Assessment of remnant liver function and volume after selective ligation of portal vein and hepatic artery in a rat model

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate liver regeneration after selective ligation of portal vein and hepatic artery by 3D Computed Tomography in an experimental model. Methods: Sixteen Wistar rats were randomized into four equal groups: Group I- control (sham), Group II- isolated selective ligation of the hepatic artery, Group III- isolated selective ligation of the portal vein and Group IV- combined ligation of portal vein and hepatic artery. Before procedure and five days after a 3D CT Scan was performed to analyze the hypertrophy, weight and function of the remnant liver. Results: The largest regeneration rate and increase of weight in the hypertrophied lobe was detected in group IV, the first with an average of 3.99 (p=0.006) and the last varying from 6.10g to 9.64g (p=0.01). However, total liver weight and the R1 ratio (Hypertrophied Lobe Weight/Total Liver Weight) was higher in group III (P<0.001) when compared with groups I, II and IV and showed no difference between them. The immunohistochemical examination with PCNA also found higher percentages with statistical significance differences in rats of groups III and IV. It was possible to confirm a strong correlation between hypertrophied lobe weight and its imaging volumetric study. Liver function tests only showed a significant difference in serum gamma-glutamyltransferase and phosphorous. Conclusion: There is a largest liver regeneration after combined ligation of portal vein and hepatic artery and this evidence may improve the knowledge of surgical treatment of liver injuries, with a translational impact in anima nobile.

Mating with seminal vesicle-excised male can affect the uterus phospholipid fatty-acids composition during implantation in an experimental mouse model

ABSTRACT Purpose No comprehensive information is available about uterus fatty acid (FA) change during implantation period and possible effects of the seminal vesicle secretion on it. Materials and Methods In this study, we evaluated FA composition of uterus phospholipids during the implantation period in intact and seminal vesicle-excised (SVX) mated female mice. Forty NMRI female mice were divided into control (mated with intact male) and seminal vesicle excised (SVX)-mated (mated with SVX-male) groups. The phospholipid fatty acids composition was monitored during the first five days of pregnancy using gas chromatography and also implantation rate was evaluated on fifth day of pregnancy. Results We found that levels of linoleic acid (LNA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) showed a decreasing trend from the first to the third day of pregnancy and then started to increase on the fourth day and peaked on the fifth day. In contrast, the level of saturated FA (SFA) increased on the second and third day of pregnancy compared to the first (p<0.05) and then decreased on the fourth and fifth. We also found that the seminal vesicle secretion could affect the levels of LNA, ARA, SFA, and PUFA in uterine phospholipids especially on second and third day. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between ARA level and implantation rate in control but not SVX-mated groups. Conclusions It can be concluded that several uterus FA that have important roles in early pregnancy could be affected by seminal vesicle secretion.

Environmental enrichment reduces brain excitability in adult rats overnourished during lactation / Enriquecimento ambiental reduz excitabilidade cerebral em ratos adultos hipernutridos durante a lactação

