Microbiological contaminations of laboratory mice and rats in conventional facilities in Argentina.

Routine microbiological monitoring of rodent colonies in animal facilities is essential to evaluate the health status of the animals used in research studies. In the present study, animals were examined for the presence of selected microbial infections. In order to determine the contamination rates of mice and rats in Argentina, animals from 102 conventional facilities were monitored from 2012 to 2016. The most frequent bacteria isolated were Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus spp. The common parasites identified were Syphacia spp. and Tritrichomonas spp. Serological assays demonstrated the highest prevalence for Mouse hepatitis virus in mice and Sialodacryoadenitis virus in rats. The results indicate that there is a high incidence of infections, so it is suggested that an efficient management system and effective sanitary barriers should be implemented in conventional facilities in Argentina in order to improve sanitary standards.

Prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in dogs and small mammals in Nuevo León, Mexico.

Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, is an important public health concern in areas extending from South America northward into the southern United States of America. Although this hemoflagellate has many wild and domestic mammalians reported as reservoir hosts, studies on this subject are scarce in Nuevo León state, a region located in northeastern Mexico. This cross-sectional study showed that the general prevalence of T. cruzi infection in Nuevo León state was 14.5% (35/241), this percentage matching the ones determined by PCR and traditional diagnostics. Localities and infected mammals did not significantly differ (χ2=6.098, p=0.192); however the number of infected animals was highly correlated with mammalian species (p=0.009). Striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) were found to be the most infected overall (11/34, 32.3%), while dogs (Canis familiaris) had the lowest prevalence. In conclusion, although the prevalence of T. cruzi infection in small mammals was lower in Nuevo León than in other states of Mexico, our results provide new locality records, including striped skunks, opossums (Didelphis marsupialis) and dogs, and extend the recorded area to woodrats (Neotoma micropus).

Anti-adhesive effect of naturally obtained dicalcium phosphate dihydrate nanoparticles in the rat uterine wound model.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to compare the anti-adhesive effects of contractubex and dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) particles in rats treated with the uterine horn adhesion model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Newly adult, 60 Wistar albino rats were used as experimental animals. The modified rat uterine horn adhesion model was used to induce intra-abdominal adhesion. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß1 were studied for biochemical and immunohistochemical examination. RESULTS: TNF-α decreased in each group, while it decreased more in G2 and G3 than in G1. IL-1ß decreased in each group, while it decreased the most in G3. TGF-ß1 and VEGF localization was less in the G2 compared to G1, the least TGF-ß1 and VEGF immunolocalization was detected in the G3 and G4. For both antibodies, the least localization among all groups belonged to G3. From day 7 to day 21, the highest TGF-ß1 immunolocalization was observed in G1, lesser localization in G2 and lowest in G3. CONCLUSION: DCPD nanoparticles show promise as a clinical antiadhesive agent and should be further evaluated in experimental animal models and human trials.

OBJETIVO: En este estudio, nuestro objetivo fue comparar los efectos antiadhesivos de las partículas de contractubex (CTX) y fosfato dicálcico dihidratado (DCPD) en ratas tratadas con el modelo de adhesión del cuerno uterino. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Como animales de experimentación se utilizaron 60 ratas Wistar albinas, recién adultas. Se usó el modelo de adhesión del cuerno uterino de rata modificado para inducir la adhesión intraabdominal. Se estudiaron TNF-α, IL-1, VEGF y TGF-ß1 para examen bioquímico e inmunohistoquímico. RESULTADOS: el TNF-α disminuyó en cada grupo, mientras que disminuyó más en G2 y G3 que en G1. IL-1ß disminuyó en cada grupo, mientras que disminuyó más en G3. La localización de TGF-ß1 y VEGF fue menor en G2 en comparación con G1, la menor inmunolocalización de TGF-ß1 y VEGF se detectó en G3 y G4. Para ambos anticuerpos, la localización mínima entre todos los grupos pertenecía a G3. Desde el día 7 hasta el día 21, la mayor inmunolocalización de TGF-ß1 se observó en G1, menor localización en G2 y menor en G3. CONCLUSIÓN: las nanopartículas de DCPD se muestran prometedoras como agentes antiadhesivos clínicos y deben evaluarse más en modelos animales experimentales y ensayos en humanos.

Food intake behaviors change as a function of maternal diet and time-restricted feeding.

Introduction: Introduction: changes in dietary/energetic composition during the critical period of development (pregnancy/lactation) or even during meal times may contribute to changes in metabolic and behavioral parameters such as feeding behavior. Objective: the study aimed to examine the repercussions of time-restricted feeding on feeding behavior and on some parameters of glycemic and lipemic metabolism of the offspring of adult rats whose mothers were fed a westernized diet during pregnancy and lactation. Methods: initially, 43 male Wistar rats were used. At 60 days of life, the rats were divided into 4 groups: C: control group; RC: control group with time-restricted feeding; W: westernized diet during pregnancy/lactation group; RW: westernized diet group during pregnancy/lactation group with time-restricted feeding. The following parameters were evaluated: behavioral sequence of satiety (BSS), biochemical parameters, and abdominal fat. Results: findings highlighted a high level of abdominal fat in the groups whose mothers were submitted to a westernized diet, as well as hypertriglyceridemia, and clear differences in feed rate and meal length. This study showed that the westernized diet ingested by mothers during pregnancy and lactation induced hyperlipidemia and changes in the feeding behavior of their adult offspring. Conclusions: these changes may be responsible for eating disorders and risk factors for metabolism disturbance-related diseases.

Introducción: Introducción: los cambios en la composición dietética/energética durante el período crítico de desarrollo (embarazo/lactancia) o incluso durante las comidas pueden contribuir a cambios en los parámetros metabólicos y conductuales como el comportamiento alimentario. Objetivo: el estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar las repercusiones de la alimentación restringida en el tiempo sobre el comportamiento alimentario y sobre algunos parámetros del metabolismo glucémico y lipémico de crías de ratas adultas cuyas madres fueron alimentadas con una dieta occidentalizada durante el embarazo y la lactancia. Métodos: inicialmente se utilizaron 43 ratas Wistar macho. A los 60 días de vida, las ratas se agruparon en 4 grupos: C: grupo de control; RC: grupo de control con alimentación restringida en el tiempo; W: grupo de dieta occidentalizada durante el embarazo/lactancia; RW: grupo de dieta occidentalizada durante el embarazo y la lactancia con alimentación restringida en el tiempo. Se evaluaron los siguientes parámetros: secuencia conductual de saciedad (BSS), parámetros bioquímicos y grasa abdominal. Resultados: destacó una grasa abdominal elevada en los grupos cuyas madres fueron sometidas a una dieta occidentalizada, así como hipertrigliceridemia y una diferencia evidente en la tasa de alimentación y la duración de la comida. Este estudio demostró que la dieta occidentalizada ingerida por las madres durante el embarazo y la lactancia induce hiperlipidemia y cambios en el comportamiento alimentario de las crías adultas. Conclusiones: estos cambios pueden ser responsables de trastornos alimentarios y factores de riesgo de enfermedades relacionadas con alteraciones del metabolismo.

