Agressive pediatric myofibromatosis in a two-year-old child.

INTRODUCTION: Aggressive paediatric myofibromatosis is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by fibroblastic proliferation from cells originated in muscle-aponeurotic tissue. Its etiology is unknown, and the average age of the reported cases is 7 years old. The tumor exhibits rapid painless growth and appears attached to muscle tissue and/or bone. The treatment of choice is conservative surgical excision despite of early relapses has been reported. OBSERVATION: A 2-year-old patient, with no morbid history, presented with a large swelling in the left submandibular region, firm, neither defined limits nor inflammatory characteristics. Its size doubled 2 months after an incisional biopsy. CT images showed great compromise of the left mandibular body with expanded and thinned cortical bone. The MRI showed extension towards the pharynx. Histopathological findings were elongated fibroblastic and ovoid cells arranged in bundles and fascicles within fibromyxoid stroma, an image consistent with the diagnosis. The treatment consisted in a conservative exeresis of the tumor, preserving the jaw. Control 1 year after surgical removal shows no signs of relapse and the mandibular structure has been restored. DISCUSSION: The large size of the lesion and bone involvement at such an early age evidenced a very aggressive lesion, however, supported by a previous biopsy, we performed a conservative treatment, which only caused the loss of a dental germ, impossible to take off from the intraosseous tumor. The control of this type of lesions requires a longer follow-up.

Fisiopatología de la nefropatía diabética: una revisión de la literatura / Pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy: a literature review

La enfermedad renal crónica es una complicación frecuente en la diabetes mellitus. Su importancia radica en la alta prevalencia y la proyección a futuro que ésta tiene. Se asocia a altos gastos en salud y además a deterioro cardiovascular global. La fisiopatología del desarrollo de esta enfermedad está siendo estudiada y se sabe que en ella participan una serie de vías moleculares complejas que determinan una enfermedad microvascular. En esta revisión se intenta abordar las vías conocidas en el desarrollo de nefropatía diabética, con el fin de comprender mejor posibles blancos terapéuticos que se podrían desarrollar.

Chronic kidney disease is a common complication of diabetes. Its importance lies in its high prevalence and future projection. It is associated with high health costs and global cardiovascular deterioration as well. The development of this disease pathophysiology is being studied and it is known that a series of complex molecular pathways determining a microvascular disease are involved. This review addresses the known pathways in the development of diabetic nephropathy aiming to improve the understanding of potential therapeutic targets that could be developed in the future.

[A safe technique of Le Fort I osteotomy in bilateral cleft patients]. / Une technique sûre d'ostéotomie de Le Fort I chez les patients porteurs d'une fente labio-alvéolo-palatine bilatérale.

Le Fort I osteotomy is often needed in bilateral cleft patients. The usual approach to the maxillae may compromise the premaxillary vascularisation. We present a subperiosteal exposure preserving two paramedian vascular pedicles that respect premaxillary blood-supply.

Modelo de conductancia hidráulica de la dentina humana ex vivo / Hydraulic conductance model of ex vivo human dentin

El objetivo principal de este trabajo fue montar y probar un modelo experimental para medir la conductancia hidráulica de la dentina ex vivo. Diecisiete terceros molares sanos, con indicación de exodoncia, de donantes sanos de edades entre 15 y 30 años fueron obtenidos mediante consentimiento informado. Luego de limpiarlos, desinfectarlos, incluirlos en resina epóxica y cortarlos se obtuvieron 17 muestras de dentina, correspondiente a un disco de resina con un corte coronal de diente que presenta dentina expuesta en ambas caras de éste. Tres equipos para medir la conductancia hidráulica de la dentina fueron armados siguiendo la descripción del modelo de Pashley. Las muestras fueron instaladas en una cámara de difusión, conectada mediante tubos de silicona a una pipeta graduada y una columna de agua de 20cm. Mediante el desplazamiento de una burbuja de agua al interior de la pipeta, se midió la conductancia hidráulica de cada muestra, 3 veces los días 14, 21, 28 y 35 postextracción. Los datos fueron tabulados y analizados estadísticamente. No existe diferencia en la tasa de flujo de una muestra medida en los tres equipos (p=0.5937). No existe diferencia en las mediciones de la conductancia hidráulica de 13 muestras de dentina humana medida en los días 14, 21, 28 y 35 postextracción (p=0.0704). Es posible montar un modelo experimental para estudiar la conductancia hidráulica de la dentina ex vivo, basado en el modelo de Pashley y col. El modelo pareciera ser confiable, pero es necesaria más investigación para poder validar su confiabilidad.

