Nitric oxide regulates adhesiveness, invasiveness, and migration of anoikis-resistant endothelial cells

Anoikis is a type of apoptosis that occurs in response to the loss of adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM). Anoikis resistance is a critical mechanism in cancer and contributes to tumor metastasis. Nitric oxide (NO) is frequently upregulated in the tumor area and is considered an important player in cancer metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of NO on adhesiveness, invasiveness, and migration of anoikis-resistant endothelial cells. Here, we report that anoikis-resistant endothelial cells overexpress endothelial nitric oxide synthase. The inhibition of NO release in anoikis-resistant endothelial cells was able to decrease adhesiveness to fibronectin, laminin, and collagen IV. This was accompanied by an increase in cell invasiveness and migration. Furthermore, anoikis-resistant cell lines displayed a decrease in fibronectin and collagen IV protein expression after L-NAME treatment. These alterations in adhesiveness and invasiveness were the consequence of MMP-2 up-regulation observed after NO release inhibition. The decrease in NO levels was able to down-regulate the activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) protein expression. ATF3 represses MMP-2 gene expression by antagonizing p53-dependent trans-activation of the MMP-2 promoter. We speculate that the increased release of NO by anoikis-resistant endothelial cells acted as a response to restrict the MMP-2 action, interfering in MMP-2 gene expression via ATF3 regulation. The up-regulation of nitric oxide by anoikis-resistant endothelial cells is an important response to restrict tumorigenic behavior. Without this mechanism, invasiveness and migration potential would be even higher, as shown after L-NAME treatment.

Subluxación sacroilíaca en un equino criollo colombiano / Sacroiliac subluxation in a horse in Colombia

Resumen La subluxación sacroilíaca es una enfermedad claudiocógena de los miembros posteriores que se puede presentar de forma aguda o crónica. La causa de esta patología se debe principalmente a resbalones, tropezones o caídas de los miembros posteriores, el diagnóstico es difícil de realizar debido a la profunda ubicación anatómica de la articulación, métodos como la ecografía y pruebas de estrés entre otros, son los procedimientos más usados en el diagnóstico de la subluxación sacroiliaca. Por tratarse de una alteración que fácilmente puede confundirse con otras condiciones patológicas de la columna, la pelvis y/o de los miembros posteriores, el diagnóstico muchas veces se realiza por eliminación de otras causas de cojera. Los tratamientos convencionales aún se proponen en la literatura, sin embargo, cada vez como opción para el tratamiento de esta patología. El presente reporte describe el caso de un equino criollo que padeció una subluxación sacroiliaca aguda del lado derecho, la cual fue diagnosticada con un examen clínico que incluía ecografía percutánea y transrectal, y tratada con infiltraciones ecoguiadas de corticoides y aspirado de médula ósea. Un mes después de la última terapia, el caballo mostró una mejoría clínica en un 80% a 90% aproximadamente y retoma actividad física controlada.

Abstract Sacroiliac subluxation is a claudiogenic disease of the hind limbs that can present acutely or chronically. The cause of this pathology is mainly due to slipping, tripping, or falling of the hind limbs, the diagnosis is difficult to make due to the deep anatomical location of the joint, methods such as ultrasound and stress tests among others, are the procedures most used in the diagnosis of sacroiliac subluxation. As it is an alteration that can easily be confused with other pathological conditions of the spine, pelvis and / or the hind limbs, the diagnosis is often made by eliminating other causes of lameness. Conventional treatments are still proposed in the literature, however regenerative therapy is increasingly used as an option for the treatment of sacroiliac joint injuries. This report describes the case of a Creole horse that suffered an acute sacroiliac subluxation on the right side, which was diagnosed with a clinical examination that included percutaneous and transrectal ultrasound and treated with ultrasound-guided infiltrations of corticosteroids and cells of the bone marrow of the sternum without processing. One month after the last therapy, the horse showed an 80% to 90% recovery and resumed controlled physical activity.

