The role of estrogen metabolites in human ovarian function.

Estrogens produced by the ovary play diverse roles in controlling physiological changes in the function of the female reproductive system. Although estradiol acts through classical nuclear receptors, its metabolites (EMs) act by alternative pathways. It has been postulated that EMs act through paracrine-autocrine pathways to regulate key processes involved in normal follicular growth, corpus luteum (CL) development, function, and regression. The present review describes recent advances in understanding the role of EMs in human ovarian physiology during the menstrual cycle, including their role in anovulatory disorders and their action in other target tissues.

Uso del músculo temporal en reconstrucción periorbitaria post exéresis de carcinoma epidermoide cutáneo del globo ocular izquierdo / Use of the temporal muscle in post exeresis periorbital reconstruction of cutaneous epidermoid carcinoma of the left eyeball

Introducción. El carcinoma epidermoide cutáneo (CEC) es la segunda neoplasia cutánea más frecuente después del carcinoma basocelular. La incidencia del CEC ha aumentado de forma considerable durante los últimos 20 años y predicen un incremento en la próxima década. La mayoría de los CEC están localizados y se resuelven habitualmente mediante la extirpación quirúrgica u otros procedimientos locales. El uso del músculo temporal es una alternativa quirúrgica para corregir el defecto periorbitario tras la extirpación del CEC. Objetivo. Evaluar el resultado de la cobertura del músculo temporal en la corrección del defecto periorbitario. Material y métodos. Se presenta un caso quirúrgico de un paciente masculino, 62 años, que presenta una gran lesión tumoral que compromete el globo ocular, región orbitaria y periorbitaria izquierda, acompañado de dolor, anemia, astenia y pérdida ponderal de aproximadamente 20 libras. Con una evolución de 6 años. Conclusión. El uso del músculo temporal es una alternativa eficaz en la reconstrucción de lesiones craneofaciales, que ha sido utilizado por más de 100 años.

Introduction. Skin epidermoid carcinoma (SEC) is the second most common skin neoplasm after basal cell carcinoma. The incidence of SEC has increased considerably over the past 20 years and predicts an increase over the next decade. Most SECs are located and usually resolved by surgical removal or other local procedures. The use of the temporal muscle is a surgical alternative to correct the peri-orbital defect after removal of the SEC. Objective. To evaluate the result of temporal muscle coverage in the correction of the peri-orbital defect. Material and methods. There is a surgical case of a male patient, 62 years old who has a large tumor injury that compromises the eyeball, orbital region and left periorbital. Accompanied by pain, anemia, asthenia, and weight loss approximately 20 pounds. With an evolution of 6 years. Conclusion. The use of the temporalis muscle is an effective alternative in the reconstruction of craniofacial lesions that has been used for more than 100 years

The fungal expel of 5-fluorocytosine derived fluoropyrimidines mitigates its antifungal activity and generates a cytotoxic environment.

Invasive aspergillosis remains one of the most devastating fungal diseases and is predominantly linked to infections caused by the opportunistic human mold pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Major treatment regimens for the disease comprise the administration of antifungals belonging to the azole, polyene and echinocandin drug class. The prodrug 5-fluorocytosine (5FC), which is the only representative of a fourth class, the nucleobase analogs, shows unsatisfactory in vitro activities and is barely used for the treatment of aspergillosis. The main route of 5FC activation in A. fumigatus comprises its deamination into 5-fluorouracil (5FU) by FcyA, which is followed by Uprt-mediated 5FU phosphoribosylation into 5-fluorouridine monophosphate (5FUMP). In this study, we characterized and examined the role of a metabolic bypass that generates this nucleotide via 5-fluorouridine (5FUR) through uridine phosphorylase and uridine kinase activities. Resistance profiling of mutants lacking distinct pyrimidine salvage activities suggested a minor contribution of the alternative route in 5FUMP formation. We further analyzed the contribution of drug efflux in 5FC tolerance and found that A. fumigatus cells exposed to 5FC reduce intracellular fluoropyrimidine levels through their export into the environment. This release, which was particularly high in mutants lacking Uprt, generates a toxic environment for cytosine deaminase lacking mutants as well as mammalian cells. Employing the broad-spectrum fungal efflux pump inhibitor clorgyline, we demonstrate synergistic properties of this compound in combination with 5FC, 5FU as well as 5FUR.

Photocatalytic activity, water absorption capacity, and thermal stability of white cement-based mortars with polysiloxane silicone and different doses of titanium dioxide nanoparticles / Actividad fotocatalítica, absorción de agua y estabilidad térmica de morteros a base de cemento blanco con silicona de polisiloxano y diferentes dosis de nanopartículas de dióxido de titanio

White cement-based mortars in urban areas are usually discolored and altered their esthetic properties due to air pollutants. The addition of nanoparticles in these mortars can provide photocatalytic properties that can decompose pollution agents. Likewise, other hydrophobic agents have been individually studied to improve outdoor building constructions. Therefore, this study presented the photocatalytic and hydrophobic effect of adding nano-TiO2and silicone hydrophobic powder (DOWSILTM) in a white cement matrix. The nano-TiO2 were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD); afterwards, the mortar was mixed with additions of nano-TiO2 (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0%) and DOWSILTM (0.0, 0.5%). The mortar's photocatalytic performance was evaluated using a modification of the standard Italian test Ente Nazionale Italiano di Unificazione 11259:2016 based on Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation on the sample exposed to UV irradiation. Therefore, mortar samples were subjected to UV irradiation to degrade the organic dye rhodamine B, monitoring their color variation using a C I E L* a* b* spectrophotometer. Moreover, the water permeability and the contact angle were evaluated. This research demonstrates that the white cement-based mortar samples added with nano-TiO2/DOWSILTM possess photocatalytic activity. The samples with the addition of 1.0%/0.5% and 3.0%/0.5% nano-TiO2/DOWSILTM showed a higher RhB degradation for R4 and R26. Therefore, these two materials can be employed in these proportions to improve the quality of the white cement-based mortars in urban constructions.

