COVID-19 significantly impacted initial consultation for idiopathic scoliosis.

INTRODUCTION: Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, reduction of social activities and rapid adoption of telemedicine, decreasing face-to-face encounters seems to have negatively affected the timely Idiopathic Scoliosis (IS) referral with a spine specialist. We aim to document the progression of IS curves during COVID-19 pandemic reflected by the late presentation of patients at the initial visit with higher Cobb angles and to evaluate its influence on health-related quality of life scores. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All IS patients scheduled for surgery between April 2019 and September 2021 were recruited in a prospective cohort study. The patients were divided into five cohorts of 6 month duration each according to their booking date: 2 periods before the 1st COVID-19 wave, one period during and two periods afterwards. In each cohort, patients were divided into 3: those who were scheduled for posterior spinal fusion (PSF) at 1st visit, those booked for vertebral body tethering (VBT) at 1st visit, and those scheduled for surgery but who have failed brace treatment. Variables included age, gender, Risser grade and preoperative SRS-22 scores. Chi2 and ANOVA tests were used for comparison. RESULTS: 173 patients were analyzed. 33 patients (13.1 ± 3 y.o.) were scheduled between Apr and Sept 2019; 38 (13.1 y.o. ± 2) between Oct 2019 and Mar 2020; 31 (13.4 ± 3 y.o.) between Apr and Sept 2020; 30 (14.3 ± 2 y.o.) between Sept 2020 and Mar 2021; and 41 patients (13.8 ± 2 y.o.) between Apr and Sept 2021. Non-statistically significant differences were found between periods before, during or after the COVID-19 first wave regarding patients' age, gender, Risser grade and SRS-22 scores. Average Cobb angles of patients at their 1st visit after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic were significantly higher than those before COVID-19 (52.2° ± 7° and 56.6° ± 13° vs 47.8° ± 12° and 45.2° ± 13°; p = 0.0001). More patients were booked for PSF (p < 0.0000) through the five evaluated periods, while the indication of VBT or surgery in patients previously braced progressively decreased. CONCLUSION: Patients presented at the scoliosis clinic for the 1st time after the 1st COVID-19 wave with significantly larger Cobb angles, and likely contributed to an increased proportion of PSF, as the potential window for bracing or VBT was missed due to a delayed consultation.

Human mesenchymal stem-derived extracellular vesicles improve body growth and motor function following severe spinal cord injury in rat.

BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injury (SCI) in young adults leads to severe sensorimotor disabilities as well as slowing of growth. Systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines are associated with growth failure and muscle wasting. Here we investigated whether intravenous (IV) delivery of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) has therapeutic effects on body growth and motor recovery and can modulate inflammatory cytokines following severe SCI in young adult rats. METHODS: Contusional SCI rats were randomized into three different treatment groups (human and rat MSC-sEVs and a PBS group) on day 7 post-SCI. Functional motor recovery and body growth were assessed weekly until day 70 post-SCI. Trafficking of sEVs after IV infusions in vivo, the uptake of sEVs in vitro, macrophage phenotype at the lesion and cytokine levels at the lesion, liver and systemic circulation were also evaluated. RESULTS: An IV delivery of both human and rat MSC-sEVs improved functional motor recovery after SCI and restored normal body growth in young adult SCI rats, indicating a broad therapeutic benefit of MSC-sEVs and a lack of species specificity for these effects. Human MSC-sEVs were selectively taken up by M2 macrophages in vivo and in vitro, consistent with our previous observations of rat MSC-sEV uptake. Furthermore, the infusion of human or rat MSC-sEVs resulted in an increase in the proportion of M2 macrophages and a decrease in the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-6 at the injury site, as well as a reduction in systemic serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 and an increase in growth hormone receptors and IGF-1 levels in the liver. CONCLUSIONS: Both human and rat MSC-sEVs promote the recovery of body growth and motor function after SCI in young adult rats possibly via the cytokine modulation of growth-related hormonal pathways. Thus, MSC-sEVs affect both metabolic and neurological deficits in SCI.

Length-weight relationship and condition factor for Prochilodus lineatus, an important commercial fish, in contrasting water-quality environments of the middle Tietê River basin, Southeast Brazil / Relação peso-comprimento e fator de condição para Prochilodus lineatus, um importante peixe comercial, em ambientes contrastantes em qualidade da água da bacia do médio rio Tietê, sudeste do Brasil

Abstract This work was carried out in order to provide the length-weight relationship (LWR) and the allometric condition factor (Ka), as well as its correlation with limnological variables, for Prochilodus lineatus from the middle Tietê River basin. Fish were collected using gill nets in two rivers with contrasting environmental conditions, totaling 46 specimens in the highly polluted Tietê River, and 37 in the Peixe River, a relatively well-conserved tributary. Environmental measures were obtained concomitantly to the fish capture. The results showed an isometric growth (b = 3.00) for the fish from Tietê River and a positive allometric growth (b = 3.23) for the fish from Peixe River. The mean value of Ka was unexpectedly higher for the main river (Ka = 2.63) when compared to its tributary (Ka = 2.42), being statistically different from each other. This can be explained by the much higher availability of organic sediments in the main river, resulting from a long-term eutrophication process. Nevertheless, the positive and statistically significant correlations with dissolved oxygen, for both rivers, as well as significant negative correlations with electric conductivity, nitrogen and chlorophyll a for Tietê River, indicate the negative effects of the water quality deterioration on the fish condition factor. The work contributes to the expansion of knowledge about P. lineatus, the most important commercial fish of the middle Tietê River basin, which is severely impacted by unsustainable human actions.

