Polymorphism in the pvcrt-o and pvmdr-1 genes of Plasmodium vivax associated with a better prognosis for malaria

@#The early molecular identification of strains of Plasmodium vivax that have a worse prognosis is important to stratify the risk of complications and choice of conduct made by medical teams. Thus, the aim of the present study was to associate the presence of polymorphisms in the pvmdr-1 and pvcrt-o resistance genes of P. vivax in patients with better or worse prognosis. This cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted based on data obtained from the records of 120 patients diagnosed with malaria in the Brazilian Amazon. The T958M and F1076L mutations of the pvmdr-1 gene had a frequency of 3.3 and 4.2%, respectively, and primo-infected patients had a 17 times greater chance of being infected with protozoa with the T958M mutation compared to patients with previous episodes. Regarding pvcrt-o, the C393T and T786C polymorphisms had a frequency of 14.2 and 3.3%, respectively, and self-declared white patients had a 3.1 times greater chance of being infected with protozoa with the C393T polymorphism. In addition, patients with this pvcrt-o polymorphism had lower concentrations of C-reactive protein, indicating a better prognosis. These data present clues of genetic indicators useful for assessing the virulence of the parasite and the prognosis of patients with vivax malaria.

α, ß-Amyrin prevents steatosis and insulin resistance in a high-fat diet-induced mouse model of NAFLD via the AMPK-mTORC1-SREBP1 signaling mechanism

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by hepatosteatosis and steatohepatitis, is intrinsically related to obesity. Our previous study reported on the anti-obese activity of α,β-amyrin (AMY), a pentacyclic triterpene isolated from Protium heptaphyllum. This study investigated its ability to prevent fatty liver and the underlying mechanism using the mouse model of NAFLD. NAFLD was induced in male Swiss mice fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 15 weeks. The controls were fed a normal chow diet (ND). The mice were simultaneously treated with AMY at 10 and 20 mg/kg or fenofibrate at 50 mg/kg. Lipid levels along with metabolic and inflammatory parameters were assessed in liver and serum. The liver sections were histologically examined using H&E staining. RT-qPCR and western blotting assays were performed to analyze signaling mechanisms. Mice fed HFD developed severe hepatic steatosis with elevated triglycerides and lipid droplets compared with ND controls. This was associated with a decrease in AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity, an increase of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling, and enhanced sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) expression, which have roles in lipogenesis, inhibition of lipolysis, and inflammatory response. AMY treatment reversed these signaling activities and decreased the severity of hepatic steatosis and inflammatory response, evidenced by serum and liver parameters as well as histological findings. AMY-induced reduction in hepatic steatosis seemed to involve AMPK-mTORC1-SREBP1 signaling pathways, which supported its beneficial role in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.

Acute blockade of endogenous melatonin by Luzindole, with or without peripheral LPS injection, induces jejunal inflammation and morphological alterations in Swiss mice

This study investigated the acute blockade of endogenous melatonin (MLT) using Luzindole with or without systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge and evaluated changes in inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in the mouse jejunum. Luzindole is an MT1/MT2 MLT receptor antagonist. Both receptors occur in the small intestine. Swiss mice were treated with either saline (0.35 mg/kg, ip), Luzindole (0.35 mg/kg, ip), LPS (1.25 mg/kg, ip), or Luzindole+LPS (0.35 and 1.25 mg/kg, ip, respectively). Jejunum samples were evaluated regarding intestinal morphometry, histopathological crypt scoring, and PAS-positive villus goblet cell counting. Inflammatory Iba-1, interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor (NF)-kB, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and oxidative stress (NP-SHs, catalase, MDA, nitrate/nitrite) markers were assessed. Mice treated with Luzindole, LPS, and Luzindole+LPS showed villus height shortening. Crypt damage was worse in the LPS group. Luzindole, LPS, and Luzindole+LPS reduced the PAS-goblet cell labeling and increased Iba-1-immunolabelled cells compared to the saline group. Immunoblotting for IL-1β, TNF-α, and NF-kB was greater in the Luzindole group. The LPS-challenged group showed higher MPO activity than the saline and Luzindole groups. Catalase was reduced in the Luzindole and Luzindole+LPS groups compared to saline. The Luzindole group showed an increase in NP-SHs, an effect related to compensatory GSH activity. The acute blockade of endogenous MLT with Luzindole induced early changes in inflammatory markers with altered intestinal morphology. The other non-detectable deleterious effects of Luzindole may be balanced by the unopposed direct action of MLT in immune cells bypassing the MT1/MT2 receptors.