Los morteros a base de cemento blanco generalmente se decoloran y alteran sus propiedades estéticas debido a los contaminantes del aire en las áreas urbanas. Nanopartículas añadidas a estos morteros pueden proporcionar propiedades fotocatalíticas que descomponen estos contaminantes. Asimismo, otros agentes hidrofóbicos se han estu-diado individualmente para mejorar las construcciones a la intemperie. Por lo tanto, se presenta el efecto fotocatalítico e hidrofóbico al incorporar nano-TiO2 y silicona hidrofóbica de polisiloxano (DOWSILTM) en una matriz de cemento blanco. El nano-TiO2 se caracterizó por medio de Difracción de Rayos X (DRX); luego, el mortero se mezcló con adiciones de nano-TiO2 (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0%) y DOWSILTM (0.0, 0.5%). Los morteros se sometieron a irradiación UV, para degradar el colorante orgánico rodamina B, monitoreando su variación de color usando un espectrofotómetro C I E L* a* b*. La eficiencia fotocatalítica del mortero se evaluó utilizando una modificación de la norma italiana Ente Nazionale Italiano di Unificazione 11259:2016 basada en la degradación de la rodamina B (RhB) en el mortero expuesto a la radiación UV. Además, se evaluó la permeabilidad al agua y el ángulo de contacto. Esta investigación demostró que el mortero de cemento con nano-TiO2/ DOWSILTM posee actividad fotocatalítica. Las muestras con 1.0%/0.5% y 3.0%/0.5% nano-TiO2/DOWSILTM mostraron una mayor eficiencia de degradación de RhB para R4 y R26. Por lo tanto, estos materiales tienen potencial para mejorar la calidad de los morteros en construcciones urbanas.

Manejo quirúrgico de la duplicación patelar bilateral en displasia epifisiaria múltiple recesiva. Reporte de caso / Surgical management of bilateral duplication of the patella in multiple recessive epiphyseal dysplasia. A case report

Introducción La displasia epifisiaria múltiple (DEM) es una enfermedad poco frecuente y con gran variedad clínica y se caracteriza por deformidades en las articulaciones, dolor, y trastornos de la marcha. La duplicación patelar se asocia con DEM recesiva y consiste en dos segmentos patelares escalonados separados por tejido blando entre ellos. Caso clínico Paciente masculino de 30 años con cuadro clínico de DEM recesiva con duplicación patelar, presenta dolor crónico bilateral de cadera y rodilla, y trastorno de la marcha. Tras el examen físico, se evidenció derrame articular, dificultad para la flexión de las rodillas y un cuerpo libre intra-articular bilateral. Se identificaron dos segmentos patelares, displasia acetabular y de cabeza femoral bilateral con imágenes diagnósticas. El manejo quirúrgico de la duplicación patelar fue resección de los segmentos óseos accesorios, conduciendo a un resultado clínico satisfactorio al año de seguimiento. Discusión Aunque no se realiza el diagnóstico genético de la DEM, nuestro paciente presenta las características fenotípicas y radiológicas de esta entidad. Para la duplicación patelar, se realizó la resección de las patelas accesorias, considerando el alto riesgo de no unión. Sin embargo, existen varios reportes donde unieron los dos segmentos patelares, pero principalmente en niños. Este es el primer reporte publicado sobre el manejo quirúrgico de esta patología en Colombia. La duplicación patelar puede manejarse con éxito mediante la resección de la patela accesoria en adultos. Aunque los hallazgos imagenológicos son muy sugestivos de esta patología, se requiere un adecuado examen físico para evitar un diagnóstico equivoco y tardío.

Background Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) is a rare disease with a great clinical variation, and is characterised by deformities in the joints, pain, and gait disorders. Duplication of the patella is associated with recessive MED, and consists of two staggered patellar segments separated by soft tissue between them. Clinical case A 30-years-old male patient with a clinical manifestation of recessive MED with duplication of the patella, chronic bilateral hip and knee pain, as well as gait disorder. After the physical examination, joint effusion, difficulty in flexing the knees, and a bilateral intra-articular free body were evident. Two patellar segments, acetabular dysplasia and bilateral femoral head, were identified with diagnostic imaging. The surgical management of duplication of the patella was resection of the accessory bone segments, leading to a satisfactory clinical result at one year of follow-up. Discussion Although the genetic diagnosis of the MED was not made, our patient presented with the phenotypic and radiological characteristics of this disease. For duplication of the patella, the accessory patella resection was performed, considering the high risk of non-union. However, there are several reports where the two patellar segments are joined; but mainly in children. This is the first report published about the surgical management of this pathology in Colombia. Duplication of the patella can be managed successfully by resecting accessory patella in adults. Although the imaging findings are very suggestive of this pathology, an adequate physical examination is required to avoid a false and late diagnosis.

Nefritis tubulointersticial aguda. Revisión bibliográfica / Acute interstitial nephritis. Literature review

RESUMEN La nefritis tubulointersticial aguda hace referencia a un tipo de daño renal que afecta principalmente el intersticio y ocasiona la lesión renal aguda, potencialmente reversible. Su curso puede ser subclínico, con deterioro progresivo hasta evolucionar hacia la insuficiencia renal crónica. La nefritis tubulointersticial aguda tiene múltiples etiologías, las más frecuentes son los medicamentos, productos herbales, las infecciones y las enfermedades autoinmunes. Las principales manifestaciones clínicas son la poliuria, polaquiuria, nocturia, dolor lumbar, microhematuria y leucocituria, aunque puede ser totalmente asintomática. El tratamiento depende de la causa de base y los esteroides juegan un papel importante cuando la condición es de origen medicamentoso o autoinmune. El pronóstico generalmente es bueno, si el problema se identifica de forma oportuna y se trata adecuadamente.

