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1.
Braz J Med Biol Res ; 56: e12391, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37851789

ABSTRACT

Rupture of Achilles tendon is a common accident affecting professional and recreational athletes. Acute and chronic pain are symptoms commonly observed in patients with rupture. However, few studies have investigated whether Achilles tendon rupture is able to promote disorders in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate nociceptive alterations and inflammatory response in the L5 lumbar segment of Balb/c mice spinal cord after Achilles tendon rupture. We found increased algesia in the paw of the ruptured group on the 7th and 14th days post-tenotomy compared with the control group. This phenomenon was accompanied by overexpression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase-2 (NOS-2) as well as hyperactivation of astrocytes and microglia in nociceptive areas of L5 spinal cord as evidenced by intense GFAP and IBA-1 immunostaining, respectively. Biochemical studies also demonstrated increased levels of nitrite in the L5 spinal cord of tenotomized animals compared with the control group. Thus, we have demonstrated for the first time that total rupture of the Achilles tendon induced inflammatory response and nitrergic and glial activation in the CNS in the L5 spinal cord region.


Subject(s)
Achilles Tendon , Humans , Mice , Animals , Spinal Cord , Astrocytes , Microglia , Tenotomy
2.
Molecules ; 28(3)2023 Feb 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36771057

ABSTRACT

(1) Background: Malignant gliomas are aggressive tumors characterized by fast cellular growth and highly invasive properties. Despite all biological and clinical advances in therapy, the standard treatment remains essentially palliative. Therefore, searching for alternative therapies that minimize adverse symptoms and improve glioblastoma patients' outcomes is imperative. Natural products represent an essential source in the discovery of such new drugs. Plants from the cerrado biome have been receiving increased attention due to the presence of secondary metabolites with significant therapeutic potential. (2) Aim: This study provides data on the cytotoxic potential of 13 leaf extracts obtained from plants of 5 families (Anacardiaceae, Annonaceae, Fabaceae, Melastomataceae e Siparunaceae) found in the Brazilian cerrado biome on a panel of 5 glioma cell lines and one normal astrocyte. (3) Methods: The effect of crude extracts on cell viability was evaluated by MTS assay. Mass spectrometry (ESI FT-ICR MS) was performed to identify the secondary metabolites classes presented in the crude extracts and partitions. (4) Results: Our results revealed the cytotoxic potential of Melastomataceae species Miconia cuspidata, Miconia albicans, and Miconia chamissois. Additionally, comparing the four partitions obtained from M. chamissois crude extract indicates that the chloroform partition had the greatest cytotoxic activity against the glioma cell lines. The partitions also showed a mean IC50 close to chemotherapy, temozolomide; nevertheless, lower toxicity against normal astrocytes. Analysis of secondary metabolites classes presented in these crude extracts and partitions indicates the presence of phenolic compounds. (5) Conclusions: These findings highlight M. chamissois chloroform partition as a promising component and may guide the search for the development of additional new anticancer therapies.


Subject(s)
Antineoplastic Agents , Glioma , Melastomataceae , Humans , Brazil , Chloroform , Cell Line , Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Melastomataceae/chemistry , Glioma/drug therapy , Ecosystem
3.
Rev. bras. pesqui. méd. biol ; Braz. j. med. biol. res;56: e12391, 2023. graf
Article in English | LILACS-Express | LILACS | ID: biblio-1513881

ABSTRACT

Rupture of Achilles tendon is a common accident affecting professional and recreational athletes. Acute and chronic pain are symptoms commonly observed in patients with rupture. However, few studies have investigated whether Achilles tendon rupture is able to promote disorders in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate nociceptive alterations and inflammatory response in the L5 lumbar segment of Balb/c mice spinal cord after Achilles tendon rupture. We found increased algesia in the paw of the ruptured group on the 7th and 14th days post-tenotomy compared with the control group. This phenomenon was accompanied by overexpression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase-2 (NOS-2) as well as hyperactivation of astrocytes and microglia in nociceptive areas of L5 spinal cord as evidenced by intense GFAP and IBA-1 immunostaining, respectively. Biochemical studies also demonstrated increased levels of nitrite in the L5 spinal cord of tenotomized animals compared with the control group. Thus, we have demonstrated for the first time that total rupture of the Achilles tendon induced inflammatory response and nitrergic and glial activation in the CNS in the L5 spinal cord region.

