New Additions to the Mammal List Documented in the Portuguese Red Data Book.

This study outlines the procedures used for collecting, processing, and categorizing data on 16 new mammal species for mainland Portugal, belonging to four taxonomic groups: Eulipotyphla (1), Chiroptera (4), Rodentia (2), and Cetacea (9). Data collection and processing encompassed field and lab work and bibliographic compilation. Data categorization involves, whenever possible, the assessment of the approximate number of mature individuals in populations, the extent of occurrence, and the area of occupancy. The approach employed led to the classification of eight out of the 16 species into an IUCN category: two non-volant small mammals and one bat species were designated as Vulnerable, requiring ongoing monitoring; one rodent and three cetaceans were assigned to Data Deficient due to insufficient available information; and a single bat species was classified as Least Concern due to the high abundance of local populations. For small mammals and bats, alterations to natural systems and climate change emerged as the most relevant threatening factors, while for cetaceans, human activities such as fishing, commercial shipping, and tourism were identified as the primary survival risks. It is recommended to maintain action programs that assist in defining strategic orientations for the implementation of conservation measures on a case-by-case basis.

Hernia 3D training model: a new inguinal hernia 3D-printed simulator.

OBJECTIVE: Barros et al. demonstrated a 3D printed model that exhibits anatomical representativeness, low cost, and scalability. The model was created based on subtraction data obtained from computed tomography scans. Images were modeled and reconstructed in 3D to display the male inguinal region, typically viewed using a laparoscopic approach. To evaluate the functionality and quality of the anatomical representation of the hernia 3D training model. METHODS: A model was created based on subtraction data derived from computed tomography scans of the pelvic bones and lumbar spine using the Blender 3.2.2 software program. Images were modeled and reconstructed in 3D to display the male inguinal region, typically viewed using a laparoscopic approach. Polylactic acid plastic was used to print the model. Some structures were made using ethylene vinyl acetate to enable possible material replacement and model reutilization. Thirty surgeons with various training levels were invited to use the model. Transabdominal inguinal hernioplasty was performed by simulating the same steps as those of a laparoscopic surgery, and the surgeons answered a questionnaire regarding the simulation. RESULTS: Twenty-eight surgeons responded, seven of whom were experts in the treatment of abdominal wall hernias. The model was deemed easy to use, realistic, and anatomically precise, establishing it as a valuable supplement to minimally invasive surgery training. CONCLUSION: The evaluation of this 3D model was favorable, as it accurately depicted the inguinal region anatomically, while also proving to be cost-effective for training purposes. The model could be a good option, particularly beneficial for training surgeons at the beginning of their careers.

Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young Type 3 (MODY 3): A Rare Presentation of Diabetes in Primary Care.

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a genetic form of diabetes with an autosomal dominant pattern of transmission characterized by dysfunction in pancreatic ß-cells. MODY type 3 (MODY 3) is caused by heterozygous mutations in the hepatocyte nuclear factor 1-α (HNF1A) gene and is sensitive to treatment with sulfonylureas. This case report approaches the diagnostic journey of a 46-year-old woman who was initially misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Despite adherence to pharmacological and lifestyle interventions, her glycemic control deteriorated. A comprehensive family history revealed a strong familial prevalence of diabetes. Genetic testing confirmed MODY 3, leading to the initiation of sulfonylurea therapy and subsequent glycemic control. This case emphasizes the diagnostic hurdles associated with MODY in primary care and the critical role of a genogram analysis in revealing familial patterns and giving strategies for personalized treatment.

MAMMALS IN PORTUGAL: A data set of terrestrial, volant, and marine mammal occurrences in Portugal.

Mammals are threatened worldwide, with ~26% of all species being included in the IUCN threatened categories. This overall pattern is primarily associated with habitat loss or degradation, and human persecution for terrestrial mammals, and pollution, open net fishing, climate change, and prey depletion for marine mammals. Mammals play a key role in maintaining ecosystems functionality and resilience, and therefore information on their distribution is crucial to delineate and support conservation actions. MAMMALS IN PORTUGAL is a publicly available data set compiling unpublished georeferenced occurrence records of 92 terrestrial, volant, and marine mammals in mainland Portugal and archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira that includes 105,026 data entries between 1873 and 2021 (72% of the data occurring in 2000 and 2021). The methods used to collect the data were: live observations/captures (43%), sign surveys (35%), camera trapping (16%), bioacoustics surveys (4%) and radiotracking, and inquiries that represent less than 1% of the records. The data set includes 13 types of records: (1) burrows | soil mounds | tunnel, (2) capture, (3) colony, (4) dead animal | hair | skulls | jaws, (5) genetic confirmation, (6) inquiries, (7) observation of live animal (8), observation in shelters, (9) photo trapping | video, (10) predators diet | pellets | pine cones/nuts, (11) scat | track | ditch, (12) telemetry and (13) vocalization | echolocation. The spatial uncertainty of most records ranges between 0 and 100 m (76%). Rodentia (n =31,573) has the highest number of records followed by Chiroptera (n = 18,857), Carnivora (n = 18,594), Lagomorpha (n = 17,496), Cetartiodactyla (n = 11,568) and Eulipotyphla (n = 7008). The data set includes records of species classified by the IUCN as threatened (e.g., Oryctolagus cuniculus [n = 12,159], Monachus monachus [n = 1,512], and Lynx pardinus [n = 197]). We believe that this data set may stimulate the publication of other European countries data sets that would certainly contribute to ecology and conservation-related research, and therefore assisting on the development of more accurate and tailored conservation management strategies for each species. There are no copyright restrictions; please cite this data paper when the data are used in publications.

