Ultrastructure of the antennal sensilla of Alabama argillacea (Hübner, 1823) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae)

Abstract Insects have several types of sensilla, the characterization of which has been fundamental to understanding the mechanisms of sensory perception in different species. This study aimed to describe the ultrastructure of the sensilla present on the antennae of Alabama argillacea (Hübner, 1823) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae), an important pest of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) crops, as well as their possible variation between sexes. To do this, the antennae of males and females of A. argillacea were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Sensilla morphometry was assessed using photomicrographs, from which the lengths and basal and apical diameters of sensilla were measured using the ImageJ program. Seven types of sensilla were identified on the antennae of A. argillacea: sensilla trichodea, sensilla chaetica, sensilla auricillica, sensilla coeloconica, sensilla styloconica, sensilla basiconica, and sensilla Böhm bristles. Differences between the sensilla of males and females were found in their lengths and basal diameters in the distal and proximal regions. This suggests that sensilla functionality may not only vary from one species to another, but also between sexes within the same species. Thus, further transmission electron microscopy and single sensillum recording studies may provide more detailed information on the sensilla of A. argillacea and their functions.

Análise histológica do estômago da prole de ratas Wistar submetidas ao consumo crônico de álcool durante a prenhez / Histological analysis of stomach of offspring of Wistar rats submitted to chronic alcohol consumption during pregnancy

O consumo de bebidas alcoólicas na gravidez consiste em um importante problema de saúde pública, visto que, pode causar prejuízos na organogênese de diversos órgãos, incluindo o estômago, entretanto, poucos estudos avaliam o efeito da exposição pré-natal ao álcool nesse órgão. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar histologicamente o estômago da prole de ratas submetidas ao consumo crônico de álcool durante a prenhez. Utilizou-se 10 ratas prenhes divididas nos grupos: Controle - ratas que receberam água destilada durante todo período gestacional e Álcool ­ ratas que receberam álcool etílico absoluto (3g/kg/dia) durante todo período gestacional. Logo após o nascimento, 12 neonatos (6 machos e 6 fêmeas) de cada grupo foram anestesiados e os estômagos coletados. Posteriormente, os órgãos foram fixados e processados seguindo a técnica histológica de rotina. Foram feitas análises histomorfométricas das camadas mucosa, muscular e da parede total do estômago. Observou-se que as proles macho e fêmea expostas ao etanol apresentaram diminuição da área de epitélio, contudo, os machos também mostraram redução significativa do número de células epiteliais. Demonstrou-se ainda redução na espessura das camadas mucosa, muscular e da parede total do estômago da prole fêmea do grupo Álcool. No entanto, a camada muscular apresentou aumento significativo em sua espessura no grupo de neonatos machos expostos ao etanol. Assim, concluímos que a exposição pré-natal ao álcool provoca efeitos nocivos sobre o estômago dos neonatos, contudo, estudos futuros são necessários para melhor elucidar os mecanismos envolvidos na patogênese e possíveis consequências para os animais na fase adulta.

Consumption of alcoholic beverages during pregnancy is a significant public health issue since it can damage the organogenesis of several organs, including the stomach; however, few studies evaluate the effect of prenatal exposure to alcohol in this organ. The objective of this study was to analyze the histology of the stomach of offspring of rats submitted to chronic alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Ten pregnant rats were divided into two groups: Control - rats receiving distilled water throughout the gestation period, and Alcohol - rats receiving absolute ethyl alcohol (3g/kg/day) throughout the gestation period. After birth, 12 newborn rats (6 males and 6 females) from each group were anesthetized and their stomachs were collected. Subsequently, the organs were fixed and processed following the routine histological technique. The mucosa, muscle and total stomach were submitted to histomorphometric analyses. It was observed that the male and female offspring exposed to ethanol had a decrease in the epithelium area. However, males also showed a significant reduction in the number of epithelial cells. There was also a reduction in the layer's thickness mucosa, muscle and total stomach wall of the female offspring from the alcohol group. Additionally, the muscular layer presented a significant increase in its thickness in the group of male neonates exposed to ethanol. It can be concluded that prenatal exposure to alcohol causes harmful effects on neonates' stomachs; however, future studies are necessary to better elucidate the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and possible consequences for the animals in adulthood.