4.
Lett Appl Microbiol ; 75(5): 1383-1388, 2022 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35971818

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study is to verify in vitro susceptibility of Pythium insidiosum against the agricultural fungicides mefenoxam and pyraclostrobin and evaluate the toxicity of both compounds. Twenty-one P. insidiosum isolates were tested against mefenoxam and pyraclostrobin using the broth microdilution method. Minimum inhibitory and oomicidal concentrations for both compounds were established. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy was performed on P. insidiosum hyphae treated with the sublethal concentration of each fungicide. The toxicity of the compounds was evaluated in vivo Caenorhabditis elegans model. The concentration to inhibit 100% of P. insidiosum growth ranged from 0·625 to 10 µg ml-1 for mefenoxam and from 0·019 to 5 µg ml-1 for pyraclostrobin. The SEM analysis revealed changes on the surface of the hyphae treated with the fungicides, suggesting possible damage caused by these compounds. There was no evidence of toxicity in vivo models. Mefenoxam and pyraclostrobin did not show toxicity at the doses evaluated and have inhibitory effects on the pathogenic oomycete P. insidiosum. However, further evaluations of their pharmacokinetics and toxicity in different animal species and possible pharmacological interactions are necessary to infer a possible use in the clinical management of pythiosis.


Subject(s)
Fungicides, Industrial , Pythium , Animals , Fungicides, Industrial/pharmacology , Microbial Sensitivity Tests
5.
Braz J Med Biol Res ; 52(9): e8290, 2019.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31482998

ABSTRACT

Tendon rupture is a very frequent accident involving average people and high-performance athletes. Clinical studies describe tendon recovery as a painful and slow process involving different biochemical and histological events. Ascorbic acid (AA) is a potent antioxidant as well as an important cofactor for collagen synthesis. In the current study, we evaluated if local treatment with AA is able to promote tendon repair in tenotomized rats. Animals were submitted to Achilles tendon rupture followed by surgical suture. Control and AA groups received in loco injection of saline solution (0.9% NaCl) and 30 mM AA, respectively. Histological and functional recovery of Achilles tendon tissue was evaluated at 7, 14, and 21 days post-surgery. Hematoxylin/eosin staining and collagen fluorescence analysis showed intense disarrangement of tendon tissue in the saline group. Tenotomized animals also showed hypercellularity in tendon tissue compared with non-tenotomized animals. The Achilles functional index (AFI) showed a significant decrease of tendon functionality in tenotomized animals at 7, 14, and 21 days post-surgery. AA accelerated tissue organization and the recovery of function of the Achilles tendons. The beneficial effect of AA treatment was also observed in the organization of the collagen network. Data presented in the current work showed that in loco treatment with AA accelerated the recovery of injured Achilles tendon post-surgery.


Subject(s)
Achilles Tendon/drug effects , Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage , Collagen/drug effects , Tendon Injuries/surgery , Achilles Tendon/injuries , Achilles Tendon/pathology , Animals , Collagen/physiology , Disease Models, Animal , Male , Rats , Rats, Wistar , Recovery of Function/drug effects , Tenotomy , Wound Healing/drug effects
6.
Rev. bras. pesqui. méd. biol ; Braz. j. med. biol. res;52(9): e8290, 2019. graf
Article in English | LILACS | ID: biblio-1019570