The main objective of this work was to mount and test an experimental model to measure the hydraulic conductance of ex vivo dentin. Seventeen healthy third molars, with indication of extraction of healthy donors aged between 15 and 30 years were obtained by informed consent. After cleaning them, disinfecting them, including them in resin epoxy and cutting them, there were 17 samples of dentin, corresponding to a disk of resin with a coronal section of tooth showing the dentin exposed on both sides of it. Three machines to measure the hydraulic conductance of the dentin were assembled according to the description of the model of Pashley. Samples were installed in a Chamber of diffusion, connected by using silicone tubes to a graduated transfer pipette and a 20cm water column. Through the displacement of a bubble of water in the inside of the pipette, the hydraulic conductance of each sample was measured 3 times on the 14th, 21st, 28th and 35th day post extraction. The data were tabulated and analyzed statistically. There is no SS difference in the rate of flow of a measured sample in the three machines (p=0.5937). There is no SS difference in measurements of the hydraulic conductance of 13 samples of human dentin measured in days 14, 21, 28 and 35 postextraction (p=0.0704). It is possible to mount an experimental model to study the hydraulic conductance of dentin ex vivo, based on the model of Pashley. The model seems to be reliable, but more research is needed in order to validate its reliability.

Endometrial expression of IFNAR-1 and oxytocin receptor (OTR) is not improved by prostaglandin analogues when compared to progestagens in ewes.

The objective of this study was to investigate differences on the endometrial immunoexpression of type I IFN receptor subunit 1 (IFNAR1) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) during the time of maternal recognition of pregnancy in sheep, when oestrus is synchronized with either prostaglandin analogues (group PG) or conventional progestagens (group P). Plasma progesterone was measured from day 0 to 21 post-coitus (pc) (day 0 = day of oestrus). Immunohistochemistry was performed in samples of uterine horns from pregnant sheep on days 9pc, 13pc, 15pc, 17pc and 21pc to locate IFNAR1 and OTR expression in different endometrial compartments. Mean levels of plasma progesterone were different between treatments, obtaining higher levels in the PG group than in the P group (p < 0.05). Comparing days of pregnancy, IFNAR1 protein expression was different in the luminal epithelium (LE) (p < 0.05), while OTR was different in the LE and in the superficial glandular epithelium (SG) (p < 0.05). Temporal variation on the expression of both proteins from day 9pc to 21pc has been evidenced. IFNAR1 and OTR expression did not show significant differences between treatments. However, the response observed in the endometrium was highly inconsistent when prostaglandin analogues were used. Therefore, the protocol based on prostaglandin analogues still needs to be optimized before being considered as a better alternative to progestagens for oestrous synchronization in sheep.

Is an ovulation-inducing factor (OIF) present in the seminal plasma of rabbits?

The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the effect of rabbit seminal plasma on LH secretion and ovulation using the llama animal model as an in vivo ovulation bioassay and (2) to determine the effect of llama or rabbit seminal plasma on ovulation induction in the rabbit model. In Experiment 1, llamas with a growing follicle ≥8mm in diameter were assigned randomly to one of three groups (n=5 per group) and given an intramuscular dose of 1mL of: (a) llama seminal plasma, (b) rabbit seminal plasma, or (c) phosphate buffered saline (PBS; negative control). Blood samples for LH measurement were taken every 15 min from 1.5 h before to 8 h after treatment (Day 0: starting of treatment). Llamas were examined by ultrasonography every 12h from treatment to ovulation, and then every other day until Day 16 after treatment to evaluate corpus luteum (CL) development. Blood samples for progesterone measurement were taken every other day from Day 0 to Day 16. Ovulation was detected in 4 of 5, 5 of 5, and 0 of 0 llamas treated with llama or rabbit seminal plasma and PBS, respectively (P<0.001). After treatment, plasma LH concentration increased and decreased (P<0.01) in the llama and rabbit seminal plasma group but not in the PBS-treated group. No differences were observed on CL development (P≥0.3) and progesterone secretion (P>0.05) between both seminal plasma treated groups. In Experiment 2, receptive female rabbits (n=5-7 per group) were given an intramuscular dose of: (a) 0.5, (b) 1.0 and (c) 2.0mL of either rabbit or llama seminal plasma, (d) 0.5mL PBS (negative control), or (e) 25µg of gonadoreline acetate (GnRH; positive control). Does were submitted to laparotomy 24-36 h after treatment to determine the ovulatory response and the presence of antral and hemorrhagic anovulatory follicles. Ovulation sites (7.0±0.6) were only detected in GnRH-treated does (P<0.01). There was an increase (P<0.01), in the total number of follicles (antral plus hemorraghic follicles) in those females treated with 1mL of rabbit seminal plasma and there was a tendency (P=0.08) for more hemorrhagic anovulatory follicles in does treated with 1.0 and 2.0mL of either rabbit or llama seminal plasma. Results document the presence of OIF in the seminal plasma of rabbits. The differential ovulatory response between species, however, requires further investigation.

