Knockdown of Sec16 causes early lethality and defective deposition of the protein Rp30 in the eggshell of the vector Rhodnius prolixus.

In nearly every species of insect, embryonic development takes place outside of the mother's body and is entirely dependent on the elements that the mother had previously stored within the eggs. It is well known that the follicle cells (FCs) synthesize the eggshell (chorion) components during the process of choriogenesis, the final step of oogenesis before fertilization. These cells have developed a specialization in the massive production of chorion proteins, which are essential for the protection and survival of the embryo. Here, we investigate the function of Sec16, a protein crucial for the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to Golgi traffic, in the oocyte development in the insect Rhodnius prolixus. We discovered that Sec16 is strongly expressed in vitellogenic females' ovaries, particularly in the choriogenic oocyte and it is mainly associated with the FCs. Silencing of Sec16 by RNAi caused a sharp decline in oviposition rates, F1 viability, and longevity in adult females. In the FCs, genes involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR), the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), and autophagy were massively upregulated, whereas the mRNAs of Rp30 and Rp45-which code for the two major chorion proteins - were downregulated as a result of Sec16 silencing, indicating general proteostasis disturbance. As a result, the outer surface ultrastructure of Sec16-silenced chorions was altered, with decreased thickness, dityrosine crosslinking, sulfur signals, and lower amounts of the chorion protein Rp30. These findings collectively demonstrate the critical role Sec16 plays in the proper functioning of the FCs, which impacts the synthesis and deposition of particular components of the chorion as well as the overall reproduction of this vector.

Feto-Maternal Interface Organ-on-Chip: A New Technology to Study Ascending Infection.

Modeling human pregnancy is challenging as two subjects, the mother and fetus, must be evaluated in tandem. To understand pregnancy, parturition, and adverse pregnancy outcomes, the two feto-maternal interfaces (FMi) that form during gestation (i.e., the placenta and fetal membrane) need to be investigated to understand their biological roles, and organ dysfunction can lead to adverse outcomes. Adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm rupture of the membranes, spontaneous preterm birth, preeclampsia, intra-uterine growth restriction, and gestational diabetes rates are on the rise worldwide, highlighting the need for future studies and a better understanding of molecular and cellular pathways that contribute to disease onset. Current in vivo animal models nor in vitro cell culture systems can answer these questions as they do not model the function or structure of human FMis. Utilizing microfabrication and soft-lithography techniques, microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) devices have been adapted by many fields to model the anatomy and biological function of complex organs and organ systems within small in vitro platforms.These techniques have been adapted to recreate the fetal membrane FMi (FMi-OOC) using immortalized cells and collagen derived from patient samples. The FMi-OOC is a four-cell culture chamber, concentric circle system, that contains both fetal (amniochorion) and maternal (decidua) cellular layers and has been validated to model physiological and pathological states of pregnancy (i.e., ascending infection, systemic oxidative stress, and maternal toxicant exposure). This platform is fully compatible with various analytical methods such as microscopy and biochemical analysis. This protocol will outline this device's fabrication, cell loading, and utility to model ascending infection-related adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Toxic effects of environmental-relevant exposure to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) micro and nanoparticles in zebrafish early development.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a commonly used thermoplastic in industry due to its excellent malleability and thermal stability, making it extensively employed in packaging manufacturing. Inadequate disposal of PET packaging in the environment and natural physical-chemical processes leads to the formation of smaller particles known as PET micro and nanoplastics (MNPs). The reduced dimensions enhance particle bioavailability and, subsequently, their reactivity. This study involved chemical degradation of PET using trifluoroacetic acid to assess the impact of exposure to varying concentrations of PET MNPs (0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L) on morphological, functional, behavioral, and biochemical parameters during the early developmental stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Characterization of the degraded PET revealed the generated microplastics (MPs) ranged in size from 1305 to 2032 µm, and that the generated nanoplastics (NPs) ranged from 68.06 to 955 nm. These particles were then used for animal exposure. After a six-day exposure period, our findings indicate that PET MNPs can diminish spontaneous tail coiling (STC), elevate the heart rate, accumulate on the chorion surface, and reduce interocular distance. These results suggest that PET exposure induces primary toxic effects on zebrafish embryo-larval stage of development.