ω-Conotoxina MVIIC e células-tronco mesenquimais promovem recuperação motora em ratos Wistar após trauma medular agudo / ω-Conotoxin MVIIC and mesenchymal stem cells promote motor recovery in Wistar rats after acute spinal cord injury]

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da ω-conotoxina MVIIC e das células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) de forma isolada e sua associação nos ratos submetidos ao trauma medular agudo (TMA). Trinta Rattus novergicus, linhagem Wistar, três meses de idade, foram distribuídos igualmente em cinco grupos experimentais: controle negativo (CN), controle positivo (CP), ω-conotoxina MVIIC (MVIIC), células-tronco mesenquimais da medula óssea (CTM-MO) e associação (MVIIC + CTM-MO). O grupo CN foi submetido à laminectomia sem trauma medular, e os grupos CP, MVIIC, CTM-MO e MVIIC + CTM-MO foram submetidos ao trauma medular contusivo. O grupo CP recebeu, uma hora após o TMA, 10µL de PBS estéril, e os grupos MVIIC e MVIIC + CTM-MO receberam 10µL de PBS contendo 20pmol da ω-conotoxina MVIIC, todos por via intratecal. Os grupos CTM-MO e MVIIC + CTM-MO receberam, 24 horas após, 1x106 de CTM via intravenosa. Avaliou-se a recuperação da função locomotora até o sétimo dia pós-trauma. Os animais tratados com MVIIC + CTM-MO obtiveram recuperação motora após o trauma medular agudo (P<0,05). Conclui-se que essa associação apresentou efeito neuroprotetor com melhora na função locomotora em ratos Wistar.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of isolated ω-conotoxin MVIIC and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and its association in rats submitted to acute spinal cord injury (SCI). Thirty Rattus norvegicus, Wistar strain, three-month-old rats were randomly distributed in five experimental groups with six animals: negative control (CN), positive control (CP), ω-conotoxin MVIIC (MVIIC), bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (CTM-MO) and the association (MVIIC + CTM-MO). The CN group underwent laminectomy without spinal cord trauma, and groups CP, MVIIC, CTM-MO and MVIIC + CTM-MO were submitted to contusive spinal cord trauma. The CP group received 10µl of PBS one hour after SCI, and groups MVIIC and MVIIC + CTM-MO received 10µl of PBS containing 20pmol of ω-conotoxin MVIIC, both intrathecally. Groups CTM-MO and MVIIC + CTM-MO received 1x106 of MSCs intravenously 24 hours later. The recovery of locomotor function was evaluated up to seven days post-injury. The animals treated with MVIIC + CTM-MO obtained motor recovery after SCI (P<0.05). It is concluded that this association showed neuroprotective effect with improvements in locomotor function in Wistar rats.(AU)

In vivo effect of essential oil of Mentha x villosa and its active compound against Schistosoma mansoni (Sambon, 1907) / Efeito in vivo do óleo essencial de Mentha x villosa e seu composto ativo sobre Schistosoma mansoni (Sambon, 1907)

Abstract Schistosomiasis treatment is dependent on a single drug, praziquantel (PZQ). The development of resistance of PZQ has drawn the attention of many researchers to alternative drugs. One viable and promising treatment is the study of medicinal plants as a new approach to the experimental treatment for Schistosomiasis. The present work aimed to evaluate in vivo antischistosomal activity of effect of Mentha x villosa Oil Essential (Mv-EO) and rotundifolone (ROT) against Schistosoma mansoni. Thirty-day-old female Swiss webster mice (Mus musculus) weighing 50 grams were used. Mice were infected with 80 cercariae of S. mansoni (BH strain) and orally administered Mv-EO (50, 100 and 200 mg/Kg) and ROT (35.9, 70.9 and 141.9 mg/Kg) at 45-days post infection for 5 consecutive days. All mice were euthanized 60 days after infection. Praziquantel was the positive control in the experiment. Doses of 200 mg/kg (Mv-EO) and ROT (141.9 mg/Kg) resulted in a significant reduction in fluke burden (72.44% and 74.48%, respectively). There was also marked reduction in liver, intestinal and faecal and changed oogram pattern, compared to infected untreated mice. Considering the results obtained, further biological studies are required in order to elucidate the mechanism of schistosomicidal action on against adult S. mansoni.

Resumo O tratamento da esquistossomose é dependente de uma única droga, praziquantel (PZQ). O desenvolvimento da resistência de PZQ tem atraído atenção de muitos pesquisadores por medicamentos alternativos. Um tratamento viável e promissor é o estudo das plantas medicinais como uma nova abordagem para o tratamento experimental para esquistossomose. O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar a atividade esquistossomicida in vivo óleo essencial de Mentha x villosa (OE-Mv) e rotundifolona (ROT) contra Schistosoma mansoni. Foram utilizados camundongos Swiss webster (Mus musculus) fêmea de trinta dias de idade pesando 50 gramas. Os camundongos foram infectados com 80 cercárias de S. mansoni (cepa BH) e administrado por via oral OE-Mv (50, 100 e 200 mg/Kg) e ROT (35,9, 70,9 e 141,9 mg/Kg) apos 45 dias de infecção durante 5 dias consecutivos. Todos os animais foram eutanasiados 60 dias após a infecção. Praziquantel foi o controle positivo no experimento. O tratamento dos camundongos infectados com doses de 200 mg/kg (OE-Mv) e rotundifolona (141,9 mg/Kg) resultaram em redução significativa dos vermes (72.44% e 74.48%, respectivamente). Foi observado também redução no fígado, intestino e fecal e alteração no padrão do oograma, em comparação aos camundongos infectados e não tratados. Considerando os resultados obtidos, mais estudos biológicos são necessários a fim de elucidar o mecanismo de ação esquistossomicida contra adultos de S. mansoni.