ABSTRACT

Tendon rupture is a very frequent accident involving average people and high-performance athletes. Clinical studies describe tendon recovery as a painful and slow process involving different biochemical and histological events. Ascorbic acid (AA) is a potent antioxidant as well as an important cofactor for collagen synthesis. In the current study, we evaluated if local treatment with AA is able to promote tendon repair in tenotomized rats. Animals were submitted to Achilles tendon rupture followed by surgical suture. Control and AA groups received in loco injection of saline solution (0.9% NaCl) and 30 mM AA, respectively. Histological and functional recovery of Achilles tendon tissue was evaluated at 7, 14, and 21 days post-surgery. Hematoxylin/eosin staining and collagen fluorescence analysis showed intense disarrangement of tendon tissue in the saline group. Tenotomized animals also showed hypercellularity in tendon tissue compared with non-tenotomized animals. The Achilles functional index (AFI) showed a significant decrease of tendon functionality in tenotomized animals at 7, 14, and 21 days post-surgery. AA accelerated tissue organization and the recovery of function of the Achilles tendons. The beneficial effect of AA treatment was also observed in the organization of the collagen network. Data presented in the current work showed that in loco treatment with AA accelerated the recovery of injured Achilles tendon post-surgery.


Subject(s)
Animals , Male , Rats , Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage , Achilles Tendon/drug effects , Tendon Injuries/surgery , Collagen/drug effects , Achilles Tendon/injuries , Achilles Tendon/pathology , Wound Healing/drug effects , Collagen/physiology , Rats, Wistar , Recovery of Function/drug effects , Disease Models, Animal , Tenotomy
7.
Transbound Emerg Dis ; 65(2): 518-526, 2018 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29076653

ABSTRACT

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a zoonosis caused mainly by Mycobacterium bovis that affects domestic and wild animals. In Brazil, there are no epidemiological studies on tuberculosis in wild animal populations and their possible role in the disease maintenance in cattle herds; thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of tuberculosis in wild boars in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Tissue samples of animals hunted under government consent were submitted to histopathology and M. bovis polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as screening tests; the positive samples were subsequently submitted to bacterial isolation, the gold standard diagnosis. Eighty animals were evaluated, of which 27.9% and 31.3% showed histopathological changes and M. bovis genome presence, respectively. Moreover, 23.8% of the animals had at least one organ with isolates classified as Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC). Three hunting points were risk factors for positive results on screening tests. This study shows the occurrence of tuberculosis in a wild boars' population, and raise the possibility of these animals to play a role as disease reservoirs in southern Brazil. These results may help to improve the Brazilian tuberculosis control programme, as well as elucidate the circulation of mycobacteria in this country.


Subject(s)
Disease Reservoirs/veterinary , Mycobacterium bovis/isolation & purification , Sus scrofa/microbiology , Swine Diseases/epidemiology , Tuberculosis/veterinary , Animals , Animals, Wild/microbiology , Brazil , DNA, Bacterial/genetics , Disease Reservoirs/microbiology , Female , Male , Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary , Risk Factors , Swine , Swine Diseases/microbiology , Tuberculosis/epidemiology , Tuberculosis/microbiology
8.
Int J Exp Pathol ; 98(6): 329-340, 2017 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29226508

ABSTRACT

Sepsis is associated with high mortality. Both critically ill humans and animal models of sepsis exhibit changes in their glucose homeostasis, that is, hypoglycaemia, with the progression of infection. However, the relationship between basal glycaemia, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity is not well understood. Thus, we aimed to evaluate this glucose homeostasis triad at the late stage of sepsis (24 h after surgery) in male Swiss mice subjected to lethal and sublethal sepsis by the caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model. The percentage of survival 24 h after CLP procedure in the Lethal and Sublethal groups was around 66% and 100% respectively. Both Lethal and Sublethal groups became hypoglycaemic in fasting and fed states 24 h after surgery. The pronounced fed hypoglycaemia in the Lethal group was not due to worsening anorexic behaviour or hepatic inability to deliver glucose in relation to the Sublethal group. Reduction in insulin sensitivity in CLP mice occurred in a lethality-dependent manner and was not associated with glucose intolerance. Analysis of oral and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests, as well as the gastrointestinal motility data, indicated that CLP mice had reduced intestinal glucose absorption. Altogether, we suggest cessation of appetite and intestinal glucose malabsorption are key contributors to the hypoglycaemic state observed during experimental severe sepsis.