[Effects of microencapsulated and heme iron supplementation on the recovery of hemoglobin levels in iron-depleted rats]. / Efectos de la suplementación de hierro microencapsulado y hemínico para la recuperación de los niveles de hemoglobina en ratas alimentadas sin hierro.

Introduction: Introduction: one of the causes of nutritional anemia is that the amount of iron absorbed is insufficient to meet the body's needs. Objective: to determine the effects of microencapsulated and heminic iron supplementation to increase hemoglobin levels and body weight in iron-depleted rats. Methods: a randomized experimental study was designed. Four study groups were formed. Control group (GC), experimental group (GE1) (MC microencapsulated iron supplementation), experimental group 2 (GE2) (heminic iron supplementation) and experimental group 3 (GE3) (MC + heminic iron supplementation). A dry powdered diet containing all normal nutrients except iron was fed to the four groups for 15 days (three times a day). Weight, length and hemoglobin (Hb) were evaluated at pre- and post-test under similar conditions. Results: in Hb, no significant differences were observed in the CG (p = 0.225), despite a -9.6 % decrease in the post-test. GE1 significantly increased hemoglobin (14.3 %, Hb 2.1 g/dl) and body weight (21.6 %, 25.8 g) (p < 0.05) in the post-test. Similarly, GE2 significantly increased hemoglobin (14.5 %, Hb 2.1 g/dl) and body weight (44.5 %, 52.3 g) (p < 0.05). However, in GE3, despite significantly increasing weight (30.2 %, 35.2 g), the increase in hemoglobin levels was similar to what occurred in GE1 and GE2 groups (increasing by 14.5 % and Hb 2.2 g/dl). There were no significant differences in rat length between pre- and post-test in the four groups. Conclusion: these results suggest that heme iron together with quinoa and cañihua flour could be exploited as a new safe and efficient iron supplement compared to microencapsulated iron, given its higher iron bioavailability and its ability to increase body weight.

Introducción: Introducción: una de las causas de la anemia nutricional es que la cantidad de hierro absorbida es insuficiente para satisfacer las necesidades del organismo. Objetivo: determinar los efectos de la suplementación de hierro microencapsulado y hemínico para aumentar los niveles de hemoglobina y el peso corporal en ratas alimentadas sin hierro. Métodos: se diseñó un estudio experimental aleatorizado. Se conformaron cuatro grupos de estudio. Grupo control (GC), grupo experimental (GE1) (suplementación de hierro microencapsulado MC), grupo experimental 2 (GE2) (suplementación de hierro hemínico) y grupo experimental 3 (GE3) (suplementación de hierro MC + hierro hemínico). Se administró al GC una dieta seca en polvo que contenía todos los nutrientes normales excepto el hierro. Los tres grupos experimentales fueron alimentados en base a una dieta de harina de quinua y cañihua. A la dieta del GE1 se agregó hierro MC; al GE2, hierro hemínico; y al GE3, hierro MC + hierro hemínico. La suplementación se realizó durante 15 días (tres veces al día). Se evaluaron el peso, la longitud y la hemoglobina (Hb) en el pretest y postest en similares condiciones. Resultados: en la Hb no se observaron diferencias significativas en el GC (p = 0,225), a pesar de disminuir en un -9,6 % en el postest. El GE1 aumentó significativamente la hemoglobina (14,3 %, Hb 2,1 g/dl) y el peso corporal (21,6 %, 25,8 g) (p < 0,05) en el postest. De la misma forma, el GE2 incrementó significativamente la hemoglobina (14,5 %, Hb 2,1 g/dl) y el peso corporal (44,5 %, 52,3 g) (p < 0,05). Sin embargo, el GE3, a pesar de mezclar el hierro MC y hemínico, no logró superar la actuación individual en cada uno de los GE1 y GE2. No hubo diferencias significativas en la longitud de las ratas entre el pretest y el postest en los cuatro grupos. Conclusión: estos resultados sugieren que el hierro hemo junto a la harina de quinua y cañihua podrían explotarse como un nuevo suplemento de hierro seguro y eficiente en comparación con el hierro microencapsulado, dada su mayor biodisponibilidad de hierro y su capacidad de incrementar el peso corporal.

[Evaluation of the hypoglycemic effect of a peptide fraction of chia seeds (Salvia hispánica L.) in male Wistar rats induced with alloxan]. / Evaluación del efecto hipoglucemiante de una fracción peptídica de las semillas de chía (Salvia hispanica L.) en ratas macho Wistar inducidas con aloxano.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: diabetes research with peptides from foods has been conducted in animal experiments to be later applied to humans. Objective: the main purpose of this work was to evaluate in rats the hypoglycemic effect of a peptide fraction of chia seeds derived by enzymatic hydrolysis. Materials and methods: from chia flour a protein-rich fraction was obtained, which was hydrolyzed with pepsin-pancreatin system enzymes to yield a peptide fraction (> 10 kDa) by ultrafiltration. Five rat groups (one normoglycemic and four diabetized with alloxan) were used. A sucrose tolerance curve was performed, providing the disaccharide before measurement. Blood was taken from the tip of the tail at 0 (before sugar), 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. Results: the protein content of chia flour was 49.51 %. The peptide fraction (> 10 kDa) had 91 % of protein. A dose of 50 mg/kg showed in rats a tendency to decrease blood glucose within the first hour, but no significance was found between the target and the doses evaluated. There was no decrease in glucose absorption vs. the reference drug. At 120 min postprandial, no differences were found between doses, water, and acarbose, showing a return to the baseline status. The tolerance curve in diabetic rats was opposite to that of acarbose, so there was no relationship between the drug's mechanism of action and this analyzed effect. Conclusion: the peptide fraction of chia of > 10 kDa showed no hypoglycemic effect at the single dose that was administered.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: se han realizado investigaciones sobre la diabetes con péptidos de diferentes fuentes alimentarias en animales experimentales para aplicarse después en los seres humanos. Objetivo: la finalidad de este trabajo fue evaluar en ratas el efecto hipoglucemiante de una fracción peptídica de chía obtenida por hidrólisis enzimática. Materiales y métodos: de la harina de chía se obtuvo una fracción rica en proteína que fue hidrolizada con pepsina-pancreatina, generándose una fracción peptídica (> 10 kDa) por ultrafiltración. Se utilizaron cinco grupos de ratas (uno de normoglucémicas y cuatro de diabetizadas con aloxano). Se realizó una curva de tolerancia a la sacarosa, proporcionándoles el disacárido antes de la medición. La sangre se tomó de la punta de la cola a los 0, 30, 60, 90 y 120 minutos. Resultados: el contenido proteico de la harina fue del 49,51 %. La fracción peptídica (> 10 kDa) presentó un 91 % de proteína; de esta se suministró una dosis de 50 mg/kg que demostró una tendencia a la disminución de la glucosa sanguínea en la primera hora, aunque no se encontró significancia entre el blanco y las dosis evaluadas. No hubo disminución de la absorción de glucosa frente al fármaco de referencia. A los 120 min del periodo postprandial no se encontraron diferencias entre las dosis, el blanco y la acarbosa, lo que denota un retorno al estado basal. Los valores en las ratas diabetizadas fueron opuestos a los de la acarbosa, por lo que no existió relación entre el mecanismo de acción del fármaco con el efecto analizado. Conclusión: las fracciones peptídicas de chía de > 10 kDa no presentaron efecto hipoglucemiante con la dosis única suministrada.