Molecular detection and clinical aspects of porcine circovirus 3 infection in pigs from Brazil / [Detecção molecular e aspectos clínicos da infecção por circovírus suíno 3 em suínos do Brasil]

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV-3) DNA has been detected in serum samples from apparently healthy pigs as well as pigs with different clinical conditions. Molecular detection of PCV-3 was observed in swine serum samples from Southeastern - Brazil using a nested PCR designed specifically for this study. The epidemiology and clinical aspects of PCV-3 infection were evaluated. The samples originated from 154 pigs of both genders from different production phases and with different clinical presentations, sampled from 31 pig farms visited between 2013 and 2018. In this study, PCV-3 was detected in 26.7% of samples from all populations across varying ages. Statistical association (P=0.0285) was observed only between animals with respiratory signs and PCV-3; no PCV-3-positive animal had diarrhea. No statistical association was observed between PCV-3 and age, or gender of the pigs. Because PCV-3 is a newly discovered virus, there is very little information about its epidemiology. We hope that these data can help in future studies investigating PCV-3 epidemiology.(AU)

O DNA do circovírus suíno 3 (PCV-3) foi detectado em amostras de soro de suínos aparentemente saudáveis, bem como em suínos com diferentes condições clínicas. A detecção molecular do PCV-3 foi observada em amostras de soro de suínos da região Sudeste do Brasil, com uma nested PCR desenhada especificamente para este estudo. A epidemiologia e os aspectos clínicos da infecção por PCV-3 foram avaliados. As amostras foram coletadas de 154 suínos de ambos os sexos, de diferentes fases de produção e com diferentes sinais clínicos. Os animais pertenciam a 31 granjas visitadas entre 2013 e 2018. Neste estudo, o PCV-3 foi detectado em 26,7% das amostras de animais saudáveis e de animais com variados sinais clínicos, de ambos os sexos e de idades variadas. Associação estatística (P=0,0285) foi observada apenas entre animais com sinais respiratórios e PCV-3; nenhum animal positivo para PCV-3 apresentava diarreia. Não foi observada associação estatística entre o PCV-3 e a idade ou o sexo dos suínos. Por se tratar de um vírus recém-descoberto, existem poucas informações sobre sua epidemiologia. Espera-se que os dados deste trabalho possam contribuir para futuros estudos sobre a epidemiologia do PCV-3.(AU)

Identification of a historic horse ecotype analyzing speech content in central Brazil / Resgate de um ecótipo equino histórico mediante análise de conteúdo de discurso no Brasil central

This study represents a first attempt to rescue germplasm of a traditional domestic equine cited in early Iberian and South American literature as Curraleiro horse. As an effort to identify and possibly characterize this type of horse we accessed traditional knowledge in strategic rural areas. Most areas were configured by hinterland settlements founded by runaway slave communities from the sixteenth century. Twenty interviews were conducted and analyzed using classical Speech Content Analysis. As a result, five response categories were recognized: 1) Identification and location of Curraleiro horses; 2) Characterization of Curraleiro horses; 3) Historical aspects; 4) Curraleiro horse conservation prospects and 5) Sanitary and productive aspects of Curraleiro horse breeding. We concluded that although scarce, the Curraleiro horse, cited in literature, still exists and showed phenotypical features which allow fine discrimination from any officially recognized breed in Brazil. Our findings may open the door for the recognition of a genuine animal resource which could play a role in rural development for specific regions and traditional communities. Speech Content Analysis was effective for in loco identification and characterization of rare traditional livestock. Thus, we encourage the usage of this tool as an alternative to subsidize identification and genetic conservation programs worldwide.(AU)

Esse estudo representa uma primeira tentativa de resgate de germoplasma em um equino doméstico tradicional citado em literatura precoce Iberiana e Sul Americana como um cavalo Curraleiro. Num esforço de identificar e possivelmente caracterizar esse tipo de cavalo, acessamos conhecimento tradicional em diversas áreas rurais estratégicas. A maioria consistia em assentamentos rurais fundados por comunidades escravas foragidas no século dezesseis. Vinte entrevistas foram conduzidas e analisadas utilizando análise de conteúdo de discurso clássico. Como resultado, cinco categorias de resposta foram reconhecidas: 1) Identificação e localização de cavalos Curraleiros; 2) Caracterização de cavalos curraleiros; 3) Aspectos históricos, 4) Perspectivas de conservação, e 5) Aspectos sanitários e produtivos da criação de cavalos Curraleiros. Concluímos que, apesar de escasso, o cavalo Curraleiro, citado na literatura, ainda existe e apresenta características fenotípicas que permitem discriminação de raças oficialmente reconhecidas no Brasil. Nossos achados podem abrir alas para o reconhecimento de um recurso animal genuíno que pode ter um papel no desenvolvimento rural em regiões específicas e comunidades tradicionais. Análise de conteúdo de discurso foi eficaz para identificação e caracterização in loco de criação tradicional rara. Desta forma, encorajamos o uso dessa ferramenta como alternativa para subsídio de identificação e programas de conservação genética ao redor do mundo.(AU)

Modificaciones anatómicas de la derivación biliopancreática con cruce duodenal: ¿tienen algún rol futuro en la cirugía bariátrica y metabólica? / Anatomical modifications of the biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch: do they have a future role in bariatric and metabolic surgery?