SUMMARY Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis is a kidney lesion that mainly affects the interstitium and can lead to a reversible acute kidney injury. It can progress subclinically, with progressive development towards chronic renal failure. Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis has several causes, being the most common medications, herbal products, infections and autoimmune diseases. The main clinical manifestations are polyuria, polaquiuria, nycturia, lumbar pain, microhematuria, leukocyturia, although the patients also can be completely asymptomatic. Treatment is determined by the underlying cause. Steroids play an important role when tubulointerstitial nephritis is caused by medication or autoimmune diseases. The prognosis is usually good if the problem is detected early and treated properly.

Satisfacción de usuarios en servicios recreativos y deportivos en el contexto universitario / Satisfaction of users in recreational and sports services in the university context / Satisfação de usuarios em servicios recreativos e deportivos en el contexto universitário

Se aborda la prestación del servicio desde un enfoque basado en la calidad, con la finalidad de conocer el grado de satisfacción de usuarios en programas recreativos, deportivos y de formación continua en un centro de extensión universitario. En perspectiva cuantitativa, empleó un estudio no experimental descriptivo, de corte transversal, que diseñó, validó y aplicó un cuestionario identificando la dimensión profesor como la de mayor valoración, y la de costo del servicio, sin ser negativa, como la más baja. En prospectiva, genera rutas para la calidad del servicio como tendencia y preocupación actual en organizaciones e instituciones de educación superior. Permite continuar indagaciones desde la mejora continua, el cambio y la planificación estratégica desde dimensiones como: curso, profesor, instalaciones, inscripciones y matrículas, comunicación y costo. Brinda a directivos la posibilidad de reconocer sus habilidades en la toma de decisiones basada en evidencias científicas.

The provision of the service is approached from a quality-based approach, in order to know the degree of satisfaction of users in recreational, sports and continuing education programs in a university extension center. In quantitative perspective, it used a non-experimental, descriptive, cross-sectional study that designed, validated and applied a questionnaire identifying the teacher dimension as the highest value and the cost of service, without being negative, the lowest. In prospective, it generates routes for quality of service as a trend and current concern in higher education organizations and institutions. It allows to continue inquiries from continuous improvement, change and strategic planning from dimensions such as: course, teacher, facilities, registration, communication and cost. Provides managers with the possibility of recognizing their decision-making skills based on scientific evidence.

A prestação do serviço é abordada a partir de uma abordagem de qualidade, a fim de conhecer o grau de satisfação dos usuários em programas recreativos, esportivos e de educação continuada em um centro de extensão universitária. No ponto de vista quantitativo, é usado um descritivo, em corte transversal, que concebida, validado e aplicado um questionário identificando a dimensão professor quanto maior valorização e custo do serviço, sem ser negativo, o menor não experimental. Em perspectiva, gera rotas de qualidade de serviço como tendência e atual preocupação em organizações e instituições de ensino superior. Permite continuar as investigações de melhoria contínua, mudança e planejamento estratégico a partir de dimensões como: curso, professor, instalações, inscrição, comunicação e custo. Fornece aos gerentes a possibilidade de reconhecer suas habilidades de tomada de decisão com base em evidências científicas.

Intracellular trafficking and cellular uptake mechanism of PHBV nanoparticles for targeted delivery in epithelial cell lines.

BACKGROUND: Nanotechnology is a science that involves imaging, measurement, modeling and a manipulation of matter at the nanometric scale. One application of this technology is drug delivery systems based on nanoparticles obtained from natural or synthetic sources. An example of these systems is synthetized from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), which is a biodegradable, biocompatible and a low production cost polymer. The aim of this work was to investigate the uptake mechanism of PHBV nanoparticles in two different epithelial cell lines (HeLa and SKOV-3). RESULTS: As a first step, we characterized size, shape and surface charge of nanoparticles using dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Intracellular incorporation was evaluated through flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy using intracellular markers. We concluded that cellular uptake mechanism is carried out in a time, concentration and energy dependent way. Our results showed that nanoparticle uptake displays a cell-specific pattern, since we have observed different colocalization in two different cell lines. In HeLa (Cervical cancer cells) this process may occur via classical endocytosis pathway and some internalization via caveolin-dependent was also observed, whereas in SKOV-3 (Ovarian cancer cells) these patterns were not observed. Rearrangement of actin filaments showed differential nanoparticle internalization patterns for HeLa and SKOV-3. Additionally, final fate of nanoparticles was also determined, showing that in both cell lines, nanoparticles ended up in lysosomes but at different times, where they are finally degraded, thereby releasing their contents. CONCLUSIONS: Our results, provide novel insight about PHBV nanoparticles internalization suggesting that for develop a proper drug delivery system is critical understand the uptake mechanism.

Modified Profile of Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 and 9 Production by Human Fallopian Tube Epithelial Cells After Infection In Vitro With Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Epithelial shedding and scarring of fallopian tube mucosa are the main consequences of sexually transmitted Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection and probably involve an imbalance of host extracellular matrix components and their regulators such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In the current study, primary human fallopian tube epithelial cells were infected with N. gonorrhoeae, and MMP patterns were examined. Gonococcal infection induced a significant increase in secreted MMP-9 and an accumulation of cytoplasmic MMP-2 over time, but no significant MMP-3 or MMP-8 production was observed. Thus, MMP-9 in particular could play a role in tubal scarring in response to gonococcal infection.