Resumo Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de fornecer a relação peso-comprimento (LWR) e o fator de condição alométrico (Ka), bem como sua correlação com variáveis limnológicas, para Prochilodus lineatus da bacia do médio rio Tietê. Os peixes foram coletados com redes de espera em dois rios com condições ambientais contrastantes, totalizando 46 espécimes no altamente poluído rio Tietê, e 37 no rio do Peixe, um tributário relativamente bem conservado. Medidas ambientais foram obtidas concomitantemente à captura dos peixes. Os resultados mostraram um crescimento isométrico (b = 3,00) para os peixes do rio Tietê e um crescimento alométrico positivo (b = 3,23) para os peixes do rio do Peixe. O valor médio de Ka foi, inesperadamente, maior para o rio principal (Ka = 2,63) quando comparado ao seu afluente (Ka = 2,42), sendo estatisticamente diferentes entre si. Isso pode ser explicado pela disponibilidade muito maior de sedimentos orgânicos no rio principal, resultante de um longo processo de eutrofização. No entanto, as correlações positivas e estatisticamente significativas com o oxigênio dissolvido, para ambos os rios, bem como correlações significativas negativas com a condutividade elétrica, nitrogênio e clorofila a para o rio Tietê, indicam os efeitos negativos da deterioração da qualidade da água sobre o fator condição dos peixes. O trabalho contribui para a expansão do conhecimento sobre P. lineatus, o peixe de maior importância comercial da bacia do médio rio Tietê, severamente impactada por ações humanas não-sustentáveis.

The Effect of 17α-Ethynilestradiol and GPER1 Activation on Body and Muscle Growth, Muscle Composition and Growth-Related Gene Expression of Gilthead Seabream, Sparus aurata L.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals include natural and synthetic estrogens, such as 17α-ethynilestradiol (EE2), which can affect reproduction, growth and immunity. Estrogen signalling is mediated by nuclear or membrane estrogen receptors, such as the new G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1). The present work studies the effect of EE2 and G1 (an agonist of GPER1) on body and muscle parameters and growth-related genes of 54 two-year-old seabreams. The fish were fed a diet containing EE2 (EE2 group) and G1 (G1 group) for 45 days and then a diet without EE2 or G1 for 122 days. An untreated control group was also studied. At 45 days, the shortest body length was observed in the G1 group, while 79 and 122 days after the cessation of treatments, the shortest body growth was observed in the EE2 group. Hypertrophy of white fibers was higher in the EE2 and G1 groups than it was in the control group, whereas the opposite was the case with respect to hyperplasia. Textural hardness showed a negative correlation with the size of white fibers. At the end of the experiment, all fish analyzed in the EE2 group showed a predominance of the gonadal ovarian area. In addition, the highest expression of the mafbx gene (upregulated in catabolic signals) and mstn2 (myogenesis negative regulator) was found in EE2-exposed fish.

Differential expression patterns of myogenic regulatory factors in the postnatal longissimus dorsi muscle of Jeju Native Pig and Berkshire breeds along with their co-expression with Pax7

BACKGROUND: Myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) such as MyoD, Myf6 and Myf5 play a vital role in the growth and development of muscles. Jeju Native Pig (JNP) is the top ranker in Korea amongst the indigenous livestock reared for meat purpose. Few studies covering transcript abundance of the MRFs and related to their co-expression with Pax7 in JNP have been conducted. Despite having better quality pork, JNP does not have a comparative growth rate with respect to western breeds. Therefore, the present study was designed with the objective to study the relative transcript levels of MRFs in the postnatal myogenesis of longissimus dorsi muscles in JNP and Berkshire breeds. RESULTS: Relative transcript levels were analyzed by qRT-PCR and blot expression analysis through Western blotting. Immunocytochemistry was performed to analyze their expressions at cellular levels. ToppCluster aided in the analysis of gene ontology of biological processes. The quantitative transcript levels of MyoD and Pax7 were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in Berkshire than in JNP. Myotube formation was observed under the co-expression of MyoD and Pax7. ToppCluster helped in the understanding of the linking of biological processes of the MRFs with the different signaling pathways. MyBPH had significantly (P < 0.05) high transcript levels during the chosen age groups in JNP than Berkshire. CONCLUSIONS: The current study can be helpful in understanding the genetic basis for myogenesis in postnatal stage. Moreover, it can act as stepping stone for the identification of marker genes related to body growth and meat quality in JNP.