La derivación biliopancreática con cruce duodenal (BPD-DS) es el procedimiento bariátrico que ha mostrado los mejores resultados en cuanto a pérdida de peso y resolución de comorbilidades. Sin embargo, su adopción ha sido lenta, principalmente debido a sus complicaciones nutricionales y dificultad técnica. Dado esto, algunos autores han propuesto variaciones de este procedimiento. Estas están basadas en disminuir las anastomosis a solo una, y realizarla con un asa tipo loop (sin derivación biliopancreática). Estos cambios podrían reproducir las ventajas del BPD-DS, y eliminar algunas de sus desventajas. En este artículo, mostramos los resultados de estas variaciones comparadas con el BPD-DS, y cómo sus resultados prometedores pueden tener como consecuencia una nueva aproximación a la población que sufre de obesidad y sus comorbilidades

Biliopancreatic Diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) is the bariatric surgery that has shown the better results regarding long-term weight loss and comorbidities resolution. Nevertheless, BPD-DS' adoption has been slow, mainly due to its nutritional complications, and technical complexity. Given this, some authors have proposed surgical variations of this effective procedure. These new procedures are based on reducing the anastomosis to only one, and doing it just a loop anastomosis (no biliopacreatic diversion). These changes might bring to us the advantages of BPD-DS, and eliminate some of its disadvantages. In this article, we show the results of these variations compared with BPD-DS, and how their promising results could be a new approach for obese population and bariatric surgery.

SNPs rs471462296, rs456245081 and rs438495570 in the 5'UTR region of DGAT1 gene in Nelore / SNPs rs471462296, rs456245081 e rs438495570 na região 5'UTR do gene DGAT1 em Nelore

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar os SNPs rs471462296, rs456245081 e rs438495570 do gene DGAT1 em bovinos Nelore. Foram analisados 109 bovinos. A extração do DNA genômico foi realizada do sangue dos animais, usando-se o kit Ilustra Blood Genomic Prep Mini Spin® (GE Healthcare, UK). A concentração e o grau de pureza do DNA foram determinados por meio de espectrofotômetro (Nanodrop - Thermo Fisher Scientifc, USA). A genotipagem dos SNPs ocorreu mediante o emprego do ensaio Taqman® (Applied Biosystems, USA). Na análise genômica, não foram encontradas alterações nas frequências alélicas e genotípicas (P≥0,05) para os SNPs testados. Dessa forma, a região 5'UTR analisada apresentou-se monomórfica e a variação de SNPs não foi observada, o que limita seu uso como marcadores moleculares para o gene DGAT1 em Nelore.(AU)

The E3 ligase MuRF2 plays a key role in the functional capacity of skeletal muscle fibroblasts

Fibroblasts are a highly heterogeneous population of cells, being found in a large number of different tissues. These cells produce the extracellular matrix, which is essential to preserve structural integrity of connective tissues. Fibroblasts are frequently engaged in migration and remodeling, exerting traction forces in the extracellular matrix, which is crucial for matrix deposition and wound healing. In addition, previous studies performed on primary myoblasts suggest that the E3 ligase MuRF2 might function as a cytoskeleton adaptor. Here, we hypothesized that MuRF2 also plays a functional role in skeletal muscle fibroblasts. We found that skeletal muscle fibroblasts express MuRF2 and its siRNA knock-down promoted decreased fibroblast migration, cell border accumulation of polymerized actin, and down-regulation of the phospho-Akt expression. Our results indicated that MuRF2 was necessary to maintain the actin cytoskeleton functionality in skeletal muscle fibroblasts via Akt activity and exerted an important role in extracellular matrix remodeling in the skeletal muscle tissue.