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to analyze whether exposure to environmental enrichment (EE) during the juvenile phase of life interferes with the electrical activity of the adult rat brain. In addition, the present research also investigated whether this putative effect on brain electrical activity could be affected by prior overnutrition during lactation. Electrophysiology was measured through cortical spreading depression (CSD), a phenomenon related to brain excitability. Methods: Wistar rats were suckled in litters of either nine or three pups, forming the nourished (N) or overnourished (ON) groups, respectively. At 36 days old, half of the animals from each nutritional condition were exposed to EE. The other half was kept in the standard environment (SE). At 90-120 days of life, each animal was anesthetized for CSD recordings. Results: Overnutrition during lactation caused increases (p < 0.05) in body and brain weights. The EE decelerated CSD propagation velocity regardless of nutritional state during lactation (p < 0.001). The CSD deceleration in the N-EE group was 23.8% and in the ON-EE group was 15% in comparison with the N-SE and ON-SE groups, respectively. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated that EE exposure in the juvenile phase of the rat's life reduced brain excitability, and this effect was observed even if animals were overnourished during lactation. An EE could be considered an adjuvant therapeutic resource to modulate brain excitability.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo analisou se a exposição ao ambiente enriquecido durante a fase juvenil da vida interferiria na atividade elétrica do cérebro de ratos adultos. Além disso, a presente pesquisa também investigou se esse provável efeito na atividade elétrica cerebral poderia ser afetado pela hipernutrição durante a lactação. A eletrofisiologia foi medida através da depressão alastrante cortical, um fenômeno relacionado à excitabilidade cerebral. Métodos: Ratos Wistar foram amamentados em ninhadas de nove ou três filhotes, formando os grupos nutridos ou hipernutridos, respectivamente. Aos 36 dias, metade dos animais de cada condição nutricional foram expostos ao ambiente enriquecido. A outra metade foi mantida na condição de ambiente padrão. Aos 90-120 dias de vida, foram obtidos os registros da depressão alastrante cortical. Resultados: A hipernutrição durante a lactação causou incrementos (p < 0,05) nos pesos corporal e cerebral.O Ambiente Enriquecido desacelerou a velocidade de propagação da depressão alastrante cortical independentemente do estado nutricional durante a lactação (p < 0,001). A desaceleração da depressão alastrante cortical no grupo nutrido/ambiente enriquecido foi de 23,8% e no grupo hipernutrido/ambiente enriquecido foi de 15% em comparação com os grupos nutrido/ambiente padrão e hipernutrido/ambiente padrão, respectivamente. Conclusão: Nossos dados demonstram que a exposição ao ambiente enriquecido na fase juvenil da vida do rato reduz a excitabilidade cerebral, e esse efeito pode ser observado mesmo se os animais estiverem hipernutridos durante a lactação. O ambiente enriquecido pode ser considerado um recurso terapêutico adjuvante para modular a excitabilidade cerebral.

Pituitary gland volumes in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder before and after cognitive-behavioral therapy

Objective: The beneficial effects of psychopharmacological and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on the brain are not well understood. In a previous study, we found smaller pituitary volumes in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of CBT on pituitary gland volume. Methods: A total of 81 patients with various anxiety disorders and the same number of healthy controls underwent magnetic resonance imaging, and their pituitary gland volumes were compared at baseline. Pituitary gland volumes were also measured before and after CBT in the patient group. Results: OCD patients had smaller pituitary gland volumes at baseline than healthy controls (0.54±0.29 cm3 for OCD patients vs. 0.82±0.30 cm3 for healthy controls; p < 0.001). We found no significant changes in OCD patient pituitary gland volume after the 16-week treatment period, with mean pre- and post-treatment values of 0.54±0.29 cm3 and 0.56±0.32 cm3, respectively (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Our results indicate an absence of post-CBT volumetric changes in the pituitary gland of OCD patients.

Protection mediated by chemokine CXCL10 in BALB/c mice infected by Leishmania infantum

BACKGROUND Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum is characterised by the loss of the ability of the host to generate an effective immune response. Chemokines have a direct involvement in the pathogenesis of leishmaniasis, causing a rapid change in the expression of these molecules during infection by Leishmania. OBJECTIVES Herein, it was investigated the role of CXCL10 in controlling infection by L. infantum. METHODS RAW 264.7 macrophages were infected with L. infantum in vitro and treated or not with CXCL10 (25, 50 and 100 ng/mL). Parasite load, as well as nitric oxide (NO), IL-4 and IL-10 production were assessed at 24 and 48 h after infection. In vivo, BALB/c mice were infected and treated or not with CXCL10 (5 μg/kg) at one, three and seven days of infection. Parasite load, IFN-g, IL-4, TGF-β and IL-10 were evaluated one, seven and 23 days post treatment. FINDINGS In vitro, CXCL10 reduced parasitic load, not dependent on NO, and inhibited IL-10 and IL-4 secretion. In vivo, CXCL10 was able to reduce the parasite load in both liver and spleen, four weeks after infection, representing a higher decrease in the number of parasites in these organs, also induced IFN-γ at day 23 after treatment, correlating with the decrease in parasite load, and reduced IL-10 and TGF-β. MAIN CONCLUSIONS This study suggests a partial protective role of CXCL10 against L. infantum, mediated by IFN-g, not dependent on NO, and with suppression of IL-10 and TGF-β. These data may provide information for the development of new approaches for future therapeutic interventions for VL.