Predictive Score for Carbapenem-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacilli Sepsis: Single-Center Prospective Cohort Study.

A clinical-epidemiological score to predict CR-GNB sepsis to guide empirical antimicrobial therapy (EAT), using local data, persists as an unmet need. On the basis of a case-case-control design in a prospective cohort study, the predictive factors for CR-GNB sepsis were previously determined as prior infection, use of mechanical ventilation and carbapenem, and length of hospital stay. In this study, each factor was scored according to the logistic regression coefficients, and the ROC curve analysis determined its accuracy in predicting CR-GNB sepsis in the entire cohort. Among the total of 629 admissions followed by 7797 patient-days, 329 single or recurrent episodes of SIRS/sepsis were enrolled, from August 2015 to March 2017. At least one species of CR-GNB was identified as the etiology in 108 (33%) episodes, and 221 were classified as the control group. The cutoff point of ≥3 (maximum of 4) had the best sensitivity/specificity, while ≤1 showed excellent sensitivity to exclude CR-GNB sepsis. The area under the curve was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.76-0.85) and the number needed to treat was 2.0. The score may improve CR-GNB coverage and spare polymyxins with 22% (95% CI: 17-28%) adequacy rate change. The score has a good ability to predict CR-GNB sepsis and to guide EAT in the future.

Use of dentifrices and mouthwashes during orthodontic treatment in the clinical management of orthodontists / Utilização de dentifrícios e colutórios durante o tratamento ortodôntico na conduta clínica dos ortodontistas

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of orthodontic professionals regarding the prescription of dentifrices and antiseptics during orthodontic treatment. Methods: An observational and descriptive exploratory study of national scope was conducted with 440 Brazilian orthodontists, based on previous sample calculations, to evaluate the clinical practice of orthodontists in prescribing dentifrices and antiseptics. Self-managed electronic questionnaires were sent to orthodontic professionals. The data were analyzed by means of absolute and relative frequency distribution tables. Results: It was verified that the most indicated mouthwash (39.8%) was Colgate Periogard® and 421 of the participants (95.7%) know its active ingredient (chlorhexidine digluconate). Besides Colgate Periogard® antiseptic, the participants were also questioned about which active ingredient present on the following antiseptics, whose assertive answers were in the following order of %, Cepacol® (Sanofi-Aventis®) with 60.7%, Colgate Plax® (Colgate®) with 54.5% and Listerine® (Jhonson&Jhonson®) with 51.6%. As for the chlorhexidine therapeutic regime, 63.9% have stated assertively its use, being this one of 2 times a day during 7 to 10 days. The most indicated tooth was Colgate Total 12®, and 60.18% of these individuals correctly indicated its active compound. Conclusion: According to the methodology employed, it could be concluded that orthodontic professionals know and prescribe methods of chemical control to patients during orthodontic treatment and most identify the active chemical compounds present in antiseptic and tooth formulas.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento dos profissionais da ortodontia quanto à prescrição de dentifrícios e antissépticos durante o tratamento ortodôntico. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo observacional e descritivo exploratório de abrangência nacional com 440 ortodontistas brasileiros, baseado em cálculo amostral prévio, para avaliação da prática clínica dos ortodontistas na prescrição de dentifrícios e antissépticos. Questionários eletrônicos auto administrados foram enviados aos profissionais da Ortodontia. Os dados foram analisados por meio de tabelas de distribuição de frequência absolutas e relativas. Resultados: Verificou-se que o antisséptico bucal mais indicado (39,8%) foi o Colgate Periogard® (Colgate®) e 421 dos participantes (95,7%) conhecem o seu ingrediente ativo (digluconato de clorexidina). Além do antisséptico Colgate Periogard®, os participantes também foram questionados sobre qual o ingrediente ativo presente nos seguintes antissépticos, cujas respostas assertivas estavam na seguinte ordem %, Cepacol® (Sanofi-Aventis®) com 60,7%, Colgate Plax® (Colgate®) com 54,5% e Listerine® (Jhonson&Jhonson®) com 51,6%. Quanto ao regime terapêutico da clorexidina 63,9% indicaram assertivamente sua utilização sendo a mesma de 2 vezes ao dia durante 7 a 10 dias. O dentifrício mais indicado foi o Colgate Total 12®, sendo que 60,18% desses indivíduos indicaram corretamente seu composto ativo. Conclusão: De acordo com a metodologia empregada, pôde-se concluir que os profissionais da ortodontia conhecem e prescrevem métodos de controle químico aos pacientes durante o tratamento ortodôntico e a maioria identifica os compostos químicos ativos presentes nas fórmulas de antissépticos e dentifrícios.

Dor crônica inguinal, estamos atentos a essa complicação? / Chronic groin pain, are we aware of this complication?