Bovine TMEM95 gene: Polymorphisms detecting in five Chinese indigenous cattle breeds and their association with growth traits

BACKGROUND: Transmembrane protein 95 (TMEM95) plays a role in male fertility. Previous studies showed that genes with a significant impact on reproductive traits can also affect the growth traits of livestock. Thus, we speculated that the genetic variation of TMEM95 gene may have effects on growth traits of cattle. RESULTS: Two SNPs were genotyped. The rs136174626 and rs41904693 were in the intron 4 and 30 -untranslated region, respectively. The linkage disequilibrium analysis illustrated that these two loci were not linked. The rs136174626 was associated with six growth traits of Nanyang cattle, four traits of Luxi cattle, and three traits of Ji'an cattle. For rs41904693 locus, the GG individuals had greater body height and abdominal girth in Ji' an cattle than TT and TG individuals. In Jinnan cattle, GG and TT individuals had greater body height, height at hip cross, body length, and heart girth than TG individuals. The potential splice site prediction results suggest that the rs136174626 may influence the splicing efficiency of TMEM95, and the miRNA binding site prediction results showed that the rs41904693 may influence the expression of TMEM95 by affecting the binding efficiency of Bta-miR-1584 and TMEM95 30 -UTR. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the study suggested that the two SNPs in TMEM95 could be a reliable basis for molecular breeding in cattle.

The steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone counteracts insulin signaling via insulin receptor dephosphorylation.

The insulin receptor (INSR) binds insulin to promote body growth and maintain normal blood glucose levels. While it is known that steroid hormones such as estrogen and 20-hydroxyecdysone counteract insulin function, the molecular mechanisms responsible for this attenuation remain unclear. In the present study, using the agricultural pest lepidopteran Helicoverpa armigera as a model, we proposed that the steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) induces dephosphorylation of INSR to counteract insulin function. We observed high expression and phosphorylation of INSR during larval feeding stages that decreased during metamorphosis. Insulin upregulated INSR expression and phosphorylation, whereas 20E repressed INSR expression and induced INSR dephosphorylation in vivo. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B, encoded by Ptpn1) dephosphorylated INSR in vivo. PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) was critical for 20E-induced INSR dephosphorylation by maintaining the transcription factor Forkhead box O (FoxO) in the nucleus, where FoxO promoted Ptpn1 expression and repressed Insr expression. Knockdown of Ptpn1 using RNA interference maintained INSR phosphorylation, increased 20E production, and accelerated pupation. RNA interference of Insr in larvae repressed larval growth, decreased 20E production, delayed pupation, and accumulated hemolymph glucose levels. Taken together, these results suggest that a high 20E titer counteracts the insulin pathway by dephosphorylating INSR to stop larval growth and accumulate glucose in the hemolymph.

Young soccer players with higher somatic maturation are stronger, more powerful and faster than those with lower maturation / Jovens futebolistas de maior maturação somática são mais fortes, potentes e velozes que os de menor maturação

ABSTRACT The identification of young soccer players' maturation level throughout puberty is crucial to verify the influence of aspects that interfere on sport performance, such as body height and physical capacities. The aim of the present study was to verify the differences in physical performance of young soccer players in maturation stages before and after peak height velocity. This study comprised 49 soccer players (14.49 ± 1.00 yrs) belonging to the youth teams of a club in the city of Fortaleza. Body weight, height and trunk-cephalic height were measured. Somatic maturation was estimated using distance in years from peak height velocity (DPHV). 10 Meters Sprint and 20 Meter Flying Sprint, Modified Illinois, Jump Height (CMJ), RAST and Yo Yo IRT 1 tests were applied. Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) and Confidence Intervals (CI = 90%) were used to compare the study variables (PRE-PHV vs POST-PHV). Our findings showed that POST-PHV group showed higher values in CMJ (3/3/97, Very likely) and RAST (peak, average, minimum power) and lower in the 20 Meter Flying Sprint (100/0/0, Most Likely) when compared to the PRE-PHV group. We concluded that young soccer players with somatic maturation after peak height velocity presented better capacity of lower limb strength, anaerobic power and speed.

RESUMO A identificação do nível maturacional de futebolistas em formação, ao longo da puberdade, é fundamental para verificar a influência de aspectos que interferem no desempenho esportivo, tais como o tamanho corporal e as capacidades físicas. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar as diferenças de desempenho físico de jovens futebolistas em estágios maturacionais pré e pós pico de velocidade de crescimento. Participaram do estudo 49 futebolistas (14,49 ± 1,00 anos) das categorias de base de um clube da cidade de Fortaleza. Foram aferidas a massa corporal, a estatura e a altura tronco-cefálica. A maturação somática foi estimada por meio da distância ao pico de velocidade de crescimento (DPVC). Foram realizados os testes Sprint 10 metros e 20 metros lançado, Illinois modificado, Altura do salto (CMJ), RAST e o Yo Yo IRT 1. As Diferenças de Média Estandardizada (DME) e Intervalo de Confiança (IC = 90%) foram utilizados para comparar as variáveis do estudo (PRÉ-PVC vs PÓS-PVC). Os nossos achados mostraram que o grupo PÓS-PVC apresentou valores mais elevados no CMJ (0/3/97, Very likely) e no RAST (potência máxima, média, mínima) e inferiores no Sprint 20m L (100/0/0, Most Likely), quando comparado ao grupo PRÉ-PVC. Concluimos que jovens futebolistas com maturação somática pós pico de velocidade de crescimento apresentam melhor capacidade de força de membros inferiores, potência anaeróbia e velocidade.

Prediction outcomes for anterior vertebral body growth modulation surgery from discriminant spatiotemporal manifolds.