Queratoplastia Lamelar Anterior Profunda asistida con láser de femtosegundo configuración Zig-Zag: Resultados a un año de seguimiento / Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty in a Zig-Zag Pattern Assisted by Femtosecond Laser: 1 year follow up

Objetivo: Reportar el desenlace luego de 12 meses de seguimiento, en pacientes en los que se realizó una queratoplastia lamelar anterior profunda (DALK) asistida con láser de femtosegundo. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, mediante revisión de historias clínicas de pacientes sometidos a DALK asistida con láser de femtosegundo (Wavelight FS-200 ® Alcon. Forth Worth, Texas), utilizando la configuración de zig-zag. Las indicaciones de DALK incluyeron queratocono, ectasia post LASIK y leucoma como secuela de queratitis infecciosa. Las variables estudiadas fueron agudeza visual mejor corregida, cilindro queratométrico, refracción final y complicaciones intra y post operatoria. Resultados: En total se incluyeron 10 ojos de 10 pacientes, en todos los ojos se llevó a cabo con éxito femto-DALK y no hubo ninguna complicación intra operatoria. En el postoperatorio se presentó un caso de rechazo estromal, un caso de hipertensión ocular secundario a esteroides y un caso de retraso en la cicatrización. El seguimiento promedio fue de 13, 1 meses (R= 12 ­ 15 meses). La Agudeza Visual Mejor Corregida (AVMC) preoperatoria promedio fue LogMAR 0,96 (R= 0,54 ­ 1,60). La AVMC postoperatoria promedio a los 12 meses fue 0,10 (R= 0,00 ­ 0,17). El equivalente esférico preoperatorio medio fue -12,6 Dioptrias (D) (R= -5,0 a -15,0D) y el postoperatorio fue -2,57 D (R= -0,50 a -6,25 D). El astigmatismo queratométrico preoperatorio medio de -11.5D (R= -7.0 a -23D) y el postoperatorio -2,4 D (R= -0,75 a -3,75 D). Conclusión: La femto-DALK en confi guración Zig-Zag es un procedimiento confiable, con baja tasa de complicaciones intra y postoperatorias. El resultado refractivo es comparable con la queratoplastia penetrante, y ofrece beneficios sobre factores de estabilidad biomecánica y recuperación del paciente en el primer año postoperatorio.

Objective: The aim was to report the surgical outcomes of twelve months follow-up aft er femtosecond laser assisted Zig-zag configuration combined with Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (Femto-DALK). Methods: A descriptive, retrospective study, which evaluated and assisted medical records of patients who had undergone deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) femtosecond laser assisted. Ten eyes of ten consecutive patients underwent femtosecond (Wavelight FS-200 ® Alcon. Forth Worth, Texas) laser-assisted zig-zag configuration combined with Anwar´s big-bubble technique DALK, from April 2012 to December 2013. The diagnosis of the patients were keratoconus, corneal ectasia and scarring following infectious keratitis. Variables measured were: Best corrected visual acuity, keratometric corneal cylinder, final refraction and intraand postoperative complications were analyzed. Results: The procedure was performed without any complications in all patients. There was only a single case of stromal graft rejection, a case of corticosteroidinduced ocular hypertension and a case of delayed corneal epithelial healing. Mean follow-up period was 13.1 months (R= 12­15 months). The mean preoperative BCVA was LogMAR 0,96 (R= 0,54 ­ 1,60). Th e mean postoperative BCVA at 12th month was 0,054 (R= 0,00 ­0,09). The mean preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) was -12,6 Diopter (D)(R= -5,0 to -24,0D) and postoperative SE was -2,50 D (R=-0,50 to -6,25 D). The measurements of keratometric corneal cylinder preoperative was -11.5D (R= -7.0 a -23D) and postoperative refractive cylinder was -2,4 D (R=-0,75 to -4,00 D). Conclusion: Laser-assisted zig-zag configuration combined with Anwar´s big-bubble technique DALK is a safe procedure. The rate of intra and postoperative complications is low. The refractive outcomes are comparable to penetrating keratoplasty, but better biomechanical stability of the cornea and a faster visual recovery with femtoDALK procedure.

Effect of single post-ovulatory administration of mifepristone (RU486) on transcript profile during the receptive period in human endometrium.

Progesterone regulates uterine function during the luteal phase and is essential for the acquisition of endometrial receptivity. The objective of the present study was to identify endometrial transcripts whose expression is altered during the window of implantation after the administration of 200 mg of the antiprogestin mifepristone, 48 h after the LH peak (LH+2, LH+0=LH peak), and to determine the relationship of these transcripts with those regulated during the acquisition of receptivity. Endometrial samples were obtained in LH+7 from seven women of proven fertility, each one contributing with one cycle treated with placebo and another with mifepristone. Additionally, endometrial samples were obtained in LH+2 and LH+7 during a single untreated spontaneous cycle from seven normal fertile women as a reference. DNA microarrays were used to identify transcripts significantly regulated (defined as ≥ 2.0-fold change with false discovery rate below 1% using t-test) with the administration of mifepristone vs placebo, or during the transition from pre-receptive to receptive (LH+2 vs LH+7). Approximately 2000 transcripts were significantly regulated in both comparisons (mifepristone vs placebo and LH+2 vs LH+7), but only 777 of them were coincident and displayed opposite regulation except for 25. The mRNA level for eight selected genes regulated by mifepristone was confirmed by real-time RT-PCR. We conclude that not all changes in endometrial transcript levels occurring in the transition from LH+2 to LH+7 seem to be regulated by the progesterone receptor and ∼ 37% of the genes whose transcript levels changed by effect of mifepristone could be associated with the acquisition of receptivity.

Follicular development in Alpine goats during the mating season / Desenvolvimento folicular em cabras Alpinas durante a estação reprodutiva / Desarrollo folicular en cabras Alpinas durante la estación reproductiva

Follicular dynamics were studied in Alpine goats during their natural estrous cycle in Brazil. Seven multiparous Alpine goats were used (2 to 5 years of age; 35-42 kg body weight). The experimental period started one day before ovulation (day zero). Data were taken daily by transrectal ultrasonography (7.5 MHz). Progesterone was determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The SAS program (release 6.12) was used for the analysis of variance. Data are presented as the mean ± SD. According to the results, there are three growth waves in each cycle. The first, second and third waves emerged in days 0.5 ± 0.6, 7.5 ± 0.6, and 12 ± 0.6, respectively (ovulation = Day 0). In the three-wave cycles, the dominant follicle of the third wave (5.6 ± 0.5 mm) was significantly higher (p<0.01) than the follicle of the first (4.8 ± 0.5 mm) and second waves (4.3 ± 0.5 mm). The amount of small follicles was lower (p<0,05) in the first follicular wave (4.20 ± 0.2 follicles) when compared to the second (6.2 ± 0.2 follicles) and third wave (7.5 ± 0.1 follicles). Significant differences (p<0.0001) were found in plasma P4 concentrations during the estrous cycle. The results show that goats during the natural estrous cycle present three waves of follicular growth, and the number of waves per cycle is associated with the luteal phase and the cycle length.