Histological and histochemical changes by clove essential oil upon the gonads of Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) / Alteraciones histológicas e histoquímicas provocadas por el aceite esencial de clavo de olor en las gónadas de Spodoptera frugiperda ( je smith ) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Spodoptera frugiperda is a polyphagous insect that causes economic losses to several crops in Brazil and is the major obstacle to corn production. Researches focusing on alternative control, e.g. botanical products are expanding to offer a wide variety of molecules that interfere with different biological parameters of insect pests. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that clove essential oil affects the spermatogenesis, ovarioles histochemistry and the fertility of S. frugiperda. The results showed that clove essential oil affects the gametogenesis of S. frugiperda ovarioles, reflecting negatively on its reproduction, proving to be a promising tool for controlling this pest.

Spodoptera frugiperda es un insecto polífago que causa pérdidas económicas a varias cosechas en Brasil y es el mayor obstáculo para la producción de maíz. Este estudio está centrado en el control alternativo, con productos botánicos que se están expandiendo y ofrecen una amplia variedad de moléculas que interfieren con diferentes parámetros biológicos de plagas de insectos. Por tanto, se puso a prueba la hipótesis de que el aceite esencial de clavo de olor afecta la espermatogénesis. La histoquímica de los ovarioles y la fertilidad de S. frugiperda. Los resultados mostraron que el aceite esencial de clavo de olor afecta la gametogénesis de los ovarioles en S. frugiperda, lo que incide negativamente en su reproducción, demostrando ser una herramienta prometedora para el control de esta plaga.

Effects of melatonin and prolactin in reproduction: review of literature / Efeitos da melatonina e da prolactina na reprodução: revisão de literatura.

Summary The pineal gland is responsible for producing a hormone called melatonin (MEL), and is accepted as the gland that regulates reproduction in mammals. Prolactin (PRL) also exhibits reproductive activity in animals in response to photoperiod. It is known that the concentrations of PRL are high in the summer and reduced during winter, the opposite of what is seen with melatonin in these seasons. In placental mammals, both prolactin and melatonin affect implantation, which is considered a critical point of pregnancy, since a successful pregnancy requires the development of a synchronous interaction between the endometrium and blastocyst for placental development. It is also known that PRL levels during pregnancy are essential for the maintenance of pregnancy, because this hormone induces the corpus luteum to produce progesterone, in addition to stimulating blastocyst implantation to maintain pregnancy and form the placenta. However, melatonin levels in plasma have also been shown to increase during pregnancy, peaking at the end of this period, which suggests that this hormone plays an important role in the maintenance of pregnancy. Thus, it is clear that treatment with prolactin or melatonin interferes with the processes responsible for the development and maintenance of pregnancy.

Resumo A glândula pineal é responsável pela produção do hormônio melatonina (MEL), sendo aceita como a glândula reguladora da reprodução em mamíferos. A prolactina (PRL) também exibe atividade reprodutiva em animais, em resposta ao fotoperíodo. Sabe-se que as concentrações de PRL são elevadas durante o verão e baixam durante o inverno, ocorrendo o oposto com os níveis do hormônio melatonina nessas estações. Nos mamíferos placentários, tanto a melatonina quanto a prolactina influenciam a implantação, que é considerada o ponto crítico da gravidez, pois o sucesso da gestação requer o desenvolvimento de uma interação sincronizada entre o endométrio e o blastocisto para o desenvolvimento da placenta. Sabe- -se ainda que os níveis de PRL durante a gestação são essenciais para a manutenção da gravidez, pois esse hormônio induz o corpo lúteo a produzir progesterona, além de estimular a implantação do blastocisto, mantendo a prenhez e o desenvolvimento placentário. Em contrapartida, tem-se demonstrado também que os níveis de melatonina no plasma aumentam durante a gestação, atingindo valores elevados no fim desse período, sugerindo que esse hormônio desempenhe um importante papel na manutenção da gestação. Dessa forma, fica claro que o tratamento com prolactina ou melatonina interfere nos processos responsáveis pelo desenvolvimento e pela manutenção da gestação.

Histopathology of organs from neonate offspring born to female rats exposed to sublethal doses of biological and synthetic insecticides / Histopatología de órganos de ratas recién nacidas sometidas a dosis subletales de insecticidas sintéticos y biológicos