Manejo del embarazo gemelar monocoriónico monoamniótico: revisión de la literatura y reporte de caso

A propósito de la presentación de un caso de embarazo gemelar monocoriónico monoamniótico, se revisó la literatura sobre su diagnóstico y manejo mediante búsqueda electrónica en la base de datos de Medline, OVID, Cochrane y PubMed entre los años 1966 y 2019. Las palabras clave utilizadas en la indagación fueron: embarazo, gemelos, monoamniótico, enredamiento de cordones. Existe un riesgo alto de muerte fetal súbita en gemelos monoamnióticos causado por el enredamiento de los cordones umbilicales, por lo que el diagnóstico oportuno de la corionicidad y amnionicidad en el embarazo gemelar mediante ecografía puede dar la pauta para una vigilancia fetal estrecha y mejorar así el resultado obstétrico.

In view of the presentation of a case of monochorionic monoamniotic twin pregnancy, the literature on its diagnosis and management was reviewed by electronic search in the Medline, OVID, Cochrane, and PubMed databases between 1966 and 2019. The key words used in the inquiry were: pregnancy, twins, monoamniotic, cord entanglement. There is a high risk of sudden fetal death in monoamniotic twins caused by entanglement of the umbilical cords, so timely diagnosis of chorionicity and amnionicity in twin pregnancy by ultrasonography may provide guidance for close fetal surveillance and thus improve obstetric outcome.

Effect of Different Culture Conditions on Gene Expression Associated With Cyst Production in Populations of Artemia franciscana.

Artemia franciscana inhabits hypersaline environments in the Americas and has a well-adapted reproductive system that allows it to survive in these extreme conditions, represented by the production of diapause cysts (oviparous reproduction). This reproduction mode is controlled by numerous genes that are expressed in response to different environmental stressors, enabling this species to avoid population extinction. However, to date, the expression of these genes has not been sufficiently studied to clarify their levels in response to a combination of different environmental factors under controlled conditions. We analyzed the expression of eight genes related to oviparous reproduction (SGEG, Arp-CBP, artemin, BRCA1, p8, ArHsp21, ArHsp22, and p26) to determine their association with cyst production in two populations of A. franciscana with contrasting phenotypes, one with high (Barro Negro, BNE, Chile) and one with low (San Francisco Bay, SFB, United States) cyst production. Populations were cultured under controlled conditions of salinity (SAL, 35 and 75 ppt), photoperiod (PHO, 12L:12D and 24L:00D), iron concentration (IC, 0[Fe] and 5[Fe]), and microalgae diet (DIE; Dunaliella tertiolecta (DUN) and Tetraselmis suecica (TETRA)). Sixteen treatments were performed by combining the two conditions of each of the four factors. Data on nine reproductive parameters per female were recorded, including the percent of offspring encysted (%) (POE). The gene expression levels were analyzed by semiquantitative RT-PCR. The mean POE was significantly greater in BNE than in SFB (32.40 versus 12.74%, Mann-Whitney's test, p < 0.05). Significantly upregulated expression of seven genes in BNE (more than twofold, p < 0.05) was observed in 38.28% of the treatments (e.g., DUN-75ppt-12L:12D-5[Fe] and TETRA-35ppt-12L:12D-5[Fe]). In SFB, seven genes showed significant differential expression, but most were downregulated in 29.69% of the treatments (e.g., DUN-75ppt-12L:12D-0[Fe] and DUN-75ppt-24L:00D-0[Fe]). Multiple regression analyses indicated that in BNE, five genes (SGEG, artemin, Arp-CBP, p8, and BRCA1) and three environmental factors (DIE, SAL, and IC) were important predictor variables for the POE response variable given that all of them were included in the highest-ranking models. In SFB, only two genes (ArHsp21 and artemin) and one environmental factor (SAL) were important explanatory variables in the highest-ranking models. It was concluded that the BNE population presented a characteristic gene expression pattern that differed from that of the SFB population. This pattern might be related to the marked oviparous reproduction of the BNE population. This gene expression pattern could be useful for monitoring the reproductive mode leading to diapause in Artemia and to assist with intensive cyst production in pond systems.

Anastomosis placentarias en embarazos gemelares monocoriales: estudio mediante técnicas de inyección vascular y relación con complicaciones fetales / Placental anastomoses in monochorionic twin pregnancies: study using vascular injection techniques and relationship with fetal complications

