Synergistic effects of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor and base-medium on in vitro culture of testicular tissue derived from prepubertal collared peccary.

We evaluated the influence of different media plus various concentrations of Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) during the in vitro culture (IVC) of testicular tissues from prepubertal collared peccary. Testes from 5 individuals were collected, fragmented and cultured for 28 days (34°C and 5% CO2). Culture media were Dulbecco's modified essential medium (DMEM) or stem cell serum free media (StemPro-34™ SFM), both supplemented with various concentrations of GDNF (0, 10, or 20 ng/mL). Fragments were cultured on the flat surface of 0.75% agarose gel and were evaluated every 7 days for fragment area, histomorphology, cellular viability, and proliferative activity. Data were expressed as mean ± standard error and analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis's and Tukey test. Fragments area decreased over the 28 days-culture, regardless of the treatment. For morphology, the StemPro-37 SFM medium plus 10 ng/mL GDNF provided higher scores at all time points in comparison to DMEM using any GDNF concentration (p < .05). After 28 days, similar cellular viability (~70%) was observed in all treatments (p > .05). For proliferating cell nuclear antigen assay, only DMEM plus 10 ng/mL GDNF improved (p < .05) cellular proliferation on Days 14 and 28. Looking at argyrophilic nucleolar organizing regions, after 28 days, there were no differences among treatments regarding cell proliferative capacity for both spermatogonia and Sertoli cells (p > .05). In summary, the DMEM and StemPro-34 SFM are adequate medium for IVC of prepubertal peccary testicular tissue. Supplementation with GDNF, especially at a 10 ng/mL concentration, appears to be essential for the maintenance of cell survival and proliferation.

Investigating the safety of antibiotics added to collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) semen extender through a multiparametric thermoresistance test.

The effects of antibiotics on sperm longevity in collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) fresh diluted semen was evaluated. Semen samples from six adult males were collected by electroejaculation and diluted in Tris-citrate-fructose alone (control) and plus streptomycin-penicillin (2 mg/ml-2000 IU/ml) or gentamicin (70 µg/ml). Membrane integrity and functionality, mitochondrial activity and sperm morphology were assessed subjectively. Sperm motility and other kinetic parameters were objectively assessed using CASA (computer-assisted semen analysis). The semen diluted according to the treatments were submitted to the thermoresistance test, incubated at 37 ° C, and the sperm parameters analyzed at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 min. The average values of the treatments were compared with each other and between the times. There were no differences (P > 0.05) between treatments until the end of the test. Control and streptomycin-penicillin samples maintained sperm function for up to 180 min (with total motility of 24.3 ± 7.1% and 28 ± 8.7%, respectively). Gentamicin aliquots retained most parameters until the end of the incubation, except for membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity that declined (P < 0.05) at 180 min (53.1 ± 7.1% and 50.7 ± 6.2%, respectively) compared to 0 min (80.5 ± 4.7% and 86.3 ± 3.4%, respectively). In conclusion, a multiparametric thermoresistance test proved that Tris-based extenders used for collared peccary semen can be effectively supplemented by streptomycin-penicillin (2 mg/ml-2000 IU/ml) or gentamicin (70 µg/ml), especially during 180-min incubation at 37 °C.

Long-term preservation of established fibroblast lines from six-banded armadillos (Euphractus sexcintus, Linnaeus, 1758) by extended passage and cryopreservation.

Establishing new somatic cell cultures has raised significant attention as an effective and convenient way to preserve genetic samples for different applications. Although many lines have been established in model animals, none derived from six-banded armadillo species is currently available. We report the successful isolation and characterization of fibroblasts from six-banded armadillos, evaluating the cell quality after extended culture and cryopreservation. Initially, we collected ear skin from five captive adult individuals and identified fibroblast lines by morphology, karyotyping, and immunophenotyping assays. The isolated fibroblasts were evaluated after several passages (fourth, seventh, and tenth passages) and cryopreservation by slow freezing. Cell morphology, viability, metabolism, proliferative activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, and apoptosis levels were analyzed. The skin explants had great adhesion, and cell outgrowth could be seen after 3-6 d. The cells were verified as fibroblasts at the fourth passage by vimentin expression and normal karyotype (2n = 58). The viability remained high (> 87%) and constant from the fourth to the tenth passage (p > 0.05). The passages did not change the cell morphology and metabolic and growth rates. Moreover, cryopreservation did not affect most evaluated parameters; post-thawed cells maintained their viability, growth, metabolism, and apoptosis levels. Nevertheless, cryopreservation increased mitochondrial membrane permeability and cell population doubling time compared to non-cryopreserved cells (p < 0.05). In summary, viable fibroblasts can be obtained from six-banded armadillo skin while conserving their quality as the number of passages increases and featuring few changes after cryopreservation.