Estudou-se a dinâmica folicular em cabras Alpinas durante o ciclo estral natural no Brasil. Foram utilizadas sete cabras Alpinas multíparas (2-5 anos de idade) com peso corporal entre 35 e 42 kg. O período experimental iniciouse um dia antes da ovulação (dia zero) até a seguinte ovulação. Os dados foram tomados diariamente utilizando ecografia transretal (7,5 MHz). A determinação de progesterona realizou-se por médio de radioimunoensaio (RIE). Para o analise de variância utilizou-se SAS version 6.12.Todos os dados foram apresentados como media ± DP. Os resultados indicaram a presença de três ondas de crescimento em cada ciclo. A primeira, segunda e terceira onda emergiram nos dias 0,5 ± 0,6; 7,5 ± 0,6 e 12 ± 0,6, respectivamente (ovulação= dia 0). Nos ciclos de três ondas, o folículo dominante da terceira onda (5,6 ± 0,5 mm) foi significativamente maior (p<0,01) que o folículo da primeira (4,8 ± 0,5 mm) e segunda onda (4,3 ± 0,5 mm). A quantidade de folículos pequenos foi menor (p<0,05) na primeira onda folicular (4,20 ± 0,2 folículos) quando comparada com a segunda (6,2 ± 0,2 folículos) e terceira onda (7,5 ± 0,1 folículos). Houve diferenças significativas (p<0,0001) nas concentrações plasmáticas de P4 durante os dias do ciclo estral. Os resultados refletiram que as cabras durante o ciclo estral natural apresentaram três ondas de crescimento folicular e a quantidade de ondas em cada ciclo estão associadas com a fase lútea e duração do ciclo estral.Cabras, ecografia, folículos, progesterona, reprodução.

Se estudió la dinámica folicular en cabras Alpinas durante el ciclo estral natural en Brasil. Fueron utilizadas siete cabras Alpinas multíparas (2-5 años de edad) con peso corporal entre 35 a 42 kg. El período experimental se inició un día antes de la ovulación (día cero) hasta la siguiente. Los datos fueron tomados diariamente por medio de ecografía transrectal (7,5 MHz). La determinación de progesterona se realizó por medio de radioinmunoanálisis (RIA). Para el análisis de varianza se utilizó SAS versión 6.12. Todos los datos fueron presentados como promedio ± DS. Los resultados indicaron la presencia de tres ondas de crecimiento en cada ciclo. La primera, segunda y tercera ondas emergieron en los días 0,5 ± 0,6; 7,5 ± 0,6 y 12 ± 0,6, respectivamente (ovulación=día 0). En los ciclos de tres ondas, el folículo dominante de la tercera onda (5,6 ± 0,5 mm) fue significativamente mayor (p<0,01) que el folículo de la primera (4,8 ± 0,5 mm) y segunda onda (4,3 ± 0,5 mm). La cantidad de folículos pequeños fue menor (p<0,05) en la primera onda folicular (4,20 ± 0,2 folículos) cuando comparada con la segunda (6,2 ± 0,2 folículos) y tercera onda (7,5 ± 0,1 folículos). Hubo diferencias significativas (p<0,0001) en las concentraciones plasmáticas de P4 durante los días del ciclo estral. Los resultados mostraron que, las cabras durante el ciclo estral natural presentaron tres ondas de crecimiento folicular y la cantidad de ondas en cada ciclo están asociadas con la fase luteal y duración del ciclo estral.

Benign metastasizing leiomyoma of the cervical spine 31 years after uterine leiomyoma resection.

We report a 74-year-old woman presenting with a leiomyoma of the cervical spine 31 years after uterine leiomyoma resection. Benign metastasizing leiomyoma to the cervical spine is very rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the fourth reported patient with a leiomyoma metastasizing to the cervical spine and that with the longest latency period for this type of tumor, 31 years. The pathological features were typical of leiomyoma.

Multifunctional polymeric nanoparticles doubly loaded with SPION and ceftiofur retain their physical and biological properties.

BACKGROUND: Advances in nanostructure materials are leading to novel strategies for drug delivery and targeting, contrast media for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), agents for hyperthermia and nanocarriers. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are useful for all of these applications, and in drug-release systems, SPIONs allow for the localization, direction and concentration of drugs, providing a broad range of therapeutic applications. In this work, we developed and characterized polymeric nanoparticles based on poly (3-hydroxybutyric acid-co-hydroxyvaleric acid) (PHBV) functionalized with SPIONs and/or the antibiotic ceftiofur. These nanoparticles can be used in multiple biomedical applications, and the hybrid SPION-ceftiofur nanoparticles (PHBV/SPION/CEF) can serve as a multifunctional platform for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and its associated bacterial infections. RESULTS: Morphological examination using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed nanoparticles with a spherical shape and a core-shell structure. The particle size was evaluated using dynamic light scattering (DLS), which revealed a diameter of 243.0 ± 17 nm. The efficiency of encapsulation (45.5 ± 0.6% w/v) of these polymeric nanoparticles was high, and their components were evaluated using spectroscopy. UV-VIS, FTIR and DSC showed that all of the nanoparticles contained the desired components, and these compounds interacted to form a nanocomposite. Using the agar diffusion method and live/dead bacterial viability assays, we demonstrated that these nanoparticles have antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli, and they retain their magnetic properties as measured using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Cytotoxicity was assessed in HepG2 cells using live/dead viability assays and MTS, and these assays showed low cytotoxicity with IC50 > 10 mg/mL nanoparticles. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that hybrid and multifunctional PHBV/SPION/CEF nanoparticles are suitable as a superparamagnetic drug delivery system that can guide, concentrate and site-specifically release drugs with antibacterial activity.