Quantitative analysis of the renal aging in rats. Stereological study

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To evaluate the renal function and the renal histological alterations through the stereology and morphometrics in rats submitted to the natural process of aging. METHODS: Seventy two Wistar rats, divided in six groups. Each group was sacrificed in a different age: 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months. It was performed right nephrectomy, stereological and morphometric analysis of the renal tissue (renal volume and weight, density of volume (Vv[glom]) and numerical density (Nv[glom]) of the renal glomeruli and average glomerular volume (Vol[glom])) and also it was evaluated the renal function for the dosage of serum creatinine and urea. RESULTS: There was significant decrease of the renal function in the oldest rats. The renal volume presented gradual increase during the development of the rats with the biggest values registered in the group of animals at 12 months of age and significant progressive decrease in older animals. Vv[glom] presented statistically significant gradual reduction between the groups and the Nv[glom] also decreased significantly. CONCLUSIONS: The renal function proved to be inferior in senile rats when compared to the young rats. The morphometric and stereological analysis evidenced renal atrophy, gradual reduction of the volume density and numerical density of the renal glomeruli associated to the aging process.

Inter-Observer Variation in Ultrasound Measurement of the Volume and Diameter of Thyroid Nodules

OBJECTIVE: Thyroid nodule measurement using ultrasonography (US) is widely performed in various clinical scenarios. The purpose of this study was to evaluate inter-observer variation in US measurement of the volume and maximum diameter of thyroid nodules. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 73 consecutive patients with 85 well-defined thyroid nodules greater than 1 cm in their maximum diameter. US examinations were independently performed by using standardized measurement methods, conducted by two clinically experienced thyroid radiologists. The maximum nodule diameter and nodule volume, calculated from nodule diameters using the ellipsoid formula, were obtained by each reader. Inter-observer variations in volume and maximum diameter were determined using 95% Bland-Altman limits of agreement. The degree of inter-observer variations in volumes and the maximum diameters were compared using the Student's t test, between nodules or = 2 cm. RESULTS: The mean inter-observer difference in measuring the nodule volume was -1.6%, in terms of percentage of the nodule volume, and the 95% limit of agreement was +/- 13.1%. For maximum nodule diameter, the mean inter-observer difference was -0.6%, in terms of percentage of the nodule diameter, and the 95% limit of agreement was +/- 7.3%. Inter-observer variation in volume was greater in nodules of 1 cm should not be considered as a real change in size.

Perfil sanguíneo e peso de órgãos internos de bezerros leiteiros criados em diferentes sistemas de aleitamento / Blood profile and weight of internal organs of dairy calves in different nursing systems

Objetivou-se avaliar o perfil sanguíneo e o tamanho absoluto e relativo dos órgãos internos de bezerros em sistema de aleitamento convencional ou fracionado. Foram utilizadas 10 fêmeas, com peso corporal inicial médio de 37,53 kg (±2,36) e 12 machos com peso corporal médio de 81,6 kg (±8,6), ambos da raça Holandesa. O aleitamento convencional constituiu-se de quatro litros de leite fornecidos diariamente durante 54 dias de avaliação e o fracionado, de seis litros do 6º ao 25º dias de idade, quatro litros do 26º ao 45º dias de idade e dois litros do 46º ao 59º dias de idade, além de concentrado, feno de Cynodon sp., água e suplemento mineral fornecidos ad libitum. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco repetições para os parâmetros sanguíneos e seis repetições para o desenvolvimento dos órgãos internos. As coletas de sangue foram realizadas nas fêmeas nos dias sete, 21, 28, 42, 49 e 56 de idade. Para a avaliação dos órgãos internos os machos foram abatidos aos dois meses de idade, após jejum de 16 horas. Não foram observadas diferenças para os valores de proteínas totais, albumina, globulina, creatinina, ureia, colesterol e β-hidroxibutirato nas idades avaliadas (p>0,05). Entretanto, para a concentração de glicose houve interação entre os sistemas de aleitamento e os períodos avaliados, podendo ser observado que com 21 dias de idade a concentração foi maior nas bezerras mantidas em sistema fracionado, quando comparadas aos animais do grupo convencional. O sistema de aleitamento não alterou o peso corporal final, peso corporal final vazio e o peso dos órgãos internos, exceto para o coração, demonstrando que o sistema de aleitamento fracionado não altera as avaliações dos órgãos internos...