Effects of oestrus induction with progestagens or prostaglandin analogues on ovarian and pituitary function in sheep.

The aim of the current study was to determine possible differences in ovarian and pituitary features explaining lower fertility rates in sheep with oestrus induced with intravaginal progestagens or prostaglandin analogues (group FGA and PGF, n=8 in both) when compared to a control group (group C, n=8). The growth profiles and the mean individual sizes of preovulatory follicles were similar between groups; however, the number of preovulatory follicles per ewe and, consequently, the number of ovulations were higher in groups FGA and PGF (2.3±0.3 and 2.0±0.1, respectively) than in group C (1.4±0.1, P<0.05). However, plasma oestradiol concentrations were similar between groups suggesting a defective function in some preovulatory follicles of groups FGA and PGF. In group FGA, the basal LH levels during the follicular phase were lower (0.21±0.0 ng/mL, P<0.005) than in groups C (0.41±0.1 ng/mL) and PGF (0.55±0.1 ng/mL); the onset of preovulatory discharge being later (21.0±2.3h vs. 12.8±1.5 in C and 14.5±1.5 in PGF; P<0.05 for both). Finally, luteal activity was also found to be affected in group FGA; the rate of progesterone secretion per total luteal tissue was lower (range: 0.46-0.65 ng/mL/cm(2)) than in ewes treated with cloprostenol (2.1-3.3 ng/mL/cm(2)) and control sheep (2.0-3.4 ng/mL/cm(2)).

Effects of chronic aspirations on breathing pattern and ventilatory drive in vagatomized rats.

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that aspirations induced by unilateral vagotomy destabilise ventilatory pattern during swallowing. The study was carried out on 15 Wistar rats (2-3 months, 290-350 g) using whole-body plethysmography and video recordings, before and after unilateral vagotomy. The rats were given water ad libitum via a baby bottle fitted with a nipple. The experiment was continued until rest ventilation and swallowing periods were identified on the video recordings. Following the sectioning of the right vagus nerve, all the rats presented bronchial aspirations and unilateral vocal cord paralysis in the aperture position. After the vagotomy there were no changes at rest of the ventilatory variables compared to healthy controls. In healthy animals during swallowing, we observed a decrease in total ventilatory time (TTOT), a decrease in inspiratory time (TI) (p < 0.001), a decrease in expiratory time (TE) (p < 0.001), no change in tidal volume (VT) and an increase in mean inspiratory time (VT/TI) (p < 0.001) compared to the rest period. Animals with chronic aspiration presented during swallowing an increase in TTOT (p < 0.001), TI (p < 0.01), and TE (p < 0.001), no change in VT and a decrease of VT/TI (p < 0.001) and a modification of ventilatory pattern. In conclusion, our results confirmed that swallowing modifies ventilation in healthy animals and that chronic aspiration decreases ventilatory drive and modifies ventilatory pattern during swallowing.

Deleterious effects of progestagen treatment in VEGF expression in corpora lutea of pregnant ewes.

The aim of the current study was to determine the possible effects of progestagen oestrous synchronization on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression during sheep luteogenesis and the peri-implantation period and the relationship with luteal function. At days 9, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 21 of pregnancy, the ovaries from 30 progestagen treated and 30 ewes cycling after cloprostenol injection were evaluated by ultrasonography and, thereafter, collected and processed for immunohistochemical evaluation of VEGF; blood samples were drawn for evaluating plasma progesterone. The progestagen-treated group showed smaller corpora lutea than cloprostenol-treated and lower progesterone secretion. The expression of VEGF in the luteal cells increased with time in the cloprostenol group, but not in the progestagen-treated group, which even showed a decrease between days 11 and 13. In progestagen-treated sheep, VEGF expression in granulosa-derived parenchymal lobule capillaries was correlated with the size of the luteal tissue, larger corpora lutea had higher expression, and tended to have a higher progesterone secretion. In conclusion, the current study indicates the existence of deleterious effects from exogenous progestagen treatments on progesterone secretion from induced corpora lutea, which correlate with alterations in the expression of VEGF in the luteal tissue and, this, presumably in the processes of neoangiogenesis and luteogenesis.

Preovulatory follicle dynamics and ovulatory efficiency in sows with thrifty genotype and leptin resistance due to leptin receptor gene polymorphisms (Iberian pig).