PURPOSE: Anterior vertebral body growth modulation (AVBGM) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that gradually corrects spine deformities while preserving lumbar motion. However, identifying suitable patients for surgery is based on clinical judgment and surgical experience. This process would be facilitated by the identification of patients responding to AVBGM prior to surgery using data-driven models trained on previous instrumented cases. METHODS: We introduce a statistical framework for predicting the surgical outcomes following AVBGM in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. A discriminant manifold is first constructed to maximize the separation between responsive and non-responsive groups of patients treated with AVBGM for scoliosis. The model then uses subject-specific correction trajectories based on articulated transformations in order to map spine correction profiles to a group-average piecewise-geodesic path. Spine correction trajectories are described in a piecewise-geodesic fashion to account for varying times at follow-up examinations, regressing the curve via a quadratic optimization process. To predict the evolution of correction, a baseline reconstruction is projected onto the manifold, from which a spatiotemporal regression model is built from parallel transport curves inferred from neighboring exemplars. RESULTS: The model was trained on 438 reconstructions and tested on 56 subjects using 3D spine reconstructions from follow-up examinations, with the probabilistic framework yielding accurate results with differences of [Formula: see text] in main curve angulation and a classification rate of 83.2%, and generating models similar to biomechanical simulations. CONCLUSION: The proposed method achieved a higher prediction accuracy and improved the modeling of spatiotemporal morphological changes in surgical patients treated with AVBGM.

A New Look at Causal Factors of Idiopathic Scoliosis: Altered Expression of Genes Controlling Chondroitin Sulfate Sulfation and Corresponding Changes in Protein Synthesis in Vertebral Body Growth Plates.

Background: In a previous report, we demonstrated the presence of cells with a neural/glial phenotype on the concave side of the vertebral body growth plate in Idiopathic Scoliosis (IS) and proposed this phenotype alteration as the main etiological factor of IS. In the present study, we utilized the same specimens of vertebral body growth plates removed during surgery for Grade III-IV IS to analyse gene expression. We suggested that phenotype changes observed on the concave side of the vertebral body growth plate can be associated with altered expression of particular genes, which in turn compromise mechanical properties of the concave side. Methods: We used a Real-Time SYBR Green PCR assay to investigate gene expression in vertebral body growth plates removed during surgery for Grade III-IV IS; cartilage tissues from human fetal spine were used as a surrogate control. Special attention was given to genes responsible for growth regulation, chondrocyte differentiation, matrix synthesis, sulfation and transmembrane transport of sulfates. We performed morphological, histochemical, biochemical, and ultrastructural analysis of vertebral body growth plates. Results: Expression of genes that control chondroitin sulfate sulfation and corresponding protein synthesis was significantly lower in scoliotic specimens compared to controls. Biochemical analysis showed 1) a decrease in diffused proteoglycans in the total pool of proteoglycans; 2) a reduced level of their sulfation; 3) a reduction in the amount of chondroitin sulfate coinciding with raising the amount of keratan sulfate; and 4) reduced levels of sulfation on the concave side of the scoliotic deformity. Conclusion: The results suggested that altered expression of genes that control chondroitin sulfate sulfation and corresponding changes in protein synthesis on the concave side of vertebral body growth plates could be causal agents of the scoliotic deformity.

Contribution of Lateral Decubitus Positioning and Cable Tensioning on Immediate Correction in Anterior Vertebral Body Growth Modulation.

STUDY DESIGN: Computational simulation of lateral decubitus and anterior vertebral body growth modulation (AVBGM). OBJECTIVES: To biomechanically evaluate lateral decubitus and cable tensioning contributions on intra- and postoperative correction. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: AVBGM is a compression-based fusionless procedure to treat progressive pediatric scoliosis. During surgery, the patient is positioned in lateral decubitus, which reduces spinal curves. The deformity is further corrected with the application of compression by cable tensioning. Predicting postoperative correction following AVBGM installation remains difficult. METHODS: Twenty pediatric scoliotic patients instrumented with AVBGM were recruited. Three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions obtained from calibrated biplanar radiographs were used to generate a personalized finite element model. Intraoperative lateral decubitus position and installation of AVBGM were simulated to evaluate the intraoperative positioning and cable tensioning (100 / 150 / 200 N) relative contribution on intra- and postoperative correction. RESULTS: Average Cobb angles prior to surgery were 56° ± 10° (thoracic) and 38° ± 8° (lumbar). Simulated presenting growth plate's stresses were of 0.86 MPa (concave side) and 0.02 MPa (convex side). The simulated lateral decubitus reduced Cobb angles on average by 30% (thoracic) and 18% (lumbar). Cable tensioning supplementary contribution on intraoperative spinal correction was of 15%, 18%, and 24% (thoracic) for 100, 150, and 200 N, respectively. Simulated Cobb angles for the postoperative standing position were 39°, 37°, and 33° (thoracic) and 30°, 29°, and 28° (lumbar), respectively, whereas growth plate's stresses were of 0.54, 0.53, and 0.51 MPa (concave side) and 0.36, 0.53, and 0.68 MPa (convex side) for the three tensions. CONCLUSION: The majority of curve correction was achieved by lateral decubitus positioning. The main role of the cable was to apply supplemental periapical correction and secure the intraoperative positioning correction. Increases in cable tensioning furthermore rebalanced initially asymmetric compressive stresses. This study could help improve the design of AVBGM by understanding the contributions of the surgical procedure components to the overall correction achieved. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Surgical Planning and Follow-up of Anterior Vertebral Body Growth Modulation in Pediatric Idiopathic Scoliosis Using a Patient-Specific Finite Element Model Integrating Growth Modulation.