The current annual consumption of insecticides in agriculture in Brazil is over three million tons. The exposure happens through food that is contaminated with toxic waste and respiratory and dermal absorption. Biological control with Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) has assumed increasing importance replacing the use of conventional insecticides. However, the tests used to justify approval for use and market release of Bt products, and the protocols used to assess the development of toxicity, are extremely superficial. In addition, more studies comparing effects between males and females and during pregnancy and lactation have not been conducted. Thus, the hypothesis tested in this study was if the administration of the XenTari® WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. Aizawai) biological insecticide and Decis® 25CE (Deltamethrin) synthetic insecticide, at concentrations that do not cause clinical signs of maternal toxicity, could interfere in the histophysiology of the organs of neonate rats. Thirty-five pregnant albino rats, Rattus norvegicus albinus, were randomly distributed in seven groups: Group I received placebo (water); Groups II, III, and IV received 1.0, 10.0, and 20.0 mg of XenTari®/kg respectively; and Groups V, VI, and VII received 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg of Deltamethrin/kg, respectively. The results showed that the highest doses of insecticides reduced the number of neonates. No histopathological alterations were observed in the kidneys, however, lipidosis, diffuse mononuclear inflammatory cells, and sinusoids congestion were observed in the liver. Rats from groups IV and VII presented atresia in the ovaries. Neonates from Group IV showed congestion and hemosiderin deposition in the testicle's blood vessels, which is characteristic of a process of hemolysis. In conclusion, both insecticides presented similar effects on organs and number of neonates born to rats exposed to sub-lethal doses that did not cause clinical symptoms of maternal intoxication.

El consumo anual actual de insecticidas en la agricultura en Brasil es más de tres millones de toneladas. Aproximadamente el 60% de los trabajadores rurales expuestos a los insecticidas son mujeres. La exposición ocurre a través de alimentos contaminados con desechos tóxicos y la absorción respiratoria y dérmica. El control biológico con Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) ha adquirido una importancia creciente en la sustitución del uso de insecticidas convencionales. Sin embargo, las pruebas utilizadas para justificar la aprobación para el uso y la liberación del mercado de los productos Bt, y los protocolos utilizados para evaluar el desarrollo de toxicidad, son muy superficiales. Además, no se han realizado estudios que que permitan comparar los efectos entre hombres y mujeres y durante el embarazo y la lactancia. Por lo tanto, la hipótesis planteada en este estudio fue si la administración del Grupo de Trabajo XenTari ® (B. thuringiensis subsp. Aizawai) insecticida biológico y Decis ® 25CE (deltametrina) insecticidas sintéticos, en concentraciones que no causan signos clínicos de toxicidad materna, podría interferir en la histofisiología de los órganos de las ratas recién nacidas. Treinta y cinco ratas albinas preñadas, Rattus norvegicus albino, fueron distribuidas aleatoriamente en siete grupos: Grupo I recibió un placebo (agua), los Grupos II, III y IV recibieron 1,0, 10,0 y 20,0 mg de XenTari ® / kg, respectivamente, y Grupos V, VI y VII recibieron 1,0, 2,0 y 4,0 mg de deltametrina / kg, respectivamente. Los resultados mostraron que las dosis más altas de insecticidas redujeron el número de neonatos. No se observaron alteraciones histopatológicas en los riñones, sin embargo, se observaron en el hígado, lipidosis, difusas células inflamatorias mononucleares, y la congestión de sinusoides. Las ratas de los grupos IV y VII presentaron atresia ovárica. Los recién nacidos de grupo IV mostraron congestión y depósito de hemosiderina en los vasos sanguíneos del testículo, lo cual es característico de un proceso de hemólisis. En conclusión, los insecticidas presentaron efectos similares en los órganos y en el número de recién nacidos de ratas expuestas a dosis sub-letales, que no causan síntomas clínicos de toxicidad materna.

Analysis of fetal and placental development in rats after administration of hydroalcoholic extract from the root of Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae) / Análisis del desarrollo fetal y placenta en ratas después de la administración de extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz de Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae)

We investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract the Petiveria alliacea root on fetal and placental development female rats pregnancy. Thirty female rats were mated and divided in groups: I - rats treated with placebo and sacrificed on the 7th day; II - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract and sacrificed on the 7th day; III - rats treated with placebo and sacrificed on the 14th day; IV - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract and sacrificed on the 14th day; V - rats treated with placebo for analysis of the offspring; VI - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract for analysis of the offspring. The extract was administered by gavage in the dosage of 18mg/kg body wt., in 5th day of pregnancy. The implantation sites and placenta were fixed in Bouin and processed for the embedding in paraffin. The offspring were weighed, measured and counted. The hydroalcoholic extract of the root of the P. alliacea causes significant reduction in the number of implantation sites, but do not cause histological alterations in these sites and placenta. No alterations in the number, length and weight have been observed in offspring. Our results suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract from the P. alliacea in the dosage of 18mg/kg body wt., administered to female rats, on the 5th day of pregnancy, only cause a retard in the implantation process.