This study compares follicular function and ovulatory efficiency in 20 sows with obesity/leptin resistance genotype (Iberian pig) and 20 females of lean commercial crosses (Large White × Landrace; LW×L). Estrous cycle was synchronized with progestagens; ovulation was induced with eCG and hCG, in half of the females of each group, to determine its effect. In females of both breeds not treated with gonadotropins, the number of follicles larger than 4.9 mm and the estradiol secretion increased throughout the follicular phase (P<0.05); estradiol values were similar at estrus detection (22.5±1.2 vs. 26.5±0.6 pg/ml respectively, for Iberian and LW×L sows). Moreover, ovulation rate was higher in Iberian pigs (15.3±1.3 CLs) than in LW×L (10.2±1.3 CLs; P<0.05), with mean progesterone values being 18.1±0.7 ng/ml in Iberian and 16.8±0.6 ng/ml in LW×L pigs. Thus, the preovulatory follicular growth and the ovulatory efficiency seem not to be the main limiting factors for reproductive efficiency in Iberian swine. The gonadotropins induced a significant increase, when compared to untreated females (P<0.05), in the number of follicles larger than 4.9 mm growing throughout the follicular phase; however, estradiol values at estrus were lower (P<0.05) in both breeds (9.2±0.7 pg/ml in Iberian vs. 8.6±0.8 pg/ml in LW×L), when compared with the nontreated animals, which suggests defective follicular function after gonadotropin stimulation. There were also no differences between genotypes in ovulation rate (15.2±1.3 vs. 12.7±1.8) and progesterone secretion (21.2±0.8 ng/ml in Iberian and 20.9±0.7 ng/ml in LW×L sows) in the treated animals. In conclusion, the current findings indicate that preovulatory follicular growth and ovulatory efficiency are not main limiting factors for prolificacy in a pig model of leptin resistance and obesity.

Substantiation of ovarian effects of leptin by challenging a mouse model of obesity/type 2 diabetes.

The goal of the current was to elucidate if treatment with gonadotrophins and leptin can circumvent infertility in obese mice and to establish whether reproductive effects of leptin are influenced at the hypothalamus-hypophysis or ovarian level by using a leptin deficient mouse model of obesity/type 2 diabetes (ob/ob) treated with leptin. The ovulatory response and the fertilization success were compared with the results obtained in ob/ob dams pretreated with a gonadotrophin-replacement therapy or in two groups (ob/ob and wild-type) of control non-pretreated females. The number of corpora lutea was significantly lower in control ob/ob mice than in wild-type dams. Treatment with gonadotrophin-replacement therapy did not increase significantly the ovulation rate in ob/ob, but the administration of leptin-replacement treatment allowed the authors to obtain a number of corpora lutea and oocytes/zygotes similar to those obtained in wild-type females. Furthermore, the leptin supply succeeded in producing fertilized zygotes, although in a lower number than found in the wild-type control. Thus, the hypogonadotrophic state in obese mice may be circumvented by the administration of a gonadotrophin-replacement therapy combined with a protocol for controlled ovarian stimulation, but fertile ovulations are only obtained after applying leptin-replacement therapy. Current results strongly support the existence of direct local effects of leptin on the ovary.

Advanced onset of puberty in gilts of thrifty genotype (Iberian pig).

The Iberian pig is an autochthonous breed of the Mediterranean area, reared extensively in the central and southern areas of Spain and Portugal and that is known worldwide for the production of Iberian ham. The characteristics of the Iberian ham are related to its abundance of intramuscular fat, owing to the high capacity of the pig to accumulate fat under its skin and between the muscular fibres. This ability to store excess fat enables survival during periods of scarcity and it has been found in other antique animal breeds and even in humans, being named as the thrifty genotype. The reproductive management of the Iberian pig, in spite of a lack of accurate information unlike in other swine breeds, is based on the assumption of lower reproductive precocity and efficiency than the modern commercial breeds. The current study characterized and compared the onset of puberty in gilts of Iberian breed and meat commercial crosses (Large White × Landrace) reared in the same conditions by assessing weekly plasma progesterone profiles. At the end of the experimental period, when the gilts became 180 days old, the percentage of Iberian females that had reached puberty was 72.2%, with a mean age and weight of 160.5 ± 2.6 days and 92.9 ± 4.7 kg, respectively. The percentage of Large White × Landrace cross-breed females reaching puberty at 180 days was only 15% (p < 0.05). The mean age and weight were 165.0 ± 4.1 days and 107.8 ± 2.2 kg (p < 0.05), respectively. Thus, converse to the traditional assumption, onset of puberty was advanced in Iberian gilts. These results are important for the reproductive management of the Iberian pig but, at the same time, may set the basis for future studies on the metabolism-reproduction link and, specifically, on the possible relationship between earlier accumulation of fat and attainment of puberty.