RESUMEN Introducción. Los embarazos gemelares son clasificados en dos grupos: monocoriónico (MC) y dicoriónico (DC). Los gemelos MC tienen 5 a 6 veces más riesgo de tener un resultado perinatal adverso. Se publica el estudio de un grupo de 22 placentas de pacientes con embarazo gemelar monocoriónico que presentaron complicaciones como síndrome de transfusión feto-fetal (STFF), secuencia de anemia policitemia (TAPS), perfusión arterial reversa (TRAP) y restricción de crecimiento intrauterino selectivo (RCIU-s). Objetivo . Determinar los tipos de anastomosis predominantes en las placentas con síndrome de transfusión feto-fetal, secuencia de anemia policitemia, síndrome de perfusión arterial reversa y restricción de crecimiento selectivo. Metodología . Se aplicó la técnica de inyección vascular placentaria para el reconocimiento de las anastomosis. Resultados . El número medio de anastomosis por placenta en el STFF (que fue la complicación más severa) fue de 8,2 ± 2,2. Las anastomosis AV y VA predominaron en un 83%. Hubo signos de discordancia placentaria en 30% de las placentas, y un 40% de placentas presentaron cordón de inserción velamentosa. Conclusiones. Las anastomosis vasculares no solo están implicadas en la etiología de las principales patologías propias de gestaciones monocoriónicas, sino que también influyen en su manejo. Creemos que un adecuado estudio placentario de cada uno de estos casos mediante la técnica de inyección vascular placentaria sería indispensable en los centros que aspiran a desarrollar manejos diferenciados de terapia fetal para cada una de estas complicaciones.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Twin pregnancies are classified into two groups: monochorionic (MC) and dichorionic (DC). MC twins are 5 to 6 times more likely to have an adverse perinatal outcome. The study of a group of 22 placentas from patients with monochorionic twin pregnancy who presented with complications such as feto-fetal transfusion syndrome (FFTS), twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS), twin reverse arterial perfusion syndrome (TRAP) and selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) is presented. Objective: To determine the predominant types of anastomoses in placentas with feto-fetal transfusion syndrome, twin anemia polycythemia sequence, reverse arterial perfusion syndrome and selective intrauterine growth restriction. Methodology: The placental injection technique was applied for the recognition of anastomoses. Results: The mean number of anastomoses per placenta in STFF, which was the most severe complication, was 8.2 ± 2.2. The AV and VA anastomoses predominated in 83%. There were signs of placental discordance in 30% of placentas, and 40% of placentas presented velamentous cord insertion. Conclusions: Vascular anastomoses are not only involved in the etiology of the main pathologies of monochorionic gestations, but also influence their management. We believe that an adequate placental study of each of these cases by means of the placental vascular injection technique would be essential in centers that aspire to develop differentiated fetal management for each of these complications.

The morphology of the eggs in the Hermanella complex (Ephemeroptera: Leptophlebiidae)

ABSTRACT The Hermanella complex is a well-established monophyletic group of Hagenulinae mayflies, but the phylogenetic relationships among its members are still being discussed. In order to fill some gaps in the taxonomy of this group we describe, for the first time, the eggs of eight species of this complex (Hermanella amere, Hermanella mazama, Hydromastodon sallesi, Hydrosmilodon gilliesae, Hydrosmilodon plagatus, Leentvaaria palpalis, Paramaka incognita, Paramaka sp.) using scanning electron microscopy, including some important members whose generic allocation have been questioned. The egg morphology in these eight species of Hermanella complex and their similarities with other species of the complex are discussed.

Study of mastoparan analog peptides against Candida albicans and safety in zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio).

Aim: In this work, mastoparan analog peptides from wasp venom were tested against Candida albicans and safety assays were performed using cell culture and model zebrafish. Materials & methods: Minimal inhibitory concentration was determined and toxicity was performed using human skin keratinocyte and embryo zebrafish. Also, permeation of peptides through embryo chorion was performed. Results: The peptides demonstrated anti-C. albicans activity, with low cytotoxicity and nonteratogenicity in Danio rerio. The compounds had different permeation through chorion, suggesting that this occurs due to modifications in their amino acid sequence. Conclusion: The results showed that the studied peptides can be used as structural study models for novel potential antifungal agents.

The Macrobiotus hufelandi group (Tardigrada) revisited.

Species of the Macrobiotus hufelandi group are one of the most often recorded tardigrades throughout the globe. For over a century M. hufelandi has been considered cosmopolitan but in recent decades numerous species of similar morphologies have been described from various continents, which suggests that what was originally defined as a single taxon is, in fact, a complex of species. The definition of the hufelandi group is subject to a long-standing discussion and in this paper we propose a refined set of characters that are hoped to elucidate the taxonomic status of the group. In order to aid interspecific comparisons, we also propose a unified nomenclature for the crucial morphological traits and clar.

