Uterine secretory activity and histology of prepubertal female dogs in an animal model of partial ablation of endometrial glands development / Atividade secretória uterina e histologia de cadelas pré-púberes em um modelo animal de ablação parcial do desenvolvimento das glândulas uterinas

Inadequate exposure of the female reproductive system to steroids in uterine developmental periods can partially inhibit the development of endometrial glands in dogs. However, the effects of steroids on the formed glands functionality remain unknown, as well as the possible occurrence of endometrial fibrosis. This study aimed to evaluate the secretory activity of endometrial glands in prebubertal female dogs submitted to a protocol of partial ablation of the uterine adenogenesis. Sixteen females of non-specific breed were distributed into two groups; MPA (n=8), females that received applications of medroxyprogesterone acetate every 3 weeks; and C (n=8) untreated control females. Ovariohysterectomy was performed in all animals at the age of 6 months and evaluated the uterine horns by histological and histochemistry exams. The secretion intensity (degrees 1-4) was evaluated using periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and alcian blue (AB) pH 2.5. Histological evaluation was performed using Masson's trichrome and toluidine blue. Only degree 1 and 2 marks for PAS were observed in both groups, with no difference of uterine secretion intensity between the groups regarding the degrees found. However, the MPA group revealed higher intensity of uterine secretion compared to group C (p<0.05). Staining with AB pH 2.5 also revealed only degree 1 and 2 marks in both groups, with no statistically significance between them. Masson's trichrome staining revealed no marks in the periglandular region in both groups. A higher among of mast cells was observed in the myometrial region of the uterus in both groups. Prepubertal female dogs with partial ablation of the uterine adenogenesis present minimal uterine secretory activity, absence of periglandular fibrosis and increased presence of mast cells in the myometrium compared to endometrium.(AU)

A exposição inadequada do sistema reprodutor feminino a esteróides em períodos do desenvolvimento uterino pode inibir parcialmente o desenvolvimento das glândulas endometriais em cães. Entretanto, não se conhece os efeitos dos esteróides sobre a funcionalidade das glândulas formadas, bem como a possível ocorrência de fibrose endometrial. Objetivou-se avaliar a atividade secretória das glândulas endometriais de cadelas pré-púberes submetidas a protocolo de ablação parcial da adenogênese uterina. Foram utilizadas 16 fêmeas, sem-raça-definida, distribuídas nos grupos MPA (n=8), fêmeas que receberam aplicações de acetato de medroxiprogesterona a cada 3 semanas, e C (n=8), fêmeas controle não tratadas. Aos seis meses de idade, foi realizada ovariohisterectomia em todos os animais, e avaliados os cornos uterinos pelo exame histológico e de histoquímica. Para avaliar a intensidade de secreção (graus 1-4), foram utilizadas periodic acid-Schiff e alcian blue (AB) pH 2,5. Para a avaliação histológica foram utilizados tricrômico de Masson e azul de toluidina. Apenas marcações graus 1 e 2 foram observadas para PAS em ambos os grupos, sem diferença na intensidade de secreção uterina entre grupos com relação aos graus encontrados. Entretanto, o grupo MPA apresentou maior intensidade de secreção uterina em relação ao grupo C (p<0,05). Com relação ao AB pH 2,5, em ambos os grupos também foram encontradas apenas marcações de graus 1 e 2, sem diferença estatística entre grupos. Não foram observadas marcações para a coloração de tricrômico de Masson na região periglandular, em ambos os grupos. Foi observada maior quantidade de mastócitos presentes no útero na região do miométrio, em ambos os grupos. Conclui-se que cadelas pré-púberes com ablação parcial da adenogênese uterina apresentam mínima atividade secretória uterina, ausência de fibrose periglandular e maior presença de mastócitos no miométrio em relação ao endométrio.(AU)