Accidental lacrimal gland removal during resection of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle / Remoção acidental da glândula lacrimal em cirurgia de ressecção do músculo levantador da pálpebra superior

ABSTRACT Accidental removal of the lacrimal gland is a rare complication of ptosis surgery. We report two children who underwent large unilateral levator palpebrae superioris resections (LPSr). After surgery, both patients developed dry eye. Post-operatively, the parents of both patients noticed no tears in the affected eye when their child cried. Computed tomography proved the absence of the lacrimal gland in the operated eye in both patients. Oculoplastic surgeons should pay close attention to the anatomy of the levator muscle and its proximity to surrounding tissues in order to avoid lesions on important orbital structures, including the lacrimal gland, and to avoid the development of long-term dry eye.

RESUMO A remoção acidental da glândula lacrimal é uma complicação rara da cirurgia de ptose. Relatamos duas crianças que foram submetidas à grandes ressecções unilaterais do músculo levantador da pálpebra superior que desenvolveram olho seco após a cirurgia. No pós-operatório, os pais notaram ausência de secreção lacrimal durante o choro no olho operado. Tomografia computadorizada de órbitas comprovou ausência da glândula lacrimal no olho submetido à cirurgia, em ambos os casos. Cirurgiões oculoplásticos devem estar atentos à anatomia do músculo levantador e estruturas relacionadas para evitar lesões em importantes estruturas orbitais como as da glândula lacrimal que podem induzir permanente olho seco.

Positron emission tomography thyroid incidentaloma: Is it different in Indian subcontinent.

BACKGROUND: Positron emission tomography (PET) forms an integral part in work‑up and follow‑up of various malignancies. With the increased use of PET in oncology, finding of an incidental focal thyroid uptake (incidentaloma) is not unusual and presents a diagnostic challenge. AIM: The aim of the following study is to evaluate the frequency and radio‑pathologic correlation of focal 18‑fluoro deoxyglucose uptake (FDG) on PET within the thyroid from a large series. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective review of 37,000 consecutive patients who underwent FDG‑PET at tertiary cancer center in India. Radiological, pathological, PET scan and follow‑up details were evaluated. Statistical analyzes were carried out using Mann Whitney test and Pearson correlation. RESULTS: Abnormal thyroid uptake was seen in 78 (0.2%) patients. Nearly 61 (0.16%) scans had focal and 17 (0.04%) had diffuse FDG uptake. A total of 57 patients with focal uptake were available for further evaluation. No further evaluation was done in 24 (42.1%) patients who had advanced index malignancy. Of the remaining 33 patients 26 were benign and seven were a cause for concern (four primary thyroid cancers, one follicular neoplasm with hurthle cell change and two metastatic cancers). There was no significant correlation in Standardized uptake value (SUV) max of benign and malignant lesion (P = 0.5 on Mann Whitney) or size (r = 0.087 Pearson correlation co‑efficient P = 0.667). CONCLUSION: Incidence of PET incidentaloma is low in this large cohort of Indian patients. Nearly 27% of focal incidentaloma were malignant. There was no correlation between the SUVmax, size and malignancy.

Barriers in conducting clinical trials in oncology in the developing world: A cross‑sectional survey of oncologists.

BACKGROUND: Several obstacles impede oncologists from performing clinical trials in the developing world. This study aimed to identify these barriers in order of importance and suggest possible remedial measures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Design – cross‑sectional survey. Two part questionnaire capturing experience of oncologists in practice and conducting trials (Part 1) and perceived barriers pertaining to investigator (training, time), patient (strict follow‑up protocol), infrastructure (funds) and professional environment (encouragement from seniors) (Part 2) were administered to oncologists in two different settings: (1) Online portal (Survey Monkey) (2) In person during a national conference (Best of American Society of Clinical Oncology). Responses were captured on a Likert scale (1–5). RESULTS: (436/3021) 14.04% responded. A total of 313 (71.8%) had experience in conducting trials, but these were mainly industry‑sponsored or small nonpractice changing studies. Lack of patient follow‑up was the most significant barrier (inter quartile range [IQR] 4–5) followed by inadequate training, time and funds (IQR 2–5) and lack of encouragement (IQR 2–4) in decreasing order of frequency. Lack of adequate training was a barrier across all specialties (113 [71.97%] radiation oncologists, 71 [60.68%] medical oncologists and 73 [71.56%] surgical oncologists). More than half of the respondents without experience in clinical trials worked in academic institutions (50.48%). They perceived time constraint as a barrier more than their counterparts into private practice (175/242 [72.31%] vs. 119/177 [66.47%] respectively). CONCLUSION: Inability to maintain patient follow‑up, lack of protected time and funds, inadequate training were the most significant barriers. Most of these can be addressed.