Correlation between dopamine receptor D2 expression and presence of abnormal involuntary movements in Wistar rats with hemiparkinsonism and dyskinesia. / Correlación entre la expresión del receptor dopaminérgico D2 y presencia de movimientos involuntarios anormales (MIA) en un modelo de disquinesia en ratas Wistar hemiparkinsonizadas.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterised by motor alterations, which are commonly treated with L-DOPA. However, long-term L-DOPA use may cause dyskinesia. Although the pathogenic mechanism of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia is unclear, the condition has been associated with alterations in dopamine receptors, among which D2 receptors (D2R) have received little attention. This study aims to: (i)develop and standardise an experimental model of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia in rats with hemiparkinsonism; and (ii)evaluate the correlation between D2R expression and presence of abnormal involuntary movements (AIM). We allocated 21 male Wistar rats into 3 groups: intact controls, lesioned rats (with neurotoxin 6-OHDA), and dyskinetic rats (injected with L-DOPA for 19 days). Sensorimotor impairment was assessed with behavioural tests. Dyskinetic rats gradually developed AIMs during the treatment period; front leg AIMs were more severe and locomotor AIMs less severe (P<.05). All AIMs were significantly evident from day 5 and persisted until the last day of injection. D2R density was greater in the striatum and the medial anterior brain of the lesioned and dyskinetic rats than in those of controls. Our results suggest an association between D2R expression and locomotor AIMs. We conclude that RD2 is involved in L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia.

The Effects of Acute Binge Alcohol Consumption on the Trabecular Morphometry and Tensile Strength of Adolescent Sprague Dawley Rat Femora

SUMMARY: Excessive alcohol consumption adversely affects bone metabolism, thus resulting in reduced bone length, density, and strength. Moreover, these deficits in bone density and strength are likely to increase the risk of fragility fractures and the early onset of osteoporosis. While excessive alcohol consumption is an established risk factor for osteoporotic fractures, there remains a dearth of information in literature about bone effects of binge alcohol consumption in adolescents. Therefore, our study aimed to examine the effects of acute binge alcohol consumption on the adolescent bone micro-architecture and tensile strength. Twelve male Sprague Dawley rats aged 7 weeks were randomly placed in 2 groups: alcohol (n =6), receiving alcohol (3g/kg) and pair-fed control (n = 6), receiving an isocaloric equivalent of maltose dextrin via oral gavage for 3 days in one week (on alternative days). The femora were dissected and scanned using a Micro-Focus X-ray Computed Tomography (3D-µCT). Following reconstruction, trabecular morphometry was assessed in both the proximal and distal epiphysis, using a Volume Graphics Studio® software. A three-point bending test was employed to examine the effect of alcohol on the tensile strength of the bone. Results showed trabeculae parameters to be affected in the distal epiphysis of the femur, while in the proximal epiphysis it remained unaffected. Tensile strength parameters were also not affected by the consumption of alcohol. These findings may suggest that acute binge alcohol consumption has detrimental effects on the bone micro-architecture specific to the distal epiphysis.

El consumo excesivo de alcohol afecta negativamente al metabolismo óseo, lo que resulta en una reducción de la longitud, densidad y resistencia de los huesos. Además, es probable que estos déficits en la densidad y la fuerza ósea aumenten el riesgo de fracturas por fragilidad y la aparición temprana de osteoporosis. Si bien el consumo excesivo de alcohol es un factor de riesgo establecido para las fracturas osteoporóticas, existe escasa información en la literatura sobre los efectos óseos del consumo excesivo de alcohol en adolescentes. Por lo tanto, nuestro estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar los efectos del consumo excesivo de alcohol en la microarquitectura ósea y la resistencia a la tracción e n ratas adolescentes. Doce ratas macho Sprague Dawley de 7 semanas de edad se colocaron aleatoriamente en 2 grupos: alcohol (n = 6), que recibieron alcohol (3 g/kg) y control (n = 6), que recibieron un equivalente isocalórico de maltosa dextrina mediante sonda oral, durante 3 días en una semana (en días alternos). Los fémures se diseccionaron y escanearon mediante una tomografía computarizada de rayos X con microenfoque (3D-mCT). Después de la reconstrucción, se evaluó la morfometría trabecular tanto en la epífisis proximal como en la distal, utilizando un software Volume Graphics Studio®. Se empleó una prueba de flexión de tres puntos para examinar el efecto del alcohol sobre la resistencia a la tracción del hueso. Los resultados mostraron que los parámetros de las trabéculas se vieron afectados en la epífisis distal del fémur, mientras que en la epífisis proximal no se observaron afectados. Los parámetros de resistencia a la tracción tampoco se vieron afectados por el consumo de alcohol. Estos hallazgos pueden sugerir que el consumo excesivo de alcohol tiene efectos perjudiciales sobre la microarquitectura ósea específica de la epífisis distal del hueso.

High fat diet for induced dyslipidemia and cardiac pathological alterations in Wistar rats compared to Sprague Dawley rats.

INTRODUCTION: Wistar and Sprague Dawley (SD) rats are generally used as models for the cholesterol metabolism experiments. They are acceptable to high fat diet-induced disorders with individual variations, including dyslipidemia and abnormal cardiac pathology. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of high fat diet in inducing dyslipidemia and cardiac pathological alterations between Wistar and SD rats. METHODS: We compared the differences in plasma cholesterol levels and cardiac pathological alterations between Wistar and SD rats of standard diet (3.90 kcal/g) and high fat diet (5.40 kcal/g) after 4 weeks. RESULTS: SD rats fed with high fat diet showed significantly enhanced LDL concentration and the decreased HDL concentration when compared to Wistar rats. Additionally, SD rats showed cardiac pathological alterations such as infiltration of mononuclear cells referring to inflammatory response and high amounts of perivascular fat playing a key role in the impairment of vascular functions. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that SD rats may be the more suitable model for dyslipidemia and alteration of cardiac pathology induced by high fat diet.

Kidney, skeletal muscle and myocardium as potential target sites of Pygeum africanum toxicity in Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVE: Extract of Pygeum africanum (PAE) is commonly used herbal medication in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. In Montenegro and neighboring countries, PAE is primarily advertised as dietary supplement in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to broaden the current cognition concerning its safety profile. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were used. The first control group (O) received water and second control group (OO) received olive oil for 30 days. The third and fourth groups (PA5 and PA10) were treated with PAE dissolved in olive oil (50 and 100mg/kg p.o. daily). The behavior of animals was observed continuously, bodyweight gain (BWG) was calculated weekly and the weight of selected organs was measured at the end of experiment. Total protein and glutathione content of the liver were analyzed. Standard biochemical analyses were also performed. RESULTS: BWG was higher in PA5 compared to both controls at all measuring intervals. Liver weight/body weight ratio was significantly higher in PA10 in comparison with O. Prostate weight/body weight ratio was lower in both PA5 and PA10 compared to OO, achieving statistical significance in PA5. The value of creatinine was higher in PA5 and PA10 compared to both control groups, but achieving statistical significance in PA10 only. LDH was also increased in PA5 and PA10 compared to both controls. CONCLUSIONS: Both dosage regimens of PAE, particularly PA10, caused some toxicological effects in Wistar rats after one month of application. Kidney, skeletal muscle and/or myocardium are suspected as target sites of PA toxicity most likely. In order to provide more reliable conclusion it is necessary to conduct an additional research on the basis of these findings.