Therapeutic effects of dimethyldiguanide combined with clomifene citrate in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE In view of the high incidence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and the unsatisfactory therapeutic effects of dimethyldiguanide or clomifene citrate alone, our study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of dimethyldiguanide combined with clomifene citrate in the treatment of PCOS. METHODS A total of 79 patients with POCS and 35 healthy females were included, and endometrial biopsies were obtained. The sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP1) expression in endometrial tissues was detected by qRT-PCR. POC patients were randomly divided into group A (n=40) and group B (n=39). Patients in group A were treated with dimethyldiguanide combined with clomifene citrate, while patients in group B were treated with clomifene citrate alone. The number of mature follicles and cervical mucus score, follicular development rate and single follicle ovulation rate, cycle pregnancy rate, early miscarriage rate, ovulation rate, endometrial thickness, positive rate of three lines sign, follicle stimulating hormone level and luteinizing hormone level were compared between the two groups. RESULTS The expression level of SREBP1 was higher in PCOS patients than that in the healthy control. SREBP1 expression was inhibited after treatment, while the inhibitory effects of combined treatment were stronger than those of clomifene citrate alone. Compared with clomifene citrate alone, the combined treatment improved cervical mucus score, follicle development rate, single follicle ovulation rate, endometrial thickness, positive rate of three lines sign, and follicle-stimulating hormone level. CONCLUSION The therapeutic effect of combined treatment is better than clomifene citrate alone in the treatment of PCOS.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Tendo em vista a alta incidência de síndrome dos ovários policísticos (SOP) e os efeitos terapêuticos insatisfatórios da dimetildiguanida ou do citrato de clomifeno isoladamente, nosso estudo teve como objetivo investigar os efeitos terapêuticos da dimetildiguanida associada ao citrato de clomifeno no tratamento da SOP. MÉTODOS Um total de 79 pacientes com POCS e 35 mulheres saudáveis foram incluídos, e biópsias endometriais foram obtidas. A expressão da proteína de ligação do elemento regulador de esterol-1 (SREBP1) nos tecidos endometriais foi detectada por qRT-PCR. Pacientes POC foram divididos aleatoriamente em grupo A (n=40) e grupo B (n=39). Os pacientes do grupo A foram tratados com dimetildiguanida combinada com citrato de clomifeno, enquanto os pacientes do grupo B foram tratados apenas com citrato de clomifeno. O número de folículos maduros e muco cervical, taxa de desenvolvimento folicular e taxa de ovulação, taxa de gravidez, abortamento precoce, taxa de ovulação, espessura endometrial, taxa positiva de três linhas, nível de hormônio folículo estimulante e nível de hormônio luteinizante foram comparados entre os dois grupos. RESULTADOS O nível de expressão do SREBP1 foi maior nos pacientes com SOP do que no controle normal. A expressão de SREBP1 foi inibida após o tratamento, enquanto os efeitos inibidores do tratamento combinado foram mais fortes do que os do citrato de clomifeno isoladamente. Comparado com o citrato de clomifeno sozinho, o tratamento combinado melhorou significativamente a pontuação do muco cervical, a taxa de desenvolvimento folicular, a taxa de ovulação do folículo único, a espessura endometrial, a taxa positiva de três linhas de sinal e o nível de hormônio folículo estimulante. CONCLUSÃO O efeito terapêutico do tratamento combinado é melhor do que o citrato de clomifeno isolado no tratamento da SOP.

Fractalidad en un patrón de cristalización de moco cervical humano obtenido en período periovulatorio / Fractality in a pattern of crystallization of human cervical mucus obtained at periovulatory period

Introducción: La secreción cervical cumple una función importante en el proceso reproductivo humano y algunas sus características (e.g., el cristalizar) cambian dependiendo de las variaciones en los niveles de hormonas esteroidales sexuales. Objetivo: Reportar la fractalidad observada en un patrón de cristalización de moco cervical humano. Métodos: El moco fue obtenido de una paciente en período periovulatorio. La imagen de un patrón cristalino de moco cervical fue transformada a blanco y negro y analizada mediante Fractalyse v. 2.4, el cual determina la dimensión fractal (DF) para cada imagen estudiada. Se analizaron tres zonas para la imagen seleccionada. Resultados: Se encontró, para la Zona 1, DF (± desviación estándar) = 1,36 ± 0,02 (r² = 0,9985); para la Zona 2, DF = 1,35 ± 0,02 (r² = 0,9979); y para la Zona 3, DF = 1,36 ± 0,03 (r² = 0,9958). Las DF encontradas para las zonas estudiadas fueron estadísticamente iguales entre sí. Conclusiones: El moco cervical humano en período periovulatorio puede seguir un patrón de cristalización tipo fractal, especialmente en lo referente a la semejanza de sus componentes estructurales (criterio de autosimilitud) (AU)

Introduction: Cervical secretion plays an important role in the human reproductive process and its characteristics (e.g., crystallization) change depending on variations in the levels of sex steroid hormones. Objective: The purpose of this brief communication is to report the fractality observed in a crystallization pattern of human cervical mucus. Methods: Mucus samples were obtained from a patient in the periovulatory period and an image of the crystalline pattern of cervical mucus was transformed to black and white and analysed by Fractalyse v. 2.4, which determines the fractal dimension (FD) for each studied image. Three zones were analysed for the selected image. Results: It was found that, for Zone 1, FD (± standard deviation) = 1.36 ± 0.02 (r² = 0.9985); for Zone 2, FD = 1.35 ± 0.02 (r² = 0.9979); and for Zone 3, FD = 1.36 ± 0.03 (r² = 0.9958). Zones studied were statistically equal to each other regarding their FD. Conclusions: Human cervical mucus obtained at periovulatory period can follow a fractal-like pattern of crystallization, especially in relation to the similarity of its structural components (criterion of self-similarity) (AU)

Assessment of cow and farm level risk factors associated with Ureaplasma diversum in pasture-based dairy systems - A field study

ABSTRACT Potential risk factors for Ureaplasma diversum in the vaginal mucus of 1,238 dairy cows were included in a multivariate logistic regression model, based on the cow level (i.e., granular vulvovaginitis [+GVV], yearly milk production [4500 kg or more], pregnancy, predominance of Bos taurus [+Bos Taurus], score of corporal condition [at least 2.5], concomitant positivity for Escherichia coli [+E.coli]), and farm level i.e., milking room hygiene (-Milking room), dunghill location, and replacement female). Ureaplasma diversum was present in 41.1% of the samples. Independent risk factors for U. diversum were +GVV (odds ratio [OR], 1.31); +Mycoplasma spp (OR, 5.67); yearly milk production (4500 kg or more) (OR, 1.99); +Bos taurus (OR, 1.68); +E. coli (OR, 4.96); -milking room (OR, 2.31); and replacement females (OR, 1.89). Ureaplasma diversum vaginal colonization was strongly associated with Mycoplasma spp., E. coli, and number of pregnant cows.