Pregnancy-associated changes in plasma concentration of the endocrine disruptor di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in a sheep model.

The plasticizer di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), used for producing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acts as an endocrine disruptor with toxic effects on reproductive and developmental processes. Exposure to DEHP in humans is mainly by environment and food. Thus, our aim was to determine plasma levels in livestock animals using the ewe (Ovis aries) as a model. In a first trial, 150 samples from ewes of different ages (2 to 7 yr) and reproductive status (pregnant and nonpregnant) were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). DEHP was detected in 34.7% of the samples, with a mean level of 0.45+/-0.01mug/mL (range, 0.05 to 2.81mug/mL). The percentage of nonpregnant animals with DEHP traces was higher in animals older than 4 yr (n=66, 37.9%) than in younger animals (n=69, 17.4%; P<0.05), although the mean levels in ewes with residues were similar (0.16+/-0.01 vs. 0.16+/-0.02mug/mL). All the pregnant ewes (n=15) showed presence of DEHP, with higher plasma levels than that in nonpregnant females (1.42+/-0.18 vs. 0.16+/-0.01mug/mL; P<0.0001). For confirming the effect of pregnancy on mobilization of DEHP from body fat, 101 ewes of the same age were sampled in a second trial at a different farm. The percentage of animals with DEHP traces was higher in pregnant ewes (n=32, 71.9%; P<0.005) than in nonpregnant ewes (n=37, 35.1%) or in ewes that recently gave birth (n=32, 21.9%), although mean levels were similar (0.42+/-0.02, 0.33+/-0.02, and 0.34+/-0.05mug/mL, respectively). In conclusion, current results indicate a high incidence of ewes reared in the field showing accumulation of phthalates; percentage of animals with presence of DEHP increases with age, due to an extended period of exposure, but mainly during pregnancy, due to the mobilization of body reserves.

Abordaje laparoscópico en el testículo no palpable / Laparoscopic approach in the management of non-palpable testes

Objective: To evaluate our experience in laparoscopic management as the procedure of choice for nonpalpable testes (NPT). Methods: Review of charts of all boys with NPT who underwent laparoscopy (January 2000 December 2005). Demographic data, ultrasound (US) results, surgical details were documented. Results: Sixty-three patients (74 NPT) were identified; 25 left, 26 right and 12 bilateral. Mean age at diagnosis was 3.6y (lm-13y). Thirty-seven cases had a pre-op US; in 29 (78 percent) the testis was not found; 7(22 percent) an intra-canalicular teste was described. All were impalpable at evaluation under anesthesia (EUA). Mean age at surgery was 4.9y (2 m-17 y). Laparoscopic findings were; intra-abdominal teste (n = 24, 33 percent), vanishing teste (n = 12, 16 percent) and vas-vessels entering inguinal ring (n = 38, 51 percent). 16/24 underwent a 2-stage Fowler-Stephens orchyopexy and 8/24 a laparoscopic-assisted single stage orchypexy. When vas-vessels entered inguinal ring, inguinal exploration was performed; 23 cases underwent orchyopexy; 13 had orchydectomy (atrophic-vanishing). After follow-up, 3 testes are atrophic. Conclusions: 36/74 NPT were not in the inguinal canal (24 intraabdominal and 12 vanishing). When vas-vessels entered inguinal ring, 13 were vanishing-atrophic and not identifiable (EUA or US). Hence, in 49 cases (66 percent) laparoscopic exploration was critical in teste location, therefore this approach may be the procedure of choice for NPT.

Objetivo: Revisar nuestra experiencia en el abordaje laparoscópico como primer procedimiento en el estudio de teste no palpable (TNP). Método: Todas las fichas de niños con diagnóstico de TNP sometidos a laparoscopia entre Enero 2000 y Diciembre 2005 fueron revisadas. Se documentó detalles demográficos, ecográficos, laparoscópicos y de la cirugía realizada. Resultados: 63 pacientes con 74 TNP fueron identificados; todos fueron no palpados al examen bajo anestesia (EBA). Bajo visión laparoscópica, en 38/ 74 (51 por ciento) el conducto deferente y los vasos se introducían en el orificio inguinal profundo, realizándose una exploración inguinal abierta; 13/38 eran atrofíeos/evanescentes, en 23 se realizó orquidopexia, en 1 se realizó un primer tiempo de Fowler-Stephens y 1 no fue descrito. De los 36 (49 por ciento) testes intra-abdominales, 12 eran evanescentes, en 8 se realizó una orquidopexia asistida por laparoscopia y los otros 16/36 se sometieron a un primer tiempo de F-S. En el post-operatorio hubo 3 testes atrofíeos; 2 luego de un segundo tiempo de F-S y 1 luego de una orquidopexia en primer tiempo fallida. Conclusiones: De los 74 TNP, 36 no estaban en el canal inguinal (24 intrabdominales y 12 atrofíeos/evanescentes). De los casos en que los vasos y deferente se dirigían al anillo inguinal (n = 38), 13 eran atrofíeos/evanescentes, lo que explicaría por qué no fueron detectados al EBA y/o ecografía. Por lo tanto, en 66 por ciento (49/74) de los niños en esta serie, la exploración laparoscópica fue crítica en determinar la localización testicular, lo que la hace recomendable para el enfrentamiento del TNP.