La desaferentación dental como factor etiológico de disfunciones gustativas en ratas Wistar machos / Dental deafferentation as an etiologic factor of taste dysfunction in male Wistar rats / A surdeferentação dentária como fator etiológico das disfunções gustativas em ratos Wistar machos

RESUMEN Objetivo : Evaluar la influencia de la desaferentación dental (DD) en el sentido del gusto de ratas Wistar machos mediante el test de reactividad gustativa (TRG). Materiales y métodos : Estudio experimental, siguiendo las directrices de ARRIVE 2.0, realizado en diez ratas Wistar. Se las aleatorizó y asignó en un grupo control o en un grupo experimental, y se implantaron cánulas para el TRG en ambos grupos. En el grupo experimental se realizó exodoncias de los tres molares superiores del lado derecho. Al tercer día se inició el TRG (día 1) mediante la infusión de 1 M de una sustancia dulce (ingestiva) y 3 mM de una sustancia amarga (aversiva), a razón de 1 mL en 1 minuto. Este TRG se repitió los días 7, 14 y 21. Se puntuó las respuestas ingestivas y aversivas durante 1 minuto. Los datos fueron procesados en el paquete estadístico SPSS v. 26. Se usó la prueba U de Mann-Withney para identificar las diferencias; y la magnitud de la diferencia se calculó mediante la r de Rosenthal. Resultados : Se obtuvo respuestas ingestivas a sacarosa el día 1 (p > 0,05); en los otros días se obtuvo respuestas diferentes: día 7 (p = 0,05), día 14 (p = 0,009) y día 21 (p = 0,009). Asimismo, se obtuvo respuestas aversivas a benzoato de denatonio (BD) los días 1, 7 y 21 (p > 0,05); esto fue diferente el día 14 (p = 0,05). Conclusiones : Se encontró una diferencia en las medianas de las respuestas ingestivas a sacarosa y aversivas a BD en ratas Wistar machos a consecuencia de la DD.

ABSTRACT Objective : To evaluate the influence of dental deafferentation (DD) on the sense of taste in male Wistar rats using the taste reactivity test (TRG). Materials and methods : An experimental study was conducted on ten Wistar rats, following ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines. They were randomized and assigned to a control or experimental group, and both groups' cannulae for the TRG were implanted. In the experimental group, exodontia of the three upper molars on the right side was performed. On the third day, GRT was started (day 1) by infusing 1 M of a sweet substance (ingestive) and 3 mM of a bitter substance (aversive) at a rate of 1 mL in 1 minute. This TRG was repeated on days 7, 14, and 21. Ingestive and aversive responses were scored for 1 minute. The data were processed in the SPSS v. 26 statistical package. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to identify differences, and the magnitude of the difference was calculated using Rosenthal's r. Results : Ingestive responses to sucrose were obtained on day 1 (p > 0.05); different responses were obtained on the other days: day 7 (p = 0.05), day 14 (p = 0.009), and day 21 (p = 0.009). Likewise, aversive responses to denatonium benzoate (BD) were obtained on days 1, 7, and 21 (p > 0.05); this was different on day 14 (p = 0.05). Conclusions : We found a difference in median ingestive responses to sucrose and aversive responses to BD in male Wistar rats due to DD.

RESUMO Objetivo : Avaliar a influência da surdeferentação dentária (DD) no sentido do paladar de ratos Wistar machos através do teste de reatividade gustativa (TRG). Materiais e métodos : Estudo experimental, seguindo as diretrizes ARRIVE 2.0, realizado em dez ratos Wistar. Estes foram aleatorizados e atribuídos a um grupo de controlo ou a um grupo experimental, tendo sido implantadas cânulas para TRG em ambos os grupos. No grupo experimental, foi efetuada a exodontia dos três molares superiores do lado direito. No terceiro dia, iniciou-se a TRG (dia 1) com a infusão de 1 M de uma substância doce (ingestiva) e 3 mM de uma substância amarga (aversiva), na velocidade de 1 mL em 1 minuto. Esse TRG foi repetido nos dias 7, 14 e 21. As respostas ingestivas e aversivas foram avaliadas durante 1 minuto. Os dados foram processados no pacote estatístico SPSS v. 26. O teste U de Mann-Withney foi usado para identificar diferenças; e a magnitude da diferença foi calculada usando o r de Rosenthal. Resultados : As respostas ingestivas à sacarose foram obtidas no dia 1 (p > 0,05); foram obtidas respostas diferentes no dia 7 (p = 0,05), no dia 14 (p = 0,009) e no dia 21 (p = 0,009). Também se obtiveram respostas aversivas ao benzoato de denatónio (BD) nos dias 1, 7 e 21 (p > 0,05); estas foram diferentes no dia 14 (p = 0,05). Conclusões : Foi encontrada uma diferença nas respostas ingestivas medianas à sacarose e nas respostas aversivas ao BD em ratos Wistar machos como resultado da DD.

Effect of Swimming at Low Temperature on Uncoupling Protein Gene Expression in Skeletal Muscle of Wistar Rats / Efecto de la Natación a Baja Temperatura sobre la Expresión del Gen de la Proteína de Desacoplamiento en el Músculo Esquelético de Ratas Wistar

SUMMARY: As the economy develops and living standards improve, overweight and obesity are increasingly prevalent. Currently, weight-loss medications are primarily administered orally or intravenously, which can result in poor targeting, low bioavailability, frequent administration, and high toxicity and side effects. The study aimed to address these challenges by preparing polylactic acid- polyethylene glycol staple fibers that carry the browning drug pioglitazone hydrochloride using electrostatic spinning and freeze-cutting techniques. Animal experiments were conducted to test the effectiveness of these fibers. Additionally, the study investigated the expression of uncoupling protein genes in rats exposed to different water temperatures by measuring changes in serum urea nitrogen and mRNA expression levels of skeletal muscle uncoupling protein genes. The physiological and genetic effects of low-temperature swimming exercise on changes in energy metabolism in rats were also analyzed at both the individual and molecular levels. The results revealed that serum urea nitrogen remained more stable in hypothermic swimming rats compared to rats in the swimming group. Furthermore, the study observed an induced up-regulation of uncoupling proteins in the skeletal muscle of Wistar rats in response to external temperature stimulation, and the expression of mRNA for skeletal muscle uncoupling proteins significantly increased as the temperature decreased. And the prepared short nanofibers also had a significant promotive effect on uncoupling protein gene, COX7A1, while suppressing the expression of lipogenic gene.

