages when compared to using MSCs from other tissues.

Participation of bone marrow-derived cells in hippocampal vascularization after status epilepticus.

PURPOSE: Diseases such as temporal lobe epilepsy, brain trauma and stroke can induce endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis in specific brain areas. During status epilepticus (SE), bone marrow-derived cells are able to infiltrate and proliferate, dramatically increasing at the site of injury. However, it is still unclear whether these cells directly participate in vascular changes induced by SE. METHOD: To investigate the possible role of bone marrow-derived cells in angiogenesis after seizures, we induced SE by pilocarpine injection in previously prepared chimeric mice. Mice were euthanized at 8h, 7d or 15d after SE onset. RESULTS: Our results indicated that SE modified hippocampal vascularization and induced angiogenesis. Further, bone marrow-derived GFP(+) cells penetrated through the parenchyma and participated in the formation of new vessels after SE. We detected bone marrow-derived cells closely associated with vessels in the hippocampus, increasing the density of blood vessels that had decreased immediately after pilocarpine-induced SE. CONCLUSION: We conclude that epileptic seizures directly affect vascularization in the hippocampus mediated by bone marrow-derived cells in a time-dependent manner.

Gestão do uso agrícola do lodo de esgoto: estudo de caso do estado do Paraná, Brasil / Management of agricultural use of sewage sludge: case study of Paraná state, Brazil

RESUMO O uso agrícola é uma destinação ambientalmente sustentável para o lodo de esgoto, pois promove a reciclagem de nutrientes, sendo benéfico ao cultivo de plantas e às características físico-químicas e biológicas do solo. É uma alternativa mundialmente consolidada, que no Brasil está limitada a poucos estados. O Paraná é um dos estados onde o lodo de esgoto tem a agricultura como destinação final prioritária. O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a gestão do processo de uso agrícola de lodo de esgoto no estado do Paraná, Brasil, no período de 2011 a 2013. Foram analisados 49 relatórios de rastreabilidade, 337 projetos agronômicos e laudos laboratoriais de 129 lotes de lodo de esgoto. Verificou-se que 107.416 t de lodo de esgoto higienizado por estabilização alcalina prolongada foram aplicadas em 5.529 ha de áreas agrícolas no Paraná, sendo a Região Metropolitana de Curitiba (RMC) responsável por 54% da destinação. Apesar de o interior do estado possuir um maior potencial de áreas agrícolas para aplicação do lodo de esgoto, quando comparado à RMC, a expansão da atividade no interior do Paraná ainda é tímida, com somente 22% do total de 81 unidades de gerenciamento licenciadas no estado destinando o lodo para uso agrícola no ano de 2013.

ABSTRACT The agricultural use is an environmentally sustainable destination for sewage sludge because it promotes the recycling of nutrients and is beneficial to the cultivation of plants and physicochemical and biological soil characteristics. It is a worldwide consolidated alternative, which in Brazil is limited to a few states. Paraná is one of the states where the sewage sludge has agriculture as a priority disposal. This study aimed to evaluate the management of the agricultural use of sewage sludge process in the state of Paraná, Brazil, in the 2011-2013 period. There were analyzed 49 traceability reports, 337 agronomic projects and laboratory reports of 129 batches of sewage sludge. It was found that 107,416 t of sewage sludge hygienised by prolonged alkaline stabilization were applied on 5,529 ha of agricultural land in Paraná, with the Curitiba Metropolitan Region (CMR) responsible for 54% of the destination. Although the state has a greater potential of agricultural areas for the application of sewage sludge, compared to CMR, the expansion of activity in the interior of Paraná is still modest, with only 22% of the total of 81 management units licensed in the state destining the sludge for agricultural use in 2013.

Anxiety and depression symptoms in women with and without binge eating disorder enrolled in weight loss programs.