Efecto de la inflamación subclínica sobre el estado nutricional de hierro, cobre y zinc en adultos / Effects of subclinic inflammation on iron, copper and zinc nutrition status in adults

Chile is undergoing an epidemiological transition, where micronutrient deficiencies coexist with chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of mild infections on the prevalence of iron, copper and zinc deficiencies in apparently healthy adults. A venous blood sample was obtained from 377 apparently healthy adults, 20-55 years of age, from the south area of Peñalolén (Santiago, Chile), to measure white blood cell count, MCV and hemoglobin, free erythrocyte protoporphyrin, serum ferritin, serum copper and zinc, transaminases, and C reactive protein concentrations. The prevalence of anemia was 3.9 percent in women and 0.6 percent in men. All cases of anemia were due to iron deficiency and 20 percent of women presented depleted iron stores. Furthermore, 8.6 percent of men and 5.9 percent of women had low serum copper levels and 25.1 percent of women and 24.7 percent of men had low serum zinc concentrations. The presence of a subclinical inflammation neither modified the prevalence of anemia or the status of iron, zinc and copper in this population.

Chile se encuentra en la etapa de transición epidemiológica, en la que coexisten las deficiencias de micronutrientes con las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles. El objetivo de este estudio fue medir el efecto de infecciones leves sobre la prevalencia de la deficiencia de hierro, cobre y zinc en adultos. Participaron 377 adultos aparentemente sanos (20-55 años), provenientes del área sur de la comuna de Peñalolén de Santiago de Chile. Se midió hemoglobina, VCM, protoporfirina libre eritrocitaria, ferritina sérica, niveles séricos de cobre y zinc, transaminasas, recuento de leucocitos y proteína C reactiva. Como resultado se obtuvo que solo el 3.9 por ciento de las mujeres y el 0,6 por ciento de los hombres presentaron anemia, todos los casos por déficit de hierro y un 20 por ciento de las mujeres mostraron depleción de depósitos de este mineral. El 8,6 por ciento de los hombres y el 5.9 por ciento de las mujeres tuvieron bajos niveles de cobre y en ambos grupos se encontraron altos porcentajes de deficiencia de zinc (25.1 por ciento en mujeres y 24,7 por ciento en hombres). El estado de inflamación sub-clínica no alteró la prevalencia de anemia o el estado nutricional de hierro, cobre y zinc en esta población.

Efficiency of estrous synchronization in tropical sheep by combining short-interval cloprostenol-based protocols and "male effect".

This study assessed the efficacy of a protocol combining short-interval cloprostenol-based protocols and "male effect" for estrous synchronization in hair sheep. In Experiment 1, 24 ewes were randomly assigned to three groups (n=8) and treated with cloprostenol on Days 3, 5 and 7 after ovulation, respectively. Estradiol secretion during the follicular phase was similar among groups. Onset of estrus (P<0.001) and the timing of maximum LH concentration (P<0.01) were earlier in group D3 than in D5 and D7 groups. During the subsequent cycle, the number and size of corpora lutea were higher (P<0.05) in ewes of the groups D3 (1.9+/-0.3 and 115.1+/-14.3mm(2)) and D5 (1.8+/-0.2 and 100.2+/-11.2mm(2)) than in group D7 (1.3+/-0.2 and 75.6+/-6.4mm(2)) group. In Experiment 2, 24 ewes were treated with two cloprostenol injections (7 days apart). Twelve ewes were exposed to "male effect" previous to an isolation period (ME group), whereas the remaining ewes were controls without male exposure (CTR group). Male effect induced earlier preovulatory LH surge (P<0.05) and ovulation (P<0.001) than CTR group. In Experiment 3, the estrus was synchronized in 68 ewes. Nineteen of them (group FGA) were treated using intravaginal sponges impregnated with fluorogestone acetate for 12 days and inseminated at 55h. Forty-nine females (group ME) were treated like ME group. Twenty-four (ME48 group) and 25 ewes (ME55 group) were inseminated at 48 and 55h after treatment, respectively. The fertility rate was numerically higher in ME48 than ME55 and FGA groups (62.5, 44.0 and 47.4%, respectively). In conclusions, the combined use of short-interval cloprostenol treatment and "male effect" may be an adequate alternative for synchronizing estrus and applying artificial insemination in hair sheep throughout the entire year.