A medida que la economía se desarrolla y los niveles de vida mejoran, el sobrepeso y la obesidad son cada vez más frecuentes. Actualmente, los medicamentos para bajar de peso se administran principalmente por vía oral o intravenosa, lo que puede resultar en una mala focalización, baja biodisponibilidad, administración frecuente y alta toxicidad y efectos secundarios. El estudio tuvo como objetivo abordar estos desafíos mediante la preparación de fibras cortadas de ácido poliláctico y polietilenglicol que transportan el fármaco pardo clorhidrato de pioglitazona mediante técnicas de hilado electrostático y liofilización. Se realizaron experimentos con animales para probar la eficacia de estas fibras. Además, el estudio investigó la expresión de genes de proteínas desacopladoras en ratas expuestas a diferentes temperaturas del agua midiendo los cambios en el nitrógeno ureico sérico y los niveles de expresión de ARNm de genes de proteínas desacopladoras del músculo esquelético. También se analizaron los efectos fisiológicos y genéticos del ejercicio de natación a baja temperatura sobre los cambios en el metabolismo energético en ratas, tanto a nivel individual como molecular. Los resultados revelaron que el nitrógeno ureico sérico permaneció más estable en ratas nadadoras hipotérmicas en comparación con las ratas del grupo de natación. Además, el estudio observó una regulación positiva inducida de las proteínas desacopladoras en el músculo esquelético de ratas Wistar en respuesta a la estimulación de la temperatura externa, y la expresión de ARNm para las proteínas desacopladoras del músculo esquelético aumentó significativamente a medida que disminuía la temperatura. Además, las nanofibras cortas preparadas también tuvieron un efecto promotor significativo sobre el gen de la proteína de desacoplamiento, COX7A1, al tiempo que suprimieron la expresión del gen lipogénico.

Interleukin-37 has A Promising Cardioprotective Effect on Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Infarction / La Interleucina-37 tiene un Efecto Cardioprotector Prometedor sobre el Infarto de Miocardio Inducido por Isoproterenol

SUMMARY: The main cause of mortality and disability globally is myocardial infarction (MI). Isoproterenol (ISO), a β-adrenoceptor agonist, has been used to induce rat myocardial necrosis. Whereas interleukin-37 (IL-37) has anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties. The study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of IL-37 administration on cardiac architecture, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers during ISO-induced MI in rats. Three groups of adult male rats were used in this study, the normal control group (n=8), ISO-induced MI group (n=8) that received isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO) (100 mg/kg/day, SC, for the first 2 consecutive days), and IL-37-treated group (ISO+IL-37) (n=8) that received recombinant human IL-37 (40 µg/kg /day, intraperitoneally, for 2 weeks during and after ISO injections. Heart rate (HR.) and ECG changes were monitored. Some oxidative stress markers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NOx), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) tissue levels in the tissue homogenate were assayed. Interleukin- 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α), caspase-8, P53, and C- reactive protein (CRP) were among the inflammatory markers examined. In addition, serum levels of creatinine kinase (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were analyzed to evaluate the myocardial injury. For histological analysis, tissues were sectioned, fixed in paraffin, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson Trichrome and, immunohistochemical against NF-kB, TNF-α, and Caspase-9. IL-37 improved ECG changes, cardiac enzyme markers, and some inflammatory markers of oxidative stress in ISO-induced MI. It also improved the histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in MI. In conclusion: IL-37 might be a promising therapeutic modality in myocardial infarction.

La principal causa de mortalidad y discapacidad a nivel mundial es el infarto de miocardio (IM). El isoproterenol (ISO), un agonista de los receptores adrenérgicos β, se ha utilizado para inducir necrosis miocárdica en ratas. Mientras que la interleucina-37 (IL-37) tiene propiedades antiinflamatorias y citoprotectoras. El estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los posibles efectos protectores de la administración de IL-37 en la arquitectura cardíaca, el estrés oxidativo y los marcadores inflamatorios durante el infarto de miocardio inducido por ISO en ratas. En este estudio se utilizaron tres grupos de ratas macho adultas, el grupo control normal (n=8), el grupo con IM inducido por ISO (n=8) que recibió clorhidrato de isoproterenol (ISO) (100 mg/kg/día, SC, durante los primeros 2 días consecutivos) y el grupo tratado con IL-37 (ISO+IL- 37) (n=8) que recibió IL-37 humana recombinante (40 µg/kg/día, por vía intraperitoneal, durante 2 semanas durante y después de las inyecciones de ISO. Se monitorearon la frecuencia cardíaca (FC) y los cambios en el ECG. Se analizaron algunos marcadores de estrés oxidativo como la superóxido dismutasa (SOD), el óxido nítrico (NOx), el malondialdehído (MDA) y los niveles tisulares de glutatión (GSH) en el homogeneizado de tejido. La interleucina-6 (IL-6), el factor de necrosis tumoral-α (TNF-α), la caspasa-8, la P53 y la proteína C reactiva (CRP) se encontraban entre los marcadores inflamatorios examinados. Se analizaron los niveles de creatinoquinasa (CK-MB) y lactato deshidrogenasa (LDH) para evaluar la lesión miocárdica; para el análisis histológico se seccionaron los tejidos, se fijaron en parafina y se tiñeron con hematoxilina y eosina (H&E), Tricromo de Masson e inmunohistoquímica contra NF-kB, TNF-α y Caspasa-9. IL-37 mejoró los cambios de ECG, los marcadores de enzimas cardíacas y algunos marcadores inflamatorios de estrés oxidativo en el IM inducido por ISO. Además mejoró los cambios histopatológicos e inmunohistoquímicos en MI. En conclusión: la IL-37 podría ser una modalidad terapéutica prometedora en el infarto de miocardio.

Efecto regenerador gástrico del consumo de Petroselinum sativum L. (perejil) en ratas con gastritis inducida por etanol

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar el efecto regenerador gástrico del consumo de Petroselinum sativum L. (perejil) en ratas con gastritis inducida por etanol. Se realizó un estudio analítico, experimental clásico, transversal, prospectivo. Se trabajó con 36 ratas Wistar machos (250 ± 30 g.p.c.) distribuidas aleatoriamente en 6 grupos (n=6). Los grupos II-VI fueron sometidos a ayuno de 24 horas para inducirles úlcera gástrica administrándoles 10 mL/kg.p.c. de etanol al 70% vía orogástrica. Después de una hora, se procedió a sacrificar al grupo II para observar el daño ulceroso en el estómago. Después, se elaboró el extracto acuoso de hojas frescas de perejil (EAHP) y se administró a los demás grupos el siguiente tratamiento por vía orogástrica durante 3 días: grupo III, 10 mL/kg.p.c. de solución de NaCl al 0,9%; y EAHP a los grupos IV-VI (150, 300 y 600 mg/kg.p.c., respectivamente). Enseguida, las ratas fueron sometidas a ayuno de 24 horas para luego ser sacrificadas por desnucamiento. Posteriormente, se les realizó una laparotomía para la extracción del estómago. El EAHP generó mayor producción de moco gástrico en las dosis de 300 mg/kg.p.c. con 78,03% y de 600 mg/kg.p.c. con 80,52% (p<0,05). Esto concordó con lo observado histológicamente en la mucosa gástrica, mostrando solo signos de inflamación de la submucosa en los grupos que consumieron EAHP (IV-VI), en comparación con necrosis fibrinoide de los grupos que no lo consumieron (II y III). En conclusión, el consumo de EAHP tiene un efecto regenerador gástrico en ratas con gastritis inducida por etanol.