Se investigaron los efectos de la extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz Petiveria alliacea sobre el desarrollo fetal y placentario en ratas preñadas. Treinta ratas hembras fueron criadas y divididas en grupos: I- Ratas tratadas con placebo y sacrificado en el día 7; II- Ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico y sacrificadas en el día 7; III- ratas tratadas con placebo y sacrificado el día 14; IV- ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico y sacrificaron el día 14; V- ratas tratadas con placebo para el análisis de las crías; VI- ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico para el análisis de las crías. El extracto se administró por sonda en dosis de 18mg/kg de peso corporal, en el 5to día de preñez. Los sítios de implantación y la placenta se fijaron en Bouin y se procesaron para la inclusión en parafina. Las crías fueron pesadas, medidas y contadas. El extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz de P. alliacea provocó una reducción significativa en el número de sitios de implantación, pero no causaron alteraciones histológicas en estos sitios y la placenta. No se observaron alteraciones en el número, longitud y peso de las crías. Nuestros resultados sugieren que el extracto hidroalcohólico de P. alliacea en la dosis de 18mg/kg de peso corporal, administrado a ratas hembras en el 5to día de preñez, sólo causó retardo en el proceso de implantación.

Análises histoquímica e morfométrica de lesões endometrióticas induzidas em ratas e tratadas com dexametasona / Histochemical and morphometric analysis of endometriotic lesions induced in female rats and treated with dexamethasone

INTRODUÇÃO: A literatura relata que os implantes endometriais possuem receptores para hormônios esteroides, sendo estimulados principalmente pelo estrógeno, e que algumas estratégicas de tratamento têm sido propostas em modelos experimentais, tais como a utilização de glicocorticoides sintéticos, como a dexametasona. OBJETIVO: analisar histoquímica e morfometricamente lesões endometrióticas induzidas em ratas e tratadas com 0,8 mg/kg/dia de dexametasona. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Quarenta ratas albinas (linhagem Wistar) com 90 dias de vida, pesando aproximadamente 150 g, foram induzidas à endometriose e divididas em grupos: 1. ratas com endometriose e avaliadas após 34 dias (G1); 2. ratas com endometriose e avaliadas após 47 dias (G2); 3. ratas com endometriose e, após 21 dias do pós-operatório, tratadas com dexametasona por 13 dias (G3) e 4. ratas com endometriose e, após 21 dias do pós-operatório, tratadas com dexametasona por 13 dias e eutanasiadas após um período de 13 dias, contados a partir do término do tratamento com dexametasona (G4). Os fragmentos dos implantes endometriais foram fixados em Bouin, incluídos em paraplast e corados por hematoxilina-eosina e tricrômico de Mallory. As médias do número de glândulas foram submetidas ao teste não-paramétrico de Tukey-Kramer (p < 0,05). RESULTADOS: A dexametasona reduziu a inflamação nos implantes endometriais, o teor de colágeno no estroma e significativamente a área ocupada pelas glândulas (G1= 123,25 ± 6,44ª; G2= 113 ± 6,27ª; G3= 81,66 ± 3,05b; e G4= 94 ± 6,24b). CONCLUSÃO: A dexametasona, na dosagem utilizada, reduz os efeitos estrogênicos em implantes endometriais em ratas.

INTRODUCTION: The literature reports that endometrial implants have receptors for steroid hormones primarily stimulated by estrogen and that some treatment strategies have been proposed in experimental models such as the use of synthetic glucocorticoids, for example, dexamethasone. OBJECTIVE: to analyze histochemically and morphometrically endometriotic lesions induced in rats and treated with dexamethasone (0.8 mg/kg/day). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty albino female rats (Wistar strain), with 90 days of age, weighing approximately 150 g, were induced with endometriosis and divided into groups: I - rats with endometriosis and evaluated after 34 days, II - rats with endometriosis and evaluated after 47 days, III - rats with endometriosis and 21 days post-surgery treated with dexamethasone for 13 days and IV - rats with endometriosis and 21 days post-surgery treated with dexamethasone for 13 days and euthanized after a period of 13 days starting from the end of treatment. The fragments of endometrial implants were fixed in Bouin, embedded in Paraplast and stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Mallory trichrome. The mean number of glands was compared through nonparametric Tukey-Kramer test (p < 0,05). RESULTS: Dexamethasone reduced inflammation in the endometrial implants, the collagen content in the stroma and decreased significantly the area occupied by glands (GI - 123.25 ± 6.44ª; IGI - 113 ± 6.27ª; GIII - 81.66 ± 3.05b and GIV - 94 ± 6.24b). CONCLUSION: The applied dexamethasone dosage reduces estrogenic effects in endometrial implants in rats.