Relationship between season and spermatozoa traits of captive-reared agoutis from Brazilian semiarid.

For the development of efficient management and conservation strategies for wild rodent species, understanding the aspects related to their reproduction, including the interaction of this physiological function with the environment, is essential. This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of weather changes derived from a semiarid region's dry and rainy seasons on the epididymal sperm characteristics of red-rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina), a histricognath rodent, still little studied, which inhabits the Brazilian Caatinga. The sperm from the epididymal cauda of 14 agoutis were collected, seven individuals per season (dry and rainy). Samples were evaluated for kinetic parameters, membrane structural and functional integrity, mitochondrial activity, morphology, and morphometry. The environmental variables were measured: maximum air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, solar radiation, and the total rainfall for dry and rainy seasons were, respectively, 36.2 and 34.1 °C, 66.8 and 80.1%, 4.0 and 1.9 m/s, 527.3 and 441.8 W/m2, and 0.2 and 517.7 mm. There were strong correlations between some sperm parameters and environmental variables, mainly those related to the acquisition of sperm mobility. Sperm concentration and the number of sperm collected were higher in the dry (1028.7 sperm/mL × 106 and 1361.2 × 106 sperm) than in the rainy season (758.9 sperm × 106/mL and 714.6 sperm × 106). During the rainy season, there were fewer sperm defects, higher sperm metrics, and higher membrane structural integrity with mitochondrial activity. Regarding motility patterns, the increases during the rainy season stand out in total and progressive motility, VAP, VSL, VCL, and subpopulations of rapid sperm. In summary, our results suggest that the adverse climatic conditions of the dry season in the semiarid region, mainly high solar radiation and temperature, considerably impair the epididymal sperm quality of red-rumped agoutis. On the contrary, the largest amount of sperm was obtained during this season, probably due to compensatory and adaptive mechanisms of the species to enable its reproduction throughout the year.

Cryopreservation and passaging optimization for Galea spixii (Wagler, 1831) adult skin fibroblast lines: A step forward in species management and genetic studies.

BACKGROUND: In vitro culture of fibroblasts is a technique based on cell isolation, physiological characterization, and cryopreservation. This technique has not been described for Galea spixii, therefore, it can be used to learn about its cellular biology and genetic diversity. OBJECTIVE: We established fibroblast lines of six G. spixii individuals from several passages (second, fifth, eighth, and tenth) and cryopreserved them. METHODS: Fibroblasts recovered from skin biopsies were identified based on morphology, immunocytochemistry, and karyotyping. The cells were analyzed for morphology, ultrastructure, viability, proliferation, metabolism, oxidative stress, bioenergetic potential, and apoptosis before and after cryopreservation. RESULTS: After the eighth passage, the fibroblasts showed morphological and karyotypic changes, although their viability, metabolism, and proliferation did not change. An increase in oxidative stress and bioenergetic potential from the fifth to the eighth passages were also observed. Post cryopreservation, cell damage with respect to the ultrastructure, viability, proliferative rate, apoptotic levels, oxidative stress, and bioenergetic potential were verified. CONCLUSION: Fibroblasts up to the tenth passage could be cultured in vitro. However, cells at the fifth passage were of better quality to be used for reproductive techniques. Additionally, optimization of the cryopreservation protocol is essential to improve the physiological parameters of these cells.

Development of assays for the characterization of sperm motility parameters, viability, and membrane integrity in the epididymis and vas deferens of the greater rhea (Rhea americana).