Clinical use of oral contraceptives

Since first introduction of oral contraceptive pills in 1960, with increased women's right of sexual decision, oral contraceptives had been used widely around the globe as a highly effective and safe contraceptive method. The physiological mechanisms of oral contraceptives were a reduced maturation of ovarian follicles and blocked ovulation to fertile women. Also, oral pills induce uterine endometrial decidualization, thickening of cervical mucus, disturbance of intrauterine sperm movement and embryo implantation. However, in addition to providing effective reversible contraception to fertile women, oral contraceptive pills offer various non-contraceptive benefits to numerous conditions. In this review, we summarize the list of currently available oral contraceptive pills in Korea and discuss non-contraceptive indications of oral contraceptives pills.

Recovery of Mollicutes from the reproductive tract of dairy cattle in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil / Recuperação de Mollicutes do trato reprodutivo de bovinos leiteiros no Estado de Pernambuco

The aim of the present study was to report the occurrence of members of the Mollicutesclass in the reproductive system of dairy cattle in Brazil. Five farms containing dairy cattle were visited in January of 2012. In total, 100 cows of different ages, breeds and stages of lactation were examined in the present study. The cows were part of intensive or semi-intensive management systems and were submitted to mechanical milking or hand milking. The samples were collected after washing the vulvar region with water and soap, and then drying it with paper towels and disinfecting the area with alcohol (70°GL). Vaginal mucous was collected using a sterile alginate cotton swab, which was rubbed on the vagina, as well as the lateral and internal walls. Vulvovaginal mucous samples were cultured in both liquid and solid modified Hayflick´s medium, for mycoplasmas, and UB medium, for ureaplasmas. The PCR assays for Mollicutesand Ureaplasmaspp. were performed according to the standard protocols described in the current literature. During isolation, the frequency of Mycoplasmaspp. was of 13.0% (13/100) and for Ureaplasmaspp. was of 6.0% (6/100). In the PCR assays the frequency of Mollicuteswas of 26.0% (26/100) and for Ureaplasmaspp. was of 13.0% (13/100) in the dairy cattle studied. This is the first report of these agents in reproductive system of bovine of the Pernambuco state. Further studies are necessary to determine the pathogenic potential and species of these field isolates.

O presente estudo relata a ocorrência de membros da Classe Mollicutesno sistema reprodutivo de bovinos leiteiros no Brasil. Foram visitadas em janeiros de 2012 cinco fazendas de bovinos leiteiros. Um total de 100 vacas de diferentes idades, raças e estágios de lactação foram examinadas. Os animais foram mantidos em sistema de manejo intensivo e/ou semi-intensivo, sendo submetidos aos sistemas de ordenha manual ou mecânica. As amostras de muco foram colhidas após a lavagem da região vulvar com água e sabão, com posterior desinfecção com álcool (70°GL). O muco vaginal foi colhido com suabe alginado estéril que foi friccionado nas paredes internas da vagina. Em seguida, as amostras foram cultivadas em meio Hayflick´s modificado, para micoplasmas, e em meio UB, para ureaplasmas, ambos caldo e placa. Os ensaios da PCR para Mollicutese Ureaplasmaspp. foram realizados de acordo com protocolo padrão descrito na literatura. No isolamento, a frequência de Mycoplasmaspp. foi de 13% (13/100) e para Ureaplasmaspp. foi de 6% (6/100). Nas reações da PCR a frequência para Mollicutesfoi de 26% (26/100) e para Ureaplasmas spp. foi de 13% (13/100) nos rebanhos bovinos leiteiros estudados. Este é o primeiro relato destes agentes no trato reprodutivo de bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Estudos adicionais são necessários para determinar as espécies e o potencial patogênico destes isolados de campo.

Insights into the role of cervical mucus and vaginal pH in unexplained infertility / Sobre o papel do muco cervical e do PH vaginal na gênese da infertilidade inexplicada

Unexplained infertility diagnosis is made in the presence of a normal semen analysis when tubal patency and normal ovulatory function are established. Among several potential causes, unexplained infertility could be attributed to vaginal pH and cervical mucus abnormalities. Although the vaginal canal and the cervix generally function as effective barriers to sperm, and although the production of mucus is essential to transport them from the vagina to the uterine cavity, these factors receive little attention in the investigation of couples with unexplained infertility. A substantial reduction in sperm number occurs as they transverse the cervix. From an average of 200 to 300 million sperm deposited in the vagina, only a few hundred achieve proximity to the oocyte. Given this expected high spermatozoa loss, a slight modification in cervical mucus may rapidly transform the cervix into a "hostile" environment, which, together with changes in vaginal environment and cervix structure, may prevent natural conception and be a cause of infertility. In this review, we discuss the physiological role of the vaginal pH and cervical mucus in fertility, and describe several conditions that can render the cervical mucus hostile to sperm and therefore be implicated in the pathophysiology of unexplained infertility.