Morphological analysis of neonates of rats treated with dexamethasone in the initial phase of pregnancy / Análisis morfológico de neonatos de ratas tratadas con dexametasona en fase inicial de la preñez

The glucocorticoid dexamethasone has been largely used due to its anti-inflammatory effect. However, several authors report that the excessive exposition to it during pregnancy may cause a retard in the development in several tissues, mainly: liver, lungs and kidneys. But, the majority of the works are done with the application of dexamethasone in the late periods of pregnancy. Because of the lack of researches that evaluate the effects in the beginning of gestation, this paper aimed at evaluating the effect of dexamethasone administered in the initial phase of pregnancy, over the morphology of neonates rat. It was used 10 albino rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) aged 90 days from the lineage Wistar. The female were coupled and divided in two groups: Group I - rats not submitted to the dexamethasone application (control); Group II - rats submitted to the dexamethasone application in the first 5 days of pregnancy. The results show that the treatment with dexamethasone in a dosage of 0.8mg/Kg during the 5 first days of pregnancy does not produces a weight and height reduction or malformation in the offspring, it does not cause changes in the development of the liver and kidneys of neonate rats, but it leads to a reduction in the denseness of the interalveolar septa causing a higher distension of the alveoli.

El glucocorticoide dexametasona ha sido ampliamente utilizado en virtud de su potencial antiinflamatorio. Sin embargo, varios autores relatan que la exposición excesiva a la dexametasona durante la preñez puede causar el retardo del desarrollo de varios tejidos, principalmente hígado, pulmones y riñones. La mayoría de los trabajos son llevados a cabo con la aplicación de dexametasona en los períodos tardíos de la gestación. El objetivo del trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la dexametasona, sobre la morfología de ratones neonatos, administrada en la fase inicial de la preñez. Fueron utilizadas 10 ratas Wistar albinas (Rattus norvegicus albinus) con 90 días de edad. Las hembras fueron apareadas y divididas en dos grupos: Grupo I- ratas no sometidas a la dexametasona (grupo control) y Grupo II - ratas sometidas a la aplicación de dexametasona durante los cinco primeros días de preñez. Los resultados mostraron que el tratamiento con dexametasona en dosis de 0,8mg/Kg, a lo largo de los cinco primeros días de la preñez, no produce reducción de peso, longitud o malformación en la prole, tampoco causa alteraciones en el desarrollo del hígado y riñones en los ratones neonatos, pero sí reduce el grosor de los septos interalveolares, causando de esta manera, mayor distensión de los alvéolos.

Effect of the treatment with dexamethasone, for 10 and 15 days, on the fertility in induced rats to polycystic ovaries, by constant illumination / Efecto del tratamiento con dexametasona, por 10 y 15 días, sobre la fertilidad en ratas inducidas a ovarios poliquísticos por la iluminación constante

The present study had the objective of obtaining information about fertility in rats treated with dexamethasone for 10 and 15 days consecutively, to polycystic ovaries, induced by constant illumination. It was used 40 albino rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus), aged 90 days, form the lineage Wistar, which were split, randomly, in four groups, each constituted of 10 animals, namely: Group I - rats kept in a clear/dark cycle for 12/12 hours, and after 100 days submitted to fertility evaluation (control); Group II - rats kept under constant illumination during 100 days and then submitted to fertility evaluation; Group III - rats kept under constant illumination during 100 days, then treated with dexamethasone for 10 days and submitted to fertility evaluation; Group IV - rats kept under constant illumination during 100 days, then treated with dexamethasone for 15 days and submitted to fertility evaluation. The results showed that the number of implanted sites was 38(G1), 37(G2), 32(G3) and 06(G4). The reduction in group IV was due to the high mortality during the experiment, probably because of the prolonged treatment with dexamethasone. These sites presented similar histological aspects. The macroscopic analysis of the neonates haven't shown any indication of malformation. Also, abortion haven't been observed. The treatment with dexamethasone for 10 days in rats does not affect the fertility and the development of the lungs, liver and kidneys of neonates, while the administration during 15 days leads to a high maternal mortality.