The objectives of the study were to (1) describe the kinematic parameters of spermatozoa (2) compare methods of evaluating sperm viability (3) validate assays of functionality and integrity of the sperm membrane and (4) evaluate possible changes between spermatozoa from the epididymis and the vas deferens of the greater rhea. Semen samples were recovered from 7 adult individuals. Sperm motility was characterized by adjusting the set-up for Computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) to that new species. For sperm viability evaluation, smears of bromophenol blue and eosin-nigrosine dyes were used. Five solutions of different osmolarities were then tested for the hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST). The combination of fluorescent probes (propidium iodide - IP and Hoechst 33342) was also used to assess plasma membrane integrity. Data were presented as mean ± SEM. Rhea spermatozoa from the vas deferens had an overall motility of 14.6 ± 2.5%. The bromophenol blue staining technique revealed that 64.6 ± 5.2% sperm were viable, while that proportion was 72.1 ± 2.5% using eosin-nigrosine. An average of 77.6 ± 4.8% of spermatozoa reacted to the HOST with distilled water at 0 mOsm/l. Fluorescent probes indicated that 65.3 ± 2.6% of spermatozoa had intact membranes. Interestingly, no statistical differences were observed between the parameters analyzed in the epididymal spermatozoa and the vas deferens. These new assays set reference values that can now be used to further exploration of sperm handling conditions and freezing protocols in rheas.

The placental barrier of Kerodon rupestris (Rodentia: caviidae) / A barreira placentária do Mocó (Rodentia: caviidae)

The placenta of the rodents generally has a chorial-allantoic, discoid and hemochorial shape. Since they resemble the process of human placentation, such characteristics make this order an interesting experimental model for understanding placentation, placental barrier and the physiological mechanisms involved in maternal-fetal exchanges. Due to the fact that Kerodon rupestris may be used as placental model, current analysis characterizes the rodent´s placental barrier ultrastructure. Current assay used three and two placentas, obtained from the Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (CEMAS/UFERSA) in Mossoró RN Brazil, respectively at the mid-third period of pregnancy and at the final third period of pregnancy. Samples, measuring approximately 1.0 cm, were collected and fixed in paraformaldehyde solution in a phosphate buffer 0.1 M, pH 7.4, at 4°C, while 0.5 mm2 fragments were fixed in glutaraldehyde solution 2.5%, buffered with sodium phosphate at 0.1 M, pH 7.4, and analyzed, respectively, under light and electron transmission microscope. The Kerodon rupestris´s placenta had a discoid form and resulted from the interaction between the chorion and the allantois. It was thus classified as a model chorioallantoic placenta which, macro and microscopically, consisted of lobes predominantly made up of fetal capillaries that interposed mostly in gaps or maternal spaces. The inter-hematic space or maternal-fetal barrier placenta of K. rupestris is composed of three distinct elements represented by the fetal capillary wall, basement membrane and a single layer of trophoblast cells of a syncytial nature or strictly syncytiotrophoblast, which separate maternal from fetal blood, and at the same time is the medium through which all metabolic exchange between mother and fetus are processed. These characteristics are typical of hemochorial placentas. Since the barrier contains a single syncytiotrophoblast layer, it is classified within the hemomonochorial subtype, a behavior similar to that reported in hystricomorph rodents such as the agouti, paca, capybara and cavy.

A placenta dos roedores, de uma forma geral, é do tipo corioalantóidea, discoidal e hemocorial, características que se assemelham aos processos de placentação em humanos, o que torna esta ordem um interessante modelo experimental para a compreensão da placentação, da barreira placentária e os mecanismos fisiológicos envolvidos nas trocas materno-fetais. Neste aspecto, sabendo que o Kerodon rupestris pode ser utilizado como modelo placentário, objetivou-se caracterizar ultraestruturalmente a barreira placentária deste roedor. No experimento utilizaram-se três placentas provenientes de fêmeas de mocó no terço médio e duas no terço final da gestação obtidas no Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (CEMAS/UFERSA), Mossoró-RN, Brasil. Amostras com cerca de 1,0 cm foram coletadas e fixadas em solução de paraformoldeído em tampão fostafo 0,1 M, pH 7,4 a 4°C, enquanto fragmentos de 0,5 mm2 foram fixadas em solução de glutaraldeído a 2,5%, tamponado com fosfato de sódio a 0,1 M, pH 7,4, e depois de processadas foram analisados no microscópio de luz e eletrônico de transmissão, respectivamente. A placenta do mocó apresentou-se quanto à forma como sendo do tipo discoidal. Além disto, resultou da interação entre o córion e o alantóide, fato que foi classificada como sendo um modelo de placenta corioalantoídea. Macro e microscopicamente era constituída de lóbulos predominantemente formados por capilares fetais que se interpunham na sua grande maioria às lacunas ou espaços maternos. O espaço inter hemático ou barreira materno-fetal da placenta de mocós é constituído por três elementos distintos representados pela parede do capilar fetal, a membrana basal e uma única camada de células trofoblásticas de natureza sincicial ou sinciciotrofoblasto propriamente dito, que separa o sangue