The objective was to evaluate the blood profile together with the relative and absolute size of the internal organs of calves in conventional or fractionated feeding system. Ten females were used, with an average initial body weight of 37.53 kg (±2.36), and 12 males with a mean body weight of 81.6 kg (±8.6), both Holstein breed. The conventional feeding consisted of four liter milk supplied daily for 54 days of evaluation, and fractioned six liter milk was given from 6 to 25 days of age, four liter from 26 to 45 days of ager, and two liter from 46 to 59 days of age. Cynodon sp. hay, water and mineral supplement was provided ad libitum. The experimental design was completely randomized with five replicates for blood parameters and six replicates for the development of internal organs. Blood collections were performed in females on days seven, 21, 28, 42, 49 and 56 of age. For the evaluation of internal organs males were slaughtered at two months of age, after 16 hours of fasting. No differences occurred in the values of total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, urea, cholesterol and β-hydroxybutyrate in ages evaluated (p>0.05). However, for the concentration of glucose no interaction was found between lactation systems and periods evaluated. It can be noted that at 21 days of age the concentration was higher in calves kept in the fractionated system, when compared with animals of the conventional group. The feeding system did not affect the final body weight, the empty body weight or the weight of the internal organs, except for the heart, demonstrating that the fractional feeding system does not alter the assessment of the internal organs...

The ileum as a determinant organ of the functional liver cell mass in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate if the ileum resection changes the functioning liver cell mass, the hepatic metabolism and the biodistribution of radiopharmaceutical in rats. METHODS: Twelve Wistar rats weighing 285g±34g were randomly divided into the ileum resection group (n = 6) and sham group rats (n = 6). After 30 days, they were anesthetized and 0.1mL of 99m-Tc-phytate (0.66MBq) was injected via femoral vein. After 30 minutes, blood samples were collected for red blood cells radioactive labeling and serum ALT, AST and gammaGT. Liver samples were used for 99m-Tc-phytate percentage of radioactivity/gram of tissue and histopathology. Student 's t test was used with significance 0.05. RESULTS: There was a higher uptake of 99m-Tc-phytate in the liver of sham rats, compared to the ileum resection group (p<0.05). GammaGT, ALT and AST were increased in ileum resection rats compared to sham (p<0.05). The he patocytes count was significantly lower in ileum resection group than in sham (p<0.05). Liver: body mass ratio was lower in experimental animals than in sham group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: These data support that the ileum has important role in liver function and liver mass regulation, and they have potential clinical implications regarding the pathogenesis of liver injury following lower bowel resection.

Sanguineous normothermic, intermittent cardioplegia, effects on hypertrophic myocardium: morphometric, metabolic and ultrastructural studies in rabbits hearts / Efeitos da cardioplegia sanguínea normotérmica intermitente, em miocárdio hipertrófico: estudos morfométricos, metabólicos e ultraestruturais em corações coelhos

OBJECTIVES: The present investigation aimed to study the protective effect of intermittent normothermic cardioplegia in rabbit's hypertrophic hearts. METHODS: The parameters chosen were 1) the ratio heart weight / body weight, 2) the myocardial glycogen levels, 3) ultrastructural changes of light and electron microscopy, and 4) mitochondrial respiration. RESULTS: 1) The experimental model, coarctation of the aorta induced left ventricular hypertrophy; 2) the temporal evolution of the glycogen levels in hypertrophic myocardium demonstrates that there is a significant decrease; 3) It was observed a time-dependent trend of higher oxygen consumption values in the hypertrophic group; 4) there was a significant time-dependent decrease in the respiratory coefficient rate in the hypertrophic group; 5) the stoichiometries values of the ADP: O2 revealed the downward trend of the values of the hypertrophic group; 6) It was possible to observe damaged mitochondria from hypertrophic myocardium emphasizing the large heterogeneity of data. CONCLUSION: The acquisition of biochemical data, especially the increase in speed of glycogen breakdown, when anatomical changes are not detected, represents an important result even when considering all the difficulties inherent in the process of translating experimental results into clinical practice. With regard to the adopted methods, it is clear that morphometric methods are less specific. Otherwise, the biochemical data allow detecting alterations of glycogen concentrations and mitochondria respiration before the morphometric alterations should be detected.