OBJECTIVES: 1) To investigate the association between binge eating scores, anxiety and depression symptoms, and body mass index (BMI), and 2) to assess the presence of differences in severity of anxiety symptoms, severity of depression symptoms, and BMI in women with and without binge eating disorder. METHOD: The sample comprised 113 women aged between 22 and 60 years (39.35±10.85) enrolled in weight loss programs in Porto Alegre, southern Brazil. The following instruments were used: structured interview, Brazilian Economic Classification Criteria, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory, and Binge Eating Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: A positive association was found between binge eating scores and the severity of anxiety symptoms (p < 0.001) and depression symptoms (p < 0.001). No significant association was observed between BMI and binge eating scores (p = 0.341). There were significant differences between women with and without binge eating disorder with regard to severity of anxiety symptoms (p < 0.001) and severity of depression symptoms (p < 0.001). Conversely, no significant differences were observed between the groups concerning BMI (p = 0.103). CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that binge eating is associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression, but not with BMI.

Zinc, copper and manganese availability in soils treated with alkaline sewage sludge from Paraná state (Brazil) / Disponibilidade de Zn, Cu e Mn em solos tratados com lodo de esgoto alcalinizado do estado do Paraná (Brasil)

ABSTRACT In Paraná, most of the sludge generated in sewage treatment plants is subjected to the prolonged alkaline stabilization process. Although it is known that the alkaline sewage sludge contains micronutrients such as Zn, Cu and Mn, little is known about the availability of these elements in soils treated with this type of sewage sludge. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the influence of alkaline sewage sludge from Paraná on Zn, Cu and Mn availability in soils. Twenty sewage treatment plants were selected throughout Paraná, where alkaline sewage sludge and the most representative agricultural soil of the each region were collected. Each soil was incubated for 60 days with alkaline sewage sludge rates (0, 10, 20, 40, and 80 Mg ha-1) from their region. Subsequently, Zn, Cu and Mn availability was determined using the Mehlich-1 extractant. The alkaline sewage sludge increased Zn availability and decreased Mn availability in most soils. Cu showed intermediate results, with increased availability, primarily in medium texture soils and decrease in most of the clayey soils. In soils with pH close to ideal for the plant growth, the alkaline sewage sludge rate should be carefully calculated so that there is no excessive increase in the pH and Zn, Cu and Mn imbalance.

RESUMO No Paraná, a maioria do lodo de esgoto gerado em estações de tratamento é submetida ao processo de estabilização alcalina prolongada. Embora seja conhecido que o lodo de esgoto alcalinizado contém micronutrientes como Zn, Cu e Mn, pouco se conhece sobre a disponibilidade desses elementos em solos tratados com esse tipo de lodo de esgoto. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a influência de lodos de esgoto alcalinizados do estado do Paraná sobre a disponibilidade de Zn, Cu e Mn no solo. Foram selecionadas vinte estações de tratamento de esgoto ao longo do Paraná, onde foram coletadas amostras de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado e amostras do solo agrícola mais representativo da região. Cada solo foi incubado por 60 dias com doses de lodo de esgoto (0, 10, 20, 40, e 80 Mg ha-1) da sua região. Posteriormente, foi determinada a disponibilidade de Zn, Cu e Mn no solo usando o extrator Mehlich-1. A aplicação de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado ao solo aumentou a disponibilidade de Zn e diminuiu a disponibilidade de Mn na maioria dos solos. Já o Cu apresentou resultados intermediários, com aumento de disponibilidade basicamente em solos de textura média e com diminuição para a maioria dos solos muito argilosos. Em solos com pH próximo ao ideal para o cultivo agrícola, a dose de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado deve ser cuidadosamente calculada para que não ocorra o aumento excessivo do pH e desbalanço nos teores de Zn, Cu e Mn.