Subject(s)
Blood Glucose/biosynthesis , Cecum/metabolism , Homeostasis/physiology , Sepsis/mortality , Animals , Cecum/surgery , Disease Models, Animal , Hypoglycemic Agents , Insulin Resistance , Ligation/methods , Liver/metabolism , Male , Mice , Punctures/methods
9.
Neurol India ; 64(6): 1266-1275, 2016.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27841198

ABSTRACT

The main purpose of this review was to expound upon the mechanism of action of Levetiracetam (LEV) as an antiepileptic, neuroprotective, and hyperalgesic drug. LEV is a second-generation anti-epileptic drug (AED) that is approved for clinical use as monotherapy and may also be used for adjunctive treatment of patients with seizures. Several researchers have recommended LEV as a treatment option in different diseases causing neuronal damage, and recently, LEV has been used as an antihyperalgesic drug. LEV exhibits favorable characteristics, including a low potential for interaction, a short elimination half-life, and has neither active metabolites nor major negative effects on cognition. This has generated many new research avenues for the utilization of this drug. However, the precise mechanism of action of LEV has not been fully elucidated. In this review, a search was conducted on PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCO, and the Science Citation index for studies evaluating the effects of LEV as an antiepileptic, neuroprotective, and hyperalgesic drug. A total of 32 studies related to the use of LEV suggested different mechanisms of action, such as binding to the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) protein, inhibition of Ca2+ N-type channels, and its presence as a neuromodulator. These studies concluded that the pharmacodynamics of LEV should be viewed as a single pathway, and should not be based on specific molecular targets that depend on the physiological or pathological conditions prevalent at that time.


Subject(s)
Anticonvulsants/pharmacology , Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology , Piracetam/analogs & derivatives , Anticonvulsants/therapeutic use , Epilepsy/drug therapy , Humans , Levetiracetam , Pain/drug therapy , Piracetam/pharmacology , Piracetam/therapeutic use
10.
J Hosp Infect ; 94(4): 330-337, 2016 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27515459

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Not all nosocomial outbreaks (NOs) are reported to health authorities (HAs). AIM: To identify barriers to investigating and reporting NOs to HAs. METHODS: A mixed methods approach was performed with a convergent parallel design. The quantitative and qualitative branches of the study were a statewide (electronic) survey and focus groups (FGs), respectively. Infection control practitioners (ICPs) working in the State of São Paulo, Brazil were recruited. FINDINGS: Eighty-five ICPs were enrolled in the survey and 22 ICPs were enrolled in the FGs. Barriers to investigating and reporting NOs included: (i) difficulty in translating outbreak investigation knowledge into practice; (ii) weak planning in outbreak investigation process; (iii) organizational culture and context; (iv) lack of awareness about reporting; and (v) lack of autonomy of ICPs to report outbreaks to HAs. CONCLUSION: HAs could overcome these barriers by revising their strategies to work with healthcare services, as well as delivering translational educational programmes to support improvement in knowledge and skills for NO investigation.


Subject(s)
Cross Infection/epidemiology , Disease Notification , Disease Outbreaks , Attitude of Health Personnel , Brazil , Humans , Infection Control Practitioners , Practice Patterns, Nurses' , Practice Patterns, Physicians' , Surveys and Questionnaires
11.
Sci Rep ; 5: 15168, 2015 Oct 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26470844

ABSTRACT

Giardiasis is a neglected parasitic disease that affects primarily children, in whom it delays physical and mental development. The pathophysiology of giardiasis in not well understood, and most reports have identified Giardia intestinalis trophozoites only in the lumen and on the brush border of the small intestine. We identified Giardia trophozoites within the epithelium of the small intestine of a lactose intolerance patient. The Giardia trophozoites were obtained and cultured in vitro. In addition, we demonstrated Giardia trophozoite invasion in an animal model. Giardia trophozoites invaded the intestinal mucosa and submucosa of infected gerbils. The invasive trophozoites were observed at 21, 30 and 60 days age, and the average numbers of invaded sites were 17 ± 5, 15 ± 4, and 9 ± 3, respectively. We found trophozoites between epithelial cells, at the base of empty goblet cells, in lacteal vessels and within the submucosa. The morphological integrity of the invasive trophozoites was demonstrated via electron microscopy. The analysis of the gerbils infected with the trophozoites of the WB reference strain did not show intraepithelial trophozoites. These results demonstrate another Giardia pathogenic mechanism, opening the door to numerous future studies.