OBJETIVOS: O presente estudo teve como objetivo estudar o efeito protetor da cardioplegia normotérmica intermitente em corações hipertróficos de coelhos. MÉTODOS: Os parâmetros escolhidos foram: 1) relação peso cardíaco/peso corporal; 2) níveis de glicogênio nos músculos cardíacos; 3) alterações ultraestruturais por microscopia óptica e eletrônica; e 4) respiração mitocondrial. RESULTADOS: 1) O modelo experimental de coarctação da aorta induziu hipertrofia ventricular esquerda; 2) a evolução temporal dos níveis de glicogênio no miocárdio hipertrófico demonstra que há diminuição significativa; 3) observou-se tendência dependente do tempo para maiores valores do consumo de oxigênio para o grupo hipertrófico; 4) houve diminuição dependente do tempo da taxa de coeficiente respiratório no grupo hipertrófico; 5) os valores estequiométricos da ADP: O2 revelou a tendência decrescente no grupo hipertrófico; 6) observaram-se lesões mitocondriais do miocárdio hipertrófico, enfatizando a grande heterogeneidade dos dados. CONCLUSÃO: A aquisição de dados bioquímicos, principalmente o aumento na velocidade de quebra do glicogênio, quando mudanças anatômicas não são detectadas, representa um resultado importante, mesmo quando se consideram todas as dificuldades inerentes ao processo translacional de resultados experimentais para a prática clínica. No que diz respeito aos métodos adotados, é evidente que os métodos morfométricos são menos específicos. Os dados bioquímicos permitem a detecção de alterações das concentrações de glicogênio e respiração mitocondrial antes das alterações morfométricas serem detectadas.

Effect of oxytocin infusion on luteal blood flow and progesterone secretion in dairy cattle

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of oxytocin infusion on corpus luteum (CL) function during early to mid-diestrus by measuring luteal size (LS) and luteal blood flow (LBF) along with plasma levels of progesterone (P4) and prostaglandin metabolites (13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2alpha, PGFM). On day (D) 7 of the estrus cycle (D1 = ovulation), seven cows received 100 IU of oxytocin (OXY) or placebo (PL) following a Latin square design. LS and LBF increased in both groups over time and no differences were observed between the groups. PGFM did not differ either within the groups over time or between the groups at any time point. P4 of the OXY group was higher compared to that of the the PL group 360 min after the infusion (p = 0.01) and tended to be higher at the time points 450 min, 48 h, and 72 h (all p = 0.08). Results from this study support the hypothesis that OXY is not directly involved in the mechanism(s) governing blood flow of the CL and has no remarkable effects either on luteal size or P4 and PGFM plasma levels. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the role of OXY in CL blood flow during early and late luteal phases.

Correlation between clinical evaluation of liver size versus ultrasonography evaluation according to body mass index (BMI) and biotypes / Comparación de la medición del tamaño del hígado por ultrasonografía y mediante examen físico

Background: Body weight mayinfluence liver size. Aim: To determine the correlation between clinical and ultrasound evaluation of the liver size according to body mass index (BMI). Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 81 subjects aged 25 ± 6 years (43 females). Two percussion measurements were taken and u-trasonography was performed on the same site demarcated by percussion. Results: Mean BMI was 23 ± 4 kg/m². Nineteen individuals (23.5 percent) had a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m². There was a significant difference between the values of liver size obtained by clinical and ultrasound methods. The correlation coeffcient between the liver size obtained by clinical and ultrasound methods was 0.419 (p < 0.01). No significant differences in liver size were observed, between subjects with a BMI below or over 25 kg/m². In all subjects, regardless of BMI, there was a statistically significant difference between the mean sizes obtained by both methods. The correlation coeffcients between both methods in subjects with a BMI ≤ 25 Kg/m² and their counterparts with higher BMI were 0.47 and 0.03, respectively. Conclusions: There are significant differences in liver size obtained by clinical examination and ultrasound. Only in subjects with BMI ≤ 25 kg/m², the correlation between the two techniques is significant.