Predictivity of human papillomavirus positivity in advanced oral cancer.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a known prognostic factor world over in patients of carcinoma oropharynx. The role of HPV in oral cancers has not been investigated adequately. We tried to identify standard clinicopathological features in oral cancer, which would predict HPV‑positivity. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of 124 cases of T4 oral cancer patients at our center. HPV‑positive was defined in accordance with positive p16 immunohistochemistry done on pretreatment local tumor site biopsy. Age, sex, habits (smoking history and oral tobacco), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS), T stage, N stage, grade, and site were selected, for testing of prediction for HPV‑positivity. The analysis was performed by R studio version 3.1.1. Two‑sample test for equality of proportions with continuity correction was used to identify factors predicting for HPV‑positivity. P = 0.05 was considered as significant. RESULTS: Of 124 patients, 16 patients (12.9%) were HPV‑positive. The median age of the whole cohort was 43 years (interquartile range 37–52 years) with 15 females (12.1%). All had squamous cell carcinoma (100%). The grade of the tumor was well differentiated in 9 patients (7.2%), moderately differentiated in 98 patients (79.1%), and poorly differentiated in 17 patients (13.7%). The ECOG PS 0 in 19 patients (15.3%), 1 in 104 patients (83.9%), and 2 in 1 patient (0.8%). The subsite of the tumor was buccal mucosa in 74 patients (59.7%), anterior two‑third of tongue in 33 patients (26.6%), and others in 17 patients (13.7%). None of the tested factors except the use of oral tobacco were statistically significantly associated with HPV‑positivity. History of tobacco usage had a statistical trend toward ability to predict HPV‑positivity. The proportion of patients with HPV‑positive oral cancer in patients without history usage of oral tobacco was 31.3% while it was 10.2% in patients with previous history of tobacco use (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Standard clinicopathological variables could not predict for HPV‑positivity. Negative history of tobacco (smokeless) usage showed statistical trends toward ability to predict HPV‑positivity in oral cancer patients.

Carcass characteristics, physicochemical changes and oxidative stress indicators of meat from sheep fed diets with coffee pulp / Características de carcaça, alterações físico-químicas e indicadores de estresse oxidativo de carne de ovinos alimentados com dietas com polpa de café

The purpose of this study was to determine how feeding sheep coffee pulp affects carcass characteristics and what changes occur in physicochemical, antioxidant capacity and oxidation of the meat during refrigerated storage. The experiment was carried out in 15 Blackbelly lambs weighing an average 22.86±0.76kg. The animals were assigned to three treatments: T0=control diet, T1=diet with 8% coffee pulp, and T2=diet with 16% coffee pulp. After fattening for 56 days, the sheep were slaughtered and the carcasses assessed. The inclusion of 16% coffee pulp in the diet increased carcass dressing from 48.19 to 50.83% and decreased the amount of fat in rumen and intestines from 3.43 to 2.53% (P<0.05). The inclusion of coffee pulp in the diet did not alter the amount of crude protein or fat in meat or its oxidation and antioxidant capacity during refrigerated storage. However, the inclusion of coffee pulp in the diet decreased fat in the rumen and intestines, and thus increased the amount of usable meat...

Objetivou-se determinar características de carcaça, alterações físico-químicas, capacidade antioxidante e de oxidação da carne de ovinos alimentados com polpa de café, durante o período de armazenamento refrigerado. O experimento foi realizado com 15 cordeiros Blackbelly com um peso médio de 22,86 ± 0,76kg. Os animais foram distribuídos em três tratamentos: T0=dieta controle, T1=dieta com 8% de polpa de café e T2=dieta com polpa de café de 16%. Depois de 56 dias de engorda, cordeiros foram abatidos, e a carcaça avaliada. Inclusão de polpa de café de 16% na dieta aumentou o rendimento de carcaça de 48.19 para 50.83% e diminuiu a quantidade de gordura no rúmen e nos intestinos de 3.43 para 2.53% (P<0,05). A inclusão de polpa de café na dieta não alterou a proteína ou a gordura na carne nem a oxidação e a capacidade antioxidante durante o armazenamento refrigerado. A inclusão de polpa de café na dieta de cordeiros diminui a gordura no rúmen e nos intestinos e aumenta a quantidade de carne na carcaça...