A cirurgia de hérnia inguinal (HI) é um dos procedimentos mais comuns na prática do cirurgião geral. Estima-se que 20 milhões dessas operações sejam realizadas no mundo anualmente. Com o advento da técnica sem tensão e implante de tela sintética, as taxas de recidiva caíram expressivamente e a recidiva deixou de ser a principal complicação tardia após o reparo da hérnia inguinal. Hoje a principal complicação pós-operatória tardia da cirurgia de HI é a dor crônica inguinal pós-operatória (DCIP). A definição de DCIP é a dor pós-operatória da região inguinal após 3-6 meses da cirurgia. Relatamos o caso de um jovem paciente do sexo masculino que se apresentou com DCIP após ter sido previamente submetido a duas herniorrafias inguinais. Inicialmente apresentava dor inguinal a esquerda sem abaulamento evidente e na ocasião foi submetido a herniorrafia inguinal esquerda pela técnica de Lichtenstein. Não houve resolução da dor após a cirurgia. Após 1 ano foi novamente operado, dessa vez bilateralmente e infelizmente evoluiu com piora da dor apresentava dor predominantemente neuropática (em queimação e com irradiação para região testicular bilateralmente) e intensidade moderada (escala visual analógica 6), sem melhora com anti-inflamatórios não esteroidais ou analgésicos. Apresentava dor ao toque do anel inguinal externo bilateralmente, hiperestesia no teritório de nervos genito-femoral, ílio-hipogástrico e ílio-inguinal do lado esquerdo e hipoestesia no território dos três nervos do lado direito. Apresentou alívio temporário da dor após bloqueio anestésico inguinal bilateral. Paciente foi então submetido a triplo-neurectomia bilateral com remoção das telas de polipropileno. Em seguimento um ano após o tratamento cirúrgico, o paciente permanece sem dor inguinal. [au]

Inguinal hernia (IH) surgery is one of the most common procedures in the practice of the general surgeon. With adoption of tension-free technique and synthetic mesh implantation, recurrence rates decreased and recurrence is no longer the main late complication after IH repair. Currently, the main late postoperative complication of IH repair is chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP). CPIP is defined as postoperative pain in the inguinal region persisting 3-6 months after surgery. We report the case of a young male patient who presented with CPIP after having undergone two inguinal hernia repairs. Initially, he had left inguinal pain without evident bulging and underwent left inguinal herniorrhaphy using the Lichtenstein technique. There was no relief of pain after surgery. After 1 year, he underwent surgery again, this time bilaterally and unfortunately the pain got worse. He had predominantly neuropathic pain (burning and irradiated to the testicular region bilaterally) and moderate intensity (visual analogue scale 6) refractory to medical management. He had hyperesthesia on the territory of the genitofemoral, iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves on the left side and hypoesthesia in the territory of the three nerves on the right side. A local anesthetic inguinal block provided temporary relief. We performed a bilateral triple neurectomy with removal of the polypropylene mesh. Followed up one year after surgical treatment, the patient remains without inguinal pain. [au]

Biomechanical and adhesion comparison of linea alba prophylactic reinforcement with coated and uncoated three-dimensional T-shaped mesh in rabbits.

PURPOSE: Incisional hernia (IH) is a frequent complication of median laparotomy. The use of prophylactic mesh to reduce IH incidence has gained increasing attention. We hypothesized that in an animal model, linea alba prophylactic reinforcement with a three-dimensional T-shaped polypropylene mesh results in greater abdominal wall resistance. METHODS: Study was performed in 27 rabbits. After abdominal midline incision, animals were divided into three groups according to the laparotomy closure method used: (1)3D T-shaped coated mesh; (2)3D T-shaped uncoated mesh; and (3) closure without mesh. After 4 months, each animal's abdominal wall was resected and tensiometric tests were applied. Results included IH occurrence, adhesions to the mesh, and wound complications. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups in maximum tensile strength (p=0.250) or abdominal wall elongation under maximum stress (p=0.839). One rabbit from the control group developed IH (p=1.00). Small intestine and colon adhesions occurred only in the uncoated mesh group (p<0.001) and the degree of adhesions was higher in this group compared to the coated mesh group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Use of the current 3D T-shaped prophylactic mesh model did not result in a significant difference in tensiometric measurements when compared with simple abdominal wall closure in rabbits.

Applicability of optical coherence tomography in blue-fronted parrots (Amazona aestiva).

OBJECTIVE: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurement of adult blue-fronted parrots (Amazona aestiva), free from infectious, inflammatory or neoplastic systemic diseases and from any ophthalmological illness, aim at its characterization, as well as to standardize the examination technique for the species. PROCEDURE: Pupillary dilation was achieved with rocuronium bromide (5 mg/mL) at 0, 2, 15, 17, 30, and 32 minutes. The animals were sedated with midazolam maleate (0.5 mg/kg/IM) and anesthetized with propofol (5.0 mg/kg/IV). Measurements were made to evaluate the thickness of the total retina (TR), sensorineural retinal (SR), and ganglion cell complex (GCC), 2 millimeters (mm) from the pecten toward the fovea. OCT data were compared to measurements of retinal histological slides from enucleated eyes of blue-fronted parrots, scanned in automatic fluorescence microscope and measured with by the VS-ASW® software. RESULTS: Averages of measurements from the 43 retinas evaluated by OCT were TR: 279.40 micrometers (µm), SR: 255.90 µm, and GCC: 138.60 µm, respectively, and the measurements of six retinas using fluorescence microscopy were 260.30 µm for TR, 238.20 µm for SR, and 129.30 µm for GCC, demonstrating a high correlation coefficient between all measurements (r = .8698, P < .0001). It is also possible to evaluate the anatomy of the retina and to identify its layers, variations and abnormalities using OCT images. Variations were found between the different areas of the retina, both in the images of the histological slides and in the images of the OCT. CONCLUSION: Optical coherence tomography is a valuable technique for in vivo evaluation of retinal structures in blue-front parrots, providing detailed and accurate images. This method improves the understanding of retinal diseases, monitoring the beginning, progression and therapy of retinal diseases, in the same individuals during longitudinal studies. In comparison to histological investigations, OCT enables imaging in vivo, therefore reducing the number of euthanized animals or enucleated eyes.