Subject(s)
Giardia lamblia/physiology , Animals , Antibodies/immunology , Child , Disease Models, Animal , Duodenum/parasitology , Gerbillinae/parasitology , Giardia lamblia/growth & development , Giardiasis/metabolism , Giardiasis/pathology , Humans , Immunohistochemistry , Intestinal Mucosa/parasitology , Microscopy, Electron , Trophozoites/immunology , Trophozoites/physiology
12.
Anaesth Intensive Care ; 42(5): 584-91, 2014 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25233171

ABSTRACT

Correct interpretation of the urinary sodium concentration (NaU) and its relation to renal function in critically ill patients is lacking. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between simultaneous NaU value and serum creatinine (sCr). The hypothesis is that a NaU value greater than 140 mmol/l (normal equivalent value in plasma) is only found in patients with normal sCr. We made a retrospective analysis of 1153 simultaneous samples of NaU and sCr, divided according to diuretic use in the previous 24 hours and grouped in five distinct NaU ranges (< 20, 20 to 39, 40 to 139, 140 to 169, ≥ 170 mmol/l). NaU values below 140 mmol/l were found simultaneously with both normal and increased sCr. NaU values above 140 mmol/l were almost always found in patients with normal sCr, even if diuretics were used. Median sCr values in the NaU ranges above 140 mmol/l were significantly lower than in the other NaU ranges. Estimated glomerular filtration rates were lower and intensive care unit and hospital mortalities were higher in patients with NaU values lower than 140 mmol/l compared to patients with a NaU higher than 140 mmol/l. We concluded that a high natriuretic capacity reflects significant residual renal function in the critically ill. NaU greater than normal plasma sodium is a possible biomarker of normal/improving renal function and also of better outcome. Sole NaU values below 140 mmol/l are difficult to interpret but it is possible that very low NaU values may signify some threat to normal kidney function and worse prognosis even in the presence of normal sCr. Our way to interpret NaU values in critically ill patients needs further careful evaluation.


Subject(s)
Critical Illness , Sodium/blood , Sodium/urine , Acute Kidney Injury/diagnosis , Acute Kidney Injury/physiopathology , Adult , Aged , Biomarkers , Creatinine/blood , Female , Glomerular Filtration Rate , Humans , Male , Middle Aged
13.
J Laryngol Otol ; 128(7): 630-40, 2014 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25075948

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Collagen-covered prostheses can be used as a non-circumferential segmental tracheal replacement. However, the applicability of these implants in young subjects has not yet been reported. METHODS: In this experimental, longitudinal study, dogs aged 29-32 days underwent limited segmental tracheal replacement with a polyester prosthesis or were allocated to a control, untreated group. The dogs were evaluated clinically, endoscopically and tomographically for up to one year. RESULTS: Although there was evidence of tracheal growth in the experimental group, tomographic measurements were significantly smaller in this group than in the control group throughout the observation period. At the end of the study, there was no evidence of implant rejection, stenosis or collapse. Normal respiratory epithelium had grown across the implanted membrane in the experimental group. CONCLUSION: The homologous collagen mersylene membrane allowed for limited structural tracheal growth and was functionally integrated into the segmented tracheal wall in growing dogs.