Helicobacteriose em leitões: imuno-histoquímica em amostras colhidas por meio de gastroscopia / Helicobacter infection in piglets: Immunohistochemical analysis in mucosal samples collected using gastroscopy

O diagnóstico da úlcera gastroesofágica (UGE) é fundamental para que se tente a recuperação dos afetados, entretanto há grande dificuldade na sua realização de forma precisa. Modernos endoscópios são ferramentas importantes nesse sentido e podem ser usados para determinar em que fase da criação a ulceração ocorre. A bactéria Helicobacter tem sido associada à UGE e gerado perdas econômicas. Tendo em vista que poucos trabalhos têm sido realizados para identificação do problema precocemente, este estudo teve como objetivo detectar as lesões relacionando-as, ou não, com a bactéria Helicobacter spp., mediante análises macroscópica e histopatológica de amostras colhidas por meio da gastroscopia. Foram utilizados 20 animais de ambos os sexos, pesando entre 22 e 26kg e com 65 dias de idade. O aparelho utilizado foi um gastrovideoscópio da marca Karl Storz, modelo 1380NKS. Foram colhidas amostras das regiões anatômicas aglandular (quadrilátero esofágico) e glandular (cárdica, fúndica e pilórica) para o teste ultrarrápido da urease e para as avaliações histopatológicas e imuno-histoquímicas. Onze animais apresentaram lesões na região aglandular à endoscopia, e microscopicamente 15 animais apresentaram paraqueratose. Em 18 animais, foram observadas alterações em pelo menos uma das três regiões glandulares. As lesões foram maiores na região cárdica, seguida da antral e da fúndica. Em relação ao teste ultrarrápido da urease, sete animais foram negativos nas quatro regiões, e 13 positivos em pelo menos uma delas. Em relação à imuno-histoquímica (IHQ), 10 animais foram negativos em todas as regiões e 10 foram positivos em pelo menos uma delas. Os achados pré-ulcerativos não demonstraram relação com o Helicobacter spp., que apresenta caráter saprofítico e oportunista confirmado pela sua imunomarcação em áreas sem lesão...

Gastroesophageal ulcer (GEU) diagnosis is fundamental for the treatment and recovery of the affected animal stock. GEU is a condition affecting animals, resulting in depletion of animal stock and subsequent economic losses. Helicobacter spp. have been associated with GEU. Modern endoscopes are important for detecting the stage of the breeding process at which the ulceration occurs. However, few studies regarding early detection of GEU have been conducted. Therefore, we aimed to identify whether GEU lesions were related to Helicobacter spp. infection, using gastroscopy as a diagnostic technique for macroscopic and histopathological analyses. Twenty piglets (both male and female) with a mean age of 65 days were included (weight, 22-26 kg). We used a Karl Storz Gastrovideoscope (model 1380NKS). Samples from nonglandular and glandular (cardia, fundus, and pylorus) regions were collected for the ultra-rapid urease test and for histopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) evaluations. Eleven animals showed macroscopic lesions in the nonglandular region during endoscopy, and 15 animals showed parakeratosis on histological analysis. Lesions in at least 1 glandular region were observed in 18 animals. The lesions were bigger in the cardiac region, followed by those in the antrum and the fundus. Regarding the ultra-rapid urease test, 7 animals were negative in all 4 regions and 13 were positive in at least 1 region. On IHC, 10 animals were negative in all 4 regions and 10 were positive in at least 1 region. However, pre-ulcerative findings were not correlated with Helicobacter spp. infection in the present study. The positive IHC findings for Helicobacter spp in regions without ulcerative lesions suggest its saprophytic and opportunistic nature...

Behavioral evaluation of male and female carioca high- and low-freezing rats / Avaliação comportamental de ratos machos e fêmeas cariocas / Evaluación comportamental em ratas machos y hembras cariocas alto y bajo congelamineto

Recent years have seen growing interest in the development of genetic animal models to investigate the bidirectional relationship between trait anxiety and defensive reactions. The present study further analyzed behavioral correlates of two novel breeding lines of rats, Carioca high-and low-conditioned freezing (CHF and CLF), based on defensive freezing responses to contextual cues previously associated with electric footshock. Male and female rats from the 10th generation were used to assess anxiety-like reactions in the elevated plus maze (EPM), depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test (FST), and aversive memory in the contextual fear conditioning paradigm. In the EPM, female rats showed lower anxiety-like behavior than males, whereas CHF rats were more anxious than CLF rats. The same pattern of results was found in the contextual fear conditioning paradigm. No differences were found between lines or sexes in the FST. Such differences in emotionality responses in the 10th generation of selected rats further indicate a possible use of this model to study correlations between trait anxiety and defensive reactions. The face validity of the model and its use to experimentally simulate generalized anxiety disorder in humans are also discussed.