STUDY DESIGN: Numerical planning and simulation of immediate and post-two-year growth modulation effects of Anterior Vertebral Body Growth Modulation (AVBGM). OBJECTIVES: To develop a planning tool based on a patient-specific finite element model (FEM) of pediatric scoliosis integrating growth to computationally assess the 3D biomechanical effects of AVBGM. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: AVBGM is a recently introduced fusionless compression-based approach for pediatric scoliotic patients presenting progressive curves. Surgical planning is mostly empirical, with reported issues including overcorrection (inversion of the side) of the curve and a lack of control on 3D correction. METHODS: Twenty pediatric scoliotic patients instrumented with AVBGM were assessed. An osseoligamentous FEM of the spine, rib cage, and pelvis was generated before surgery using the patient's 3D reconstruction obtained from calibrated biplanar radiographs. For each case, different scenarios of AVBGM and two years of vertebral growth and growth modulation due to gravitational loads and forces from AVBGM were simulated. Simulated correction indices in the coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes for the retained scenario were computed and a posteriori compared to actual patient's postoperative and two years' follow-up data. RESULTS: The simulated immediate postoperative Cobb angles were on average within 3° of that of the actual correction, while it was ±5° for kyphosis/lordosis angles, and ±5° for apical axial rotation. For the simulated 2-year postoperative follow-up, correction results were predicted at ±3° for Cobb angles and ±5° for kyphosis/lordosis angles, ±2% for T1-L5 height, and ±4° for apical axial rotation. CONCLUSION: A numeric model simulating immediate and post-two-year effects of AVBGM enabled to assess different implant configurations to support surgical planning. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Tactical performance, anthropometry and physical fitness in young soccer players: a comparison between different maturational groups / Desempenho tático, antropometria e capacidades físicas em jovens futebolistas: comparação entre diferentes grupos maturacionais

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to compare the tactical performance, anthropometric indicators, and physical capabilities between different maturational groups in young soccer players. Study participants were 48 soccer players (14.80±1.52 years). Anthropometric measurements of weight, height, and trunk-cephalic height were carried out. Peak height velocity (PHV) was used as a relative indicator of somatic maturity. For evaluation of physical capabilities, the sit-and-reach test, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1, handgrip test, modified abdominal test, and vertical jumps (Counter Movement Jump and Squat Jump) were performed. Tactical performance was achieved through the System of Tactical Assessment in Soccer (FUT-SAT). For statistical analysis, non-hierarchical k-means Cluster Analysis, One-Way ANOVA, and the Pearson correlation coefficient were used. The results indicated that early players in the maturational process presented higher values in the performance of physical capabilities such as aerobic endurance and lower limb muscle strength (P<0.01). Tactical principles "offensive coverage", "offensive unity", and "concentration" were executed more frequently by the Post-PHV group than the Pre-PHV (P<0.05). Significant correlations were observed between PHV and the principles "offensive coverage" (r=0.32), "offensive unity" (r=0.39), and "concentration" (r=0.38). These results suggest that advancement in maturational classification has little influence on the management of gaming space.

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi comparar o desempenho tático, os indicadores antropométricos e as capacidades físicas entre diferentes grupos maturacionais em jovens futebolistas. Fizeram parte do estudo 48 jogadores de futebol (14,80±1,52 anos). Foram realizadas medidas antropométricas de massa corporal, estatura e altura tronco-cefálica. O Pico de Velocidade de Crescimento (PVC) foi utilizado como indicador relativo de maturidade somática. Foram realizados os testes de sentar-e-alcançar, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1, preensão manual, abdominal modificado e saltos verticais (Counter Movement Jump e Squat Jump). O desempenho tático foi obtido através do Sistema de Avaliação Tática no Futebol (FUT-SAT). Para análise estatística, utilizou-se a Análise de Cluster, Anova One-Way e o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Os resultados indicaram que os jogadores adiantados no processo maturacional apresentaram valores superiores no desempenho das capacidades físicas como resistência aeróbia e força muscular de membros inferiores (P<0,01). Os princípios táticos "cobertura ofensiva", "unidade ofensiva" e "concentração" foram mais executados por jogadores Pós-PVC comparativamente ao grupo Pré-PVC (P<0,05). Foram observadas correlações significativas entre o PVC e os princípios "cobertura ofensiva" (r=0,32), "unidade ofensiva" (r=0,39) e "concentração" (r=0,38). Tais resultados sugerem que o avanço na classificação maturacional exerce baixa influencia sobre a gestão do espaço de jogo de jovens futebolistas.

Estradiol via estrogen receptor beta inhibits chondrogenesis of mouse vertebral growth plate in vitro.