Estrategias de reperfusión usadas en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación persistente del segmento ST en un hospital general / Reperfusion strategies in patients with acute coronary syndrome and persistent ST-segment elevation in a general hospital

Objetivos: Conocer las estrategias de reperfusión en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo ST elevado (SCASTE) atendidos en el departamento de emergencia de un hospital general, y determinar el tiempo para realizar dichas estrategias a través de los tiempos puerta-aguja (P-A), puerta-balón (P-B), electrocardiograma (ECG) y total de isquemia. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo transversal en pacientes con diagnóstico de SCASTE en el Hospital Nacional Cayetano Heredia (HNCH) desde el 1° de enero de 2011 al 31 de enero de 2013. Se registraron las características demográficas y clínicas, tiempos de reperfusión miocárdica, de síntomas, para toma de ECG. Los factores asociados fueron analizados por análisis bivariado. Resultados: Cuarenta y cinco pacientes fueron elegibles. La edad media fue 60,5 ± 10,98 años, 88,8% fueron varones. El tiempo medio de hospitalización fue 9,79 ± 10,36 días. Se encontró obesidad (IMC ≥ 30) en 61,3%; hipertensión en 40,9%: tabaquismo en 43,1%; y diabetes mellitus II (DM II) en 25%. El tiempo medio P-A de 57 ± 54,1 minutos; en 28,1% se administró el agente trombolítico antes de los 30 minutos. Angioplastia fue realizada en un paciente con un tiempo P-B de 440 minutos. El tiempo total de isquemia (TTI) medio fue 244 ± 143,9 minutos. Conclusiones: Las estrategias de reperfusión fueron usadas en 71,1% de pacientes, siendo trombólisis la más usada; sin embargo, el tiempo P-A se encontró fuera del rango óptimo. (AU)

Objectives: To get insight into the reperfusion strategies used in a general hospital among patients with acute coronary syndrome and persistent ST-segment elevation (ACSSTE), and to determine times to door to needle (TDN) and time to door to balloon (TDB), time to EKG and total ischemic time (TIT). Methods: Cross-sectional study in patients with ACSSTE attended at Hospital Nacional Cayetano Heredia from January 1st, 2011 to January 31st, 2013. Variables were analyzed in a bivariate analysis. Results: Forty-five patients were included; mean age was 60,5 ± 10,98 years, 88,8% were males. Mean hospitalization time was 9,79 ± 10,36 days. Obesity was found in 61,3%; blood hypertension in 40,9%; smoking in 43,1%; and type II diabetes mellitus in 25%. Mean TDN was 57 ± 54,1 minutes; in 28,1% of cases a thrombolytic agent was used before 30 minutes. Angioplasty was performed with a TDB of 440 minutes. Mean TIT was 244 ± 143,9 minutes. Conclusions: Reperfusion strategies were used in 71,1% of patients, being thrombolysis the most frequently used. However, TDN was out of optimal accepted ranges. (AU)

Bioquímica sanguínea y concentración plasmática de corticosterona en pollo de engorde bajo estrés calórico / Blood Biochemistry and Plasma Corticosterone Concentration in Broiler Chickens Under Heat Stress / Bioquímica sanguínea e concentração plasmática de corticosterona em frango de engorde bajo estresse calórico

Las altas temperaturas ambientales propician susceptibilidad al estrés calórico en los pollos de engorde, lo que genera cambios metabólicos. Se buscó determinar los cambios en la bioquímica sanguínea y la concentración plasmática de corticosterona del pollo de engorde sometido a estrés calórico crónico y a las condiciones de temperatura ambiental del piedemonte amazónico colombiano, sobre las concentraciones plasmáticas de corticosterona, glucosa, proteínas totales, albumina, globulina, sodio, cloro, potasio, magnesio, fósforo y calcio. Se utilizaron pollos machos de 2 estirpes de 21 días de edad, distribuidos en un diseño experimental irrestrictamente al azar, en un esquema bifactorial, con 4 tratamientos. Se hicieron 5 repeticiones por tratamiento y 25 animales por unidad experimental. Las aves fueron alimentadas con una dieta básica de maíz y torta de soya con 3,100 Kcal de EM y 19,5% de proteína hasta los 42 días de edad. El factor estirpe no tuvo efecto en las variables evaluadas (p ≥ 0,05). No obstante, existió diferencia estadística significativa (p ≤ 0,05) en todas las variables evaluadas al ser comparadas las concentraciones de los metabolitos de las aves en condiciones de estrés calórico crónico con las de las aves expuestas a las condiciones de temperatura del piedemonte amazónico colombiano. Se concluyó que la bioquímica sanguínea sufrió modificaciones significativas bajo las 2 temperaturas experimentales, con mayor detrimento fisiológico de las aves con estrés calórico crónico. La concentración de corticosterona se constituyó en el indicador más sensible y constante de la condición fisiológica de estrés crónico por calor.

High ambient temperatures cause susceptibility to heat stress in broiler chickens, generating metabolic changes. This paper seeks to determine the changes in blood biochemistry and plasma corticosterone concentration, as well as in glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, sodium, chlorine, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium in broiler chickens under chronic heat stress and at ambient temperature conditions at the Colombian Amazonian piedmont. 21-days-old male chickens of two lines were studied, distributed in an unrestricted random design, in a two-factor scheme, with four treatments. Five repetitions per treatment were performed, and 25 animals per experimental unit examined. Broilers were fed a basic diet of corn and soybean meal with 3,100 kcal ME and 19.5% protein until they reached 42 days of age. The line factor had no effect on the evaluated variables (p ≥ 0.05). However, there was statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in all variables when concentrations of metabolites in broilers under chronic heat stress were compared to those of chickens exposed to ambient temperatures at the Colombian Amazon piedmont. In conclusion, blood biochemistry suffered significant changes under both experimental temperatures, with more physiological detriment in broilers under chronic heat stress. Concentration of corticosterone became the most sensitive and consistent indicator of the physiological condition of chronic heat stress.