Nos últimos anos, tem crescido o interesse pelo desenvolvimento de modelos animais geneticamente modificados para o estudo da relação bidirecional entre ansiedade traço e reações de defesa. O presente estudo analisou a correlação comportamental de duas novas linhagens de ratos, denominados de Carioca Alto e Baixo Congelamento (CHF e CLF), baseado na resposta de congelamento a estímulos contextuais previamente associados a choque elétrico nas patas. Foram utilizados ratos machos e fêmeas da 10ª geração para serem avaliadas as reações relacionadas à ansiedade no labirinto em cruz elevado (LCE), comportamentos relacionados à depressão no teste do nado forçado (TNF) e a memória aversiva no paradigma do medo condicionado ao contexto. No LCE, ratas fêmeas apresentaram um menor índice de comportamento indicativo de ansiedade comparadas aos machos. Mais ainda, animais da linhagem CHF apresentaram maiores índices de ansiedade em relação a animais da linhagem CLF. O mesmo padrão de resultados foi encontrado no paradigma do medo condicionado ao contexto. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre as linhagens ou entre os sexos testados no TNF. Tais diferenças nas respostas emocionais da 10ª geração de ratos geneticamente selecionados indicam uma possível utilização deste modelo no estudo de correlações entre ansiedade traço e reações de defesa. A validade de face do modelo e seu uso para simular experimentalmente o transtorno da ansiedade generalizada em humanos também são discutidos.

En los ultimos años, ha crescido el interés por el desarrollo de modelos animales geneticamente modificados para el estudio de la relación bidireccional entre ansiedad de rasgo y reaciones de defensa. El presente estudio analisó la correlación existente en el comportamiento de dos nuevas linajes de ratones, denominados de Carioca Alto y Bajo Congelamiento (CHF e CLF), basado en la respuesta de congelamiento a estimulos contextuales previamente asociados a choque elétrico en las patas. Fueron utilizados ratones machos y hembras de la 10ª generación para que fuesen evaluadas las reacciones relacionadas a la ansiedad en el laberinto en cruz elevado (LCE), comportamientos relacionados a la depresión en el teste de natación forzada (TNF) y la memória aversiva en el paradigma del miedo condicionado al contexto. En el LCE, las ratazanas presentaron un menor índice de comportamiento indicativo de ansiedad, se comparadas a los ratones machos. Animales de la linaje CHF presentaran mayores índices de ansiedad que los animales de la linaje hembras CLF. El mismo patrón de resultados fue encontrado em el paradigma del miedo condicionado al contexto. No se encontraron diferencias entre los linajes ó entre los sexos testados en el TNF. Tales diferencias en las respuestas emocionales de la 10ª generación de ratones geneticamente selecionados indican una posible utilización de ese modelo en el estudio de correlación entre ansiedade de rasgo y reacciones de defensa. La validad de contenido yaparente del modelo y sus utilización para simular experimentalmente el transtorno de la ansiedad generalizada en humanos, también son discutidos.

Carcass characteristics, physicochemical changes and oxidative stress indicators of meat from sheep fed diets with coffee pulp / Características de carcaça, alterações físico-químicas e indicadores de estresse oxidativo de carne de ovinos alimentados com dietas com polpa de café

The purpose of this study was to determine how feeding sheep coffee pulp affects carcass characteristics and what changes occur in physicochemical, antioxidant capacity and oxidation of the meat during refrigerated storage. The experiment was carried out in 15 Blackbelly lambs weighing an average 22.86±0.76kg. The animals were assigned to three treatments: T0=control diet, T1=diet with 8% coffee pulp, and T2=diet with 16% coffee pulp. After fattening for 56 days, the sheep were slaughtered and the carcasses assessed. The inclusion of 16% coffee pulp in the diet increased carcass dressing from 48.19 to 50.83% and decreased the amount of fat in rumen and intestines from 3.43 to 2.53% (P<0.05). The inclusion of coffee pulp in the diet did not alter the amount of crude protein or fat in meat or its oxidation and antioxidant capacity during refrigerated storage. However, the inclusion of coffee pulp in the diet decreased fat in the rumen and intestines, and thus increased the amount of usable meat.