Effect of broodstock holding environment on egg quality in farmed brown trout (Salmo trutta)

Brown trout (Salmo trutta) broodstock from a single population were separated prior to spawning andexposed to two different holding environments: a ‘raceway system and a ‘tank system. Eggs were stripped from females and 13 measures of egg qualitywere collected, analysed individually, combined by principle components analysis into an integrated egg quality score which was validated against egg survival.The multivariate egg quality score (PC1) differed for fish held in the tank and raceway systems. Egg survival, chorion breaking strength and chorion Se concentrations were higher in eggs produced by broodstock held in the tank system compared to those in the raceway system. In contrast, chorion concentrations of P and K were higher in eggs from fish held in the raceway system. The results suggest that brown trout broodstock reared in tank systems produced higher quality eggs compared to trout reared in raceways. Finally, this study also indicates that multivariate statistical analysis can be used to determine egg quality from multiple egg parameters.(AU)

Effect of broodstock holding environment on egg quality in farmed brown trout (Salmo trutta)

Brown trout (Salmo trutta) broodstock from a single population were separated prior to spawning andexposed to two different holding environments: a ‘raceway system’ and a ‘tank system’. Eggs were stripped from females and 13 measures of egg qualitywere collected, analysed individually, combined by principle components analysis into an integrated egg quality score which was validated against egg survival.The multivariate egg quality score (PC1) differed for fish held in the tank and raceway systems. Egg survival, chorion breaking strength and chorion Se concentrations were higher in eggs produced by broodstock held in the tank system compared to those in the raceway system. In contrast, chorion concentrations of P and K were higher in eggs from fish held in the raceway system. The results suggest that brown trout broodstock reared in tank systems produced higher quality eggs compared to trout reared in raceways. Finally, this study also indicates that multivariate statistical analysis can be used to determine egg quality from multiple egg parameters.

Chorion Mesenchymal Stem Cells Show Superior Differentiation, Immunosuppressive, and Angiogenic Potentials in Comparison With Haploidentical Maternal Placental Cells.

UNLABELLED: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) of placental origin have become increasingly translational owing to their abundance and accessibility. MSCs of different origin share several features but also present biological differences that might point to distinct clinical properties. Hence, mixing fetal and maternal cells from the same placenta can lead to contradicting results. We analyzed the biological characteristics of haploidentical MSCs isolated from fetal sources, including the umbilical cord (UC-MSCs) and chorion (Ch-MSCs), compared with maternal decidua MSCs (Dc-MSCs). All MSCs were analyzed for general stem cell properties. In addition, immunosuppressive capacity was assessed by the inhibition of T-cell proliferation, and angiogenic potential was evaluated in a Matrigel transplantation assay. The comparison between haploidentical MSCs displayed several distinct features, including (a) marked differences in the expression of CD56, (b) a higher proliferative capacity for Dc-MSCs and UC-MSCs than for Ch-MSCs, (c) a diversity of mesodermal differentiation potential in favor of fetal MSCs, (d) a higher capacity for Ch-MSCs to inhibit T-cell proliferation, and (e) superior angiogenic potential of Ch-MSCs evidenced by a higher capability to form tubular vessel-like structures and an enhanced release of hepatocyte growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor under hypoxic conditions. Our results suggest that assessing the prevalence of fetomaternal contamination within placental MSCs is necessary to increase robustness and limit side effects in their clinical use. Finally, our work presents evidence positioning fetoplacental cells and notably Ch-MSCs in the forefront of the quest for cell types that are superior for applications in regenerative medicine. SIGNIFICANCE: This study analyzed the biological characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from fetal and maternal placental origins. The findings can be summarized as follows: (a) important differences were found in the expression of CD56, (b) a different mesodermal differentiation potential was found in favor of fetal MSCs, (c) a higher immunosuppressive capacity for chorion MSCs was noted, and (d) superior angiogenic potential of Ch-MSCs was observed. These results suggest that assessing the prevalence of fetomaternal contamination within placental MSCs is necessary to increase robustness and limit side effects in their clinical use. The evidence should allow clinicians to view fetoplacental cells, notably Ch-MSCs, favorably as candidates for use in regenerative medicine.

Morphology of immatures of Euschistus (Mitripus) grandis (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

Immatures are important sources of information about characters, thus potentially improving classification and phylogenies. Euschistus (Mitripus) grandis Rolston, 1978 occurs in southern and southeastern Brazil. There are no references in the literature about this species other than the original description and distribution records. Our aim is to describe the egg and five nymphal instars of E. (M.) grandis, addressing the ontogeny of the external scent efferent system. Specimens of E. (M.) grandis were collected on Solanum pseudocapsicum Linnaeus (Solanaceae) in São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and reared in the laboratory. The egg of E. (M.) grandis is white and barrel-shaped, chorion translucent bearing spines connected by thin sheets forming polygons. Aero-mycropilar processes translucent and slightly clubbed. The nymphs bear anterior dorsal abdominal scent glands (DAG) with slit-like ostiole continued by a short groove; from the second instar onward median and posterior DAGs with rounded ostiole bearing closing cuticular valve. Spout peritreme flat and curved anteriorly, evaporatorium network-shaped surrounding ostiole plus peritrema; alveoli surface with trabeculae. Nymphs of E. (M.) grandis can be distinguished from other species of Euschistus by the color pattern and morphological features. The most striking morphological characteristic of 4th and 5th instar nymphs of E. (M.) grandis is the broad, deflected projection of humeral angles.