Diet of Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840 (Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) in two periurban areas in southern Brazil / Dieta de Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840 (Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) em duas áreas periurbanas no Sul do Brasil

Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840 is one of the least known Brazilian marsupials with respect to its feeding habits. Since the white-eared opossum is omnivorous, it occupies several niches and may be found in urban areas as well as in forest fragments. Current analysis aimed at determining and comparing the diet of D. albiventris in two periurban areas of the municipality of Viamão, a conserved forest remnant and a degraded area resulting from agricultural activities. Captures of D. albiventris were carried out for a period of 30 months by a sampling effort of 504 trap -nights. Forty fecal samples were collected from 45 captures corresponding to 18 specimens. Diet was determined by fecal analysis. Fruit was the most representative item, at an occurrence of 77.5%, comprising six species of plants, followed by invertebrates (62.5%) and vertebrates (37.5%). Didelphis albiventris displayed a frugivorous-omnivorous habit, with no difference between the sexes with respect to composition and frequency of the items consumed. Since there was a greater diversity of food items and fruits in the more conserved area, seasonal variations in the diet could be detected. Generalist species, such as D. albiventris, may have an important role in the recovery of degraded areas through the dispersal of seeds of species of initial successional stages.

Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840 é um dos marsupiais brasileiros menos conhecidos quanto aos hábitos alimentares. De hábito onívoro, ocupa uma variedade de nichos, sendo encontrado tanto em áreas urbanas quanto em fragmentos florestais. Teve-se como objetivo conhecer e comparar a dieta de D. albiventris em duas áreas periurbanas do município de Viamão: um remanescente florestal conservado e uma área degradada por atividades agropastoris. Foram efetuadas capturas de D. albiventris durante um período de 30 meses, resultando em um esforço amostral de 504 armadilhas-noite. Foram coletadas 40 amostras de fezes decorrentes de 45 capturas correspondentes a 18 indivíduos. A dieta foi determinada através de análise fecal. Com ocorrência de 77,5%, os frutos foram o item mais representativo, compreendendo seis espécies de plantas, seguido de invertebrados, com 62,5%, e vertebrados, com 37,5%. Didelphis albiventris apresentou hábito frugívoro-onívoro, não havendo diferença entre os sexos quanto à composição e frequência dos itens consumidos. Na área mais conservada, obteve-se a mais alta diversidade de itens alimentares e de frutos, encontrando-se variações sazonais na dieta. Espécies generalistas, tais como D. albiventris, podem desempenhar importante papel na recuperação de áreas degradadas, efetuando a dispersão de sementes de espécies de estádios sucessionais iniciais.

Relações entre a câmara de Neubauer a espectrofotometria utilizadas para a determinação da concentração espermática de catetos (Pecari tajacu) / Relationship between Neubauer counting chamber and spectrophotometer used for the sperm concentration determination in collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu)

Em ejaculados provenientes de 28 catetos, verificou-se a existência de relações entre a concentração espermática determinada por meio da câmara de Neubauer e a tramitância observada por espectrofotometria, utilizando comprimentos de onda variando de 530 a 590nm. Os ejaculados apresentaram uma concentração média de 283,9±30,8x106 espermatozoides mL-1, com variação de 30 a 640x106 espermatozoides mL-1. Os valores para tramitância variaram entre 36,9 a 96,3, nos diferentes comprimentos de onda. Não foram detectadas relações significativas entre os dois métodos (P>0,05). Dessa forma, não se recomenda a espectrofotometria para os procedimentos de rotina na determinação da concentração espermática em catetos.

In ejaculates derived from 28 collared peccaries, we verified the existence of relationships between sperm concentration determined by the Neubauer counting chamber and the tramitance verified by spectrophotometer, under wavelengths varying from 530 to 590nm. Ejaculates presented a concentration of 283.9±30.8x106sperm m-1, varying from 30 to 640x106sperm mL-1. Values for tramitance varied from 36.9 to 96.3, under different wavelengths. No significant relationship was verified between two methods (P>0.05). Thus, the spectrophotometer is not recommended for routine procedures of sperm concentration measurement in collared peccaries.