RESUMO O diagnóstico de infertilidade inexplicada baseia-se na presença de espermograma normal, constatadas também permeabilidade tubária e função ovulatória normais. Entre as várias causas potenciais de infertilidade inexplicada, a presença de muco cervical e pH vaginal anormais devem ser consideradas. Embora a produção adequada de muco cervical seja essencial para o transporte dos espermatozóides da vagina para a cavidade uterina, e tanto o canal vaginal quanto o colo do útero desempenham função importante como barreira à passagem dos espermatozóides, estes fatores recebem pouca atenção na investigação de casais com infertilidade inexplicada. Uma redução substancial do número de espermatozoides ocorre à medida que estes percorrem o trato reprodutivo feminino. Partindo de cerca de 200 a 300 milhões de espermatozoides depositados na vagina, apenas algumas centenas alcançam a proximidade do oócito. Alteracões do muco cervical podem rapidamente transformar o colo do útero num ambiente hostil, que em conjunto com alterações no ambiente vaginal e da estrutura de colo do útero, podem apresentar-se condicões impedientes para a concepção natural; desse modo, convertem-se em causa de infertilidade. Nesta revisão, discutimos o papel fisiológico do pH vaginal e do muco cervical na fertilidade, descrever várias condicões que podem tornar o muco cervical hostil aos espermatozoides e, por fim analisamos como estes fatores interferem na fisiopatologia da infertilidade inexplicada.

Influencia de la sepsis vaginal endógena sobre la calidad del moco cervical en mujeres infértiles / Influence of endogenous vaginal sepsis on the quality of the cervical mucus in sterile women

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y observacional de 150 mujeres infértiles atendidas en el Hospital Universitario Ginecoobstétrico Provincial "Ana Betancourt de Mora" de Camagüey, desde el 1 de junio de 2012 hasta el 31 de mayo de 2013, con vistas a determinar la influencia de la sepsis vaginal endógena sobre la calidad del moco cervical en estas pacientes, para lo cual se confeccionó un modelo de registro que recogía los aspectos siguientes: datos personales, antecedentes de infecciones vaginales, evaluación del moco cervical, hallazgos microbiológicos y técnicas de aseo genital; también se aplicó una encuesta para verificar los conocimientos que poseían al respecto. En la serie predominaron las féminas de piel blanca, las mayores de 35 años, los resultados microbiológicos positivos, así como la levadura y la vaginosis como diagnósticos más comunes; asimismo, el moco cervical resultó no adecuado en todos los casos y fue evidente el nivel de desconocimiento de las pacientes acerca del tema.

A descriptive and observational study of 150 sterile women assisted in "Ana Betancourt de Mora" University Gynecoobstetrical Provincial Hospital in Camagüey was carried out from June 1, 2012 to May 31, 2013, with the objective of determining the influence of the endogenous vaginal sepsis on the quality of the cervical mucus in these patients, for which a registration model was made which included the following aspects: personal data, history of vaginal infections, evaluation of the cervical mucus, microbiological findings and techniques for genital washing; a survey was also applied to verify the knowledge they had in this respect. White skin females, those older than 35 years, positive microbiological results, as well as yeast and vaginosis as the most common diagnosis prevailed in the series; also, the cervical mucus was not adequate in all the cases, and the ignorance level of the patients about the topic was evident.

Controvérsias acerca do dispositivo intrauterino: uma revisão / Controversies about the intrauterine device: a review

O dispositivo intrauterino (DIU) é atualmente o método contraceptivoreversível mais usado no mundo, sobretudo nos países em desenvolvimento, com maior número de usuáriasna Ásia oriental. Entretanto, ainda há controvérsias envolvendo o seu uso. Por esse motivo, consultamos sitescom bancos de dados eletrônicos como Medline, Lilacs, Wholis e Biblioteca Cochrane, sem restrição linguística,à procura de artigos que abordassem controvérsias sobre o DIU e selecionamos 32, os quais foram incluídos napresente revisão. O mecanismo de ação se deve à reação inflamatória, citotóxica, comprometendo a qualidade,viabilidade e a migração do esperma pela ação do DIU com cobre sobre o muco cervical. A inserção imediatamenteapós uma gestação apresenta várias vantagens, como prevenção de gravidez indesejada, porém não há consensose é tão segura e eficaz quando comparada à inserção fora desse período. O uso profilático de antibióticos nãodiminui o risco de infecções do trato genital, podendo ser indicada para mulheres que vivem em regiões comalta prevalência de doenças sexualmente transmissíveis (DST). Menorragia e dismenorreia são os efeitos colateraismais frequentes referidos pelas usuárias de DIU e as principais causas de sua remoção. O uso de anti-inflamatóriosnão hormonais para tratá-los é motivo de controvérsias na literatura. Sobre o uso de DIU em nulíparas, existemrelativamente poucos estudos na literatura e as conclusões não são seguras. Apesar dos dados sobre adolescentesquanto à segurança, eficácia e aceitação, serem escassos, há pressa no que diz respeito ao uso nesse grupo,tendo em vista a prevenção de gravidez indesejada, tão comum entre elas. As contraindicações são limitadas àgravidez, neoplasias malignas uterinas e efeitos adversos aos componentes do DIU. Apesar de o DIU ser usadohá muitos anos, existe ainda questionamentos de como a fertilidade subsequente é afetada...