Biomechanical and adhesion comparison of linea alba prophylactic reinforcement with coated and uncoated three-dimensional T-shaped mesh in rabbits

Abstract Purpose: Incisional hernia (IH) is a frequent complication of median laparotomy. The use of prophylactic mesh to reduce IH incidence has gained increasing attention. We hypothesized that in an animal model, linea alba prophylactic reinforcement with a three-dimensional T-shaped polypropylene mesh results in greater abdominal wall resistance. Methods: Study was performed in 27 rabbits. After abdominal midline incision, animals were divided into three groups according to the laparotomy closure method used: (1)3D T-shaped coated mesh; (2)3D T-shaped uncoated mesh; and (3) closure without mesh. After 4 months, each animal's abdominal wall was resected and tensiometric tests were applied. Results included IH occurrence, adhesions to the mesh, and wound complications. Results: There was no significant difference between the groups in maximum tensile strength (p=0.250) or abdominal wall elongation under maximum stress (p=0.839). One rabbit from the control group developed IH (p=1.00). Small intestine and colon adhesions occurred only in the uncoated mesh group (p<0.001) and the degree of adhesions was higher in this group compared to the coated mesh group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Use of the current 3D T-shaped prophylactic mesh model did not result in a significant difference in tensiometric measurements when compared with simple abdominal wall closure in rabbits.

Endocrine profile of the VCD-induced perimenopausal model rat.

During the transition to menopause, women experience a variety of physical and psychological symptoms that are directly or indirectly linked to changes in hormone secretion. Establishing animal models with intact ovaries is essential for understanding these interactions and finding new therapeutic targets. In this study, we assessed the endocrine profile, as well as the estrous cycle, in the 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-induced follicular depletion rat model in 10-day intervals over 1 month to accurately establish the best period for studies of the transition period. Twenty-eight-day-old female rats were injected daily with VCD or oil s.c. for 15 days and euthanized in the diestrus phase approximately 70, 80, 90 and 100 days after the onset of treatment. The percentage of rats showing irregular cycles and the plasma level of FSH increased only in the 100-day VCD group. Plasma anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and progesterone were lower in all VCD groups compared to control groups, while estradiol remained unchanged or higher. As in control groups, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) progressively decreased in the 70-90-day VCD groups; however, it was followed by a sharp increase only in the 100-day VCD group. No changes were found in plasma corticosterone, prolactin, thyroid hormones or luteinizing hormone. Based on the estrous cycle and endocrine profile, we conclude that 1) the time window from 70 to 100 days is suitable to study a perimenopause-like state in this model, and 2) regular cycles with low progesterone and AMH and normal FSH can be used as markers of the early/mid-transition period, whereas irregular cycles associated with higher FSH and DHT can be used as markers of the late transition period to estropause.

Wing membrane and fur samples as reliable biological matrices to measure bioaccumulation of metals and metalloids in bats.

There is a growing conservation concern about the possible consequences of environmental contamination in the health of bat communities. Most studies on the effects of contaminants in bats have been focused on organic contaminants, and the consequences of bat exposure to metals and metalloids remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of external biological matrices (fur and wing membrane) for the assessment of exposure and bioaccumulation of metals in bats. The concentration of arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, manganese, nickel, lead, selenium and zinc was measured in internal organs (liver, heart, brain), internal (bone) and external tissues (wing membrane, fur) collected from bat carcasses of four species (Hypsugo savii, Nyctalus leisleri, Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Pipistrellus pygmaeus) obtained in windfarm mortality searches. With the exception of zinc (P = 0.223), the results showed significant differences between the concentrations of metals in the analyzed tissues for all metals (P < 0.05). Significant differences were also found between organs/tissues (P < 0.001), metals (P < 0.001) and a significant interaction between organs/tissues and metals was found (P < 0.001). Despite these results, the patterns in terms of metal accumulation were similar for all samples. Depending on the metal, the organ/tissue that showed the highest concentrations varied, but fur and wing had the highest concentrations for most metals. The variability obtained in terms of metal concentrations in different tissues highlights the need to define standardized methods capable of being applied in monitoring bat populations worldwide. The results indicate that wing membrane and fur, biological matrices that may be collected from living bats, yield reliable results and may be useful for studies on bats ecotoxicology, coupled to a standardized protocol for large-scale investigation of metal accumulation.