Viabilidade do sêmen de tatus-peba (Euphractus sexcinctus) centrifugado e diluído em Tris ou agua de coco em pó / Viability of the six-banded armadillos (Euphractus sexcinctus) semen centrifuged and extended in Tris or powdered coconut water

Foram avaliados os efeitos da centrifugação associada ao uso de dois diluentes na manutenção da viabilidade espermática em tatus-peba (Euphractus sexcinctus) ao longo do teste de termorresistência (TTR). Amostras de sêmen (n=12), oriundas de 04 machos adultos coletados por eletroejaculação, foram divididas em quatro alíquotas, sendo duas imediatamente diluídas em Tris ou água de coco em pó (ACP-119(r)), e as outras duas centrifugadas (800g10min-1) previamente à diluição. As amostras foram incubadas a 34°C por 3h, e os parâmetros seminais avaliados em intervalos de 1h. Em termos gerais, verificou-se uma redução da viscosidade espermática imediata à diluição em ambos os diluentes, independente do uso da centrifugação. Aos 60 minutos, verificou-se uma redução dos parâmetros avaliados (P<0,05), embora o Tris tenha promovido uma melhor preservação deles (P<0,05), quando comparado ao ACP-119(r) até os 120 minutos de avaliação. Após este período, os dois diluentes se equipararam (P>0,05). Ainda, verificou-se um efeito deletério da centrifugação sobre a qualidade do sêmen de tatus-peba durante todo o teste de termorresistência. Nas condições do presente estudo, conclui-se que o diluente Tris mostrou-se superior ao ACP-119(r) para a manutenção da viabilidade do sêmen de tatus-peba, sendo desnecessária a realização de centrifugação prévia à diluição.

The effects of the centrifugation associated to the use of two extenders on the viability of six-banded armadillo's (Euphractus sexcinctus) sperm were evaluated during a thermo resistance test (TRT). Semen samples (n=12) derived from 04 stud males collected by electroejaculation were divided in four aliquots; two of that were immediately diluted in Tris or powdered coconut water (ACP-119(r)); the two others were centrifuged (800g10min-1) prior to the dilution. Samples were incubated at 34ºC per 3h, and the semen parameters were evaluated at each hour. In general, dilution promoted a reduction in semen viscosity in the use of both diluents using centrifugation or not. At 60min, a decrease was verified for all semen parameters (P<0.05), however they were better preserved in the use of Tris when compared to ACP-119(r) (P<0.05) up to 120min. After that, both diluents equated. In addition, centrifugation procedure presented a deleterious effect on the armadillo's semen quality during all the thermoresistance test. In the present conditions, conclude that Tris extender is more efficient than ACP-119(r) for the preservation of six-banded armadillo semen viability, and the previous centrifugation is unnecessary.

Correlação entre o peso, comprimento e anexos fetais de mocós (Kerodon rupestris Wied, 1820) / Correlation between weight, length and fetal membranes of rock cavies (Kerodon rupestris Wied, 1820)

Foi avaliada a existência de correlação entre diferentes anexos fetais de mocós e determinada a relação entre peso do feto e peso da placenta, a relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do cordão umbilical e a relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do feto. Foram utilizados anexos fetais e fetos de três, cinco e seis fêmeas, respectivamente, no terço inicial, médio e final de gestação, obtidas no Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres (CEMAS-UFERSA). Os dados foram expressos em média ± desvio-padrão, bem como valores mínimos e máximos, avaliados pelo programa estatístico GraphPad Prism Versão 6.0. Após a análise dos pressupostos paramétricos, os dados foram submetidos aos Testes de Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney, e regressão linear. A relação entre peso do feto e peso da placenta demonstrou expressão y = 33,73 + 16,38x com cálculo do coeficiente de correlação entre o peso do feto e o peso da placenta elevado e positivo, evidenciando dependência entre as variáveis (R2 = 0,7251). A relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do cordão umbilical demonstrou expressão y = 35,64 + 25,64x e a análise de correlação entre as variáveis, positiva (R2 = 0,7201) indicando elevada dependência entre as variáveis. Quanto à relação entre o peso do feto e comprimento do feto, identificou-se uma relação do tipo y = a + bx, cuja expressão definida foi y = 1,26 + 0,41x, com análise de correlação das variáveis apresentando elevada correlação considerando-se o valor de R2 = 0,7890. As variáveis analisadas demonstram uma influência direta no desenvolvimento embrionário e fetal em mocós confirmando a correlação destes com o tamanho do feto.