PURPOSE: Abnormal growth of vertebral growth plate (VGP) was considered as one of the etiologic factors in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Previous studies described that estrogen played an important role in the pathogenesis of AIS. The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of estrogen/estrogen receptor axis on mouse VGP chondrocytes in vitro. METHODS: Chondrocytes were isolated from mouse VGP and treated with or without 17ß-estradiol (E2). Cell proliferation was measured by the cell growth rate assay. Gene expression of collagen type II and aggrecan were evaluated by real-time PCR. Expression of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Sox9, and Smad4 were detected by Western blotting. RESULTS: Estradiol inhibited the proliferation of VGP chondrocytes and the gene expression of collagen type II and aggrecan and downregulated the protein expression of PCNA, Sox9, and Smad4. In addition, the inhibitory effect of estradiol was reversed by ERß small interfering RNA (siRNA) or PHTPP, an ERß antagonist. CONCLUSIONS: Estradiol via estrogen/estrogen receptor ß axis inhibits the proliferation and differentiation of VGP chondrocytes, which might give some new insight into the regulatory mechanism of bone development.

Surgical outcomes by age at the time of surgery in the treatment of congenital scoliosis in children under age 10 years.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: There is little information regarding the surgical outcomes with regard to the timing of surgery in children under age 10 years for congenital scoliosis with a long-term follow-up. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the surgical outcomes for congenital scoliosis in children 6 years or older but less than 10 years of age. STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective study. PATIENT SAMPLE: Eighteen congenital scoliosis patients under age 10 years at the time of surgery were treated by posterior hemivertebra resection and bilateral pedicle screw fixation. OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcome measures are radiological outcomes (plain radiographs and computed tomography) and complications. METHODS: Eighteen congenital scoliosis patients (n=18) under age 10 years at the time of surgery were treated by posterior hemivertebra resection and bilateral pedicle screw fixation. These cases were retrospectively studied and had a minimum of 7-year follow-up. We assigned patients into two groups: Group 1 (n=9) patients who had surgery before 6 years of age and Group 2 (n=9) those who had surgery after 6 years of age. RESULTS: The groups were not found to be statistically different in operative time, blood loss, and follow-up period. In the Group 1, the mean Cobb angle of the main curve was 32.4° before surgery, 6.4° after surgery, and 9.1° at last follow-up. In the Group 2, the mean Cobb angle of the main curve was 36.5° before surgery, 10.4° after surgery, and 14.5° at last follow-up. There was significantly better deformity correction of main curve immediate postoperatively and at last follow-up in Group 1. No significant difference was observed in growth rate of the vertebral body and spinal canal parameters comparing the two groups at the vertebra with or without screws. There was no crankshaft phenomena, no clinical or radiographic features suggestive of spinal stenosis during follow-up, and no major vascular or neurological complications related to the pedicle screws in either group. CONCLUSIONS: In congenital scoliosis patients, posterior hemivertebra resection after pedicle screw fixation before the age of 6 years had significantly better deformity correction and did not cause a negative effect on the growth of vertebral body or spinal canal compared with the group treated after 6 years of age. Therefore, early surgical correction of a congenital hemivertebra in children under 6 years of age, before structural changes occur, effectively achieves a more satisfactory correction without causing iatrogenic spinal stenosis or neurologic complications compared with children older than 6 years but under 10 years of age.

Target innervation is necessary for neuronal polyploidization in the terrestrial slug Limax.

The brain of gastropod mollusks contains many giant neurons with polyploid genomic DNAs. Such DNAs are generated through repeated DNA endoreplication during body growth. However, it is not known what triggers DNA endoreplication in neurons. There are two possibilities: (1) DNAs are replicated in response to some unknown molecules in the hemolymph that reflect the nutritive status of the animal; or (2) DNAs are replicated in response to some unknown factors that are retrogradely transported through axons from the innervated target organs. We first tested whether hemolymph with rich nutrition could induce DNA endoreplication. We tested whether the transplanted brain exhibits enhanced DNA endoreplication like an endogenous brain does when transplanted into the homocoel of the body of a slug whose body growth is promoted by an increased food supply. However, no enhancement was observed in the frequency of DNA endoreplication when we compared the transplanted brains in the growth-promoted and growth-suppressed host slugs, suggesting that the humoral environment is irrelevant to triggering the body growth-dependent DNA endoreplication. Next, we tested the requirement of target innervation by surgically dissecting a unilateral posterior pedal nerve of an endogenous brain. Substantially lower number of neurons exhibited DNA endoreplication in the pedal ganglion ipsilateral to the dissected nerve. These results support the view that enhanced DNA endoreplication is mediated by target innervation and is not brought about through the direct effect of humoral factors in the hemolymph during body growth.