Ovarian and endocrine responses in tropical sheep treated with reduced doses of cloprostenol.

The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of reduced doses of cloprostenol for synchronizing estrus and ovulation in hair sheep. With the aim to evaluate the luteolytic activity of reduced cloprostenol doses, a first experiment was performed using a relatively large (group H: 126 microg; n=8), medium (group M: 68.25 microg; n=6) and small (group L: 38.5 microg; n=6) cloprostenol dose. Luteolysis was assessed at Days 3 and 6 after injection (Day 0) by progesterone concentrations (P(4)) and transrectal ultrasonography (US). In Experiment 2, sheep were randomly assigned to the same three doses to evaluate a protocol for estrous synchronization using two injections administered 9 days apart. A third trial was performed with ewes treated (9 days apart) with the large dose (H=126 microg; n=12) and with a small dose adjusted for facilitating volume management (LA=43.75 microg; n=12). Presence of estrous cycling was determined in all the ewes by US and P(4) assay, at Days -9, -6, -2, 0 (Day of second cloprostenol injection), 8 and 11. Bleeding and US were done every 4h from 16 h of the beginning of the estrus during the third trial to assess the preovulatory LH surge and timing of ovulation. Additionally, blood samples were drawn at Days 0, 1, 2 and 3 to assess estradiol (Experiments 2 and 3) and P(4) (Experiment 2) concentrations during the ovarian follicular phase. In all experiments, percentage of animals showing luteolysis, preovulatory follicular dynamics and function and percentage of ewes showing behavioral estrus in response to treatment was similar among groups. Timing of estrus for group H was earlier than group L (28.6+/-1.8h compared with 37.1+/-2.4h; P<0.05). In the third trial, the preovulatory LH peak was higher in the LA group than group H, in terms of maximum mean concentration during the surge (27.7+/-1.8 ng/mL compared with 21.3+/-2.2 ng/mL; P<0.05) and area under the curve (AUC; 183.4+/-12.7 ng/mL compared with 127.7+/-10.9 ng/mL; P<0.01). However, timing of ovulation was similar for H and LA groups. Thereafter, ovulation rate and luteal function at Day 11 were similar. Current results demonstrate that reduced doses of cloprostenol may be applied in a practical manner for reproductive management of sheep, with the additional advantage of reducing treatment costs.

Ovarian follicular dynamics and plasma steroid concentrations are not significantly different in ewes given intravaginal sponges containing either 20 or 40 mg of fluorogestone acetate.

Although various progestagens are often used to induce and synchronize estrus and ovulation in ruminants, concerns regarding residues are the impetus to develop alternative approaches, including reduced doses of progestagens. Therefore, the objective was to determine whether ovarian function was affected by halving the dose of fluorogestone acetate in intravaginal sponges for synchronizing ovulation in sheep during the physiologic breeding season. Twenty Manchega ewes, 4-6-year-old, were randomly allocated to receive an intravaginal sponge containing either 20mg (P20, n=10) or 40 mg of fluorogestone acetate (P40, n=10). Cloprostenol (125 microg) was given at sponge insertion, and all sponges were removed after 6d. Ovarian follicular dynamics (monitored by daily ultrasonography) and other aspects of ovarian function did not differ significantly between the two groups. Ovulatory follicles (OF) grew at a similar growth rate (r=0.62; P<0.001), with comparable initial and maximum diameters (4.2+/-0.4 to 6.0+/-0.3mm in P20 vs. 4.6+/-0.6 to 5.7+/-0.2 mm in P40, mean+/-S.E.M.). Plasma estradiol concentrations (determined once daily) increased linearly during the 72 h interval after sponge removal (1.3+/-0.1 to 3.3+/-0.1 pg/mL for P20, P<0.005 and 1.4+/-0.1 to 3.1+/-0.2 pg/mL for P40, P<0.005). Ten days after sponge removal, ovulation rates (1.2+/-0.2 for P20 and 1.4+/-0.3 for P40), and plasma progesterone concentrations (3.8+/-0.35 ng/mL for P20 and 3.9+/-0.38 ng/mL for P40) were similar. In conclusion, reducing the dose of fluorogestone acetate from 40 to 20mg did not affect significantly ovarian follicular dynamics or other aspects of ovarian function.