The intrauterine device (IUD) is nowadays the most widely used reversiblecontraceptive method in the world, particularly in developing countries, with the highest use in Eastern Asia.Nevertheless, there are still controversies involving its use. For this reason, we searched Medline, Lilacs, Wholisand Cochrane Collaboration databases for articles in any language, addressing controversies about the IUD, selecting 32 for inclusion in this review. The mechanism of action is due to cytotoxic and inflammatory reaction,compromising the quality, viability and sperm migration, by the action of the IUD with cupper on the cervicalmucus. Insertion immediately after a pregnancy ends has several potential advantages, like preventing an unwantedpregnancy. However, there is no consensus if the insertion in this period is as safe and effective as the intervalinsertion. The prophylactic use of antibiotics has not decreased the risk of upper genital tract infection, but itmay be justified for women living in regions with high prevalence for sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Themost frequent side effects reported by users of IUD are menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea, considered the mostcommon reasons for its removal. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used for these associated symptoms arecause for controversy in the literature. Concerning the utilization of IUDs in nuliparous women, there are relativelyfew studies in the medical literature and the conclusions are no definitive. There are little data regarding safety,efficacy, and acceptability of IUDs in teenagers. However, this should be countered with the pressing need toprevent unintended pregnancy in this group of women. Contraindications are restricted to pregnancy, malignantuterine neoplasms and adverse effects of the IUD components in the user...

Propedêutica básica da infertilidade conjugal / Basic propedeutics of conjugal infertility

A infertilidade é um problema que afeta cerca de 10%-20% da população, com incidência variável em todo o mundo. A avaliação do casal infértil é geralmente indicada depois de um ano, tempo em que a maioria dos casais normais teria sido bem sucedida na tentativa de concepção. Algumas investigações são controversas, e, na presença de múltiplos métodos, o custo, a segurança e a conveniência deveriam ajudar a decidir o mais apropriado.

Infertility is a problem affecting approximately 10%-20% of the population with variable incidences across the world. Evaluation of a couple is generally indicated after one year, by which time most normal couples attemptiong conception would have been successful. Some of the investigations are controversial and in the presence of multiple methods of investigating one aspect, the cost, safety, convenience and evidence-base should help in deciding on the appropriate method.

Respuesta humoral y consecuencias reproductivas en ovejas desafiadas con Brucella ovis al final de la gestación / Immune response and reproductive consequences in experimentally infected ewes with Brucella ovis during late pregnancy

La brucelosis ovina por Brucella ovis es una enfermedad de prevalencia alta en Argentina. Para evaluar la patogenicidad de B. ovis y la respuesta serológica durante el último mes de gestación, 6 ovejas se distribuyeron en dos grupos: G1, ovejas preñadas, n = 4 y G2, ovejas no preñadas, n = 2. Tres ovejas del G1 (15 días preparto) y una del G2 fueron inoculadas con B. ovis. Se analizaron muestras de suero mediante diferentes pruebas serológicas. Se realizó aislamiento y PCR a partir de mucus cérvico-vaginal (mcv), placenta y leche. En las muestras de placenta se realizó histopatología. Las hembras del G1 parieron corderos vivos; se detectaron anticuerpos en las ovejas desafiadas del G1 a partir de los 5 días posinoculación. El mcv de las ovejas desafiadas resultó negativo al aislamiento en ambos grupos. Las muestras de leche del G1 fueron positivas por cultivo y PCR a B. ovis. La técnica de PCR resultó positiva en las placentas de las ovejas desafiadas del G1. La histopatología reveló una placentitis necrótica supurativa en una de las ovejas desafiadas. El desafío con B. ovis preparto resultó en la invasión de la placenta y de la glándula mamaria, con la consecuente excreción de la bacteria por leche. La infección con B. ovis indujo una respuesta humoral temprana en las ovejas. La colonización de la placenta por B. ovis y la excreción de la bacteria por la leche sugieren un potencial riesgo de infección activa para los corderos y la posibilidad de que estos se comporten como portadores latentes de la infección.