El estudio tuvo el objetivo de obtener informaciones sobre la fertilidad en ratas tratadas con dexametasona por 10 y 15 días seguidos, para ovarios poliquísticos, inducidos por iluminación constante. Se utilizó 40 ratas albinas (Rattus norvegicus albinus) con 90 días de edad, del linaje Wistar, las cuales fueron divididas, en cuatro grupos, cada uno constituido por 10 animales: Grupo I - ratas mantenidas en ciclo claro/oscuro de 12/12 horas, y después de 100 días sometidas a la evaluación de la fertilidad (control); Grupo II- ratas mantenidas bajo iluminación constante, durante 100 días, y luego sometidas a la evaluación de la fertilidad ; Grupo III - ratas mantenidas bajo iluminación constante, a lo largo de 100 días, y posteriormente tratadas con dexametasona por diez días, y sometidas a la evolución de la fertilidad; Grupo IV - ratas mantenidas bajo iluminación constante, durante 100 días, en seguida tratadas con dexametasona por 15 días, y sometidas a la evaluación de la fertilidad. Los resultados mostraron que el número de sitios implantados fue 38(GI), 37(G2), 32(G3), y 06(G4). La reducción en el grupo IV fue como consecuencia de la alta mortalidad durante la experiencia, probablemente en función del largo tratamiento con dexametasona. Esos sitios presentaron aspectos histológicos semejantes. El análisis macroscópico de los neonatos no mostró ningún vestigio de malformación. Tampoco fueron observados abortos. El tratamiento con dexametasona por 10 días en ratas, no afecta la fertilidad y el desarrollo de los pulmones, hígado y riñones de neonatos, mientras que la administración por 15 días lleva a una alta mortalidad materna.

Histological Evaluation of the Induced Endometriosis in Rats, after Treatment with Dexamethasone / Evaluación Histológica de la Endometriosis Inducida en Ratas, Posterior al Tratamiento con Dexametasona

The present research had the purpose to analyze morphologically the sites of endometrial implants on the external area of the musculature of the anterior abdominal wall of female rats, treated with dexamethasone. For so, these 15 albino female rats were used (Rattus norvegicus albinus), of the lineage Wistar with 90 days of age, that were submitted to the induction of the endometriosis, and divided in the following groups: Group I ­ induced female rats to endometriosis and evaluated after 21 days (control); Group II ­ induced female rats to endometriosis and after 21 days, treated with dexamethasone for 10 days; Group III - induced female rats to endometriosis, and after 21 days, treated with dexamethasone for 15 days. The dexamethasone was administered in the dosage of 0,8 mg/day/animal. Our results showed that the chronic inflammatory process in the endometriosis doesn't decrease after treatment with dexamethasone for 10 days, while the treatment with dexamethasone for 15 days reverted the chronic inflammatory process in the endometriosis, besides stimulating the proliferation of glands in endometrial implants.

El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar morfológicamente los sitios de implantes endometriales sobre la región externa de la musculatura de la pared abdominal anterior de ratones, tratados con dexametasona. Para ello, fueron utilizados 15 ratones albinos (Rattus norvergicus albinus), del linaje Wistar, de 90 días de edad, los cuales fueron sometidos a inducción de la endometriosis y divididos en los siguientes grupos: Grupo I ­ ratones inducidos a la endometriosis y evaluados tras 21 días (control); Grupo II ­ ratones inducidos a la endometriosis y tras 21 días, tratados con dexametasona durante 10 días; Grupo III ­ ratones inducidos a la endometriosis, y tras 21 días, tratados con dexametasona durante 15 días. La dexametasona fue administrada en dosis de 0,8mg /día/animal. Nuestros resultados muestran que el proceso inflamatorio crónico en la endometriosis no baja después del tratamiento con dexametasona durante 10 días, mientras que el tratamiento con dexametasona durante 15 días cambió del proceso inflamatorio crónico en la endometriosis y estimuló la proliferación de glándulas en los implantes endometriales.

Análise histológica do ovário de ratas submetidas à ausência de luz / histological analysis of the ovary of female rats submitted to light absence

Objetivo: Obter informações da histologia e do desenvolvimento dos folículos ovarianos de ratas mantidas na ausência de luz. Material e Métodos: Foram utilizadas 10 ratas albinas, as quais foram divididas em dois grupos de cinco animais: GRUPO I - ratas mantidas no ciclo claro/escuro 12/12h, por três meses (Controle), e GRUPO II - ratas mantidas na ausência de luz por três meses. Resultados: Nos animais do grupo II foi observado, na região cortical aos ovários, predominância de corpos lúteos e alguns folículos ovarianos em fase inicial de desenvolvimento, enquanto que na região medular foram evidenciadas poucas células intersticiais dispersas no estroma ovariano. Conclusão: A ausência de luz pode acarretar um aumento do nível de melatonina circulante no sangue e consequentemente, parece contribuir para a manutenção de corpos lúteos e diminuir a atividade de síntese de esteróides das células intersticiais do ovário.