Determinación de hierro, zinc y cobre en carne de bovino / Iron, zinc and cooper content of cow meat

Se determinó hierro, zinc y cobre en los 33 cortes de carne (según la normativa Chilena) en dos ejemplares bovinos. Se obtuvieron triplicados de muestras de cada corte que fueron sometidas a digestión acida y leídas en EAA. Los promedios de Fe y Zn de cada corte de cada hemicanal de cada animal no mostraron diferencias significativas; obteniendo altas correlaciones entre canales (r=0,91; p<0.001, r=0,68; p<0.001, respectivamente). Las relaciones para los valores obtenidos para el cobre fueron no significativas. El contenido de Fe, Zn y Cu (mg/100 g) de los 33 cortes analizados estuvieron en los siguientes rangos: 1,02-3,42 mg Fe; 2,14-5,32 mg Zn; 0,06-0,19. El promedio ponderado por peso de Fe, Zn y Cu para la carne vacuna fue de 1,31; 3,41 y 0,10 respectivamente. Las vísceras analizadas presentaron las siguientes concentraciones de Fe, Zn y Cu/100 g: Corazón (3,23; 1,46 y 0,25), pulmón (5,70; 1,64 y 0,13), cerebro (0,94; 0,98 y 1,02), hígado (6,04; 3,89 y 5,85), bazo (31,15; 2,61 y 0,09) y riñón (3,02; 1,53 y 0,28). Se concluye que la carne vacuna no muestra grandes fluctuaciones en las cantidades de hierro a diferencias de las cantidades de zinc que si dependen del corte analizado. El contenido de cobre en la carne es escaso. En cuanto a las vísceras, las diferencias son evidentes debido a las distintas funciones orgánicas de cada una.

Iron, zinc and copper content of 33 bovine meat cuts (in accordance with Chilean standards) were measured from two cow specimens. We obtained triplicate samples of each basic cut of meat as well from the principal organs. The samples underwent acid digestion and were read using AAS. The average quantities of Fe and Zn in the corresponding cuts from each canal of the two specimens did not exhibit significant differences and were significantly correlated (r=0.91, p<0.001 and r=0.68; p<0.001, respectively). The values obtained for copper from the two samples were not significantly correlated The Fe, Zn and Cu contain (mg/100 g) of the 33 cuts analyzed ranged from 1.02-3.42 mg Fe; 2.14-5.32 mg Zn; 0.06-0.19. Fe, Zn, and Cu concentrations in organs were respectively (mg/100 g): heart 3,23; 1,46 and 0,25; lung 5,70; 1,64 and 0,13; brain 0,94; 0,98 and 1,02; liver 6,04; 3,89 and 5,85; spleen 31,15; 2,61 and 0,09; and kidney 3,02; 1,53 and 0,28. We conclude that cow meat does not exhibit large fluctuations in iron content in conirasi with zinc, which differs in content depending on the cut Copper conieni in bovine meat is minimal. As for the organs, there are evident differences in mineral content which are related of their functions.

Glucogenic supply increases ovulation rate by modifying follicle recruitment and subsequent development of preovulatory follicles without effects on ghrelin secretion.

This study determined the effects of short-term energy inputs on ghrelin secretion and possible links with changes in the follicle population or the ovulation rate. Oestrous cycle was synchronized in 16 Manchega sheep using progestagen sponges and cloprostenol. Half of the animals were treated from days 0 to 4 by the oral administration, twice daily, of 200 ml of a glucogenic mixture containing 70% of glycerol, 20% of 1,2-propanediol and 10% of water; the control group received 200 ml water. The mean (+/-S.E.M.) plasma glucose increased immediately after the first administration (3.9+/-0.3 vs 3.0+/-0.1 mmol/l in control group, P<0.05), remaining statistically different during the treatment. However, plasma ghrelin levels were similar in both groups. On the other hand, the results indicated that short-term energy inputs modify ovulation rate (1.9+/-0.1 vs 1.3+/-0.2 in control group, P<0.05) by increasing the number of follicles able to be selected to ovulate during the period of treatment (>or=4 mm in size; 5.9+/-0.6 vs 4.3+/-0.4 at day 2, P<0.05). After sponge withdrawal, the number of these follicles decreased throughout follicular phase (5.8+/-0.8 to 1.5+/-0.4, P<0.0005) while the number of large follicles increased (>or=6 mm in size; 0.8+/-0.4 to 2.0+/-0.3, P<0.05); this would indicate an active growth of preovulatory follicles that were not found in the control group. Thus, the increases of ovulation rate by high-energy inputs would be caused by an enhancement in the developmental competence of preovulatory follicles.