Biomarcadores enzimáticos e histológicos em brânquias de Ucides cordatus (Linnaeus, 1763) (Crustacea, Brachyura, Ucididae) indicativos de impactos ambientais em uma região portuária do nordeste do Brasil / [Enzymatic and histological biomarkers in Ucides cordatus (Linnaeus, 1763) (Crustacea, Brachyura, Ucididae) gills indicative of environmental impacts in a port region of northeastern Brazil]

Objetivou-se neste estudo analisar biomarcadores histológicos e bioquímicos em brânquias de U. cordatus indicativos de impactos na Baía de São Marcos. Caranguejos foram coletados em quatro áreas na Baía de São Marcos: A1= Ilha dos Caranguejos (com baixo impacto); A2= Coqueiro, A3= Porto Grande, A4= Cajueiro (áreas potencialmente impactadas). Mediram-se os dados biométricos de cada exemplar de caranguejo. Amostras de brânquias foram submetidas à técnica histológica padrão e homogeneizadas em tampão fosfato, e o sobrenadante foi utilizado para análise das enzimas glutationa-S-transferase (GST) e catalase (CAT). A biometria indicou que os caranguejos de A1 são significativamente (P<0,05) maiores e mais pesados do que os caranguejos das áreas A2, A3 e A4. As alterações branquiais (rompimento das células pilastras, deformação do canal marginal, deslocamento da cutícula e necrose) foram significativamente (P˂0,05) mais frequentes em caranguejos de A2, A3 e A4 do que nos caranguejos de A1. As atividades enzimáticas da GST e CAT nos caranguejos apresentaram diferença significativa (P<0,05) entre as áreas de coletas, com padrão similar ao observado para as alterações branquiais. Os biomarcadores analisados mostraram que os caranguejos estão sob diferentes níveis de impactos (A4>A3>A2>A1) ao longo da Baía de São Marcos.(AU)

The objective of this study was to analyze histological and biochemical biomarkers in U. cordatus gills indicative of impacts in São Marcos Bay. Crabs were collected from four areas in São Marcos Bay: A1=Ilha dos Caranguejos (with low impact); A2=Coqueiro, A3=Porto Grande, A4=Cajueiro (potentially impacted areas). The biometric data of each specimen was measured. Gill samples were submitted to standard histological technique and homogenized in phosphate buffer, and the supernatant was used for analysis of glutathione S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) enzyme activity. Biometric data indicated that crabs found in A1 are significantly (P<0.05) larger and heavier than crabs found in A2, A3 and A4 areas. Gill alterations (rupture of pilaster cells, Dilation of the marginal channel, Cuticle Rupture and necrosis) were significantly (P˂0.05) more frequent in the crabs in A2, A3 and A4 than crabs in A1. The enzymatic activities of GST and CAT showed significant difference (P<0.05) between the sampling areas, similar to that observed for gill alterations. The biomarkers analyzed showed that the crabs are under different impact levels (A4> A3> A2> A1) along the São Marcos Bay.(AU)

Expressão e caracterização da glicoproteína D do herpesvírus equídeo 1 em Pichia pastoris / Expression and characterization of equid herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein D in Pichia pastoris

O herpesvírus equídeo 1 (EHV-1) apresenta distribuição mundial e causa graves prejuízos à equideocultura. É agente de surtos de doença respiratória, reprodutiva e neurológica, em equídeos jovens e adultos. A glicoproteína D (gD) do envelope viral é essencial para ligação e penetração em células permissivas e direcionamento do sistema imunológico do hospedeiro, induz respostas imunes humorais e celulares, sendo um antígeno apropriado para ser utilizado em vacinas e imunodiagnóstico. O objetivo deste trabalho foi expressar e caracterizar a gD do EHV-1 em Pichia pastoris para posterior utilização como antígeno em técnicas de imunodiagnóstico e formulação de vacinas recombinantes. Uma sequência de DNA que codifica uma forma truncada da gDEHV-1 foi clonada no vetor pPICZαA de expressão em P. pastoris. Obteve-se uma proteína de ~41 kDa, como esperado. A proteína apresentou glicosilação entre 4 kDa e 16 kDa, demonstrada por deglicosilação enzimática. A proteína recombinante foi caracterizada antigenicamente e imunogenicamente por Western blot, utilizando-se anticorpos policlonais equinos anti-EHV-1, e por ELISA indireto em modelo murino, demonstrando que a gD recombinante manteve epítopos similares aos da proteína nativa. Esses resultados sugerem que a gDEHV-1 é um antígeno promissor para uso como imunobiológico no controle do EHV-1.(AU)

Equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) has a worldwide distribution and causes serious damage to horse breeding. It is an agent of respiratory, reproductive and neurological disease outbreaks in young and adult equids. Viral envelope glycoprotein D (gD) is essential for binding and penetration into permissive cells and targeting the host immune system, inducing humoral and cellular immune responses, and is an appropriate antigen for use in vaccines and immunodiagnostics. The objective of this work was to express in Pichia pastoris and to characterize EHV-1 gD for later use as an antigen in immunodiagnostic techniques and formulation of recombinant vaccines. A DNA sequence encoding a truncated form of gDEHV-1 has been cloned into the P. pastoris expression vector pPICZαA. A protein of ~41 kDa was obtained as expected. The protein presented glycosylation between 4 kDa and 16 kDa, demonstrated by enzymatic deglycosylation. The recombinant protein was antigenically and immunogenically characterized by Western blot using equine polyclonal anti-EHV-1 antibodies, and by indirect ELISA in a murine model, demonstrating that the recombinant gD maintained epitopes similar to those of the native protein. These results suggest that gDEHV-1 is a promising antigen for use as an immunobiological in the control of EHV-1.(AU)

Hombres con diabetes mellitus tipo 2: autoeficacia y factores psicológicos que influyen en el autocuidado / Type 2 diabetes mellitus among men: psychological factors influencing self-care efficacy / Homens com diabetes mellitus tipo 2: autoeficácia e fatores psicológicos que influem no autocuidado

Resumen Introducción: La prevalencia global de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) en los hombres es alta. Para el tratamiento de la enfermedad el hombre debe realizar acciones de autocuidado, por lo que es importante conocer factores relacionados con su cumplimiento. Objetivo: Identificar la relación entre variables demográficas, clínicas, la angustia, la depresión, la autoeficacia y su influencia sobre el autocuidado en hombres con DMT2. Métodos: Estudio transversal y correlacional, en una muestra de 96 hombres con DMT2, usuarios de 13 centros de salud. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron el cuestionario de acciones de cuidado en diabetes, la escala Self-Efficacy for Diabetes, la escala depresión (CES-D) y la escala angustia por diabetes (DDS). Resultados: El autocuidado se correlacionó de manera positiva con la autoeficacia y negativamente con la angustia por diabetes. Las variables que explicaron el autocuidado con el 47.7% de varianza fueron: la autoeficacia (β = .39), el consumo de alcohol (β = -.29), las horas sentado/parado (β= -.27), el tiempo de diagnóstico (β= -.22) y la edad (β =.18). Discusión: Los hombres tuvieron un bajo autocuidado y mantienen conductas de riesgo, lo cual puede atribuirse a sus creencias, estilo de vida o al tipo de trabajo que desempeñan. Conclusiones: Los resultados ofrecen evidencia sobre factores que influyen en el autocuidado de hombres con DMT2, que pueden orientar a los profesionales de enfermería en la atención del paciente. Se sugiere realizar investigaciones de enfermería en hombres, que contribuyan a mejorar la autoeficacia y el autocuidado.

Abstract Introduction: The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus among men is high; and these patients need to follow self-care routines. Therefore, knowing the factors which can affect their level of compliance is an important issue for nursing. Objective: To identify the relationship between demographic and clinical variables such as anguish and depression, and self-care efficacy in men suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This a transversal and correlational study on a sample of 96 men with type 2 diabetes mellitus who were registered in 13 health centers. The instruments used were the Questionnaire of Actions of Care in Diabetes, the Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Scale (SED), the Mexico Center of Epidemiological Studies of Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS). Results: Self-care was positively correlated to self-efficacy, and negatively correlated to diabetes-related anguish and depression. Variables which accounted for 47.7% of the self-care variance were: self-efficacy (β = .39), alcohol consumption (β = -.29), number of hours sitting or standing (β= -.27), years of being diagnosed (β= -.22), and age (β =.18). Discussion: The sample demonstrated a low level of diabetes self-care which included risky behaviors. This attitude could be a result of the patients' beliefs, lifestyles, and/or type of job. Conclusions: The findings provide evidence on the factors which can influence self-care among men with type 2 diabetes. These results can orient nursing professionals while providing patient attention. Further related studies are suggested in order to help improve efficacy in type 2 diabetes self-care.