Efeito da semente de linhaça no crematócrito do leite de ratas e sua contribuição no crescimento corporal dos filhotes / Effects of flaxseed on rat milk creamatocrit and its contribution to offspring body growth

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o efeito da semente de linhaça no crematócrito do leite de ratas e crescimento corporal dos filhotes durante a lactação. MÉTODOS: Utilizou-se 22 ratas Lister Hooded divididas em dois grupos: controle (GC, n = 11), que recebeu ração caseína com 17 por cento de proteína; e linhaça (GL, n = 11), que recebeu ração com 25 por cento de linhaça acrescida de 14 por cento de caseína, totalizando 17 por cento de proteína. Controlou-se o consumo de ração das ratas por gaiola individual, número de crias, e avaliou-se o crematócrito do leite materno e variação ponderal dos filhotes até idade de desmame. RESULTADOS: O GL foi semelhante ao GC no consumo de ração das ratas (GL = 76,46±31,87 g; GC = 76,7±33,36 g; p = 0,9613) e equivalente ao GC no número de crias (GL = 4,94±2,34; GC = 5,5±3,19; p = 0,435). O mesmo foi verificado no teor de gordura do leite materno (GL = 18,4±4,76; GC = 15,3±6,03; p = 0,204) e valor energético total (GL = 212,92±46,4; GC = 181,1±60; p = 0,1964). O GL assemelhou-se ao GC tanto no peso corporal dos filhotes ao desmame (GL = 37±6,96 g; GC = 32,6±7,5 g; p = 0,1817) quanto na evolução ponderal (GL = 31,8±7,0 g; GC = 27,7±7,5 g; p = 0,2104). CONCLUSÃO: Um total de 25 por cento de linhaça promoveu um crescimento adequado aos filhotes.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of flaxseed on rat milk creamatocrit and its contribution to offspring weight gain during lactation. METHODS: The study was conducted with 22 Lister Hooded rats divided into two groups: Control Group (CG, n = 11), which received a casein-based diet with 17 percent protein, and Flaxseed Group (FG, n = 11), which received a 25 percent flaxseed diet supplemented with 14 percent casein, totaling 17 percent protein. Food consumption was controlled per individual cage and litter size. Maternal milk creamatocrit and offspring weight variation until weaning age were also evaluated. RESULTS: FG was similar to CG concerning food intake (FG = 76.46±31.87 g; CG = 76.7±33.36 g; p = 0.9613) and equivalent to CG concerning litter size (FG = 4.94±2.34; CG = 5.5±3.19; p = 0.435). The same was found for milk fat content (FG = 18.4±4.76; CG = 15.3±6.03; p = 0.204) and total energy value (FG = 212.92±46.4; CG = 181.1±60; p = 0.1964). FG was similar to CG both in offspring body weight at weaning (FG = 37±6.96 g; CG = 32.6±7.5 g; p = 0.1817) and in weight gain (FG = 31.8±7.0 g; CG = 27.7±7.5 g; p = 0.2104). CONCLUSION: A total of 25 percent flaxseed promoted an adequate offspring growth.

A natação minimiza o retardo no crescimento somático e ósseo de ratos / Does swimming minimize somatic and bone growth delay in rats

A formação óssea é regulada por fatores hormonais e modificada por estímulos extrínsecos, como a prática de exercícios. Avaliou-se o efeito da natação sobre o crescimento somático e ósseo de ratas submetidas a dois modelos experimentais a fim de reproduzir déficit hormonal. Utilizou-se 28 ratas Wistar neonatas fêmeas separadas em: grupo Glutamato Monossódico (GluM, n = 14; solução de GM 4.0mg/g, dias alternados, primeiros 14 dias de vida) e grupo Salina (Sal, n = 14; solução salina). Peso corpóreo e mensurações murinométricas (eixos laterolateral, anteroposterior do crânio - LLC/APC - e comprimento da cauda - CC) foram avaliados do primeiro ao 30º dia de vida. Aos 60 dias, o Grupo GluM foi ovariectomizado (GluMO) e o sal apenas passou pelo estresse cirúrgico. Então, metade dos animais de cada grupo iniciou o programa de natação (12 semanas, cinco dias/semanas, 60 min/sessão) resultando nos seguintes grupos experimentais: Salina Sedentário (Salsed, n = 7), Salina Natação (Salnat, n = 7), Glutamato Ovariectomia Sedentário (GluMOsed, n = 7) e Glutamato Ovariectomia Natação (GluMOnat, n = 7). Ao final do experimento o fêmur direito foi pesado e seu comprimento avaliado. Nos 30 dias iniciais, GluM reduziu o peso corpóreo e os eixos LLC, APC e CC comparado ao grupo SAL. Aos 60 dias, o peso corpóreo do GLuM permaneceu menor comparado ao SAL e ao final foi similar entre os grupos SALsed e SALnat e, GLuMOsed e GluMOnat. Porém, houve redução no peso do GlutMOsed comparado ao SALsed. A natação favoreceu o peso do fêmur no SAL e não o alterou entre os GluMOsed e GluMOnat, entretanto, houve aumento no grupo SALsed comparado ao GluMOsed. No comprimento, o SALnat foi similar ao SALsed e o mesmo ocorreu entre GluMOnat e GluMOsed. Porém, SALsed apresentou comprimento maior que GluMOsed. A natação não foi capaz de reverter, em animais adultos jovens, os efeitos provocados por situações de desequilíbrio corpóreo induzidas precocemente no tecido ósseo.