Morphology of immatures of Euschistus (Mitripus) grandis (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

Immatures are important sources of information about characters, thus potentially improving classification and phylogenies. Euschistus (Mitripus) grandis Rolston, 1978 occurs in southern and southeastern Brazil. There are no references in the literature about this species other than the original description and distribution records. Our aim is to describe the egg and five nymphal instars of E. (M.) grandis, addressing the ontogeny of the external scent efferent system. Specimens of E. (M.) grandis were collected on Solanum pseudocapsicum Linnaeus (Solanaceae) in São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and reared in the laboratory. The egg of E. (M.) grandis is white and barrel-shaped, chorion translucent bearing spines connected by thin sheets forming polygons. Aero-mycropilar processes translucent and slightly clubbed. The nymphs bear anterior dorsal abdominal scent glands (DAG) with slit-like ostiole continued by a short groove; from the second instar onward median and posterior DAGs with rounded ostiole bearing closing cuticular valve. Spout peritreme flat and curved anteriorly, evaporatorium network-shaped surrounding ostiole plus peritrema; alveoli surface with trabeculae. Nymphs of E. (M.) grandis can be distinguished from other species of Euschistus by the color pattern and morphological features. The most striking morphological characteristic of 4th and 5th instar nymphs of E. (M.) grandis is the broad, deflected projection of humeral angles.

Morphology of immatures of Euschistus (Mitripus) grandis (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

Immatures are important sources of information about characters, thus potentially improving classification and phylogenies. Euschistus (Mitripus) grandis Rolston, 1978 occurs in southern and southeastern Brazil. There are no references in the literature about this species other than the original description and distribution records. Our aim is to describe the egg and five nymphal instars of E. (M.) grandis, addressing the ontogeny of the external scent efferent system. Specimens of E. (M.) grandis were collected on Solanum pseudocapsicum Linnaeus (Solanaceae) in São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and reared in the laboratory. The egg of E. (M.) grandis is white and barrel-shaped, chorion translucent bearing spines connected by thin sheets forming polygons. Aero-mycropilar processes translucent and slightly clubbed. The nymphs bear anterior dorsal abdominal scent glands (DAG) with slit-like ostiole continued by a short groove; from the second instar onward median and posterior DAGs with rounded ostiole bearing closing cuticular valve. Spout peritreme flat and curved anteriorly, evaporatorium network-shaped surrounding ostiole plus peritrema; alveoli surface with trabeculae. Nymphs of E. (M.) grandis can be distinguished from other species of Euschistus by the color pattern and morphological features. The most striking morphological characteristic of 4th and 5th instar nymphs of E. (M.) grandis is the broad, deflected projection of humeral angles.

Estabilización interespinosa lumbar dinámica con autoinjerto de piel / Dynamic lumbar interspinal stabilization using skin flaps

INTRODUCCIÓN. El objetivo de esta investigación fue describir los resultados de la estabilización interespinosa lumbar dinámica utilizando un autoinjerto de piel en pacientes con enfermedad degenerativa discal. Este constituye un reporte inicial sobre la aplicación de dicha técnica en Cuba. MÉTODOS. La muestra estuvo integrada por 10 pacientes a los cuales se les realizó estabilización interespinosa dinámica utilizando corion (lonja de piel de la herida quirúrgica), practicada después del procedimiento básico de discoidectomía o recalibraje. RESULTADOS. Se encontró estenosis aislada del canal vertebral en 4 pacientes (40 por ciento), hernia discal aislada en 3 pacientes (30 por ciento), y la combinación de ambos procesos patológicos en el mismo segmento lumbar, en 2 casos (20 por ciento). En un paciente (1 por ciento) se asociaba una espondilolistesis de grado I sintomática en L5-S1 y una hernia discal en L4-L5. La afectación del segmento L4-L5 estuvo presente en 9 de los pacientes seleccionados (90 por ciento) y en L3-L4 en uno (1 por ciento). La ligamentoplastia interespinosa con corion se realizó en los 10 casos (100 por ciento), mientras que la discoidectomía y el recalibraje de Senegas, como procedimiento único o combinado, fueron practicados en el 60 por ciento de los casos, respectivamente. La evaluación de los resultados se realizó por las escalas de discapacidad de Oswestry y visual análoga del dolor (EVA). La media preoperatoria para la escala de Oswestry fue de un 59,2 por ciento y disminuyó al 25,4 por ciento en el posoperatorio, mientras que la EVA preoperatoria fue como promedio de 7,3 y decreció a 2,4 en el posoperatorio, a los 6 meses de la cirugía. Nueve de los pacientes operados (90 por ciento) sentían mejoría y manifestaron estar satisfechos con la cirugía. CONCLUSIONES. La ligamentoplastia interespinosa con autoinjerto de piel después de la discoidectomía o el recalibraje de Senegas es un método de estabilización funcional que...