Ovine brucellosis by Brucella ovis is a highly prevalent disease in Argentina. This study aimed to evaluate the pathogenicity of B. ovis and the serological response in ewes during late pregnancy and in their offspring. Six adult ewes were distributed in two groupsGI (pregnant females, n = 4) and G2 (nonpregnant females, n = 2). Three pregnant ewes at 15 days prepartum and one nonpregnant eve were inoculated with B. ovis. Sera of sheep and their offspring were analyzed by different serological tests. Samples of cervicovaginal mucus, placenta and milk were studied by bacteriology. A Brucella genus-specific PCR assay was carried out in placenta and milk samples. Placenta samples were hystopathologically processed. G1 females gave birth to live lambs, but one died hours postpartum. Serological techniques employed detected antibodies in serum of inoculated pregnant animal 5 days postchallenge. Sera of female controls G1 and G2 remained negative throughout the study. Cervicovaginal mucus of infected ewes in G1 and G2 yielded negative results to bacteriology, but B. ovis was isolated from milk. The PCR assay was positive for the placenta and milk from inoculated pregnant ewes. Histopathology revealed necrotic suppurative placentitis in one placenta. However, although results demonstrated that B. ovis can invade the placenta and mammary gland, this bacterium did not cause abortion when it was inoculated intravenously at 15 days prepartum. B. ovis infection induced an early humoral response in pregnant ewes, but their lambs remained seronegative, indicating that there was no transfer of antibodies in infancy. Placenta colonization and milk excretion of B. ovis involves a potential source of infection for lambs, which could play a role as latent carriers of infection.

Evidence of Fractality in a Pattern of Crystallization of Bovine Cervical Mucus Obtained at Oestrus / Evidencia de Fractalidad en un Patrón de Cristalización de Moco Cervical Bovino Obtenido en Estro

Fractality has emerged as a feature of the organization of some complex natural systems. Several biological secretions show fractal-like patterns for their crystallization phenomena but their presence in crystallizations of bovine cervical mucus (BCM) is yet unknown. In order to assess the fractality of BCM crystallization, samples of this fluid were taken from heifers at oestrus, their crystalline patterns photographed and its morphology analyzed. Among the many images obtained for BCM crystallizations, one of them had a highly symmetrical geometric arrangement, possessing three zones characterized by pine-like, arboriform structures, evidencing a remarkable similarity between them. Moreover, fractal dimensions obtained for these zones were statistically equal when analyzed by using specialized software. In summary, this brief communication shows, for the first time, that a pattern of crystallization of BCM at oestrus possesses a fractal-like organization.

La fractalidad ha surgido como una característica propia de algunos sistemas biológicos complejos. Varias secreciones biológicas presentan patrones de tipo fractal al cristalizar; no obstante, su presencia en las cristalizaciones de moco cervical bovino aún se desconoce. Con el objetivo de investigar la presencia de fractalidad en las cristalizaciones de moco cervical bovino, se obtuvieron muestras de este fluido de vaquillas en estro, fotografiándose los patrones cristalinos observados. Entre las típicas disposiciones similares a frondas de helechos observadas para la cristalización del moco cervical, se encontró una imagen con un arreglo geométrico altamente simétrico, constando de tres zonas caracterizadas por estructuras arborescentes similares a pinos, muy semejantes entre sí. Más aún, las dimensiones fractales obtenidas para esas zonas fueron estadísticamente iguales al ser dichas áreas analizadas con un programa computacional apropiado. En resumen, esta comunicación breve demuestra por primera vez que uno de los patrones de cristalización de moco cervical bovino en estro está caracterizado por una organización de tipo fractal.

Sperm sorting based on the imitation of the physiological process on the microfluidic chip / 中华男科学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To establish a new method for sperm sorting by imitating the physiological process of sperm-cervical mucus interaction on the microfluidic chip.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>We designed a microfluidic chip to imitate the physiological process of natural sperm sorting in the microchannel based on the interaction between sperm and cervical mucus, and obtained motile sperm after the interaction. Meanwhile, we established an integrated real-time sperm detection reservoir on this chip to determine sperm parameters using the computer-assisted sperm analysis system. We analyzed 30 samples using both microfluidic and swim-up methods, and compared the results with those obtained before sorting.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The rate of grade a + b sperm, the rate of morphologically normal sperm, straight-line velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP) and straightness (STR) were (29.78 +/- 11.24)%, (8.00 +/- 5.19)%, (18.89 +/- 4.90) microm/s, (26.84 +/- 5.13) microm/s and (70.15 +/- 7.61)%, respectively, before sorting, (71.65 +/- 11.18)%, (14.95 +/- 6.79)%, (24.14 +/- 5.95) microm/s, (32.61 +/- 6.36) microm/s and (73.87 +/- 9.34)%, respectively, after swim-up sorting, and (92.37 +/- 6.33)%, (23.33 +/- 7.67)%, (34.03 +/- 16.78) microm/s, (38.73 +/- 16.40) microm/s and (84.91 +/- 12.56)%, respectively, after sorting on the microfluidic chip. The sperm parameters obtained before sorting showed statistically significant differences from those obtained on the chip (P < 0.01) and by the swim-up method (P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Imitation of the physiological interaction between sperm and cervical mucus on the microfluidic chip helped the realization of both the natural sorting and real-time analysis of sperm. The quality of the sperm sorted on the microfluidic chip is significantly better than that of the sperm before sorting and sorted by the swim-up method. This has prepared the ground for imitating the fertilization process under the physiological condition on the microfluidic chip.</p>