The bone formation is regulated by hormonal factors and modified by extrinsic stimuli, such as practice of exercises. The effect of swimming on the somatic and bone growth of female rats subjected to two experimental models to reproduce hormone deficiency was assessed.Twenty-eight Wistar, neonate female rats separated in two groups: Monosodium glutamate (MGlu, n = 14; solution of monosodium glutamate 4.0mg/g, alternate days, first 14 days of life) and Saline Group (SAL, n = 14; saline solution. Body weight and measurements of somatic development (latero-lateral axis of the skull, anterior-posterior axis of the skull - LLS / APS - and length of the tail - LT) were evaluated from the 1st to the 30th day of life. At 60 days of life, the MGlu group was ovariectomized and SAL just went though surgical stress. Subsequently, half of the animals in each group started the swimming training (12 weeks, 5 days/week, 60 min/session), resulting in the following experimental groups: Sedentary saline (Sedsal, n = 7), Swimming saline (Swisal, n = 7), Sedentary glutamate ovariectomy (SedMGluO, n = 7) and Swimming glutamate ovariectomy (SwiMGluO, n = 7).At the end of the experiment, the right femur was weighed and its length assessed. At the 30 initial days, the MGlu group reduced its body weight and the LLS, APC and LT compared to SAL. At day 60, body weight of MGlu group remained lower and at the end of the experiment it was similar between Swisal and Sedsal groups; SedMGLuO and SwiMGluO groups. However, weight reduction was observed in SedMGlutO compared to SedSAL. Swimming helped the weight of the femur in the SAL and did not alter it between SedMGluO and SwiMGluO, but it increased in Sedsal compared to SedMGluO group. In length, the SwiSal was similar to Sedsal and the same situation occurred between SwiMGluO and SedMGluO. However, Sedsal group presented greater length than SedMGluO. Swimming was not able to reverse the effects caused by situations of body imbalance early ...

Evaluation of body growth and myoenteric neurons of Wistar rats after neonatal treatment with monosodium glutamate

This work aimed at evaluating how the neonatal treatment with monosodium glutamate reflects on body parameters and on myoenteric neurons of Wistar rats. Male rats were injected with monosodium glutamate during the first five postnatal days. Body growth was recorded until the age of 90 days, when the animals were killed. Fasting plasma glucose, caloric density and weight of organs were assayed. Gastric and duodenal whole-mounts stained with NADH diaphorase were observed for neuronal numbers and sizes. Growth, relative weight of organs and testicular caloric density of the injected rats were smaller than those of the controls, while their Lee index and relative fat content were greater. The number of duodenal neurons and the mean size of gastric neurons were smaller in the injected animals. These results are discussed in light of the endocrine, autonomic and behavioral changes stemming from the lesion of the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus by monosodium glutamate.

Avaliação do crescimento corporal e dos neurônios mioentéricos de ratos Wistar após tratamento neonatal com glutamato monossódico. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar como o tratamento neonatal com glutamato monossódico se reflete em parâmetros corporais e nos neurônios mioentéricos de ratos Wistar. Ratos machos foram injetados com glutamato monossódico durante os primeiros 5 dias após o nascimento. O crescimento corporal foi registrado até os 90 dias, quando os animais foram sacrificados. Glicose plasmática de jejum, densidade calórica e peso dos órgãos foram avaliados. Preparados de membrana gástricos e duodenais corados com NADH-diaforase foram observados quanto a número e tamanho dos neurônios. Crescimento, peso relativo dos órgãos e densidade calórica testicular dos ratos injetados foram menores que nos controles, enquanto o índice de Lee e o conteúdo relativo de gordura foram maiores. O número de neurônios duodenais e o tamanho médio dos neurônios gástricos foram menores nos animais injetados. Esses resultados são discutidos a luz das alterações endócrinas, autonômicas e comportamentais resultantes da lesão do núcleo arqueado hipotalâmico pelo glutamato monossódico.

GENETIC VARIATION AND COVARIATION FOR CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH CADMIUM TOLERANCE IN NATURAL POPULATIONS OF THE SPRINGTAIL ORCHESELLA CINCTA (L.).

Heavy metals can be strong and stable directional selective agents for metal-exposed populations. Genetic variation for the metal-tolerance characteristic "cadmium excretion efficiency" was studied in populations of the collembolan Orchesella cincta from a reference- and a metal-contaminated forest soil. Previously it has been shown that "excretion efficiency" influences tolerance through midgut-mediated immobilization and excretion of toxic metal ions, and that an increased mean excretion efficiency is present in animals inhabiting metal-contaminated litter. In the present research, offspring-parent regressions showed that additive genetic variation for cadmium excretion efficiency was present in the population from the reference site. The heritability estimate was 0.33. In the natural population exposed to heavy metals from an industrial source, additive genetic variation was not significantly different from zero. Differences in the heritability between the reference and the exposed population were not significant. Genetic variation for cadmium excretion efficiency allows for a response to selection in the reference population. Such a response has probably occurred in the metal-exposed population. Half-sib analysis with animals from the reference population was used to estimate genetic variation and maternal effects for excretion efficiency, relative growth rate and molting frequency, and to determine genetic correlations between these characteristics. Additive genetic variation was demonstrated for all three characteristics, heritability estimates were 0.48, 0.75 and 0.46, respectively. Maternal effects were low for excretion efficiency and molting frequency, but may be present for relative growth rate. Phenotypic and genetic correlations among these characteristics were positive. The environmental correlation between relative growth rate and molting frequency was positive, others were negative. Direct selection for any of the characteristics, or genetic correlations between tolerance characteristics and growth characteristics, or both may have caused the responses previously observed in field populations.