Subject(s)
Coated Materials, Biocompatible , Plastic Surgery Procedures/methods , Prostheses and Implants , Trachea/surgery , Tracheal Diseases/surgery , Animals , Disease Models, Animal , Dogs , Female , Laryngoscopy , Male , Multidetector Computed Tomography , Prosthesis Design , Trachea/diagnostic imaging , Trachea/pathology , Tracheal Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Tracheal Diseases/pathology
14.
Perfusion ; 29(6): 517-25, 2014 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24594638

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Transmembrane pressure drop reflects the resistance of an artificial lung system to blood transit. Decreased resistance (low transmembrane pressure drop) enhances blood flow through the oxygenator, thereby, enhancing gas exchange efficiency. This study is part of a previous one where we observed the behaviour and the modulation of blood pressure drop during the passage of blood through artificial lung membranes. METHODS: Before and after the induction of multi-organ dysfunction, the animals were instrumented and analysed for venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, using a pre-defined sequence of blood flows. RESULTS: Blood flow and revolutions per minute (RPM) of the centrifugal pump varied in a linear fashion. At a blood flow of 5.5 L/min, pre- and post-pump blood pressures reached -120 and 450 mmHg, respectively. Transmembrane pressures showed a significant spread, particularly at blood flows above 2 L/min; over the entire range of blood flow rates, there was a positive association of pressure drop with blood flow (0.005 mmHg/mL/minute of blood flow) and a negative association of pressure drop with temperature (-4.828 mmHg/(°Celsius). These associations were similar when blood flows of below and above 2000 mL/minute were examined. CONCLUSIONS: During its passage through the extracorporeal system, blood is exposed to pressure variations from -120 to 450 mmHg. At high blood flows (above 2 L/min), the drop in transmembrane pressure becomes unpredictable and highly variable. Over the entire range of blood flows investigated (0-5500 mL/min), the drop in transmembrane pressure was positively associated with blood flow and negatively associated with body temperature.


Subject(s)
Blood Pressure , Body Temperature , Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation , Multiple Organ Failure/physiopathology , Multiple Organ Failure/surgery , Animals , Blood Flow Velocity , Female , Swine
15.
Injury ; 44(7): 908-13, 2013 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23340234

ABSTRACT

Defects associated with bone mass loss are frequently treated by autogenous bone grafting. However, synthetic biomaterials such as calcium phosphate ceramics can substitute autologous grafts as long as they are biocompatible with bone tissue. In addition, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is used to enhance bone regeneration by stimulating the local microcirculation and increasing the synthesis of collagen by bone cells. However, bone health is fundamental for osseointegration of the graft and bone repair. In this respect, excessive tobacco consumption can compromise expected outcomes because of its deleterious effects on bone metabolism that predispose to the development of osteoporosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the regeneration of bone defects implanted with biomaterial and stimulated by LLLT in rats submitted to passive cigarette smoking. Porous hydroxyapatite granules were implanted into critical-size defects induced experimentally in the distal epiphysis of the right femur of 20 female Wistar rats submitted to passive smoking for 8 months in a smoking box. The defect site was irradiated with a gallium-arsenide laser at an intensity of 5.0 J/cm2. The animals were divided into four groups: control (non-smoking) rates submitted (G2) or not (G1) to laser irradiation, and smoking rats submitted (G4) or not (G3) to laser irradiation. The animals were sacrificed 8 weeks after biomaterial implantation. The right femurs were removed for photodocumentation, radiographed, and processed for routine histology. The results showed good radiopacity of the implant site and of the hydroxyapatite granules. Histologically, formation of new trabecular bone was observed adjacent to the hydroxyapatite granules in G1 and G2. In G3 and G4, the granules were surrounded mainly by connective tissue. In conclusion, passive smoking compromised bone neoformation in the defects and the LLLT protocol was not adequate to stimulate local osteogenesis.