Alkalinized sewage sludge application improves fertility of acid soils / Aplicação de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado melhora a fertilidade de solos ácidos

ABSTRACT Although it is known that alkalinized sewage sludge raises the pH of acid soils, there is limited knowledge regarding its effects on other soil fertility indicators, such as P and K availability and soil organic C content. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate how the application of alkalinized sewage sludge affects the fertility of acid soil. Twenty sewage treatment plants were selected throughout Paraná State (Brazil), and samples of alkalinized sewage sludge and samples of the most representative agricultural soil of the region were collected (covering soils with medium, clayey or very clayey texture). Each soil was incubated for 60 days with doses of sewage sludge (0, 10, 20, 40, and 80 Mg ha-1) from its region and equivalent doses of limestone. The alkalinized sewage sludge was superior to limestone in the correction of soil acidity (pH, Al3+, and H + Al3+) and P and Ca2+ availability. The sludge also increased Mg2+ availability in all soils, K+ in seven soils and organic C in three soils. The very clayey soils (higher buffering capacity) supported higher sludge doses than did clayey and medium texture soils. The alkalinized sewage sludge application in acid soils proved to be an interesting alternative to recycling this type of waste, because it improved soil fertility and could reduce costs associated with soil management and crop fertilization.

RESUMO Embora seja conhecido a capacidade do lodo de esgoto alcalinizado em elevar o pH de solos ácidos, tem-se um limitado conhecimento sobre o efeito em outros indicadores da fertilidade do solo, como disponibilidade de P e K e, teor de C orgânico no solo. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar como a aplicação de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado afeta a fertilidade de solos ácidos. Foram selecionadas vinte estações de tratamento de esgoto ao longo do Paraná (Brasil), onde foram coletadas amostras de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado e amostras do solo agrícola mais representativo da região (abrangendo solos com textura média, argilosa ou muito argilosa). Cada solo foi incubado por 60 dias com doses de lodo de esgoto (0, 10, 20, 40, e 80 Mg ha-1) da sua região e com doses equivalentes de calcário. O lodo de esgoto alcalinizado foi superior ao calcário na correção da acidez do solo (pH, Al3+ e H+Al3+) e na elevação da disponibilidade P e Ca2+. O lodo também aumentou a disponibilidade de Mg2+ em todos os solos, K+ em sete solos e C orgânico em três solos. Os solos muito argilosos (alta poder tampão) suportam maior dose de lodo em comparação aos solos de textura argilosa e média. A aplicação de lodo de esgoto alcalinizado em solos ácidos demonstrou ser uma interessante alternativa para reciclar esse tipo de resíduo, pois melhorou a fertilidade dos solos e pode vir a reduzir custos com manejo do solo e adubação das culturas.

Sorção de poluentes orgânicos emergentes em lodo de esgoto / Sorption of emerging organic pollutants on wastewater sludge

RESUMO O uso de lodo de esgoto na agricultura promove a reciclagem de nutrientes e de matéria orgânica, trazendo benefícios ao desenvolvimento vegetal e à conservação do solo e da água. No entanto, é crescente a preocupação com poluentes orgânicos que possam estar no lodo de esgoto. A presença de medicamentos (antibióticos, tranquilizantes, antiepilépticos), hormônios (naturais e sintéticos), perfumes, bactericidas, entre outros poluentes orgânicos, em diferentes compartimentos ambientais é uma questão emergente, devido à escassez de informações sobre o impacto potencial associado à sua ocorrência, seu destino e efeitos ecotoxicológicos. Esses compostos, denominados poluentes orgânicos emergentes, podem ser removidos durante o tratamento de esgoto por degradação, transformação biológica, volatilização e/ou sorção ao lodo. Esses processos são influenciados pelas propriedades físicas e químicas do poluente e pelas condições de tratamento do esgoto. Informações sobre características físico-químicas, como potencial de acidez e hidrofobicidade, são importantes para compreender os mecanismos de remoção e para adoção de medidas que favoreçam a remoção de tais poluentes, como por exemplo a alteração nas condições operacionais e/ou adoção de tecnologias. A presente revisão bibliográfica apresenta as características físico-químicas de poluentes orgânicos emergentes e seu potencial de sorção em lodo de esgoto.