Introducción: El peso corporal puede tener influencia sobre el tamaño del hígado. Objetivo: Determinar el tamaño del hígado mediante examen físico y ultrasonido en sujetos con distinto índice de masa corporal (IMC). Material y Métodos: Estudio transversal de 81 individuos de 25 ± 6 años (43 mujeres). Se tomaron dos medidas del hígado por percusión y la ultrasonografía se efectuó en el mismo sitio marcado por la percusión. Resultados: El IMC promedio de los individuos fue de 23 ± 4 kg/m². Diecinueve sujetos (23,5 por ciento) tenían un IMC ≤ 25 kg/m². Se observaron diferencias significativas entre las mediciones obtenidas por examen físico y ultrasonografía en todos los sujetos, no importando el valor de IMC. No se observaron diferencias en el tamaño del hígado entre sujetos con un IMC menor o mayor a 25 kg/m². Los coeficientes de correlación entre los dos métodos en sujetos con un IMC ≤ 25 kg/m² y aquellos con valores más altos fueron 0,47 y 0,03, respectivamente. Conclusiones: Las mediciones clínicas y ultrasonográficas del tamaño del hígado diferen signifcativamente. Sólo en sujetos con un IMC ≤ 25 kg/m², ambas mediciones tienen una correlación significativa.

Metabolic programming of lipid profile and reproductive organs weight by leptin treatment on early life / Programação metabólica do perfil lipídico e peso dos órgãos do sistema reprodutor pelo tratamento com leptina nos primeiros dias de vida

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether the neonatal leptin treatment during the first days of life can program the male reproductive organs weight and the lipid profile. METHODS: At birth 6 dams were divided into 2 groups: Leptin - each pup was injected with 50μL of recombinant rat leptin (80ng/g BW, sc), for the first 10 d of lactation; Control - each pup received the same volume of saline. After weaning, all pups received unlimited access to food until 190 days of age when they were killed. Values are given as mean ± SEM of 6 animals and Test t Student was used to analyze the results. RESULTS: The leptin treatment resulted in a significant increase in body weight (Control= 411.8±16.31; Leptin= 481.8±11.29, p=0.005) and food consumption (Control= 25.32±0.09; Leptin= 32.42±0.15, p=0.0001) and a significant reduction in triglycerides levels (Control= 540.0±117.9; Leptin= 93.25±15.21, p=0.006) and in the weight of hypothalamus (Control= 0.234±0.016; Leptin= 0.154±0.015, p=0.007), pituitary (Control= 0.104±0.0120; Leptin= 0.033±0.012, p=0.003), testis (Control= 3.75±0.055; Leptin= 3.19±0.10, p=0.002) and prostate (Control=1.641±0.1389; Leptin= 0.91±0.07, p=0.001). CONCLUSION: Leptin treatment on the first days of life can program the reproductive organs weight and the lipid profile of the progeny.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se o tratamento neonatal com leptina durante os primeiros dias de vida poderia programar o peso dos orgãos do sistema reprodutor masculino e o perfil lipídico. MÉTODOS: Ao nascimento seis ratas-mãe foram distribuídas em dois grupos: Leptina - cada filhote recebeu 50μL de leptina recombinante (80ng/gPC, SC) nos primeiros 10 dias de lactação; Controle - cada filhote recebeu o mesmo volume de salina. Após o desmame, todos os filhotes tiveram acesso ilimitado a ração até 190 dias de idade quando foram mortos. Os dados são expressos como média ± erro padrão e foram analisados pelo teste t Student. RESULTADOS: O tratamento com leptina resultou em aumento significativo no peso corporal (Control= 411.8±16.31; Leptin= 481.8±11.29, p=0.005) e consumo alimentar (Control= 25.32±0.09; Leptin= 32.42±0.15, p=0.0001) e redução significativa nos níveis séricos de triglicerídeos (Control= 540.0±117.9; Leptin= 93.25±15.21, p=0.006), no peso do hipotálamo (Control= 0.234±0.016; Leptin= 0.154±0.015, p=0.007), hipófise (Control= 0.104±0.0120; Leptin= 0.033±0.012, p=0.003), testículo (Control= 3.75±0.055; Leptin= 3.19±0.10, p=0.002) e próstata (Control=1.641±0.1389; Leptin= 0.91±0.07, p=0.001). CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento com leptina nos primeiros dias de vida pode programar o peso dos órgãos do sistema reprodutor e o perfil lipídico da prole.