Resumo Introdução: A prevalência global de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) nos homens é alta. Para o tratamento da doença o homem deve realizar ações de autocuidado, pelo que é importante conhecer fatores relacionados com sua conformidade. Objetivo: Identificar a relação entre variáveis demográficas, clínicas, a angustia, a depressão, a autoeficácia e sua influência sobre o autocuidado em homens com DMT2. Métodos: Estudo transversal e correlacional, em uma amostra de 96 homens com DMT2, usuários de 13 centros de saúde. Os instrumentos utilizados foram o questionário de ações de cuidado em diabetes, a escala Self-Efficacy for Diabetes, a escala depressão (CES-D) e a escala angustia por diabetes (DDS). Resultados: O autocuidado correlacionou-se de maneira positiva com a autoeficácia e negativamente com a angustia por diabetes. As variáveis que explicaram o autocuidado com o 47.7% de variância foram: a autoeficácia (β = .39), o consumo de álcool (β = -.29), as horas sentado/parado (β= -.27), o tempo de diagnóstico (β= -.22) e a idade (β =.18). Discussão: Os homens tiveram um baixo autocuidado e mantém condutas de risco, o qual pode atribuir-se a suas crenças, estilo de vida ou ao tipo de trabalho que desempenham. Conclusões: Os resultados oferecem evidência sobre fatores que influem no autocuidado de homens com DMT2, que podem orientar aos profissionais de enfermagem na atenção do paciente. Sugere-se realizar pesquisas de enfermagem em homens, que contribuam a melhorar a autoeficácia e o autocuidado.

Composição nutricional e valores energéticos determinados com frangos de corte de coprodutos do processamento do etanol de milho / Nutritional composition and energy values determined with broilers of co-products from the processing of corn ethanol

It was determined by the total collection of excreta method, with broilers from 22 to 32 days of age, the coefficients of apparent metabolism of dry matter, crude protein and crude energy and apparent metabolizable energy corrected for zero nitrogen balance (AMEn) of the ethanol co-products of corn: acid oil and dried distillery grains with soluble (DDGS). The DDGS and corn acid oil presented nutritional metabolization coefficients ranging from 43 to 83% and AMEn equal 2393.5 and 7859.2kcal/kg respectively, and may be food alternatives to soybean meal and soybean oil.(AU)

Caracterização macroscópica e microscópica da pododermatite em relação à classificação industrial de pés de frango para consumo humano / Pododermatitis macroscopic and microscopic characterization related to industrial classification of chicken feet for human consumption

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo identificar e classificar a pododermatite em frangos de corte, comparando as lesões microscópicas com os aspectos macroscópicos utilizados pela inspeção sanitária. Foi realizada coleta de pés de frangos de corte, em matadouro de aves sob inspeção sanitária, após classificação utilizada nos padrões para exportação. Foram coletados 30 pés tipo A, 30 pés tipo B e 33 pés tipo C, escolhidos aleatoriamente dentro de cada grupo. Para análise histopatológica, foram desenvolvidos escores de acordo com a gravidade das lesões, variando de 0 a 2. Foi observada associação (qui-quadrado, P<0,05) entre a classificação macroscópica (A, B e C) e as alterações histológicas (0, 1 e 2). A classificação A diferiu significativamente (ANOVA, Tukey-Kramer, P<0,05) das classificações B e C quanto aos escores histopatológicos observados. Não houve diferença no comprometimento dos pés pelas lesões que justificassem a separação entre os pés classificados em B e C, uma vez que ambos apresentaram delimitação linear das lesões, sugerindo superficialidade e restrição ao epitélio queratinizado. Portanto, sugere-se o aproveitamento dos pés para consumo humano após remoção mecânica do "calo de pé", uma vez que este produto não oferece riscos ao consumidor.(AU)

The aim of this study was to identify and classify pododermatitis in broilers, comparing the microscopic lesions with the macroscopic aspects used by the Sanitary Inspection. Broiler chicken feet were collected at a Poultry slaughterhouse under Sanitary Inspection, after classification according to the exportation standards. The chicken feet were randomly selected in each group, 30 feet type A, 30 feet type B and 33 feet type C. For the histopathological analysis, scores were developed according to the severity of the lesions, varying from 0 to 2. There was association (Chi-square, P< 0.05) between the macroscopic classification (A, B and C) and histological changes (0, 1 and 2). The A classification differed significantly (ANOVA, Tukey-Kramer, P< 0.05) from the B and C classifications regarding the histopathological scores observed. There was no difference in feet lesions that justified the separation between the feet classified in B and C, since both presented a linear delimitation of the lesions, suggesting superficiality and restriction to the keratinized epithelium. Therefore, the use of the feet for human consumption after mechanical removal of the footpad lesions is suggested since the product does not pose risks to the consumer.(AU)

The effects of xanthan gum on equine sperm quality during cooling storage / Efeitos de xantam gum em qualidade de esperma equino durante armazenamento resfriado

This study was designed to evaluate the possible benefits of adding xanthan gum to a standard extender for equine through in vitro analyzes of sperm quality. Semen was collected four times from five different stallions (n= 20 samples) and subjected to cooled storage under different conditions: control (only standard extender) and three different concentrations of xanthan gum (0.01%, 0.12%, and 0.25%) supplemented to the extenders. Sperm parameters, such as motility, mitochondrial functionality, and membrane, acrosome, and DNA integrity were measured after 0h, 24h, 48h, and 72h of sperm storage at 5ºC. Our observations indicated that sperm motility declined with longer cooling period with the 0.25% xanthan gum supplementation group compared with the control group. Other parameters, such as mitochondrial functionality and membrane and acrosome integrity also declined for all treatments during storage; however, no differences were observed between xanthan gum and control groups. DNA integrity did not significantly change during the storage. In conclusion, the addition of xanthan gum to equine semen extender is not harmful to the sperm structure, despite reducing the sperm motility.(AU)