We evaluated the correlation between different fetal membranes of rock cavies and determined the relationship between fetal weight and placental weight, the relationship between fetal weight and length of the umbilical cord and the relationship between fetal weight and length of the fetus. The fetuses and fetal membranes of three, five and six females respectively in the first third, middle and late gestation were used, obtained from Multiplication Center for Wild Animals of the Federal University Rural of Semiarid (CEMAS-UFERSA). The data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, minimum and maximum values, evaluated by the statistical program GraphPad Prism version 6.0. After analysis of parametric assumptions, the data were subjected to Kruskal-Wallis’ test and Mann-Whitney’s test and linear regression. The relationship between fetal weight and placental weight showed the expression y = 33.73 + 16.38x with an estimate of the coefficient of correlation between fetal weight and placental weight high and positive, showing dependence between variables (R2 = 0.7251). The relationship between fetal weight and length of the umbilical cord showed expression y = 35.64 + 25.64x and the correlation analysis between variables, positive (R2 = 0.7201) indicating high dependence between variables. Regarding the relationship between fetal weight and length of the fetus, we identified a relationship of the type y = a + bx, whose expression was defined y = 1.26 + 0.41x, with correlation analysis of the variables showing high correlation considering the value of R2 = 0.7890. The variables analyzed demonstrate a direct influence on embryonic andfetal development in rock cavies confirming the correlation of these with the size of the fetus.

Progressive resistance training in elderly hiv-positive patients: does it work?

BACKGROUND: Elderly people present alterations in body composition and physical fitness, compromising their quality of life. Chronic diseases, including HIV/AIDS, worsen this situation. Resistance exercises are prescribed to improve fitness and promote healthier and independent aging. Recovery of strength and physical fitness is the goal of exercise in AIDS wasting syndrome. OBJECTIVE: This study describes a case series of HIV-positive elderly patients who participated in a progressive resistance training program and evaluates their body composition, muscular strength, physical fitness and the evolution of CD4+ and CD8+ cell counts. METHODS: Subjects were prospectively recruited for nine months. The training program consisted of three sets of 8-12 repetitions of leg press, seated row, lumbar extension and chest press, performed with free weight machines hts, twice/week for one year. Infectious disease physicians followed patients and reported all relevant clinical data. Body composition was assessed by anthropometric measures and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry before and after the training program. RESULTS: Fourteen patients, aged 62-71 years old, of both genders, without regular physical activity who had an average of nine years of HIV/AIDS history were enrolled. The strengths of major muscle groups increased (74 percent-122 percent, p=0.003-0.021) with a corresponding improvement in sit-standing and walking 2.4 m tests (p=0.003). There were no changes in clinical conditions and body composition measures, but triceps and thigh skinfolds were significantly reduced (p=0.037). In addition, there were significant increases in the CD4+ counts (N=151 cells; p=0.008) and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio (0.63 to 0.81, p=0.009). CONCLUSION: Resistance training increased strength, improved physical fitness, reduced upper and lower limb skinfolds, and were associated with an improvement in the CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ counts in HIV positive elderly patients without ...

Respiratory syncytial virus rhinosinusitis in intensive care unit patients

This study reported a case of rhinosinusitis for Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Intensive Care Unit patient. The settings were Intensive Care Unit at Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil. One female HIV-infected patient with respiratory failure and circulatory shock due to splenic and renal abscesses, who developed rhinosinusitis caused by RSV and bacteria. Respiratory viruses can play a pathogenic role in airways infection allowing secondary bacterial overgrowth.

Cytogenetic divergence between two sympatric species of Characidium (Teleostei, Characiformes, Crenuchidae) from the Machado River, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Cytogenetic studies were performed on two sympatric species of Characidium, C. gomesi and C. cf. zebra, from the Grande River basin, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Although both species had a chromosome number of 50 with a karyotype exclusively consisting of meta- and submetacentric chromosomes, interspecific diversity was detected concerning the size of the two first chromosome pairs of the karyotypes. Active nucleolus organizer regions (NORs) were located at the terminal position on the long arm of the 17th pair of C. gomesi and at subterminal position on the long arm of the 23rd pair of C. cf. zebra. For both species the fluorochrome CMA3 stained only the NOR-bearing pair of chromosomes. The heterochromatin pattern also showed some differentiation between these species restricted to the centromeric or pericentromeric region of C. cf. zebra and practically absent in C. gomesi. These data are discussed concerning chromosome diversification in this fish group.