Subject(s)
Bone Substitutes , Durapatite , Osseointegration , Tobacco Smoke Pollution/adverse effects , Animals , Disease Models, Animal , Female , Inhalation , Laser Therapy , Osteoporosis , Rats , Rats, Wistar
16.
Climacteric ; 16(1): 36-40, 2013 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22943846

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Insomnia increases in frequency as women approach and pass through menopause. Studies have not shown acupuncture efficacy for insomnia in postmenopausal women. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture therapy on sleep parameters, depression symptoms and quality of life in postmenopausal women with insomnia. METHODS: This study included 18 postmenopausal women aged 50-67 years old. Participants had a body mass index ≤ 30 kg/m(2), presented a diagnosis of insomnia according to the DSM-IV criteria, had experienced at least 1 year of amenorrhea and had a follicle stimulating hormone level ≥ 30 mIU/ml. Participants were not using antidepressants, hypnotics or hormonal therapy. This study was randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled. The sample was divided into two groups: acupuncture and 'sham' acupuncture. We performed ten sessions of acupuncture and 'sham' acupuncture during a period of 5 weeks. A polysomnography exam (PSG) and questionnaires (WHOQOL-BREF, Beck Depression Inventory and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) were completed by all patients before and after the treatment period. RESULTS: Anthropometric, polysomnographic, and questionnaire data were similar among the groups at baseline. Comparison of baseline and post-treatment data of the acupuncture group showed that treatment resulted in significantly lower scores on the Pittsburgh Questionnaire and an improvement in psychological WHOQOL. The acupuncture group had a higher percentage of the N3 + 4 stage than the sham group in PSG findings. CONCLUSION: Acupuncture was effective in improving reported sleep quality and quality of life in postmenopausal women with insomnia.


Subject(s)
Acupuncture Therapy , Postmenopause , Quality of Life , Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders/therapy , Aged , Depression/therapy , Double-Blind Method , Female , Humans , Middle Aged , Polysomnography , Postmenopause/psychology , Sleep , Statistics, Nonparametric , Surveys and Questionnaires , Treatment Outcome
17.
Theriogenology ; 78(2): 455-61, 2012 Jul 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22538006

ABSTRACT

The objective was to measure the effects of VC (a uterotonic drug with vasodilator effects) in eutocic and dystocic sows, on the acid-base balance and some vitality traits of piglets at birth. Farrowing was induced with prostaglandin F2α. Four groups of sows (20 sows/group) were monitored; Groups 1 and 2 were eutocic sows, whereas Groups 3 and 4 were dam-fetal dystocic sows. Groups 1 and 3 (control) were given saline, whereas Groups 2 and 4 were given VC im (1.66 mg/kg of body weight) after the first piglet was born. Piglets' physio-metabolic performance was monitored peripartum. Treatment with VC reduced (P<0.0001) the percentage of intrapartum stillbirths in sows either with eutocic (5.2 vs. 10.0%) and dystocic (7.6 vs. 16.7%) farrowings and increased (P<0.0001) the number of pigs born alive without any evidence of AFS (89.9 vs. 79.9%, eutocic and 81.6 vs. 65.2%, dystocic). In addition, for the group of pigs with no acute fetal suffering (AFS), VC treatment enhanced survival responses with a half point grater vitality score in Group 4; it also reduced the latency to first teat contact by 6 min (P<0.05) in both treated groups compared to controls; and it improved the condition of the pigs' umbilical cord, with more adhered (98 vs. 86% in eutocic and 88 vs. 80% in dystocic; P<0.05) and less ruptured cords. Moreover, VC reduced the severity of adverse physio-metabolic indicators and the acid-base balance of piglets with AFS at birth by lowering blood lactate (89.8 vs. 93.5 mmol/L in eutocic groups and 94.6 vs. 100.2 mmol/L in dystocic groups; P<0.05), PaCO2 and Ca2+, and by increasing blood pH, HCO3 and PaO2 levels (P<0.05).