Effect of 16-week blood flow restriction exercise on functional fitness in sarcopenic women: a randomized controlled trial / Efecto del ejercicio de restricción del flujo sanguíneo de 16 semanas sobre la aptitud funcional en mujeres sarcopénicas: un ensayo controlado aleatorio

SUMMARY: We investigated the effect of the intervention using the BFR method on functional capacity after 16 weeks in elderly women. In a controlled clinical trial, 23 women were randomly allocated into two groups, low-intensity exercise with blood flow restriction (LI + BFR, N = 11, Age: 69.40 ± 5.73) and control group (CG, N = 12, Age: 69.00 ± 6.39). The LI + BFR group had a volume of 75 repetitions at 20-30 % of 1RM and 3-4 sets per exercise (30, 15, 15 and repetitions with 30" rest between sets). The CG did not undergo any type of exercise. Functional capacity, anthropometry and sarcopenia were verified through a battery of tests before and after 16 weeks. The LI + BFR group had significant improvement in performance in Handgrip strength, Chair Stand, Arm curl, 2.44 Up-and-Go and 6 min walk, Sit-andreach and Back Scratch (p<0.05) after the intervention. The elderly women were still classified as sarcopenic, despite the improvement in the Muscle Mass Index (p<0.01). CG did not present significant changes. The BFR method can be an effective in the intervention process using physical exercise as an auxiliary strategy in the control of sarcopenia, providing a physical profile during the aging process.

RESUMEN: Investigamos en mujeres ancianas el efecto de la intervención utilizando el método de restricción del flujo sanguíneo en la capacidad funcional, después de 16 semanas. En un ensayo clínico controlado, 23 mujeres fueron asignadas aleatoriamente en dos grupos; ejercicio de baja intensidad con restricción de flujo sanguíneo (BI + RFS, N = 11, edad: 69,40 ± 5,73) y grupo control (GC, N = 12, Edad: 69,00 ± 6,39). El grupo BI + RFS tuvo un volumen de 75 repeticiones al 20-30 % de 1RM y 3-4 series por ejercicio (30, 15, 15 y repeticiones con 30 " de descanso entre series). El GC no fue sometido a ningún tipo de ejercicio. La capacidad funcional, la antropometría y la sarcopenia se verificaron mediante una batería de pruebas antes y después de 16 semanas. El grupo BI + RFS tuvo una mejora significativa en el rendimiento de la fuerza de la empuñadura, soporte de la silla, curvatura del brazo, 2,44 up-and-go y 6 min, 'sit-and-reach' 'Back Scratch' (p<0,05) después de la intervención. Las mujeres de edad avanzada seguían clasificadas como sarcopénicas, a pesar de la mejora en el índice de masa muscular (p<0,01). El GC no presentó cambios significativos. El método de restricción del flujo sanguíneo puede ser efectivo en el proceso de intervención utilizando ejercicio físico como estrategia auxiliar en el control de la sarcopenia, proporcionando un perfil físico durante el proceso de envejecimiento.

Retina assessment by optical coherence tomography of diabetic dogs / Avaliação da retina de cães diabéticos pela tomografia de coerência óptica

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common endocrine disorders characterized by relative or absolute lack of insulin; this can lead to several ocular manifestations, among them diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microangiopathy that involves retinal precapillary arterioles, postcapillary venules, and large vessels, causing them to be functionally and anatomically incompetent. Hyperglycemia seems to be the most probable cause of damage to the retina due to interference in cellular metabolism and transduction processes. The aim of this study was to evaluate retinal thickness in eight diabetic dogs, four females and four males of different breeds and ages ranging from 6 to 15 years, by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and to compare them with non-diabetic dogs. Assessment provided by OCT in diabetic dogs showed retinal layers thinning and loss of stratification when compared to non-diabetic dogs (198μm versus 219μm respectively), with statistical significance (p=0.008). OCT images may suggest that diabetes mellitus causes retinal neuropathy in dogs, as also seen in diabetic humans.(AU)

Diabete melito é umas das principais endocrinopatias, caracterizada pela deficiência relativa ou absoluta de insulina, que pode resultar em diversas manifestações oculares, sendo as mais frequentes a retinopatia diabética e a catarata. Retinopatia diabética (RD) é uma microangiopatia que afeta primeiramente as arteríolas pré-capilares, capilares, vênulas pós-capilares e vasos de maior calibre, causando incompetência funcional e anatômica dos vasos retinianos. A hiperglicemia parece ser a causa mais provável da lesão retiniana, interferindo nas vias de metabolismo celular e no processo de transdução. Objetivou-se neste estudo avaliar e comparar a espessura retiniana total em oito cães diabéticos, quatro fêmeas e quatro machos, de diversas raças, com idade variando de seis a 15 anos, com auxílio de tomografia de coerência óptica (OCT) e comparar com a de cães não diabéticos. A espessura e arquitetura retiniana realizada pela OCT nos cães diabéticos, demonstrou afinamento das camadas da retina e perda da estratificação em comparação com os cães não diabéticos (198μm versus 219μm, respectivamente), sendo esta redução estatisticamente significante (p=0,008). Baseado nas imagens da OCT pode-se sugerir que a diabete melito, no cão, cause neuropatia retiniana como descrito em humanos diabéticos.(AU)

Psicomotricidade e desenvolvimento: concepções e vivências de professores da educação infantil na amazônia setentrional / Psicomotricity and development: conceptions and experiences of pre-school teachers in the northern amazon / Psicomotricidad y desarrollo: concepciones y vivencias de profesores de la educación infantil en la amazonia sientrional