Estudo dos reflexos primitivos em pacientes recém-nascidos pré-termo normais no primeiro ano de vida / Primitive reflex in premature healthy newborns during the first year

Foi realizado estudo não controlado, de coorte histórica, com o objetivo de estabelecer marcos do desenvolvimento neurológico, definir o perfil clínico e epidemiológico de recém nascidos prematuros normais aos 3, 6, 9 e 12 meses de idade corrigida quanto à evolução dos reflexos primitivos. RESULTADOS: Aos 3 meses de idade corrigida, todos os reflexos primitivos estavam presentes em diferentes percentuais. Aos 6 meses de idade corrigida, 100 por cento das crianças apresentavam preensão plantar e 2,7 por cento apresentavam reflexo de Moro, apoio plantar e preensão palmar. A preensão plantar foi o único reflexo primitivo observado aos 9 e 12 meses de idade corrigida. CONCLUSÃO: Foi possível avaliar a ocorrência, assim como o desaparecimento dos reflexos primitivos de recém-nascidos prematuros normais. Estes resultados apontam para um atraso no desaparecimento dos reflexos primitivos mesmo com o uso da correção da idade.

Vigabarina no tratamento da epilepsia de difícil controle em pacientes com síndrome de West e esclerose tuberosa / Vigabatrin in the treatment of epilepsy in patients with West syndrome and tuberous sclerosis

OBJETIVO: é relatar a eficácia da vigabatrina no controle das convulsões, bem como as alterações eletrencefalográficas em crianças com esclerose tuberosa e síndrome de West. MÉTODO: Estudo retrospectivo, com dados clínicos, de neuroimagem e de eletrencefalograma. RESULTADOS: Sete pacientes foram acompanhados e o tempo médio de seguimento foi 10 anos. Dos pacientes, quatro eram do sexo feminino e todos eram de cor branca. A média de idade de início das convulsões foi 3,4 meses. Todos usaram associações de vários anticonvulsivantes; no mínimo duas drogas por esquema terapêutico, e cada paciente utilizou pelo menos dois esquemas diferentes. O uso de vigabatrina como monoterapia ou em associação iniciou em média aos 7 anos de idade ou 4 anos após início dos sintomas. Cinco dos sete pacientes que iniciaram vigabatrina ficaram sem crise. CONCLUSÃO: Vigabatrina mostrou-se eficaz no controle das crises, levando a um melhor prognóstico

Criopreservaçäo de sêmen canino com um diluidor à base de água de coco / Cryopreservation of canine semen using a coconut water extender

A estocagem do sêmen por um longo período, permitindo o seu posterior uso representa uma importante ferramenta para criadores que desejam resguardar o potencial genético de seus reprodutores. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da água de coco, gema de ovo e glicerol sobre o resfriamento e a criopreservaçäo de sêmen canino. A fraçäo espermática do ejaculado de 12 cäes foi avaliada macro e microscopicamente e, em seguida, dividida em quatro alíquotas, submetidas à congelaçäo em quatro diluidores, sendo todos à base água de coco e diferindo quanto à presença ou näo da gema de ovo e glicerol. Durante o resfriamento, näo se observou diferença entre os grupos, entretanto, após o congelamento e descongelamento, o diluidor adicionado de gema de ovo e glicerol (ACGG) foi superior aos demais quanto à motilidade, vigor e morfologia espermática. Nesse grupo, os valores de motilidade ( por cento), vigor (0-5) e alteraçöes morfológicas totais ( por cento) após a descongelaçäo foram 56,7 ± 16,1, 3,4 ± 0,5 e 23,8 ± 8,4, respectivamente. Diante dos resultados, concluiu-se que a adiçäo de gema de ovo e glicerol ao diluidor foi necessária para a preservaçäo da qualidade espermática após criopreservaçäo de sêmen canino

Influence of intracranial hemorrhage and neonatal seizures on the neurological and psychomotor development of premature infants at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil

This study compared the results of neurodevelopmental examination at 6 months' corrected age of premature infants with neonatal seizures and/or intracranial hemorrhage and normal premature infants. There was a statistically significant correlation (p=0.000007) between intracranial hemorrhage and seizures in the group of 68 premature infants seen in the neurodevelopmental outpatient service at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil. Intracranial hemorrhage was significantly associated with multiparity (p=0.02). The neurodevelopmental examination at 6 months' corrected age revealed that patients who suffered neonatal intracranial hemorrhage and/or seizures had inappropriate muscle tone, strength and reflexes, as well as delay in head control. Conclusion: we compared the results of neurodevelopmental examinations of two groups of premature infants at 6 months' corrected age. The difference in neurological development at 6 months' corrected age was statistically significant when comparison was corrected for premature infants who had neonatal seizures and periventricular hemorrhage

Cerebrovascular disease in pediatric patients

Although rare in childhood, stroke may have a serious impact when it happens in this stage of life. Also, it may be the first sign of a systemic disease. We report 12 cases of patients with stroke treated in the Neuropediatrics Unit of Hospital de ClÝnicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA) from March 1997 to March 2000. All patients, from term infants to 12-year-old children hospitalized in the Pediatrics Unit of HCPA, had clinical suspicion of stroke, which was later confirmed by radiological studies. Patient follow up ranged from 1 to 6 years (mean = 3.4 years). Presenting symptoms were hemiparesis in 9 patients, seizures in 7, deviation of labial commissure in 3, and loss of consciousness in 1. The increase in the number of cases of childhood stroke identified and later confirmed by noninvasive methods had helped in the determination of different ethiologies of stroke: the most frequent being hematologic, cardiac and genetic diseases. However, our study included 6 newborns with stroke whose ethiology was not identified. Seven children with seizures received phenobarbital. Six term infants had neonatal seizures secondary to stroke and restricted to the first 72 hours of life

Comparação entre a água de coco em pó (ACP®) e o Tris como diluidores na criopreservação do sêmen de cães / Comparison between powder coconut water (ACP®) and Tris as extenders for canine semen cryopreservation

O presente trabalho comparou a água de coco em pó (ACP®) com o diluidor Tris na criopreservação do sêmen canino através da avaliação clássica e do teste de termorresistência. Cinco reprodutores caninos foram submetidos a duas coletas de sêmen através de manipulação digital As frações espermáticas foram avaliadas quanto à sua coloração, volume, concentração, motilidade, vigor e morfologia espermática. As amostras de sêmen foram divididas em duas alíquotas: a primeira foi diluída em Tris e a segunda em ACP®. Ambos os diluidores continham 20% de gema de ovo. As amostras foram refrigeradas, adicionadas de glicerol (6%), envasadas em palhetas de 0,25mL, criopreservadas em vapores de nitrogênio, e finalmente armazenadas em nitrogênio líquido. Após uma semana, foi realizada a descongelação a 38°C por 1min em banho-maria, sendo realizadas novas avaliações de motilidade, vigor e morfologia espermática. As amostras foram mantidas a 38°C no banho-maria e avaliadas aos 15 e 30 min após descongelação. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os dois diluidores no decorrer dos procedimentos de criopreservação e descongelação, bem como durante o teste de termorresistência, em relação às características avaliadas. O Tris e o ACP® foram eficientes em conservar 50% de espermatozóides móveis e 70% de espermatozóides morfologicamente normais após a descongelação. Assim, o ACP® pode ser utilizado como diluidor alternativo para a criopreservação do sêmen canino.

The present study compared powder coconut water (ACP®) and Tris extenders on canine semen cryopreservation by classic evaluation and thermoresistance test. Five stud dogs were submitted to two semen collections by digital manipulation. Sperm fractions were analyzed regarding to its color, volume, sperm concentration, motility, vigor and morphology. Semen samples were divided into two aliquots: the first one was extended in Tris and second one in ACP®. Both extenders contained 20% egg yolk. Samples were cooled to 5°C, glycerol added (6%), packaged in 0.25mL straws, frozen in nitrogen vapors and finally stored in liquid nitrogen. One week later, thaw was performed at 38°C per 1 min in water bath and new evaluations of sperm motility, vigor and morphology were conducted. Samples were kept at 38°C in water bath and evaluated at 15 and 30rnin after thaw. No significant difference was observed between extenders throughout cryopreservation or thawing procedures, as well as during thermoresistance test, concerning to characteristics evaluated. Tris and ACP® were efficient in conserving 50% mobile spermatozoa and 70% morphologically normal sperm after thaw. Thus, ACP® can be used as an alternative extender for canine semen cryopreservation.