As altas temperaturas ambientais propiciam susceptibilidade ao estresse calórico nos frangos de engorde, o que gera mudanças metabólicas. Buscou-se determinar as mudanças na bioquímica sanguínea e a concentração plasmática de corticosterona do frango de engorde sometido a estresse calórico crónico e às condições de temperatura ambiental do sopé amazônico colombiano, sobre as concentrações plasmáticas de corticosterona, glucose, proteínas totais, albumina, globulina, sódio, cloro, potássio, magnésio, fósforo e cálcio. Utilizaram-se frangos machos de 2 estirpes de 21 dias de idade, distribuídos em um desenho experimental irrestritamente aleatório, em um esquema bivariado, com 4 tratamentos. Realizaram-se 5 repetições por tratamento e 25 animais por unidade experimental. As aves foram alimentadas com uma dieta básica de milho e torta de soja com 3,100 Kcal de EM e 19,5% de proteína até os 42 dias de idade. O fator estirpe não teve efeito nas variáveis avaliadas (p ≥ 0,05). Não obstante, existiu diferença estatística significativa (p ≤ 0,05) em todas as variáveis avaliadas ao ser comparadas as concentrações dos metabolitos das aves em condições de estresse calórico crônico com as das aves expostas às condições de temperatura do sopé amazônico colombiano. Concluiu-se que a bioquímica sanguínea sofreu modificações significativas sob as 2 temperaturas experimentais, com maior detrimento fisiológico das aves com estresse calórico crônico. A concentração de corticosterona se constituiu no indicador mais sensível e constante da condição fisiológica de estresse crônico por calor.

Physiological profiles of Zebu steers during transport and pre-slaughter / Perfiles fisiológicos de novillos Cebú durante el transporte y pre-sacrificio / Perfis fisiológicos de novilhos Zebu durante o transporte e pré-sacrifício

Background: pre-slaughter handling causes stress in cattle that may alter numerous physiological variables. Objective: to determine whether in-farm handling of steers, road transport by truck, or slaughterhouse lairage affect blood stress indicators. Methods: a total of 65 castrated Zebu steers were randomly selected and transported during 4 h in the same truck, under similar handling conditions. Blood samples were taken by jugular or coccygeal venipuncture at the farm, at the slaughterhouse, and during exsanguination to measure plasma cortisol, glucose, lactate, creatine kinase (CK), ß-hydroxybutyrate (ßHB), creatinine, total protein, urea, packed cell volume (PCV) values, white blood cells (WBC) and neutrophil:lymphocytes ratio (N/L). Results: pre-slaughter handling did not have a negative influence on protein metabolism nor did it cause dehydration. ß-hydroxybutyrate and lactate values did not change (p>0.05). Transportation increased cortisol, glucose, creatine kinase concentrations and N/L ratio (p<0.05). Conclusion: pre-slaughter was a stress-generating event that moderately affected animal welfare and increased physiological variables within a range considered normal for steers.

Antecedentes: el manejo presacrificio causa estrés en el ganado que puede alterar variables fisiológicas. Objetivo: determinar si el manejo en la granja, el transporte terrestre o la estadía en la planta de bovinos cebú sacrificados en una planta localizada en una zona productiva tienen efecto sobre los indicadores sanguíneos de estrés. Métodos: se seleccionaron aleatoriamente 65 novillos Cebú, los cuales fueron transportados durante 4 h, bajo las mismas condiciones de manejo. El ganado fue muestreado por venopunción de la vena yugular o coccígea en la granja, en la planta de sacrificio y durante el desangrado para medir los niveles de cortisol, glucosa, lactato, creatinquinasa (CK), betahidroxibutirato (ßHB), creatinina, proteína total, urea, volumen celular acumulado (PCV), conteo de células blancas (WBC) y la relación neutrófilos/linfocitos (N/L). Resultados: el manejo presacrificio no influyó negativamente sobre el metabolismo proteico, ni causó deshidratación. El ß-hidroxibutirato y el lactato no presentaron cambios (p>0,05). El transporte incrementó las concentraciones de cortisol, glucosa, creatinquinasa y la relación N/L (p<0,05). Conclusiones: el presacrificio afectó moderadamente el bienestar animal e incrementó algunas variables fisiológicas, las cuales se encontraron dentro de los rangos considerados como normales para la especie bovina.

Antecedentes: o manejo pré-abate causa estresse no gado, o que pode alterar numerosas variáveis fisiológicas. Objetivo: determinar se o manejo na fazenda, o transporte terrestre ou a permanência no frigorífico de bovinos zebuínos abatidos em um abatedouro instalado numa região produtiva, tem efeito nos indicadores sanguíneos do estresse. Métodos: foram selecionados aleatoriamente 65 novilhos zebu, os quais foram transportados durante 4 h, sob as mesmas condições de manejo. O gado foi monitorado por venopunção na fazenda, no frigorífico e durante a sangria para medir os níveis de cortisol, glucosa, lactato, creatinoquinase (CK), beta hidroxibutirato (ßHB), creatinina, proteína total, uréia, volume celular acumulado (PCV), contagem de células brancas (WBC) e a relação neutrófilos/linfócitos (N/L). Resultados: o manejo pré-abate não influenciou negativamente o metabolismo proteico, nem provocou desidratação. O ß-hidroxibutirato e o lactato não apresentaram mudanças (p>0,05). O transporte elevou as concentrações de cortisol, glicose, creatina-quinase e a relação N/L (p<0,05). Conclusões: o pré-abate afetou moderadamente o bem-estar animal e incrementou algumas variáveis fisiológicas avaliadas, as quais encontraram-se dentro de intervalos considerados como normais para a espécie bovina.