Esse estudo foi desenvolvido para avaliar os possíveis benefícios de acrescentar xanthan gum a um extensor padrão através de analises in vitro de qualidade de esperma. Semen foi coletado quatro vezes de cinco garanhões diferentes (n = 20 amostras) e submetido a armazenamen to resfriado em diferentes condições: controle (apenas extensor padrão) e três diferentes concentrações de xanthan gum (0,01%, 0,12% e 0,25%) suplementado aos extensores. Parâmetros dos espermatozoides, como mobilidade, funcionamento mitocondrial e integridade de membranas, acrossomos e DNA forma medidos após 0h, 24h, 48h e 72h de armazenamento a 5oC. Nossas observações indicaram que motilidade reduziu com armazenamento resfriado prolongado no grupo de 0,25% de suplementação de xanthan gum comparado ao grupo controle. Outros parâmetros, como funcionalidade mitocondrial e integridade de membrana e acrossomos também reduziu em todos os tratamentos durante o armazenamento, no entanto não foram detectadas diferenças significativas entre grupos tratados e grupo controle. Integridade de DNA não mudou significativamente durante armazenamento. Em conclusão, a adição de xanthan gum a extensor de sêmen equino não é danosa à estrutura do espermatozoide apesar de reduzir motilidade.(AU)

Pre-analytical parameters associated with unsuccessful karyotyping in myeloid neoplasm: a study of 421 samples

Cytogenetics is essential in myeloid neoplasms (MN) and pre-analytical variables are important for karyotyping. We assessed the relationship between pre-analytical variables (time from collection to sample processing, material type, sample cellularity, and diagnosis) and failures of karyotyping. Bone marrow (BM, n=352) and peripheral blood (PB, n=69) samples were analyzed from acute myeloid leukemia (n=113), myelodysplastic syndromes (n=73), myelodysplastic syndromes/myeloproliferative neoplasms (n=17), myeloproliferative neoplasms (n=137), and other with conclusive diagnosis (n=6), and reactive disorders/no conclusive diagnosis (n=75). The rate of unsuccessful karyotyping was 18.5% and was associated with the use of PB and a low number of nucleated cells (≤7×103/µL) in the sample. High and low cellularity in BM and high and low cellularity in PB samples showed no metaphases in 3.9, 39.7, 41.9, and 84.6% of cases, respectively. Collecting a good BM sample is the key for the success of karyotyping in MN and avoids the use of expensive molecular techniques.

Herpesvírus bovino tipo 1 (BoHV-1): método de diagnóstico e sua influência na qualidade espermática em touros infectados experimentalmente / Bovine Herpes virus type 1 (BoHV-1): Diagnosis method and its influence on spermatic quality in experimentally infected bulls

O herpesvírus bovino tipo-1 (BoHV-1) é um vírus amplamente distribuído no Brasil e no mundo, havendo um crescente número de estudos envolvendo métodos de diagnóstico e o seu impacto na reprodução animal. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar o material genético do BoHV-1 no sêmen de touros infectados experimentalmente por meio da técnica de PCR e avaliar a influência do vírus sobre a qualidade espermática desses animais. A técnica de PCR foi satisfatória, permitindo identificar a presença do material genético do vírus no sêmen de todos os animais a partir de sete dias pós-infecção, com persistência de 21 até 28 dias. Apesar da presença do vírus BoHV-1 por um longo período no sêmen dos animais experimentais, não foram observados efeitos deletérios na qualidade do sêmen fresco e nem após a criopreservação.(AU)

Bovine Herpesvirus type-1 (BoHV-1) is a virus widely distributed in Brazil and worldwide, with a growing number of studies involving diagnostic methods and their impact on animal reproduction. The objective of this work was to identify the genetic material of BoHV-1 in the semen of experimentally infected bulls through the PCR technique, and to evaluate the influence of the virus on the sperm quality of these animals. The PCR technique was satisfactory, allowing for the identification of the presence of the genetic material of the virus in the semen of all the animals from 7 days post infection, with persistence of 21 to 28 days. Despite the presence of the BoHV-1 virus over a long period in the semen of the experimental animals, no deleterious effects were observed on the quality of either fresh semen or semen after the cryopreservation.(AU)

Avaliação da eficiência de cal virgem na inativação de ovos de nematoides (Strongyloides sp. ) parasitos de pacas (Cuniculus paca) criadas em cativeiro / Evaluation of quicklime efficiency in inactivating nematode eggs (Strongyloides sp. ) parasites of paca (Cuniculus paca) created in captivity