A psicomotricidade está presente em todas as etapas da vida, porém o período da infância ganha destaque, uma vez que é nesta época em que as funções psicomotoras começam a se desenvolver. O objetivo desta pesquisa, de cunho exploratório, descritivo e de abordagem qualitativa, foi verificar qual a percepção de oito professoras pré-escolares sobre psicomotricidade e educação infantil. Para tanto foi utilizado um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturada, cujos resultados foram analisados sob a óptica temático-categorial da Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin. As categorias definidas foram: percepção das professoras sobre a relação entre psicomotricidade e educação infantil, atividades psicomotoras trabalhadas e aspectos que dificultam/facilitam o trabalho na área. Os resultados apontam que as professoras consideram que existe uma forte relação entre psicomotricidade e educação infantil. Quanto às atividades psicomotoras desenvolvidas, foi possível constatar que elas tiveram dificuldades para conceituar certas funções psicomotoras, principalmente em relação à orientação espacial. Quanto aos aspectos facilitadores e dificultadores, foi possível perceber que algumas apresentaram melhor condição para desenvolver atividades psicomotoras e outras afirmaram contar com a criatividade para lidar com a falta de materiais.(AU)

Psychomotricity is present in all stages of life, but it is highlighted during childhood, since it is at this time when the psychomotor functions begin to develop. This research, exploratory, descriptive and qualitative in nature, aims at verifying the perception of eight preschool teachers on psychomotricity and early childhood education. For this purpose, a semi-structured interview script was used, whose results were analyzed under the thematic-categorical optics of Bardin Content Analysis. The categories defined were: teachers' perceptions about the relationship between motor skills and early childhood education, psychomotor activities worked on and aspects/facilitators work in the area. As for the psychomotor activities developed, it was possible to verify that the teachers had difficulties to conceptualize certain psychomotor functions, mainly in relation to the spatial orientation. With regard to the facilitating and hindering aspects, it was possible to perceive that some teachers have a better condition to develop psychomotor activities and others stated that they rely on the creativity to deal with the lack of materials.(AU)

La psicomotricidad está presente en todas las etapas de la vida, pero se destaca durante la infancia, ya que es en este momento cuando las funciones psicomotoras comienzan a desarrollarse. El objetivo de esta investigación, de cuño exploratorio, descriptivo y de abordaje cualitativo, fue verificar cuál es la percepción de ocho profesoras preescolares sobre Psicomotricidad y Educación Infantil.Con esta finalidad, se utilizó un guión de entrevista semi-estructurada, cuyos resultados fueron analizados bajo la óptica temático-categorial del Análisis de Contenido de Bardin. Las categorías definidas fueron: percepciones de los docentes sobre la relación entre psicomotricidad y educación de la primera infancia, actividades psicomotoras trabajadas y aspectos que dificultan y facilitan el trabajo en esta área. Los resultados apuntan que las profesoras consideran que existe una fuerte relación entre las habilidades motoras y la educación infantil. En cuanto a las actividades psicomotoras desarrolladas, fue posible constatar que ellas tuvieron dificultades para conceptualizar ciertas funciones psicomotoras, principalmente en relación a la orientación espacial. Con respecto a los aspectos facilitadores y dificultadores, fue posible percibir que algunas profesoras presentan mejor condición para desarrollar actividades psicomotoras y otras afirmaron contar con la creatividad para lidiar con la falta de materiales.(AU)

Evaluation of programmed cell death processes on the lens epithelium of older dogs with diabetic and hypermature cataracts / Avaliação dos processos de morte celular programada no epitélio da lente de cães idosos com catarata diabética e hipermadura

It is well known that posterior capsule opacification (PCO), one of the most common late postoperative complications of cataract surgery, is mainly caused by proliferation and differentiation of remaining lens epithelial cells (LECs) on the posterior lens capsule. Many authors suggest that alterations induced by the pathophysiology of cataracts, its metabolism and the use of 0.1% trypan blue (TB) must cause some degree of cellular damage on these cells, wicht would help to prevent and/or reduce the incidence of PCO after cataract surgery in humans. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of cell death markers on LECs of older dogs with diabetic and hypermature cataracts, after capsulorhexis, both using 0.1% TB. Twenty samples collected from 13 dogs of different breeds, with ages varying from 8 to 12 years-old, with diabetic and hypermature cataracts, which had been subjected to phacoemulsification surgery (Phaco) using 0.1% TB for staining were studied. Animals were classified as dogs with diabetic (DC) and hypermature cataracts (HC), and expression of molecular markers for apoptosis and autophagy (caspase-3 and beclin-1) on LECs were obtained by immunofluorescence technique. The expression of caspase-3 and beclin-1 was observed in every studied sample and did not differ between groups. In conclusion, our findings suggest that apoptosis and autophagy processes occur to LECs in older dogs presenting diabetic and hypermature cataracts after Phaco utilizing 0.1% TB. Our results may be helpful to future studies of PCO in post-phacoemulsification surgery patients.(AU)