Aspiração do muco cervical e infusão de jato com meio de cultivo no canal cervical antes da transferência embrionária e resultados de fertilização in vitro / Cervical mucus aspiration and flushing with culture medium cervical canal prior to embryo transfer and in vitro fertilization outcomes

A transferência de embriões é considerada uma etapa fundamental nos ciclos de fertilização in vitro. Os resultados reprodutivos do tratamento são diretamente relacionados à técnica da transferência embrionária. Alguns trabalhos mostraram que o muco cervical poderia afetar os resultados da fertilização in vitro. A aspiração do muco cervical e a limpeza do canal cervical com jato de meio de cultivo foram incorporadas à prática dos serviços de reprodução assistida em todo o mundo. A presente revisão tem como objetivo esclarecer a verdadeira eficácia desses procedimentos no incremento das taxas de gravidez em ciclos de fertilização in vitro.

Embryo transfer is considered an essential stage for in-vitro fertilization cycles. Reproductive outcomes of treatment are directly related to embryo transfer technique. Some papers showed that cervical mucus could affect in-vitro fertilization outcomes. Aspiration of cervical mucus and flushing cervical canal with culture media were incorporated to practice in assisted reproduction technologies centers all over the world. This review aimed to make clear the true efficacy of these procedures with respect to the increase in pregnancy rates of in-vitro fertilization cycles.

Determinação do ciclo estral em catetos Pecari tajacu: aspectos colpocitológicos e clínicos / Determination of the estrous cycle in collared peccary Pecari tajacu: colpocytological and clinical aspects

Este trabalho teve por objetivo estudar o ciclo estral do cateto, aplicando a colpocitologia como método diagnóstico. As amostras da citologia vaginal foram coletadas em dez fêmeas adultas, durante três vezes na semana, por seis meses. Verificou-se que a duração média do ciclo estral para esta espécie foi de 28,45 ± 5,45 dias. Observou-se diferença estatística (p<0,01) em relação à frequência dos diferentes tipos celulares na mesma fase do ciclo estral. No proestro foi verificado o aumento de células intermediárias e superficiais. A fase de estro caracterizou-se pela elevação significativa de células superficiais em relação aos demais tipos celulares e pela ausência de leucócitos. Durante este período, a genitália externa estava hiperêmica, edemaciada e com muco. No metaestro houve um decréscimo de células superficiais, quando comparado com o proestro e com o estro, e uma elevação significativa de células intermediárias, presença de leucócitos, de células de metaestro e de foam. Na fase de diestro, houve um aumento de células intermediárias, e um decréscimo no número de leucócitos. Conclui-se que, por meio da colpocitologia, é possível diferenciar as fases do ciclo estral em catetos.

The main objective of this work was to study the estrous cycle of collared peccary by vaginal cytology. Samples were collected in 10 adult females, three times a week, for six months. The estrous cycle period for this specie was 28.45 ± 5.45 days. We observed a significant difference (p<0.01) between the cell types in the same phase of the oestrous cycle. During the proestrus phase, the exfoliative cytology arrangement showed high frequency of intermediate and superficial cells. The estrus phase had elevated rates of superficial cells, when compared to the other types, and an absence of leukocytes. During this phase, the external genitalia were reddish, tumescent; and the cervical mucus was evident. In the metaestrus phase, we observed a decrease of superficial cells, as well as the highest indices of intermediate cells, an increase of leukocytes and the presence of metestrus and foam cells. In the diestrus phase, the intermediate cells increased and leukocytes decreased. In conclusion, the present study suggests that it is possible to differentiate the phase of estrous cycle by vaginal cytology.

CA 125 expression in cervical and vaginal secretions in women in normal reproductive period / 南方医科大学学报

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the tumor-associated antigen CA125 expression in the serum and cervical and vaginal secretions in women during normal reproductive period, and explore the clinical value of detecting tumor markers in the cervical and vaginal secretions.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 145 women in reproductive period were divided into 3 age groups (20-29 years, 30-39 years, and over 40 years), and their CA125 levels in cervical secretion, vaginal secretion and serum were detected by automatic electro-chemiluminescent immunoassay.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>CA125 levels in the cervical secretion, vaginal secretion and serum showed no significant difference between the 3 age groups (P>0.05). In each group, CA125 levels differed significantly between the cervical secretion, vaginal secretion and serum (P<0.001). In the 145 women, the average CA125 level was 497.82 - or + 75.29 U/ml in the cervical secretion, 114.66 - or + 26.40 U/ml in vaginal secretion and 18.06 - or + 3.35 U/ml in serum, showing significant differences between them (P<0.001).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>CA125 expression level is significantly higher in the cervical and vaginal secretions than in the serum in women in normal reproductive period, and its levels in cervical and vaginal secretions can be more sensitive and convenient for early detection of related diseases.</p>

Human sperm quality and lipid content after migration into normal ovulatory human cervical mucus containing low numbers of leukocytes / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