ABSTRACT The agricultural use of wastewater sludge promotes the recycling of nutrients and organic matter, bringing benefits to the plant development and the soil and water conservation. However, there is a growing concern about organic pollutants that may be in wastewater sludge. The presence of pharmaceuticals (antibiotics, tranquilizers, antiepileptics), hormones (natural and synthetic), musk fragrances, bactericides, and other organic pollutants in various environmental compartments is an emerging issue due to the lack of information on the potential impact associated with their occurrence, their fate and ecotoxicological effects. These compounds, termed emerging organic pollutants, may be removed during sewage treatment due to degradation, biological transformation, volatilization and/or sorption onto sludge particles. These processes are influenced by the physical-chemical properties of the pollutant and the conditions of sewage treatment. Information on physical and chemical characteristics, such as potential acidity and hydrophobicity, are important for understanding the patterns of removal and to adopt measures that favor the removal of these pollutants, such as changes in operating conditions and/or adoption of technologies. This literature review presents the physico-chemical emerging organic pollutants characteristics and their potential sorption on wastewater sludge.

Microinjection of GABAergic agents into the anterior nucleus of the thalamus modulates pilocarpine-induced seizures and status epilepticus.

The anterior nucleus of the thalamus (AN) has been suggested as a potential target for seizure modulation in animal models and patients with refractory epilepsy. We investigate whether microinjections of GABAergic agonists into the AN were protective against pilocarpine-induced generalized seizures and status epilepticus (SE). Rats were treated with bilateral AN injections of muscimol (160 or 80 nmol), bicuculline (15 nmol), or saline (controls) 20 min prior to pilocarpine administration (350 mg/kg i.p.). Electrographic recordings were used to confirm seizure activity. We found that pretreatment with AN muscimol 160 nmol increased the latency to seizures and SE by 2.5-3.0-fold. This dose however was associated with side effects, particularly hypotonia. AN bicuculline was proconvulsant, whereas no major effect was observed after muscimol 80 nmol injections. The percentage of animals that developed SE was similar across groups. Overall, microinjection of high doses of muscimol into the AN delayed the occurrence of pilocarpine-induced seizures and SE but was not able to prevent these events.

TREATMENT OF PARALYTIC HIP DISLOCATION AMONG SPASTIC QUADRIPLEGIC CEREBRAL PALSY PATIENTS BY MEANS OF FEMORAL AND PELVIC OSTEOTOMY, WITHOUT OPENING THE JOINT CAPSULE (CAPSULOPLASTY).

OBJECTIVES: To show the preoperative planning and results from surgical treatment for paralytic hip dislocation among patients with cerebral palsy. The techniques used were proximal femoral varus derotation osteotomy in association with Dega iliac osteotomy, without opening the joint capsule. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of ten hips in eight patients with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy who underwent surgical treatment between 2003 and 2005, with the same surgical technique. The pre and postoperative clinical and radiological parameters, and the preoperative planning using an image intensifier, were assessed. The clinical parameters analyzed were: pain, hygiene-related difficulties and positioning difficulties. The radiological parameters were Reimer's index, the acetabular index and the neck-shaft angle. These results were subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: We obtained good results with this technique. After a mean follow-up of three years, all the hips were observed to be stable at the last assessment, and there was a high degree of satisfaction among the families in relation to the treatment. We also showed that preoperative planning using an image intensifier allowed us to reduce and stabilize these hips without the need for capsuloplasty. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that in treating hip dislocation among spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy patients, capsuloplasty is unnecessary for stabilizing the coxofemoral joint.

Anterior thalamus deep brain stimulation at high current impairs memory in rats.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the anterior thalamic nucleus (AN), an important relay in the circuitry of memory, is currently being proposed as a treatment for epilepsy. Despite the encouraging results with the use of this therapy, potential benefits and adverse effects are yet to be determined. We show that AN stimulation at relatively high current disrupted the acquisition of contextual fear conditioning and impaired performance on a spatial alternating task in rats. This has not been observed at parameters generating a charge density that approximated the one used in clinical practice. At settings that impaired behavior, AN stimulation induced a functional depolarization block nearby the electrode, increased c-Fos expression in cerebral regions projecting to and receiving projections from the AN, and influenced hippocampal activity. This suggests that complex mechanisms might be involved in the effects of AN DBS, including a local target inactivation and the modulation of structures at a distance. Though translating data from animals to humans has to be considered with caution, our study underscores the need for carefully monitoring memory function while selecting stimulation parameters during the clinical evaluation of AN DBS.