A opacificação da cápsula posterior da lente do globo ocular é a complicação mais observada após a remoção da lente. Essa patologia é causada principalmente pela proliferação e diferenciação das células do epitélio anterior da lente em sua cápsula posterior. Muitos autores sugerem que alterações induzidas pelo metabolismo e/ou patofisiologia da catarata e o uso do corante de azul de tripan a 0,1% devam causar algum dano a essas células, o que supostamente ajudaria a prevenir e reduzir a incidência de tal complicação em humanos. Este trabalho avaliou a expressão de marcadores de morte celular no epitélio anterior da lente de cães idosos com catarata diabética e hipermadura, após capsulorrexe realizada com o emprego do azul de tripan a 0,1%. Foram estudadas vinte amostras colhidas de treze cães de diferentes raças, com idades variando de oito a doze anos, que apresentavam catarata diabética ou hipermadura e que foram submetidos à facoemulsificação utilizando corante de azul de tripan a 0,1%. Foram designados dois grupos: com catarata diabética (DC) e com catarata hipermadura (HC). A expressão molecular dos marcadores de morte celular por apoptose a autofagia (caspase-3 e beclina-1) no epitélio anterior da lente foi avaliada pela técnica de imunofluorescência. Observou-se que a expressão de caspase-3 e beclina-1 ocorreu em todas as amostras e não foi diferente entre os grupos. Os achados deste estudo sugerem que o processo de morte celular por apoptose e autofagia ocorre no epitélio anterior da lente de cães idosos com catarata diabética e hipermadura submetidos à facoemulsificação com o corante de azul de tripan a 0,1%. Este resultado pode ser útil para estudos futuros da opacidade da cápsula posterior da lente em cães submetidos à facoemulsificação.(AU)

Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is equally expressed in inflammatory breast cancer and noninflammatory locally advanced breast cancer: A possible association with chemotherapy response.

AIM: Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive form of locally advanced breast cancer. The signs of inflammation such as hyperemia and hyperthermia might suggest the possible participation of inflammatory mediators. This study investigates stromal and tumor expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) in samples obtained from IBC and noninflammatory locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) and the influence of these markers on patients' prognosis. METHODS: Demographic data, tumor molecular characteristics and overall survival in both groups were also assessed. Furthermore, in this study, we evaluated the expression of IL-18 and p50 nuclear fraction of NF-κB by immunohistochemistry in specimens from IBC and LABC (T4b). RESULTS: We observed that 24.6% of women were diagnosed with IBC up to age 40. In addition, the patients with IBC showed a lower overall survival when compared to LABC. In regard to molecular markers, ER+ , C-erbB2- or triple negative IBC patients showed a significantly reduced overall survival. In addition, a higher IL-18 immunostaining in stroma of IBC and LABC was observed in comparison with tumor cells, but stromal immunoexpression was similar between IBC and LABC. Besides, IL-18 positivity seemed be related with a better clinical response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, NF-κB expression was identical in both groups. CONCLUSION: The IL-18 is present in tumor stroma of IBC and LABC and seems to be associated with the complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Melanocytoma-like melanoma may be the missing link between benign and malignant uveal melanocytic lesions in humans and dogs: a comparative study.

The cutoff presented in the current classification of canine melanocytic lesions by Wilcock and Pfeiffer is based on the clinical outcome rather than morphological concepts. Classification of tumors based on morphology or molecular signatures is the key to identifying new therapies or prognostic factors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze morphological findings in canine melanocytic lesions based on classic malignant morphologic principles of neoplasia and to compare these features with human uveal melanoma (HUM) samples. In total, 64 canine and 111 human morphologically malignant melanocytic lesions were classified into two groups (melanocytoma-like or classic melanoma) based on the presence or absence of M cells, respectively. Histopathological characteristics were compared between the two groups using the χ-test, t-test, and multivariate discriminant analysis. Among the 64 canine tumors, 28 (43.7%) were classic and 36 (56.3%) were melanocytoma-like melanomas. Smaller tumor size, a higher degree of pigmentation, and lower mitotic activity distinguished melanocytoma-like from classic tumors with an accuracy of 100% for melanocytoma-like lesions. From the human series, only one case showed melanocytoma-like features and had a low risk for metastasis characteristics. Canine uveal melanoma showed a morphological spectrum with features similar to the HUM counterpart (classic melanoma) and overlapped features between uveal melanoma and melanocytoma (melanocytoma-like melanoma). Recognition that the subgroup of melanocytoma-like melanoma may represent the missing link between benign and malignant lesions could help explain the progression of uveal melanoma in dogs; these findings can potentially be translated to HUM.

Avaliação da composição molecular da cápsula anterior da lente de cães idosos com catarata de alto risco / Molecular evaluation of the anterior lens capsule of older dogs suffering from high risk cataracts

Atualmente, a cápsula anterior e o epitélio da lente tem sido cada vez mais estudados, com o intuito de reduzir as possíveis complicações do pós-operatório da remoção da catarata, tal como a opacidade da cápsula posterior, alteração ocasionada principalmente pela diferenciação e migração das células do epitélio lenticular para a cápsula posterior da lente. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a composição molecular da cápsula anterior da lente pela técnica histoquímica de PAS (avaliação de proteoglicanos) e picrosirius red (avaliação de colágeno IV), em cães idosos com catarata diabética e não diabética do tipo hipermadura, submetidos ao uso ou não de azul de tripano a 0,1 % durante a facoemulsificação. Vinte e sete cães foram estudados, incluindo 21 fêmeas e 6 machos, de 8 a 12 anos de idade (média = 9,6 anos), de diversas raças e divididos em 2 grupos: GC (catarata hipermadura) e GCD (catarata diabética). Os resultados das análises realizadas mostraram que ambas as amostras, tanto as provenientes das cataratas hipermaduras, quanto das diabéticas, apresentam semelhante composição molecular de proteoglicanos e colágeno IV e isto independente da utilização de azul de tripano a 0,1 %. Conclui-se, portanto, que se os resultados obtidos forem decorrentes de alterações provocadas pelo rápido metabolismo da catarata diabética e pela cronicidade da catarata hipermadura sugere-se que o comprometimento da estrutura capsular seja de intensidade equivalente e, por consequência, que isto também possa prejudicar o metabolismo das células do epitélio anterior da lente, diminuindo assim a incidência da opacidade da cápsula posterior de cães com catarata diabética e hipermadura submetidos à facoemulsificação.(AU)