The aim of this study was to investigate whether a relationship exists between the presence of low numbers of leukocytes in normal ovulatory cervical mucus and sperm quality and lipid content after migration. The percentages of live, motile and morphologically normal spermatozoa, movement parameters assessed by computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA), and ionophore-induced acrosome reaction measured by flow cytometry were determined before and after migration. High-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection was used to measure the sperm lipid content, including the various diacyl subspecies. The number of leukocytes found in solubilized mucus samples was counted using a haemocytometric method. Overall, the presence of leukocytes in the cervical mucus samples did not significantly influence sperm motility and morphology, sperm kinematic parameters, or the sperm content in sphingomyelin or cholesterol. In contrast, after migration, the decrease in various sperm diacyls and the level of induced acrosome reaction was significantly less pronounced in mucus samples containing>or=10(4) leukocytes than in mucus samples with no or rare leukocytes whereas the level of induced acrosome reaction was higher. The present data suggest that the low level of leukocytes found in normal ovulatory cervical mucus could influence the process of sperm lipid remodelling/capacitation.

Antisperm antibodies in women with unexplained infertility

Unexplained infertility occurs in many couples of childbearing age, immune mechanisms have been postulated in this disorder for the last few decades. Circulating antibodies against spermatozoa present in serum and seminal plasma have been especially implicated. This autoimmunity against spermatozoa has been investigated in males, while the isoimmunity [in the females] has got low attention. Fifty women with unexplained infertility and twenty fertile women were involved in this case-control study. ELISA test was used to detect antisperm antibody [ASA] from cervical mucus [CM] and serum specimens of both groups of women. CM was collected at mid-cycle period and dissolved mechanically [not by bromeline]. Thirty percent of infertile women have IgG-ASA in their serum and 20% have IgA-ASA in the CM, while 22% of fertile women have IgG-ASA in their serum and no fertile women have any titer of IgA-ASA in their CM specimens. Only CM-IgA-ASA of infertile women showed significant statistical correlation with cellular property of CM, which was scored according to Insler score. It is concluded that ELISA test is more sensitive and specific than microagglutination tests for detection of serum and secreted ASA. Also, secretory IgA-ASA are more indicative amid have potential role in immunological infertility as iso- immunity than IgG-ASA. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that immunological infertility should be considered as an important cause of infertility and have to gain a special interest by clinicians

Low prevalence of high risk human papillomavirus in normal oral mucosa by hybrid capture 2

High risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) are recognized as a necessary factor to development cervical cancer. During the last decade many studies have found HR-HPV in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and normal oral mucosa, however the association between HR-HPV and OSCC is still uncertain. The aim of the study was to determine DNA HR-HPV in normal oral cavity of healthy adults. A cross-sectional study was performed; samples from 77 patients with normal oral cavity were collected at the Dentistry school, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Merida, Yucatan, México. HR-HPV was detected by hybrid capture 2. One sample out of 77(1.2 percent) was positive for HR-PVH. It was from a man of 50 years old. HR-HPV is present in low rate among healthy oral mucosa. Hybrid capture 2 could be a good methodology for large epidemiology studies.

Papilomavírus humano de alto risco (HR-HPV) é um fator reconhecido como necessário para o desenvolvimento de câncer cervical. Na última década vários estudos encontraram HR-HPV em OSCC (oral squamous cell carcinoma) e em mucosa oral normal, mas a associação entre HR-HPV e OSCC não é bem conhecida. O objetivo desse estudo foi determinar DNA de HR-HPV na cavidade oral normal de adultos saudáveis. Realizou-se um estudo cross-sectional com amostras da cavidade oral normal de 77 pacientes da Escola de Odontologia da Autonomous University of Yucatan, Merida, Yucatan, México. HR-HPV foi detectado através de Captura Híbrida 2. Uma amostra em 77 (1,2 por cento) foi positiva para HR-PVH e era proveniente de um homem de 50 anos de idade. Concluiu-se que HR-HPV tem baixa prevalência na mucosa oral normal e a Captura Híbrida 2 pode ser um método adequado para estudos epidemiológicos.

Postcoital intra-uterine aspirate--a unique criterion for selecting patients for natural or assisted conception.

The success of any infertility management programme is reflected in its efficacy to achieve a pregnancy either spontaneously or through assistance. For this purpose some routine investigations are carried out to pinpoint the nature of problem(s) which an infertile couple is troubled with. As the basic requisite for conception to occur is the accumulation of motile spermatozoa around the egg at the site of fertilisation, proper assessment of sperm transit from the vagina to the tubal ampulla becomes a very important criterion to predict the possibility of spontaneous pregnancy. Till date postcoital test was the sole investigative tool available to serve this purpose but unfortunately it fails to furnish any information about the concentration and nature of quality of spermatozoa beyond the cervix. This results in the disparity between postcoital test results and pregnancy outcome. In the present study intra-uterine fluid was examined along with cervical mucus 4-6 hours postcoitus in the pre-ovulatory period. The objective was to gather information about the fate of spermatozoa subjected to the uterine environment after being vaginally deposited during coitus. The result of this combined test has been found to be very much informative and helpful for the fertility physician to set the criteria for timed intercourse and / or intra-uterine insemination. This simple test thus appears to play a leading role in infertility management in near feature.