64-Channel multi-detector row CT angiographic evaluation of the micropigs for potential living donor lung transplantation

Micropigs are the most likely source animals for xenotransplantation. However, an appropriate method for evaluating the lung of micropigs had not been established. Therefore, this study was performed to evaluate the feasibility of 64-channel multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) to measure the diameter of the pulmonary arteries and the lung volume in micropigs. The mean diameters of the trachea, and left and right bronchi were 1.6 +/- 0.17, 1.18 +/- 0.14, and 1.1 +/- 0.11 cm, respectively. The mean diameters of the main, right, and left pulmonary arteries were 1.38 +/- 0.09, 1.07 +/- 0.26, and 0.98 +/- 0.13 cm and the diameters of right, left, and common inferior pulmonary veins were 0.97 +/- 0.20, 0.76 +/- 0.20, and 1.99 +/- 0.26 cm, respectively. The mean lung volume was 820.3 +/- 77.11 mL. The data presented in this study suggest that the MDCT may be a noninvasive, rapid, and accurate investigational method for pulmonary anatomy in living lung donors.

Efeitos cardiorrespiratórios frente à posição do corpo em recém-nascidos pré-termo submetidos ao aumento do volume gástrico / Cardiorespiratory effects of the body position in premature newborns submitted to the increase of the gastric volume

Contexto: O aumento do volume gástrico observado na alimentação por gavagem traz consequências ao recém-nascido pré-termo, alterando indicadores da função respiratória. Objetivo: Investigar as alterações no sistema cardiorrespiratório nas diferentes posições do corpo de recém-nascidos prematuros submetidos ao aumento do volume gástrico através da alimentação por gavagem. Métodos: Trata-se de um ensaio aleatório, tipo "crossover". Foram estudados 16 recém-nascidos de 31 a 34 semanas de idade gestacional e peso menor ou igual a 2.500 g. Foram incluídos os recém-nascidos com 7 a 10 dias de vida, alimentados via sonda orogástrica (fórmula artificial padronizada e/ou leite materno ordenhado no banco de leite do Hospital Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Franca, SP) de 3 em 3 horas, volume total de 150 mL/kg/dia, sem oxigenoterapia suplementar. Foi utilizado a cada gavagem um posicionamento diferente e elevado a 30°, tal como: lateral direito, lateral esquerdo, pronação e supinação. Foram observadas as variáveis: frequência respiratória e cardíaca, saturação de oxigênio, tiragem de intercostais, batimento de asa nasal e gemência. Estas variáveis foram coletadas de 2 em 2 minutos, a partir de 5 minutos, antecedendo a gavagem e até 5 minutos após. Resultados: O grupo estudado apresentou média de 32 semanas de idade gestacional (desvio-padrão 1,3), peso médio de 1.722 g (desvio-padrão 276,3). Em supinação e lateral esquerdo, a frequência respiratória média apresentou-se com valores mais altos e a saturação de oxigênio média apresentou os menores valores. Em lateral direito e pronação os níveis de frequência cardíaca média foram mais baixos e estáveis. Os posicionamentos lateral direito e pronação apresentaram maior ausência de tiragem intercostal, batimento de asa nasal e gemência. Conclusão: Os decúbitos lateral direito e pronação demonstraram maior repercussão positiva (menor aumento da frequência cardíaca, da frequência respiratória, menor diminuição...

Context: The increase of the gastric volume observed in the gavage feeding is likely to cause consequences to the premature newborn, modifying the respiratory indicators. Objective: To investigate the alterations in the cardiorespiratory system of premature newborns submitted to an increase of the gastric volume by gavage feeding, according to four different body positioning methods. Methods: The study is a randomized crossover trial using a sample of 16 newborns with gestational age from 31 to 34 weeks and birth weight less or equal to 2.500 g. The newborns were included in the study if they had from 7 to 10 days of life, feeding by orogastric tube, total volume of 150 mL/kg/day and absence of supplemental oxygen-therapy. A different positioning method was used at each gavage (all raised to 30º), or say, right lateral, left lateral, prone and supine positions. The following response variables were considered: respiratory and cardiac frequencies, saturation of oxygen, drawing of intercostals, beating of nasal wing and grunting. These measures were collected in intervals of 2 minutes during 5 minutes after the gavage feeding, during whole period of the gavage feeding, and during 5 minutes before the gavage feeding. Results: The mean gestational age was 32 weeks (standard deviation 1.3) and the mean weight of the newborns was 1.722 g (standard deviation 276.3). The newborns presented higher values of the mean respiratory frequency in supine and left lateral body positions. In the right lateral and prone positions, the newborns presented lower mean cardiac frequency. The mean oxygen saturation had the lowest values in the left lateral and supine positions. The right lateral and prone positions presented low frequencies of intercostals drawing, beating of nasal wing and grunting. Conclusion: Our results indicate that right lateral and prone positions have influence on the cardiorespiratory effect, where left lateral and supine are the positions...