Objective: This study had the objective of acquiring information about the histology and development of ovarian follicles of female rats kept in the absence of light. Material and Methods: 10 albino female rats were used and divided into two groups of five: GROUP I - Female rats kept in the dark-light cycle 12/12 hours, for three months (Control), and GROUP II - female rats kept in the absence of light for three months. Results: in the rats of group II, a predominance of corpus luteum and some ovarian follicles in the initial phase of development was observed in the cortical area to the ovaries, while few dispersed interstitial cells were evidenced in the ovarian stroma, in the medullar area. Conclusion: The absence of light can bring about an increase in the level of melatonin in the blood and consequently, it can contribute to the maintenance of corpus luteum and reduce the activity of synthesis of steroids present in the interstitial cells of the ovary.

Evaluation of the estral cycle in rats after treatmen twith dexamethasone for polycystic ovaries, induced by constant illumination / Evaluación del Ciclo Estral en Ratones Después del Tratamiento con Dexametasona para Ovarios Poliquísticos, Inducidos por Iluminación Continua

El objetivo del estudio fue obtener información básica del ciclo estral en ratones tratados con dexametasona, en ovarios poliquísticos, inducidos por iluminación continua. Fueron utilizados 30 ratones albinos (Rattus norvegius albinus) del linaje Wistar, con 90 días de edad, divididos en los siguientes grupos: Grupo I – ratones mantenidos en ciclo claro/oscuro de 12/12 horas,tras 100 días sometidos a la evaluación de la ciclicidad (control). Grupo II – ratones mantenidos bajo iluminación continua, durante 100 días y luego sometidos a la evaluación de la ciclicidad. Grupo III – ratones mantenidos bajo iluminación continua, durante 100 días, después tratados con dexametasona durante cinco días y sometidos a la evaluación de la ciclicidad. Los resultados mostraron que tras 100 días de pruebas, los animales del grupo I presentaron una ciclicidad normal, siendo observadas las cuatro fases de éste. En los animales de los grupos II y III se verificó una mayor incidencia de fase de estro, con el porcentaje de 85 por ciento y 76,50 por ciento, respectivamente, caracterizando el estado de estro permanente. Fue observada la fase de diestro en el 15 por ciento, en el grupo II, y 23,5 por ciento en el grupo III, no siendo observadas las fases de proestro y metaestro. Posterior al tratamiento con dexametasona, se verificó una reducción acentuada en la fase de estro en los animales del grupo III, lo que también fue observado en los animales del grupo II , alcanzando un 34,5 por ciento y 20,85, respectivamente. Hubo incluso aumento de la fase de diestro en el grupo II (64,58 por ciento), y grupo III (75 por ciento). Notamos en esos grupos, la presencia de la fase de proestro en el 0,92 por ciento en el grupo II y 4,15 por ciento en el grupo III, no siendo observada la fase de metaestro. El tratamiento con dexametasona durante cinco días, produce más rápidamente una eventual vuelta del ciclo estral en ratones con poliquistosis ovárica.

The study aimed at obtaining basic information about estrous cycle in rats treated with dexamethasone, for polycystic ovaries, induced by constant illumination. It was used 30 female rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) from the lineage Wistar, with 90 days years old, divided according the following groups: Group I - rats maintained in a light/dark cycle for 12/12 hours, and after 100 days submitted to the cyclicity evaluation (control); Group II - rats maintained under constant illumination during 100 days and after submitted to the cyclicity evaluation; Group III - rats maintained under constant illumination during 100 days and after treated with dexamethasone for five days, and, then, submitted to the cyclicity evaluation. The results showed that after 100 days of experiment, the animals from group I presented a normal cyclicity, being observed the four phases of the cycle. In the animals of groups II and III, it was observed a higher incidence in the estrous phase, with 85% and 76,5% respectively, characterizing the state of permanent estrous. It was observed the phase of diestrous with 15% in group II, and 23,5% in group III, not being observed the phases of proestrous and metaestrous. After treatment with dexamethasone, it was verified a great reduction in the estrous phases in the animals from group III, what was also observed in the animals from group II, reaching numbers of 34,5% and 20,85%, respectively. Yet, there was an increase in the diestrous phase in group II (64,57%), and group III (75%). It has been noticed in these groups the presence of the proestrous phase with 0,92% in group II and 4,15% in group III, not being observed the metaestrous phase. The treatment with dexamethasone during five days produces, more rapidly, a possible retake of the estrous cycle in rats with ovarian polycystic ovaries.