Our objective is to determine the gastric regenerative effect of Petroselinum sativum L. (parsley) consumption in rats with ethanolinduced gastritis. We developed an analytical, experimental, classical, cross-sectional, prospective study. We worked with 36 male Wistar rats (250 ± 30 g.p.c.) randomly distributed into 6 groups (n=6). Groups II-VI were subjected to a 24-hour fast to induce gastric ulcer by administering 10 mL/kg.p.c. of 70% ethanol via orogastric. After one hour, group II was sacrificed to observe the ulcerative damage in the stomach. Afterward, the aqueous extract of fresh parsley leaves (EAHP) was prepared, and the following treatment was administered to the other groups through the orogastric route for 3 days: group III, 10 mL/kg.p.c. 0.9% NaCl solution; and EAHP to groups IV-VI (150, 300, and 600 mg/Kg.p.c., respectively). The rats were then fasted for 24 hours before being sacrificed by breaking their necks. Subsequently, a laparotomy was performed to extract the stomach. The EAHP generated greater production of gastric mucus in the doses of 300 mg/kg.p.c. with 78.03% and 600 mg/kg.p.c. with 80.52% (p<0.05). This was consistent with what was observed histologically in the gastric mucosa, showing only signs of inflammation of the submucosa in the groups that consumed EAHP (IV-VI), compared with fibrinoid necrosis in the groups that did not consume it (II and III). In conclusion, the consumption of EAHP has a gastric regenerative effect in rats with ethanol-induced gastritis.

Postnatal Exposure to Exogenous progesterone Exacerbates the Prenatally-Induced Abnormal Sperms Production and Function in Rats / La exposición Posnatal a la Progesterona Exógena Exacerba la Producción y Función Anormales de Espermatozoides Inducidas Prenatalmente en Ratas

SUMMARY: This study aimed at clarifying the impact of long-term prenatal and postnatal exposure to exogenous progesterone on sperm production and function, relative sex organs weights, and the levels of the relevant hormones in rats. Sixty male Wistar rats were included and classified into three groups (n=20 in each). A test I group had mature rats born to dams treated with progesterone prenatally. A test II group included rats exposed to progesterone during prenatal as well as postnatal periods, and a control group had rats treated with a placebo (olive oil). The test groups revealed a significant reduction in sperm count, motility, and viability with higher abnormal forms than the control group (P< 0.05). Similarly, the test groups revealed significantly lower serum testosterone and higher FSH and LH levels (P< 0.001). Interestingly, the test II group showed pronounced sperm abnormalities, an alarming decrease in sperm viability and motility, and a significant accretion in the relative testicular weight compared to the test I group (p <0.001). Long-term (prenatal and early postnatal) treatment with synthetic progesterone hurts sperm quantity and quality, adversely affecting future male fertility.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo aclarar el impacto de la exposición prenatal y posnatal a largo plazo a la progesterona exógena en la producción y función de los espermatozoides, el peso relativo de los órganos sexuales y los niveles de las hormonas relevantes en ratas. Sesenta ratas macho Wistar fueron incluidas y clasificadas en tres grupos (n=20 en cada uno). Un grupo de prueba I tenía ratas maduras nacidas de madres tratadas con progesterona prenatalmente. Un grupo de prueba II incluyó ratas expuestas a progesterona durante los períodos prenatal y posnatal, y un grupo de control tenía ratas tratadas con un placebo (aceite de oliva). Los grupos de prueba revelaron una reducción significativa en el recuento, la motilidad y la viabilidad de los espermatozoides con formas anormales más altas que el grupo de control (P < 0,05). De manera similar, los grupos de prueba revelaron niveles significativamente más bajos de testosterona sérica y niveles más altos de FSH y LH (P < 0.001). Curiosamente, el grupo de prueba II mostró anormalidades espermáticas pronunciadas, una disminución alarmante en la viabilidad y motilidad de los espermatozoides y una acumulación significativa en el peso testicular relativo en comparación con el grupo de prueba I (p <0.001). El tratamiento a largo plazo (prenatal y posnatal temprano) con progesterona sintética daña la cantidad y la calidad del esperma, lo que afecta negativamente la futura fertilidad masculina.

Embriopatía diabética y trastornos en el desarrollo reproductivo materno en ratas con diabetes pregestacional / Diabetic embryopathy and disorders in maternal reproductive development in rats with pregestational diabetes

Resumen OBJETIVOS: Determinar la repercusión de la diabetes pregestacional, con hiperglucemias moderadas, en el rendimiento reproductivo de la rata, crecimiento, desarrollo y morfología embrionaria en ratas Wistar. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio longitudinal, prospectivo y experimental efectuado en la Unidad de Investigaciones Biomédicas de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Villa Clara, Cuba, en un modelo de diabetes moderada inducida neonatalmente a crías hembras de ratas Wistar de dos días de nacidas mediante la administración subcutánea de 100 mg/kg de peso corporal de estreptozotocina en una única dosis. A los 120 días de nacidas, las ratas de ambos grupos de experimentación (diabético y control) se aparearon con machos sanos. Se determinaron el peso y la glucemia durante la gestación y a los 11.5 días se practicó la cesárea. Se analizaron las variables del rendimiento reproductivo materno y de crecimiento, desarrollo y morfología externa en los embriones. Acorde con los desenlaces se utilizaron pruebas no paramétricas para el análisis de las variables cuantitativas y la prueba de χ2 para las variables cualitativas. RESULTADOS: La hiperglucemia moderada pregestacional provocó modificaciones en la ganancia de peso de la madre, la cantidad de reabsorciones, sitios de implantación, pérdidas preimplantación y eficiencia de implantación, así como en la morfología, talla y cantidad de somitas en los embriones. CONCLUSIONES: La diabetes moderada pregestacional alteró el rendimiento reproductivo materno y el crecimiento y desarrollo intrauterino de la descendencia en etapa embrionaria. La embriopatía diabética se manifestó, además, con malformaciones del sistema nervioso central.

Abstract OBJECTIVES: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most frequent disorders of pregnancy with adverse consequences for the mother and a high risk of diabetic embryopathy in the offspring. The objective of the research was to determine the effect of pregestational diabetes with moderate hyperglycemia on maternal reproductive performance, growth, development and embryonic morphology in Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Longitudinal, prospective and experimental study carried out at the Biomedical Research Unit of the University of Medical Sciences of Villa Clara, Cuba. A model of neonatally induced moderate diabetes was used in female Wistar rat pups two days old, by subcutaneous administration of 100 mg/kg of body weight of streptozotocin in a single dose. At 120 days after birth, rats from both experimental groups (diabetic and control) were mated with healthy males. Weight and glycemia were determined during pregnancy and at 11,5 days the cesarean section was performed. The variables of maternal reproductive performance and of growth, development and external morphology in the embryos were analyzed. According to the results, non-parametric tests were used for the analysis of the quantitative variables and the Chi-square test for the qualitative variables. RESULTS: Moderate pregestational diabetes caused changes in maternal weight gain, number of resorptions, implantation sites, preimplantation loss, and implantation efficiency, as well as in morphology, size, and number of somites in embryos. CONCLUSIONS: Moderate pregestational diabetes altered maternal reproductive performance and intrauterine growth and development of embryonic offspring. Diabetic embryopathy was also manifested by malformations of the central nervous system.