Distribution of the protein IMPACT, an inhibitor of GCN2, in the mouse, rat, and marmoset brain.

IMPACT is an inhibitor of GCN2, a kinase that phosphorylates the alpha subunit of the translation initiation factor 2 (eIF2 alpha). GCN2 has been implicated in regulating feeding behavior and learning and memory in mice. IMPACT is highly abundant in the brain, suggesting its relevance in the control of GCN2 activation in the central nervous system. We describe here the distribution of IMPACT in the brain of rodents (mice and rats) and of a primate (marmoset) using highly specific antibodies raised against the mouse IMPACT protein. Neurons expressing high levels of IMPACT were found in most areas of the brain. In the hippocampal formation the lack of IMPACT in the dentate gyrus granule cells was striking. The hypothalamus is exceptionally rich in neurons expressing high levels of IMPACT, particularly in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. The only exception to this pattern was the ventromedial nucleus. The thalamic neurons are mostly devoid of IMPACT, with the exception of the paraventricular, reuniens and reticular nuclei, and intergeniculate leaf. The brainstem displayed high levels of IMPACT. For the marmoset, IMPACT expression in the brain is not as prominent when compared to other organs. In the marmoset brain the pattern of IMPACT expression was similar to rodents in most areas, except for the very strong labeling of the Purkinje cells, the lack of IMPACT-positive neurons in the nucleus reuniens, and weak labeling of interneurons in the hippocampus. GCN1, the activator of GCN2 to which IMPACT binds, is widely distributed in all neuronal populations, and all IMPACT-positive cells were also GCN1-positive. The data presented herein suggest that IMPACT may be involved in biochemical homeostatic mechanisms that would prevent GCN2 activation and therefore ATF4 (CREB-2) synthesis in neurons.

Lodos de esgoto alcalinizados em solos do estado do Paraná: taxa de aplicação máxima anual e comparação entre métodos para recomendação agrícola / Alkaline sewage sludge on soils of Paraná state: maximum annual application rate and comparison between methods for agricultural recommendation

Para o uso agrícola do lodo de esgoto higienizado por processo de estabilização alcalina prolongada (lodo EAP), além de estabelecer limites de aplicação máxima conforme a legislação, é necessário estudar atributos dos lodos e dos solos que favoreçam as metodologias de sua recomendação. Objetivou-se determinar a taxa de aplicação máxima anual (TAMA) de lodo EAP pelo critério de elevação do pH para 20 lodos e solos do estado do Paraná; determinar a influência dos atributos desses solos nos valores da TAMA de lodo EAP; avaliar o uso dos métodos de saturação por bases (V%) e pH referência (SMP), utilizando como padrão o método da incubação. Empregou-se o ensaio de incubação para lodo EAP aplicado ao solo, conforme metodologia oficial. Os resultados indicam que as TAMA de lodo EAP variaram de 10 a >80 Mg.ha-1 para as 20 regionais estudadas; Os atributos químicos (capacidade de troca de cátions, H+Al e carbono) e físico (argila) são os que melhor definem a determinação da TAMA, apresentando relação diretamente proporcional. Os métodos do V% e do pH referência (SMP) para pH H2O 5,5 mostraram-se seguros quanto à recomendação agrícola.

For agricultural use of alkalinized sludge (AS), beyond to establish the maximum application limits to comply with the legislation, it is necessary to study the attributes of sludges and soils that favor the methodologies of its recommendation. The objectives of this study were to determine the maximum annual application rate (MAAR) of alkalinized sludge (AS) according to the pH elevation criterion for 20 sludge origins and soils of the Paraná state; to determine the influence of soil attributes over the MAAR of AS; to evaluate two methods rate calculation for AS, the base saturation (V%) and pH reference (SMP) by comparing with the standard incubation methodology for AS sludge application. It was used incubation test for AS applied to soil, following official methodology. The results indicated that the MAAR were ranged 10 to >80 Mg.ha-1, for the 20 regions; the chemical properties (cation exchange capacity, H+Al and carbon) and physical properties (clay) were the best parameters to the determination of the MAAR, showing direct relationship; the V% and SMP (pH H2O 5,5) methods were safe to the agricultural recommendation.