Nowadays, the anterior lens capsule and its epithelium have been being frequently studied aiming to reduce the incidence of posterior lens capsule opacity, a complication that frequently occurs after surgical removal of cataracts, due to epithelium cells differentiation and migration to the posterior pole. The objective of this study was to evaluate by histochemistry (PAS and picrosirius red) analysis two important molecular components of the anterior lens capsule (proteoglycans and type IV collagen) in older diabetic and non-diabetic dogs, with diabetic and hypermature cataracts, after phacoemulsification surgery utilizing 0.1% trypan blue or not. Twenty seven dogs, including 21 female and 6 male dogs, with ages varying from 8 to 12 years old (mean = 9.6 yo) of different breeds were studied. The animals were divided into 2 groups: GC (hypermature cataracts) and GCD (diabetic cataracts). Results showed that, besides their different pathophysiologies, both types of capsules studied (diabetic and hypermature ones) presented the same molecular composition of proteoglycans and type IV collagen, since no statistical significant differences were observed. In addition, 0.1% trypan blue was not capable to induce any other evident alteration for the samples. In conclusion, our findings suggest that, if the results consist in alteration induced by the aggressive metabolism of the diabetic cataract or the chronicity of the hypermature one, it is of the same intensity and independent of the use of 0.1% trypan blue. It is also possible to suggest that this alteration must be capable to compromise lens epithelium cell metabolism, which should probably favour future lens posterior capsule studies.(AU)

Avaliação da composição molecular da cápsula anterior da lente de cães idosos com catarata de alto risco / Molecular evaluation of the anterior lens capsule of older dogs suffering from high risk cataracts

Atualmente, a cápsula anterior e o epitélio da lente tem sido cada vez mais estudados, com o intuito de reduzir as possíveis complicações do pós-operatório da remoção da catarata, tal como a opacidade da cápsula posterior, alteração ocasionada principalmente pela diferenciação e migração das células do epitélio lenticular para a cápsula posterior da lente. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a composição molecular da cápsula anterior da lente pela técnica histoquímica de PAS (avaliação de proteoglicanos) e picrosirius red (avaliação de colágeno IV), em cães idosos com catarata diabética e não diabética do tipo hipermadura, submetidos ao uso ou não de azul de tripano a 0,1 % durante a facoemulsificação. Vinte e sete cães foram estudados, incluindo 21 fêmeas e 6 machos, de 8 a 12 anos de idade (média = 9,6 anos), de diversas raças e divididos em 2 grupos: GC (catarata hipermadura) e GCD (catarata diabética). Os resultados das análises realizadas mostraram que ambas as amostras, tanto as provenientes das cataratas hipermaduras, quanto das diabéticas, apresentam semelhante composição molecular de proteoglicanos e colágeno IV e isto independente da utilização de azul de tripano a 0,1 %. Conclui-se, portanto, que se os resultados obtidos forem decorrentes de alterações provocadas pelo rápido metabolismo da catarata diabética e pela cronicidade da catarata hipermadura sugere-se que o comprometimento da estrutura capsular seja de intensidade equivalente e, por consequência, que isto também possa prejudicar o metabolismo das células do epitélio anterior da lente, diminuindo assim a incidência da opacidade da cápsula posterior de cães com catarata diabética e hipermadura submetidos à facoemulsificação.

Nowadays, the anterior lens capsule and its epithelium have been being frequently studied aiming to reduce the incidence of posterior lens capsule opacity, a complication that frequently occurs after surgical removal of cataracts, due to epithelium cells differentiation and migration to the posterior pole. The objective of this study was to evaluate by histochemistry (PAS and picrosirius red) analysis two important molecular components of the anterior lens capsule (proteoglycans and type IV collagen) in older diabetic and non-diabetic dogs, with diabetic and hypermature cataracts, after phacoemulsification surgery utilizing 0.1% trypan blue or not. Twenty seven dogs, including 21 female and 6 male dogs, with ages varying from 8 to 12 years old (mean = 9.6 yo) of different breeds were studied. The animals were divided into 2 groups: GC (hypermature cataracts) and GCD (diabetic cataracts). Results showed that, besides their different pathophysiologies, both types of capsules studied (diabetic and hypermature ones) presented the same molecular composition of proteoglycans and type IV collagen, since no statistical significant differences were observed. In addition, 0.1% trypan blue was not capable to induce any other evident alteration for the samples. In conclusion, our findings suggest that, if the results consist in alteration induced by the aggressive metabolism of the diabetic cataract or the chronicity of the hypermature one, it is of the same intensity and independent of the use of 0.1% trypan blue. It is also possible to suggest that this alteration must be capable to compromise lens epithelium cell metabolism, which should probably favour future lens posterior capsule studies.