INTRODUCTION: The aim of present research was to describe the results of dynamic lumbar interspinal stabilization using a skin flap in patient presenting with a degenerative disk disease. Present paper is an initial report on application of such technique in Cuba. METHODS: Sample included 10 patients underwent a dynamic interspinal stabilization using corium (slice of skin from surgical wound), carried out of the basic procedure of disk surgical removal or recalibration. RESULTS: There was a isolated stenosis of vertebral channel in 4 patients (40 percent), isolated disk hernia in 3 patients (30 percent) and a combination of both processes in the same lumbar segment in 2 cases (20 percent). In a patient there was a associated symptomatic I degree spondylolosthesis in L5-S1 and a disk hernia in L4-L5. The involvement of L4-L5 segment was present in 9 of the selected patients (90 percent) and in L3-L4 in one (1 percent). Interspinal ligamentoplasty with corium was carried out in the ten cases (100 percent), whereas the discoidectomy and the Senegas's recalibration as a unique or combined procedure were carried out in the 60 percent of cases, respectively. Results assessment was made by Oswestry inability scale and analogue visual of pain (EVA). Preoperative mean for Oswestry scale was of 59,2 percent and decreased to 25,4 percent during the postoperative period, whereas the preoperative EVA was as average of 7,3 and decrease to 2,4 during the postoperative one at 6 months of surgery. Nine patients operated on (90 percent) improved and expressed satisfaction with surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Interspinal ligamentoplasty with skin graft after discoidectomy or the Senegas's recalibration is a method of functional stabilization relieving the pain after surgery

INTRODUCTION. Le but de cette étude est de décrire les résultats de la stabilisation intervertébrale lombaire dynamique en utilisant une autogreffe de peau chez des patients atteints d'une maladie dégénérative discale. Ceci constitue un rapport initial sur l'application de cette dite technique à Cuba.MÉTHODES. L'échantillon a été composé par 10 patients traités par stabilisation intervertébrale dynamique en utilisant du chorion (pellicule de peau de la blessure chirurgicale), pratiquée après la discoïdectomie ou le recalibrage.RÉSULTATS. Une sténose isolée a été rencontrée chez 4 patients (40 percent), une hernie discale chez 3 patients (30 percent), et une combinaison de tous les deux processus pathologiques au même segment lombaire dans 2 cas (20 percent). Chez un même patient (1 percent) une spondylolisthésis symptomatique à grade I au niveau de la L5-S1 et une hernie discale au niveau de la L4-L5 se sont associées. Les segments L4-L5 et L3-L4 ont été affectés respectivement chez 9 patients (90 percent) et 1 patient (1 percent) . La ligamentoplastie intervertébrale à chorion a été réalisée dans les 10 cas (100 percent), tandis que la discoïdectomie et le recalibrage de Senegas, en tant que procédé unique ou combiné, ont été appliqués par l'échelle d'incapacité d'Oswestry et l'échelle visuelle analogue de la douleur (EVA). La moyenne préopératoire pour l'échelle d'Oswestry a été 59,2 percent, et a diminue à 25,4 percent au postopératoire, tandis que l'EVA préopératoire a été 7,3 en moyenne, et a diminue à 2,4 au postopératoire, 6 mois après la chirurgie. Neuf patients ont subi une amélioration, et ont manifesté leur satisfaction avec la chirurgie.CONCLUSIONS. La ligamentoplastie intervertébrale avec autogreffe de peau après une discoïdectomie ou recalibrage de Senegas est une méthode de stabilisation fonctionnelle soulageant la douleur après la chirurgie

Trombohematoma subcorionico masivo: una patología placentaria emergente / Massive subchorionic thrombohematoma