Non-Status Epilepticus female rats show seizure-like behaviors in the chronic phase of Pilocarpine experimental model / Ratas sem Status Epilepticus apresentam comportamento do tipo crise epiléptica na fase crônica do modelo experimental da Pilocarpina

Only few studies have focus on animals that received Pilocarpine (Pilo) and did not develop behavioral status epilepticus (SE) and, whether they may become epileptic in the model's chronic phase. Previews works observed mossy fiber sprouting in the hippocampus of Non-SE (NSE) rats, while others observed spontaneous and recurrent seizures (SRS) 6 - 8 months after animals received Pilo. It is known that neuronal excitability is influenced by female hormones, as well as, the occurrence of SE in castrated and non-castrated female rats. However, it is not known whether females that received Pilo and did not show SE, may have SRS. The aim of this work was to investigate whether castrated and non-castrated female rats that did not show behavioral SE after Pilo, will develop SRS in the following one-year. For that, animals received 360 mg/kg of Pilo and were video monitored for 12 months. SE females from castrated and non-castrated groups became epileptic since the first month after drug injection. Epileptic behaviors were identified watching video monitoring recordings in the fast speed. Castrated and Non castrated NSE animals showed behaviors resembling seizures described by Racine Scale stages 1 - 3. Motor alterations showed by NSE groups could be observed only when recordings were analyzed in slow speed. In addition, behavioral manifestations as, rhythmic head movements, sudden head movements, whole body movements and immobility were also observed in both, SE and NSE groups. We concluded that NSE female rats may have become epileptic. Adding to it, slow speed analysis of motor alterations was essential for the observation of NSE findings, which suggests that possibly many motor alterations have been underestimated in epilepsy experimental research.

Poucos são os estudos com foco em animais que receberam Pilocarpina (Pilo) e não desenvolveram status epilepticus (SE) comportamental e, se os mesmos se tornarão epilépticos na fase crônica do modelo. Autores observaram o brotamento das fibras musgosas no hipocampo de ratos Não-SE (NSE), enquanto outros observaram crises espontâneas e recorrentes (CER) 6 - 8 meses após receberam a droga. A excitabilidade neuronal é influenciada pelos hormônios femininos e, da mesma forma, a ocorrência de SE em ratas castradas e não-castradas. Entretanto, não é sabido se as fêmeas que não apresentam SE terão CER. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar se fêmeas castradas e não castradas que não tiveram SE comportamental após a injeção de Pilo desenvolverão CER dentro de um ano. Para isto, os animais receberam 360 mg/kg de Pilo e foram videomonitorados por 12 meses. As fêmeas SE castradas e não-castradas se tornaram epilépticas desde o primeiro mês pós Pilo. O comportamento epiléptico foi identificado assistindo as gravações na velocidade rápida. As fêmeas NSE castradas e não-castradas apresentaram comportamentos similares aos estágios 1 - 3 da Escala de Racine. As alterações motoras nestes grupos (NSE) foram observadas apenas quando as videomonitoração foi analisada na velocidade lenta. Além destas, manifestações comportamentais como movimentos rítmicos da cabeça, movimentos súbitos da cabeça, movimentos de todo o corpo e imobilidade também foram observadas em ambos grupos, SE e NSE. Concluímos que as fêmeas NE podem ter se tornado epilépticas. Adicionado a isto, a análise das alterações motoras na velocidade lenta foi essencial para a observação dos achados das fêmeas NSE, o que sugere que possivelmente muitas alterações motoras têm sido subestimados na pesquisa em epilepsia experimental.

Non-Status Epilepticus female rats show seizure-like behaviors in the chronic phase of Pilocarpine experimental model

Abstract Only few studies have focus on animals that received Pilocarpine (Pilo) and did not develop behavioral status epilepticus (SE) and, whether they may become epileptic in the models chronic phase. Previews works observed mossy fiber sprouting in the hippocampus of Non-SE (NSE) rats, while others observed spontaneous and recurrent seizures (SRS) 6 - 8 months after animals received Pilo. It is known that neuronal excitability is influenced by female hormones, as well as, the occurrence of SE in castrated and non-castrated female rats. However, it is not known whether females that received Pilo and did not show SE, may have SRS. The aim of this work was to investigate whether castrated and non-castrated female rats that did not show behavioral SE after Pilo, will develop SRS in the following one-year. For that, animals received 360 mg/kg of Pilo and were video monitored for 12 months. SE females from castrated and non-castrated groups became epileptic since the first month after drug injection. Epileptic behaviors were identified watching video monitoring recordings in the fast speed. Castrated and Non-castrated NSE animals showed behaviors resembling seizures described by Racine Scale stages 1 - 3. Motor alterations showed by NSE groups could be observed only when recordings were analyzed in slow speed. In addition, behavioral manifestations as, rhythmic head movements, sudden head movements, whole body movements and immobility were also observed in both, SE and NSE groups. We concluded that NSE female rats may have become epileptic. Adding to it, slow speed analysis of motor alterations was essential for the observation of NSE findings, which suggests that possibly many motor alterations have been underestimated in epilepsy experimental research.

Resumo Poucos são os estudos com foco em animais que receberam Pilocarpina (Pilo) e não desenvolveram status epilepticus (SE) comportamental e, se os mesmos se tornarão epilépticos na fase crônica do modelo. Autores observaram o brotamento das fibras musgosas no hipocampo de ratos Não-SE (NSE), enquanto outros observaram crises espontâneas e recorrentes (CER) 6 - 8 meses após receberam a droga. A excitabilidade neuronal é influenciada pelos hormônios femininos e, da mesma forma, a ocorrência de SE em ratas castradas e não-castradas. Entretanto, não é sabido se as fêmeas que não apresentam SE terão CER. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar se fêmeas castradas e não castradas que não tiveram SE comportamental após a injeção de Pilo desenvolverão CER dentro de um ano. Para isto, os animais receberam 360 mg/kg de Pilo e foram videomonitorados por 12 meses. As fêmeas SE castradas e não-castradas se tornaram epilépticas desde o primeiro mês pós Pilo. O comportamento epiléptico foi identificado assistindo as gravações na velocidade rápida. As fêmeas NSE castradas e não-castradas apresentaram comportamentos similares aos estágios 1 - 3 da Escala de Racine. As alterações motoras nestes grupos (NSE) foram observadas apenas quando as videomonitoração foi analisada na velocidade lenta. Além destas, manifestações comportamentais como movimentos rítmicos da cabeça, movimentos súbitos da cabeça, movimentos de todo o corpo e imobilidade também foram observadas em ambos grupos, SE e NSE. Concluímos que as fêmeas NE podem ter se tornado epilépticas. Adicionado a isto, a análise das alterações motoras na velocidade lenta foi essencial para a observação dos achados das fêmeas NSE, o que sugere que possivelmente muitas alterações motoras têm sido subestimados na pesquisa em epilepsia experimental.