Morphometric analysis of the development of the ovarian follicles in pinealectomized rats

El estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar morfometricamente el area ocupada por los foliculos ováricos en ovarios de ratas pinealectomizadas. Para ello, 24 ratas albinas (Rattus norvegicus albinus), fueron divididas igualmente en los siguientes grupos: Grupo I - Ratas falsamente pinealectomizadas y mantenidas en el ciclo claro/oscuro (12/12 horas), por tres meses; Grupo II - ratas pinealectomizadas y mantenidas en el ciclo claro/oscuro (12/12 horas), por tres meses; Grupo III - ratas pinealectomizadas y mantenidas en la ausencia de luz durante tres meses; Grupo IV í ratas falsamente pinealectomizadas, y mantenidas en la ausencia de luz por tres meses. Los resultados mostraron que los grupos I y IV presentaban, respectivamente, medias de 19,00 y 25,00, mientras que los grupos II y III presentaron las mayores medias, 28,25 y 27,25, respectivamente, indicando mayor área ocupada por los folículos. Fue observada una peque¤a cantidad de cuerpos lúteos en los grupos pinealectomizados. De esta manera, concluimos que la pinealectomía puede ejercer, con el tiempo, alguna influencia en la función gonadal, lo que podrá inducir la formación de un cuadro clinico anovulatorio, y consecuentemente, el desarrollo de ovarios policísticos.

Evaluation of the implantation in pinealectomized and/or submitted to the constant illumination rats

En este trabajo evaluamos los aspectos morfológicos y cuantitativos de los sitios de implantaciones en úteros de ratas pinealectomizadas y/o sometidas a iluminación constante. Los grupos experimentales fueron: I í ratas normales mantenidas en ciclo claro / oscuro de 12/12 horas, durante dos meses, cruzadas y sacrificadass en el 60 día de pre¤ez (control); II í ratas sham-pinealectomizadas mantenidas en ciclo claro/oscuro de 12/12 horas, durante dos meses, cruzadas y sacrificadas en el 60 día de pre¤ez (control); III í ratas pinealectomizadas mantenidas en ciclo claro/oscuro de 12/12 horas, durante dos meses, cruzadas y sacrificadas en el 60 día de pre¤ez; IV í ratas normales mantenidas en constante iluminación durante dos meses acasaladas y sacrificadas en el 60 día de pre¤ez; V í ratas sham-pinealectomiazadas mantenidas en constante iluminación durante dos meses, cruzadas y sacrificadas en el 60 día de pre¤ez; VI í ratas pinealectomizadas, mantenidas en constante iluminación durante dos meses, cruzadas y sacrificadas en el 60 día de pre¤ez. El análisis estadístico de las medias de los sitios de implantaciones mostró que hubo diferencia significativa, donde los grupos III, IV, V y VI diferían de los grupos I y II, los cuales presentaron las mayores medias. Los grupos III, IV, V y VI no son diferentes entre sí. El análisis morfológico de los sitios en los grupos controles reveló la presencia de peque¤as lagunas conteniendo sangre, además de células trofoblásticas y algunos citrofoblastos poliploides. En los grupos III, IV, V y VI se evidenció lagunas muy desarrolladas en los sitios, con trofoblastos, citrofoblastos con alto grado de poliploidia y sinciciotrofoblastos. Concluimos que la pinealectomía y/o constante iluminación llevan a una reducción del número de blastocistos implantados en ratas, además estimula el desarrollo de los sitios de implantación, indicando así; que la melatonina puede tener importante función en la viabilidad de implantación del blastocisto.

Morphologic aspects of the endometrium, in the estrus phase, of pinealectomized rats

In this paper, it was analyzed morphologically the endometrium of pinealectomized rats, treated or not with melatonin, besides luteinizing hormones levels (LH), stimulating follicle (FSH) and prolactin (PRL). The experimental groups were: I ¡ normal rats, during three months; II ¡ normal rats, during six months; III ¡ pinelalectomized rats evaluated after three months; IV ¡ pinealectomized rats treated with melatonin for three months; V ¡ pinealectomized rats evaluated after six months; VI ¡ pinealectomized rats for three months, and after treated with melatonin for more three months. In the animals from groups III and V, the estrous ciclicity was modified, because beyond the increase in the incidence of the estrus phase, some animals developed a persistent estrus condition. In the other groups the estrous cycle was normal. The hormonal dosage showed that there was an increase in the LH levels in groups III and V, and a small reduction in group IV. There weren't changes between groups VI and II. The levels of FSH and PRL showed themselves reduced in all animals from the pinealectomized group. However, these results didn't show statistically meaningful differences. In groups III, V and VI the endometrium presented a normal aspect except by the presence of several endometrial glands, in most cases, dilated. In the animals that developed persistent estrus, it was observed a very fibrous stroma and rare endometrial glands, some of them presenting non-keratinazed pavement stratified epithelium. The animals in group IV showed a similar endometrium to the control groups. It was concluded that the pinealectomy can draw to the condition of persistent estrus, not producing great variation in the serumal levels of the gonadotrophic hormones, and inducing more effective changes in the glandular epithelium.