Objetivou-se determinar características de carcaça, alterações físico-químicas, capacidade antioxidante e de oxidação da carne de ovinos alimentados com polpa de café, durante o período de armazenamento refrigerado. O experimento foi realizado com 15 cordeiros Blackbelly com um peso médio de 22,86 ± 0,76kg. Os animais foram distribuídos em três tratamentos: T0=dieta controle, T1=dieta com 8% de polpa de café e T2=dieta com polpa de café de 16%. Depois de 56 dias de engorda, cordeiros foram abatidos, e a carcaça avaliada. Inclusão de polpa de café de 16% na dieta aumentou o rendimento de carcaça de 48.19 para 50.83% e diminuiu a quantidade de gordura no rúmen e nos intestinos de 3.43 para 2.53% (P<0,05). A inclusão de polpa de café na dieta não alterou a proteína ou a gordura na carne nem a oxidação e a capacidade antioxidante durante o armazenamento refrigerado. A inclusão de polpa de café na dieta de cordeiros diminui a gordura no rúmen e nos intestinos e aumenta a quantidade de carne na carcaça.

Microbial colonization of Provox voice prosthesis in the Indian scenario.

INTRODUCTION: Tracheoesophageal speech using the voice prosthesis is considered to be the “gold standard” with success rates as high as 90%. Despite significant developments, majority eventually develop dysfunction due to microbial deterioration. We did a pilot study of 58 laryngectomy patients who developed prosthesis dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 58 laryngectomy patients who had their dysfunctional prosthesis removed were included in this study. Dysfunctional prostheses were removed and examined. Esophageal and tracheal flanges were examined separately. After obtaining pure fungal and bacterial cultures, the yeast strains were identified. Bacteria were identified with the light microscope and gram staining. We analyzed prosthesis lifespan and probable factors affecting it. RESULTS: Central leak was found in 43% cases while in 57% peri‑prosthetic leakage was the most common reason for prosthesis replacement. Microbial analysis revealed a combination of yeast and bacteria in approximately 55% culture samples. Out of these, almost 90% had the presence of single yeast species with bacteria. Pure fungal culture was identified in rest of the 45% cultures while none detected pure bacterial forms. Candida tropicalis was the solitary yeast in 81% while Candida albicans was seen in 10% as the solitary yeast. Bacterial isolates revealed Klebsiella pneumonia in 19%, Escherichia coli in 8% while Staphylococcus aureus was grown in 1% cultures. The consumption of curd (P = 0.036, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 2.292‑64.285) to have a significant correlation of the mean prosthesis lifespan. Consumption of curd (P = 0.001, 95% CI: 0.564‑2.008) and history of prior radiotherapy (P = 0.015, 95% CI: 0.104‑0.909) had a significant bearing on the Provox prosthesis lifespan. CONCLUSIONS: Candida is the most common organism grown on voice prosthesis in Indian scenario. Consumption of curd and history of prior radiotherapy significantly affect Provox prosthesis lifespan.

Delay in seeking specialized care for oral cancers: Experience from a tertiary cancer center.

OBJECTIVE: Advanced oral cancers are a challenge for treatment, as they require complex procedures for excision and reconstruction. Despite being occurring at a visible site and can be detected easily, many patients present in advanced stages with large tumors. Timely intervention is important in improving survival and quality of life in these patients. The aim of the present study was to find out the causes of delay in seeking specialist care in advanced oral cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective questionnaire based study was done on 201 consecutive advanced oral squamous cancer patients who underwent surgery at our hospital. All patients had either cancer of gingivobuccal complex (GBC) or tongue and had tumors of size more than 4 cm (T3/T4) and were treatment naïve at presentation. RESULTS: Even though most patients observed abnormal lesions in their mouth, majority delayed the decision to visit a physician early. A significant percentage of patients (50%) also reported a delayed diagnosis by the primary care physician before being referred to a tertiary care center for definitive treatment. The average total duration from symptoms to treatment was 7 months. CONCLUSION: The main reasons of this delay in receiving treatment were due to patients themselves (primary delay) or due to time taken by the primary physician to diagnose the condition (secondary delay). Oral self-examination can be helpful in detecting oral cancers early.