El trombohematoma subcoriónico es una extravasación de sangre localizada en la placa coriónica, entre amnios y corion. Es muy infrecuente, el diagnóstico no es común, tiene alto riesgo perinatal y no hay casos comunicados en nuestro medio. Se presentan 12 casos de sospecha diagnóstica antenatal, confirmada en el examen histopatológico placentario. Se describe y discute el cuadro clínico, las complicaciones maternas y perinatales, el diagnóstico ultrasónico, el manejo y los resultados obtenidos. En nueve casos se identifcó una fase latente con hematoma de tamaño estable, entre el inicio de los síntomas y el parto, que duró en promedio 7,3 semanas. En ocho casos la fase latente fue seguida por una fase activa con aumento del hematoma asociado al parto prematuro. Tres embarazadas presentaron patología médica compleja con una muerte materna. Seis casos hicieron anemia severa y tres patología miscelánea. Hubo ocho amenazas de parto prematuro con tocolisis, tres rotura prematura de membranas, una colestasis y una preeclampsia. Los partos fueron prematuros, dos de 36 y 33 semanas y diez menores a 32 semanas. Siete prematuros tuvieron peso inferior a 1000 gramos y seis hicieron restricción fetal grave, en percentil <5 de la curva de crecimiento. Hubo complicaciones neonatales relacionadas con prematurez, restricción y bajo peso, manejados con hospitalización prolongada con promedio de 74 días (rango: 6-298 días). Diez neonatos sobrevivieron; hubo un mortinato y un mortineonato. La sobrevida fue 83,3 por ciento y la mortalidad de 16,6 por ciento que se comparan favorablemente con las cifras comunicadas.

Subchorial thrombohaematoma is caused by blood extravasations in the corionic plate, between amnion and chorion. It is a rare pathologic entity, that carries a high perinatal risk, which has not being published in our country up to now. We report 12 cases in which the diagnosis was suspected before birth, and confirmed in the placentary pathological examination. We describe the clinical presentation, fetal and maternal risks, ultrasonographic findings, treatment and clinical outcomes. In 9 patients a latent phase was identified with a stable size hematoma, which had a mean duration of 7.3 weeks. In 8 cases the latent phase was followed by an active phase, with increasing size of the hematoma associated with preterm labour. Three pregnant women had severe complications which caused one maternal death. Six had severe anemia and other three had minor complications. Eight had preterm labor symptoms which required tocolysis. Three had prelabour rupture of membranes, one cholestasis disease and preeclampsia. Preterm labours were at 36, 33 and other ten before 32 weeks of gestation. Seven preterm newborns weight less than 1000 grams and six had severe fetal restriction (p<5). Newborn complications were related with prematurity, requiring prolonged hospitalization (mean 74 days, range 6-298 days). Ten newborns survived. There were 1 still birth and 1 dead newborn. Survival rate was 83.3 percent and 16.6 percent mortality, better rates than previously published.

Chorion biopsy in mongrel dogs / Biopsia do cório fetal em cães

With the great development of the gestational studies in all of the species, we noticed the necessity of adaptations of these techniques for prenatal diagnosis in dogs. Based on this, we studied the feasibility of chorion biopsy guided by ultrasound. Our results demonstrated accuracy on the sex determination being 2 males and 12 females, as well as it would be possible to identify chromosome alteration due to the quality of samplings. Sex determination was accomplished with the identification of Y gene chromosomes in PCR technique. After the collection, fragments were prepared for light microscopy studies and revealed fetal chorion tissue, blood colloid and erythrocyte. In the whole material we found hemosiderin impregnations due to the hemolysis and to the residue of blood of the placental marginal hematomes. The submitted female dogs to this technique demonstrated normal puppy births without death.(AU)

Com o grande desenvolvimento dos estudos gestacionais em todas as espécies, percebemos a necessidade de adaptarmos técnicas para diagnóstico pré-natal para cães. Assim, buscamos bases nas técnicas já existentes empregadas em humanos, e através destas, conseguimos estabelecer um método para coleta em cães, utilizando PCR para garantirmos a integridade das amostras. O procedimento foi realizado através de punção da cinta placentária com agulha de biopsia guiada por ultra-som. De todas as 14 amostras coletadas, duas apresentaram-se positivas para o cromossomo Y, presente apenas em machos, confirmando assim a viabilidade das amostras demonstrando com isso que através desta técnica podemos coletar material fetal para diagnóstico de alterações gênicas ou cromossômicas presentes nos cães antes mesmo destes virem a termo. A microscopia de material revelou fragmentos de cório fetal, colóide sangüíneo e eritrócitos. Em todo o material encontramos impregnações de hemosiderina devido à hemólise e ao resíduo de sangue dos hematomas marginais placentários. As cadelas submetidas a esta técnica tiveram partos normais sem óbito de nenhum filhote.(AU)