Indicadores morfométricos de la corteza cerebral frontal de gazapos de ratas Wistar con diabetes pregestacional

Introducción: La diabetes es una enfermedad que afecta el embarazo provoca complicaciones fetales; dentro de ellas son frecuentes las malformaciones congénitas. Por la imposibilidad práctica y ética de estudiar este proceso en gestantes es imprescindible realizar estudios experimentales empleando procedimientos morfométricos para determinar si la diabetes afecta el neurodesarrollo. Objetivo: Caracterizar morfométricamente la sustancia gris de gazapos de ratas Wistar normales y con diabetes mellitus pregestacional. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio experimental básico de serie de casos a 20 gazapos de ratas Wistar de los cuales 10 eran descendientes de diabetes pregestacional. Se caracterizaron indicadores morfométricos del tejido nervioso como espesor de corteza e indicadores nucleares como el perímetro. Resultados: La media de la altura de la sustancia gris cortical mostró un valor de 1,224 ± 303,7 μm para el grupo control y 1,014 ± 376,0 para los casos, al aplicar el test de diferencias de medias se encontró diferencia significativa (p ≤ 0,05) a favor del grupo control. Los valores de la media del perímetro nuclear en el grupo control fue de 42,80 ± 7,23 μm y en el grupo experimental el promedio fue de 39,68 ± 6,52 μm, al aplicar el test de diferencias de medias se encontró diferencia significativa (p ≤ 0,05) a favor del grupo control al presentar mayor perímetro nuclear. Conclusiones: El mayor espesor cortical y perímetro nuclear correspondió al grupo control evidenciándose el efecto deletéreo de la diabetes mellitus en el neurodesarrollo.

Introduction: Diabetes is a disease that affects pregnancy causing fetal complications; within them congenital malformations are frequent. Due to the practical and ethical impossibility of studying this process in pregnant women, it is essential to carry out experimental studies using morphometric procedures to determine if diabetes affects neurodevelopment. Objective: To characterize morphometrically the gray matter of kits from normal Wistar rats and those with pregestational diabetes mellitus. Methods: A basic experimental study of a series of cases was carried out on 20 young Wistar rats, of which 10 were descendants of pregestational diabetes. Morphometric indicators of the nervous tissue were characterized as thickness of the cortex and nuclear indicators such as perimeter. Results: The average height of the cortical gray matter showed a value of 1.224 ± 303.7 μm for the control group and 1.014 ± 376.0 μm for the cases. When applying the mean difference test, a significant difference was found (p ≤ 0.05) in favor of the control group. The values of the measurement of the nuclear perimeter in the control group was 42.80 ± 7.23 μm and in the experimental group the average was 39.68 ± 6.52 μm. When applying the mean different test, a significant difference was found (p ≤ 0.05) at favor of control group presenting greater nuclear perimeter. Conclusions: The greatest cortical thickness and nuclear perimeter corresponded to the control group, evidencing the deleterious effect os diabetes mellitus on neurodevelopment.

Effect of Clomiphene Citrate on the Ultrastructure of Testis in Albino Rats

SUMMARY: The aim of the present work was to study the closer effect of clomiphene citrate on the ultrastructure of the testis of adult albino rats to provide a basis for optimizing this drug in the treatment of male infertility. The testes were removed from both groups under anesthesia and then prepared for examination by light using hematoxylin and eosin stains and a transmission electron microscope. Semithin sections were cut into 1 µm thick sections, stained with toluidine blue, and examined by light microscopy for a survey. The desired areas were placed in the center, and other areas were trimmed. Primary spermatocytes showed marked nuclear changes (pyknosis), and their nuclear membranes were ill-defined and disrupted. The cytoplasm showed widespread degeneration of mitochondria and lysosomes and focal degeneration of the rough endoplasmic reticulum compared with the control group. The spermatids were pale, and the two phases of spermatogenesis were distinctly identifiable in the control group but were confused in the treated group. Some spermatids had interrupted nuclear membranes, also containing degenerated mitochondria, focal fragmentation of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and free ribosomes. Spermatozoa in the treated group appeared deformed compared to the control, where they had deformed head caps. Leydig cells of the treated group have an irregularly shaped nucleus, with focal chromatin aggregation and peripheral chromatin condensation on the inner surface of the nuclear membrane. The observations of the present work indicate a possible causal relationship between testicular affection and ingestion of clomiphene citrate, which can be avoided by close medical observations using ultrasonography, semen analysis, or testicular biopsy to detect early malignant changes. Furthermore, the drug should not be used for more than three to six cycles and should be stopped for at least three cycles before reuse. When clomiphene citrate is ineffective in the treatment of male infertility, human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) administration is typically selected. However, high-dose hMG therapy is associated with a variety of adverse effects. In this work, we report the success of a modified clomiphene citrate regimen in increasing sperm count without any hazards to the testicular tissue.

El objetivo del trabajo fue estudiar el efecto del citrato de clomifeno sobre la estructura de los testículos de la rata albina adulta, con la finalidad de determinar la mejor manera de utilizar este fármaco en el tratamiento de la infertilidad masculina. Los testículos se extrajeron bajo anestesia y para su análisis a través de microscopio de luz se tiñeron con HE. Además, las muestras fueron preparadas para su examen con microscopía electrónica de transmisión. Por otra parte, se cortaron secciones semifinas de 1 µm de espesor, se tiñeron con azul de toluidina y se examinaron mediante microscopía óptica. Los espermatocitos primarios mostraron cambios nucleares marcados (picnosis) y sus membranas nucleares estaban mal definidas y alteradas. En el grupo experimental las células presentaban el citoplasma con degeneración generalizada de las mitocondrias y de los lisosomas y una degeneración focal del retículo endoplásmico rugoso en comparación con el grupo control. Las espermátidas estaban pálidas y las dos fases de la espermatogénesis eran claramente identificables en el grupo control, pero se confundían en el grupo tratado. Algunas espermátidas tenían membranas nucleares interrumpidas, y también contenían mitocondrias degeneradas, fragmentación focal del retículo endoplásmico rugoso y ribosomas libres. Los espermatozoides del grupo tratado se presentaban deformados en comparación con el control. Las células de Leydig del grupo tratado presentaban un núcleo de forma irregular, con agregación focal de cromatina y condensación de cromatina periférica en la superficie interna de la membrana nuclear. Las observaciones del presente trabajo indican una posible relación causal entre la afección testicular y la ingestión de citrato de clomifeno, que puede evitarse mediante observaciones médicas minuciosas a través de ecografía, análisis de semen o biopsia testicular para detectar cambios malignos tempranos. Además, el medicamento no debiera ser usado durante más de tres a seis ciclos y debe suspenderse durante al menos tres ciclos antes de volver a usarlo. Cuando el citrato de clomifeno es ineficaz en el tratamiento de la infertilidad masculina, normalmente se selecciona la administración de gonadotropina menopáusica humana (hMG). Sin embargo, la terapia con hMG en dosis altas se asocia con una variedad de efectos adversos. En este trabajo, informamos el éxito de un régimen modificado con citrato de clomifeno para aumentar el recuento de espermatozoides sin riesgo para el tejido testicular.