Criadores de animais silvestres sempre buscam métodos eficientes de manter sua criação. Parasitos intestinais afetam os animais em cativeiro, diminuindo sua sobrevivência e reprodução. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia do uso de cal virgem na desinfecção do solo e na prevenção da reinfestação de endoparasitos em pacas (Cuniculus paca) em cativeiro. Amostras de solo das baias de criação foram analisadas usando-se o método de Rugai modificado. Duas etapas foram avaliadas: a primeira aos cinco, 45 e 105 minutos após os tratamentos, e a segunda aos sete dias e aos 14 dias após os tratamentos. Os valores de pH das amostras foram verificados após a aplicação de quatro tratamentos. Foram aplicados 400g/m2 de cal virgem a lanço ou 500mL/m2 de três soluções de cal virgem (10%, 20% ou 40% p/v). Na primeira etapa, a cal a lanço foi ineficaz na modificação do pH do solo e no controle de parasitos. A solução a 10% proporcionou o melhor controle dos parasitos. Na segunda etapa, as soluções foram eficazes na elevação do pH, porém não houve diferença significativa nos achados larvais. Concluiu-se que, nas condições do estudo, a solução a 10% aumentou o pH do solo e teve boa capacidade de inativação dos ovos de Strongyloides sp., o que economicamente é interessante. Porém, para o controle eficiente de Strongyloides sp. em cativeiros de pacas, deve-se considerar a frequência da aplicação de soluções com até 20% de cal, juntamente com a adoção de um programa de vermifugação.(AU)

Wild animal breeders are always looking for effective ways to care for their livestock. Intestinal parasites affect animals in captivity, reducing their survival and reproduction. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of quicklime for use in soil disinfection and prevention of reinfection of endoparasites in paca (Cuniculus paca) kept in captivity. Soil samples of pacas' stalls were analyzed using the modified Rugai method. Two experimental stages were evaluated; the first at 5, 45 and 105 minutes after treatment and the second at 7 days and 14 days after treatment. The pH values of the samples were checked after the application of four treatments. An application of 400g/m2 of quicklime spread out on ground or 500mL/m2 of three lime solutions (10%, 20% or 40%, w / v) applied on ground. In the first stage, the lime spread out on soil was ineffective in parasites control, while the 10% solution provided the best control of parasites. In the second stage, the solutions were effective in raising the pH, but there was no significant difference in larval findings. In conclusion, under the conditions of the study, 10% solution increased the soil pH and had good ability to inactivate the eggs of Strongyloides sp.; that is economically interesting. However, for effective control of Strongyloides sp. in pacas kept captive, both the frequency of application of solutions up to 20% of lime and the adoption of a good worming schedule should be taken into consideration.(AU)

In vivo effect of essential oil of Mentha x villosa and its active compound against Schistosoma mansoni (Sambon, 1907)

Abstract Schistosomiasis treatment is dependent on a single drug, praziquantel (PZQ). The development of resistance of PZQ has drawn the attention of many researchers to alternative drugs. One viable and promising treatment is the study of medicinal plants as a new approach to the experimental treatment for Schistosomiasis. The present work aimed to evaluate in vivo antischistosomal activity of effect of Mentha x villosa Oil Essential (Mv-EO) and rotundifolone (ROT) against Schistosoma mansoni. Thirty-day-old female Swiss webster mice (Mus musculus) weighing 50 grams were used. Mice were infected with 80 cercariae of S. mansoni (BH strain) and orally administered Mv-EO (50, 100 and 200 mg/Kg) and ROT (35.9, 70.9 and 141.9 mg/Kg) at 45-days post infection for 5 consecutive days. All mice were euthanized 60 days after infection. Praziquantel was the positive control in the experiment. Doses of 200 mg/kg (Mv-EO) and ROT (141.9 mg/Kg) resulted in a significant reduction in fluke burden (72.44% and 74.48%, respectively). There was also marked reduction in liver, intestinal and faecal and changed oogram pattern, compared to infected untreated mice. Considering the results obtained, further biological studies are required in order to elucidate the mechanism of schistosomicidal action on against adult S. mansoni.

Resumo O tratamento da esquistossomose é dependente de uma única droga, praziquantel (PZQ). O desenvolvimento da resistência de PZQ tem atraído atenção de muitos pesquisadores por medicamentos alternativos. Um tratamento viável e promissor é o estudo das plantas medicinais como uma nova abordagem para o tratamento experimental para esquistossomose. O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar a atividade esquistossomicida in vivo óleo essencial de Mentha x villosa (OE-Mv) e rotundifolona (ROT) contra Schistosoma mansoni. Foram utilizados camundongos Swiss webster (Mus musculus) fêmea de trinta dias de idade pesando 50 gramas. Os camundongos foram infectados com 80 cercárias de S. mansoni (cepa BH) e administrado por via oral OE-Mv (50, 100 e 200 mg/Kg) e ROT (35,9, 70,9 e 141,9 mg/Kg) apos 45 dias de infecção durante 5 dias consecutivos. Todos os animais foram eutanasiados 60 dias após a infecção. Praziquantel foi o controle positivo no experimento. O tratamento dos camundongos infectados com doses de 200 mg/kg (OE-Mv) e rotundifolona (141,9 mg/Kg) resultaram em redução significativa dos vermes (72.44% e 74.48%, respectivamente). Foi observado também redução no fígado, intestino e fecal e alteração no padrão do oograma, em comparação aos camundongos infectados e não tratados. Considerando os resultados obtidos, mais estudos biológicos são necessários a fim de elucidar o mecanismo de ação esquistossomicida contra adultos de S. mansoni.