Evolução morfométrica dos anexos embrionários e fetais bovinos obtidos por monta natural, com 10 a 70 dias da gestação / Biometrics evolution of the embryonic and fetal annexes in cows obtained by natural mating, at 10 to 70 days of gestation

O período inicial da gestação de bovinos é caracterizado por grandes perdas embrionárias. Considerando a importância deste fator no âmbito da reprodução animal foram estudados os anexos embrionários e fetais bovinos fecundados por monta natural de 15-70 dias de gestação, com o objetivo de estabelecer parâmetros morfométricos da placenta na fase inicial da gestação. Com uso de um paquímetro foram realizadas mensurações do comprimento (crânio caudal), largura (latero lateral) e altura (dorso ventral) das membranas corioalantóide e amniótica. O início da formação dos cotilédones foi observado e quantificado, assim como, o peso placentário. O peso médio do saco gestacional aumentou com o evoluir da idade gestacional, entretanto, o crescimento foi acelerado a partir de 20-30 dias de gestação. O comprimento crânio caudal e dorso ventral da membrana corioalantóide e do âmnio apresentaram crescimento lento e gradual com o evoluir dos períodos gestacionais analisados. Com 30-40 dias de gestação, os primeiro cotilédones já eram visualizados e contatos com facilidade na superfície coriônica. Os períodos de crescimento coincidiram com os maiores índices de perdas gestacionais em bovinos. Os parâmetros aqui analisados poderão servir para futuras investigações dos anexos embrionários de organismos manipulados em laboratório.(AU)

The main goal of this morphometrical study was to characterize the development of the extra-embryonic membranes of 15 to 70-day-old bovine embryos obtained by natural mating. With a millimeter paquimeter the cranio-caudal, latero-lateral and dorso-ventral measurements of chorion and amnion were determined. The development of the cotyledons and weight of the gestational sac were observed and quantified. The weight of the gestational sac increased during gestation; however, the growth was faster then 20 to 30 days. The cranial-caudal and dorsal-ventral length of the choriallantois and the amnion developed slowly and gradually with progress of the gestational period, and the cranio-caudal length decreased after 50 to 60 days of gestation, increasing in the next period. After 30 to 40 days of gestation, the first cotyledons were visualized and counted easily in the chorionic surface. The growth periods were the same of the main gestational losses in cattle. The parameters analyzed could be useful for investigations of extra-embryonic membranes in organisms manipulated in the laboratory.(AU)

Chorion biopsy in mongrel dogs / Biopsia do cório fetal em cães

With the great development of the gestational studies in all of the species, we noticed the necessity of adaptations of these techniques for prenatal diagnosis in dogs. Based on this, we studied the feasibility of chorion biopsy guided by ultrasound. Our results demonstrated accuracy on the sex determination being 2 males and 12 females, as well as it would be possible to identify chromosome alteration due to the quality of samplings. Sex determination was accomplished with the identification of Y gene chromosomes in PCR technique. After the collection, fragments were prepared for light microscopy studies and revealed fetal chorion tissue, blood colloid and erythrocyte. In the whole material we found hemosiderin impregnations due to the hemolysis and to the residue of blood of the placental marginal hematomes. The submitted female dogs to this technique demonstrated normal puppy births without death.

Com o grande desenvolvimento dos estudos gestacionais em todas as espécies, percebemos a necessidade de adaptarmos técnicas para diagnóstico pré-natal para cães. Assim, buscamos bases nas técnicas já existentes empregadas em humanos, e através destas, conseguimos estabelecer um método para coleta em cães, utilizando PCR para garantirmos a integridade das amostras. O procedimento foi realizado através de punção da cinta placentária com agulha de biopsia guiada por ultra-som. De todas as 14 amostras coletadas, duas apresentaram-se positivas para o cromossomo Y, presente apenas em machos, confirmando assim a viabilidade das amostras demonstrando com isso que através desta técnica podemos coletar material fetal para diagnóstico de alterações gênicas ou cromossômicas presentes nos cães antes mesmo destes virem a termo. A microscopia de material revelou fragmentos de cório fetal, colóide sangüíneo e eritrócitos. Em todo o material encontramos impregnações de hemosiderina devido à hemólise e ao resíduo de sangue dos hematomas marginais placentários. As cadelas submetidas a esta técnica tiveram partos normais sem óbito de nenhum filhote.