Subject(s)
Acid-Base Equilibrium/drug effects , Benzylamines/therapeutic use , Dystocia/veterinary , Oxytocics/therapeutic use , Animals , Animals, Newborn , Dystocia/drug therapy , Female , Pregnancy , Stillbirth/veterinary , Swine , Umbilical Cord
18.
Parasitology ; 139(8): 1074-85, 2012 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22444833

ABSTRACT

In vitro tests were performed to evaluate the ability of 6 isolates of the nematophagous fungus Pochonia chlamydosporia to infect immature and mature Toxocara canis eggs on cellulose dialysis membrane. There was a direct relationship between the number of eggs colonized and the increase in the days of interaction, as well as between the number of eggs colonized and the increase in the concentration of chlamydospores (P<0.05). Immature eggs were more susceptible to infection than mature eggs. The isolate Pc-04 was the most efficient egg parasite until the 7th day, and showed no difference in capacity to infect mature and immature eggs in comparison to Pc-07 at 14 and 21 days of interaction, respectively. Isolate Pc-04 was the most infective on the two evolutionary phases of the eggs at most concentrations, but its ability to infect immature eggs did not differ from that presented by the isolates Pc-07 and Pc-10 at the inoculum level of 5000 chlamydospores. Colonization of infective larvae inside or outside the egg was observed in treatments with the isolates Pc-03, Pc-04, Pc-07 and Pc-10. The isolate Pc-04 of P. chlamydosporia has great biological capacity to destroy immature and mature T. canis eggs in laboratory conditions.


Subject(s)
Hypocreales/physiology , Ovum/microbiology , Spores, Fungal/physiology , Toxocara canis/microbiology , Animals , Host-Parasite Interactions , Larva/microbiology , Pest Control, Biological , Time Factors
19.
Arq. Inst. Biol ; 79(4): 607-609, out.-dez. 2012.
Article in Portuguese | VETINDEX | ID: biblio-1462189

ABSTRACT

Relata-se pela primeira vez a infestação de caprinos e ovinos por pulgas e carrapatos em propriedade rural do Município de Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brasil. Após inspeção visual e tátil da superfície corporal dos animais, os espécimes coletados foram levados ao laboratório para identificação utilizando chaves específicas. As pulgas, coletadas somente nos caprinos, pertenciam à espécie Ctenocephalides felis felis. Os carrapatos coletados nos caprinos e ovinos pertenciam à espécie Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus.


CTENOCEPHALIDES FELIS FELIS (BOUCHÉ, 1835) AND RHIPICEPHALUS (BOOPHILUS) MICROPLUS (CANESTRINI, 1887) ON GOATS AND SHEEP IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SINOP,MATO GROSSO, BRAZIL. This is the first report of the infestation of goats and sheep by fleas and ticks on rural property in the municipality of Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil. After visual and tactile body surface inspection, specimens were taken to the laboratory for identification using specific keys. Fleas, collected only from goats, belonged to the species Ctenocephalides felis felis. Ticks collected from goats and sheep belonged to the species Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus.


Subject(s)
Animals , Ctenocephalides , Parasites/classification , Goats/parasitology , Sheep/parasitology
20.
Arq. Inst. Biol. ; 79(4): 607-609, out.-dez. 2012.
Article in Portuguese | VETINDEX | ID: vti-4647

ABSTRACT

Relata-se pela primeira vez a infestação de caprinos e ovinos por pulgas e carrapatos em propriedade rural do Município de Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brasil. Após inspeção visual e tátil da superfície corporal dos animais, os espécimes coletados foram levados ao laboratório para identificação utilizando chaves específicas. As pulgas, coletadas somente nos caprinos, pertenciam à espécie Ctenocephalides felis felis. Os carrapatos coletados nos caprinos e ovinos pertenciam à espécie Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. (AU)


CTENOCEPHALIDES FELIS FELIS (BOUCHÉ, 1835) AND RHIPICEPHALUS (BOOPHILUS) MICROPLUS (CANESTRINI, 1887) ON GOATS AND SHEEP IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SINOP,MATO GROSSO, BRAZIL. This is the first report of the infestation of goats and sheep by fleas and ticks on rural property in the municipality of Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil. After visual and tactile body surface inspection, specimens were taken to the laboratory for identification using specific keys. Fleas, collected only from goats, belonged to the species Ctenocephalides felis felis. Ticks collected from goats and sheep belonged to the species Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. (AU)


Subject(s)
Animals , Parasites/classification , Ctenocephalides , Goats/parasitology , Sheep/parasitology
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