Synergism between fluconazole and methylene blue‑photodynamic therapy against fluconazole‑resistant Candida strains.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been proved to be effective against fungi and it may be employed as a coadjutant to conventional antifungal agents, leading to a more effective microbial control minimising side effects. This work evaluates the combined effect of PDT and fluconazole against resistant Candida albicans, Candida glabrata and Candida krusei. The yeasts were submitted to methylene blue‑PDT (MB‑PDT) in sub‑inhibitory concentrations. In the present work, MB‑PDT combined with fluconazole was more efficient in the inhibition of the C. albicans and C. glabrata than each treatment alone, being possible to infer that the treatments are synergic.

Meloxicam associado ou não ao tramadol no controle da dor após ovário-histerectomia videoassistida em cadelas / Meloxican with or without tramadol for control of pain undergoing laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy in bitches

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia do meloxicam associado ou não ao tramadol, no controle da dor após ovário-histerectomia (OVH) laparoscópica com dois portais. Foram selecionadas 14 cadelas hígidas. Os animais foram separados de forma aleatória, em dois grupos. O grupo M (GM) recebeu meloxicam (0,2mg kg-1, s.i.d.), enquanto os animais do grupo MT (GMT) receberam a associação de meloxicam (0,2mg kg-1, s.i.d.) e tramadol (4mg kg-1, t.i.d.), ambos durante dois dias de pós-operatório. Para avaliação da dor pós-cirúrgica, foram utilizadas as escalas de Melbourne e escala visual analógica (EVA), além de mensurações de glicemia e cortisol sérico. Não houve diferença ao se avaliarem os grupos GM e GMT pela escala de Melbourne nem pela EVA. As mensurações de cortisol não atingiram valores superiores aos de referência para a espécie, enquanto os valores de glicemia não apresentaram variação significativa ao longo do tempo de avaliação nem entre grupos. Com os resultados deste estudo, foi possível concluir que a utilização de meloxicam associado ou não ao tramadol, nas doses e posologias propostas, é eficaz para controlar a dor pós-operatória de cadelas submetidas à OVH laparoscópica com dois portais.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of meloxicam with or without tramadol for pain control after laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy (OVH) by two-portal access. Were selected 14 healthy dogs to perform video-assisted OVHs. The animals were divided randomly into two groups (GM and GMT). The GM group received meloxicam (0.2mg kg-1, s.i.d), whereas the GMT group received the combination of meloxicam (0.2mg kg-1, s.i.d) and tramadol (4mg kg-1, tid), both for two days after surgery. To evaluate the post-surgical pain Melbourne and EVA scales were used, and blood glucose and serum cortisol were measured. There was no statistical difference when evaluating GM and GMT groups and the Melbourne scale or the visual analogue scale VAS. Cortisol measurements did not reach values higher than the reference for the species, while blood glucose levels did not present significant statistical variation throughout the evaluation time or between groups. With these results, we concluded that the use of meloxicam with or without the tramadol at the doses and dosage schedules proposed, is effective to control postoperative pain in bitches that had undergone video-assisted OVH with two-portal access.

Association of the Lipoprotein Lipase S447X and Neuropeptide Y Leu7Pro Genetic Polymorphisms with the Lipid Profiles of Individuals with and without Evidence of Coronary Artery Disease.

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a multifactorial disease whose etiogenesis involves a number of environmental, genetic and lifestyle-related factors. Genetic polymorphisms are noteworthy among these factors because they alter gene expression and, thus, the functions of the respective products. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in the Cardiology Institute, with 79 subjects classified as cases with CAD, and 96 subjects as controls without CAD or other disease. In this study, we evaluated the association between the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of S447X and Leu7Pro of the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) genes, respectively. Results: No differences were found in the frequencies of LPL SNP between the cases and controls. However, the LPL 447X allele carriers exhibited a near-significant difference in the triglycerides (p=0.086) and higher mean in the HDL-c (p=0.018). NPY polymorphisms proved to be infrequent in this study population, and no significant difference was observed between the groups. Conclusions: Our findings provide further support of the genetic polymorphisms effect on the lipid metabolism control. So, further studies are needed to assess the functional effect of this and other polymorphisms, on LPL and in the NPY activity, and their impact on CAD risk.