Aplicação de lodos de estações de tratamento de água e de tratamento de esgoto em solo degradado / Application of sludges from water treatment plant and from sewage treatment plant in degraded soil

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da aplicação de lodo de Estação de Tratamento de Água (ETA) em solo degradado, com presença e ausência de lodo de Estação de Tratamento de Esgoto (ETE), na produtividade do milheto e nas características de fertilidade desse solo. A área experimental foi resultante de depósito de materiais oriundos da construção da ETE Padilha Sul, em Curitiba (PR). Os blocos casualizados foram arranjados em parcelas subdivididas e uma testemunha, sendo a parcela principal constituída por ausência e presença de lodo de ETE (77 Mg.ha-1 Sólidos Totais - ST) e a subparcela por doses de lodo de ETA (24, 37 e 61 Mg.ha-1 (ST)). Concluiu-se que a aplicação de lodo de ETA não teve efeito sobre a produtividade de milheto, tampouco sobre os teores dos elementos avaliados no solo. No entanto, na presença do lodo de esgoto, a sua aplicação foi favorável à dinâmica do nitrogênio do solo até à dose de 37 Mg.ha-1 e a aplicação do lodo de ETE neutralizou o alumínio trocável, elevou o pH, o cálcio, carbono, fósforo e a saturação de bases, e reduziu a acidez potencial do solo.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Sludge Water Treatment Plant (WTP) in degraded soil in the presence and absence of sludge Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), in the millet productivity and in the soil fertility characteristics. The experimental area was due to materials deposit from the construction of ETE Padilha Sul, in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil. The randomized blocks were arranged in split plots and a witness, being the main plot, constituted by the absence and presence of STP sludge (77 Mg.ha-1 Total Solids - TS) and subplot by doses of WTS (24, 37 and 61 Mg.ha-1 TS). It was concluded that the application of WTS had no effect on the productivity of millet, nor about the proportion of elements evaluated in the soil. However, in the presence of sewage sludge, its application was favorable to the dynamic of nitrogen until the dose 37 Mg.ha-1 and the application of sludge STP neutralized the exchangeable aluminum, increased the pH, calcium, carbon, phosphorus and base saturation, and reduced the potential soil acidity.

Motivação para mudança: análise fatorial da URICA para hábitos alimentares / Motivation for change: factor analysis of the URICA for eating habits / Motivación para cambio: análisis factorial de la URICA para hábitos alimentarios

O presente estudo objetivou realizar a adaptação da URICA para avaliação da motivação para a mudança de hábitos alimentares e posterior redução da versão de 32 para a de 24 itens, mediante análise fatorial exploratória e de índices de fidedignidade. Trata-se de um estudo de cunho instrumental, realizado com 175 participantes de programas de redução de peso do sul do Brasil. A análise fatorial apontou uma solução de 4 fatores, referentes aos 4 estágios de motivação para a mudança e apresentou um alpha de Cronbach total de 0,842, que variou de 0,813 a 0,940 entre os 4 domínios.

This study aimed to perform the adaptation of URICA to assess motivation to change eating habits and the subsequent reduction from 32 to 24 items through exploratory factor analysis and reliability indices. This is an instrumental nature study, conducted with 175 participants in weight reduction programs from the South of Brazil. The factor analysis yielded a solution of four factors, relating to the four stages of motivation for change and Cronbach's Alpha showed a total of 0.84, which ranged from 0.814 to 0.94 among the four domains.

El presente estudio objetivó realizar la adaptación de la URICA para evaluación de la motivación para el cambio de hábitos alimentarios y posterior reducción de la versión de 32 para 24 ítems, a través de análisis factorial exploratorio y de índices de fiabilidad. Se trata de un estudio de carácter instrumental, realizado con 175 participantes de programas de reducción de peso del sur de Brasil. El análisis factorial apuntó una solución de 4 factores, referentes a los 4 estadios de motivación para el cambio y presentó un Alpha de Cronbach total de 0,842, que varió de 0,813 a 0,940 entre los 4 dominios.