Interrelationships of nutrition, metabolic hormones and reproduction of female sheep / Interrelações entre nutrição, hormonas metabólicas e reprodução em fêmeas ovinas / Interrelaciones entre nutrición, hormonas metabólicas y reproducción en hembras ovinas

Regulation of ovarian activity is an integrated process involving extra-ovarian signals and intrafollicular factors. Positive effects of nutrition on reproduction have been described in sheep, particularly as related to ovulation rate. However, interactions between nutrition, metabolic hormones and reproduction have not been sufficiently described. This paper addresses the response of the reproductive axis to nutritional changes and metabolic status in the light of recent studies. The interaction between nutrition and reproduction has important implications for the reproductive development of sheep. Nutrition stimulates folliculogenesis and can also affect mRNA expression of the ovarian IGF system to regulate follicle sensitivity and response to gonadotropins. These changes are associated with intrafollicular alterations of glucose-insulin, IGF, and leptin metabolic system. Intrafollicular activation of these systems allows to suppress follicle estradiol production. Metabolic hormones also regulate steroidogenesis: glucose and insulin infusions decrease it, while IGF-I infusion increases it. Leptin antagonizes the stimulating effect of insulin on steroidogenesis of theca cells, allowing decreased estradiol secretion. In conclusion, these data suggest that local ovarian nutrients play a role in folliculogenesis.

La regulación de la actividad ovárica es un processo integrado que involucra señales extraováricas y factores intrafoliculares. Los efectos positivos de la nutrición en la reproducción han sido descritos en ovinos, particularmente lo relacionado con la tasa ovulatoria. Sin embargo, las interaciones entre nutrición, hormonas metabólicas y reproducción no han sido lo suficientemente descritas. En este documento, la dinámica de la respuesta del eje reproductivo a los cambios nutricionales y estado metabólico son abordados a la luz de estudios recientes. La interacción entre nutrición y reproducción tiene sus mayores implicaciones en el desarrollo reproductivo en ovinos. A nivel ovárico, el efecto de la nutrición es estimular la foliculogénesis. La nutrición también puede afectar los componentes de la expresión del mRNA del sistema IGF ovárico para regular la respuesta/sensibilidad de los folículos a las gonadotropinas. Estos cambios están asociados con las alteraciones intrafoliculares en el sistema metabólico de la glucosa-insulina, IGF y leptina. La activación de estos sistemas intrafoliculares permite suprimir la producción del estradiol folicular. Las hormonas metabólicas también regulan la esteroidogénesis: la infusión de glucosa e insulina la disminuyen, en cuanto que la infusión del IGF-I es estimulante. La leptina antagoniza el efecto estimulante de la insulina en la esteroidogénesis de las células de la teca, permitiendo la disminución de la secreción del estradiol. En conclusión, estos datos sugieren que las acciones locales ováricas de los nutrientes juegan un papel en la mediación de los efectos nutricionales en la foliculogénesis.

A regulação da atividade ovárica é um processo integrado que envolve sinais extra-ovarianos e intrafoliculares. Os efeitos positivos da nutrição na reprodução tem sido descritos em ovinos, particularmente relacionados com a taxa ovulatória. No entanto, as interações entre nutrição, hormônios metabólicos e reprodução não tem sido suficientemente descritas. Neste artigo, a resposta da dinâmica do eixo reprodutivo às variações nutricionais e estado metabólico são abordados com estudos recentes. A interação entre nutrição e reprodução tem suas maiores implicações no desenvolvimento reprodutivo em ovinos. Ao nível ovariano, o efeito da nutrição é estimular a foliculogênese. A nutrição também pode afetar os componentes da expressão do mRNA do sistema IGF ovariano para regular a resposta/sensibilidade dos folículos às gonadotrofinas. Estas alterações estão associadas com as concentrações intrafoliculares no sistema metabólico de glicose-insulina, IGF e leptina. A ativação destes sistemas intrafoliculares permite suprimir a produção de estradiol folicular. Os hormônios metabólicos também regulam a esteroidogênese, a infusão de glicose e insulina a diminuem, enquanto a infusão de IGF-1 é estimulatória. A leptina antagoniza o efeito estimulante da insulina na esteroidogênese das células da teca, permitindo a diminuição da secreção de estradiol. Em conclusão, estes dados sugerem que as ações locais ovarianas dos nutrientes tem um papel na mediação dos efeitos nutricionais na foliculogênese.

Capsular block syndrome: a case report and literature review.

PURPOSE: To report the case of a patient who developed late capsular block syndrome and to review the current literature regarding this complication of phacoemulsification procedures. METHODS: The literature was reviewed to summarize the diagnosis, classification, use of diagnostic aids, and the current treatments for this complication. RESULTS: A 69-year-old patient complained of decreased visual acuity 11 months after undergoing phacoemulsification. She was found to have a secondary myopization. Anterior segment ultrabiomicroscopy confirmed the diagnosis of capsular block syndrome. The patient underwent neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy, which resulted in complete resolution of her symptoms. CONCLUSION: CAPSULAR BLOCK SYNDROME IS A FAIRLY RARE COMPLICATION OF PHACOEMULSIFICATION PROCEDURES THAT, DEPENDING PRIMARILY ON THE TIMING OF ITS OCCURRENCE FOLLOWING SURGERY, CAN DEVELOP INTO ONE OF THE THREE FOLLOWING POSSIBLE CLINICAL SCENARIOS: intraoperatory, early postoperatory, and late postoperatory. In this patient, Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for this type of complication.

Temporal and spatial regulation of cAMP signaling in disease: role of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases.

Since its discovery, cAMP has been proposed as one of the most versatile second messengers. The remarkable feature of cAMP to tightly control highly diverse physiological processes, including metabolism, homeostasis, secretion, muscle contraction, cell proliferation and migration, immune response, and gene transcription, is reflected by millions of different articles worldwide. Compartmentalization of cAMP in space and time, maintained by mainly phosphodiesterases, contributes to the maintenance of equilibrium inside the cell where one signal can trigger many different events. Novel cAMP sensors seem to carry out certain unexpected signaling properties of cAMP and thereby to permit delicate adaptations of biologic responses. Measuring space and time events with biosensors will increase our current knowledge on the pathophysiology of diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, cognitive impairment, cancer, and renal and heart failure. Further insights into the cAMP dynamics will help to optimize the pharmacological treatment for these diseases.