Níveis distintos de Hsp72 no miocárdio de ratas em resposta aos exercícios voluntário e forçado / Different levels of Hsp72 in female rat myocardium in response to voluntary exercise and forced exercise / Niveles distintos de Hsp72 en el miocardio de ratas en respuesta a los ejercicios voluntario y forzado

FUNDAMENTO: O exercício físico promove estresse hemodinâmico. OBJETIVO: Testar se programas de treinamento com corridas voluntária e forçada induzem níveis distintos de expressão de Hsp72 no miocárdio de ratas Wistar. MÉTODOS: Ratas Wistar foram alocadas em três grupos (n = 6, cada): treinadas com corrida voluntária (TCV), treinadas com corrida forçada (TCF) e grupo controle (C). Os animais do TCV tiveram livre acesso à roda de corrida voluntária, enquanto os do TCF foram submetidos à corrida forçada em esteira (18 m/min, 0 por cento inclinação, 60 m/min, 5 dias/sem) durante oito semanas. Fragmentos dos ventrículos esquerdo (VE) e direito (VD) foram coletados para análise dos níveis de Hsp72. RESULTADOS: As ratas do grupo TCV correram, em média, 4,87 km, e as do TCF, 4,88 km por semana. Os animais dos grupos TCV e TCF ganharam menos peso (p < 0,05) que os do grupo C (81,67 ± 11,95 g vs 81,17 ± 10,18 g vs 111,50 ± 2,26 g, respectivamente). O peso relativo do coração não foi diferente (p > 0,05) entre os grupos TCV, TCF e C (4,54 ± 0,79 mg/g vs 4,94 ± 0,89 mg/g vs 4,34 ± 0,87 mg/g, respectivamente). Ratas treinadas com corrida forçada apresentaram níveis de Hsp72 maiores (p < 0,05) que as que correram voluntariamente, no VE (287,45 ± 35,86 por cento vs 135,59 ± 5,10 por cento, respectivamente) e no VD (241,31 ± 25,83 por cento vs 137,91 ± 45,20 por cento, respectivamente). CONCLUSÃO: Os programas de treinamento com corrida voluntária e forçada induziram níveis distintos de expressão de Hsp72 no miocárdio de ratas Wistar.

BACKGROUND: Physical exercise induces hemodynamic stress. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if voluntary running and forced running induced different levels of stress protein (Hsp72) in the myocardium of female Wistar rats. METHODS: Female rats were randomly assigned to the following groups: forced treadmill running group (FR; n= 6), voluntary running group (VR; n=6) and control group (C; n=6). VR group animals had free access to running wheels, and those from FR group underwent a running program on a treadmill (18 m/min, 60 min/day, 5 days/wk) for 8 weeks. Left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) fragments were collected at sacrifice, and the relative immunoblot contents of stress protein (Hsp72) were determined. RESULTS: VR animals ran on average 4.87 km/wk, and FR rats ran 4.88 km/wk. Animals from VR and FR groups had less body weight gain (p<0.05) than those from C group (81.67 ± 11.95g vs 81.17 ± 10.18g vs 111.50 ± 2.26g, respectively). Heart weight/body weight ratio was not significantly different (p>0.05) among VR, FR and C groups (4.54 ± 0.79 mg/g vs 4.94 ± 0.89 mg/g vs 4.34 ± 0.87 mg/g, respectively). FR group animals had levels of Hsp72 (p<0.05) higher than those from VR, both in LV (287.45 ± 35.86 percent vs 135.59 ± 5.10 percent, respectively) and RV (241.31 ± 25.83 percent vs 137.91 ± 45.20 percent, respectively). CONCLUSION: Voluntary running and forced running induced different levels of Hsp72 in the myocardium of female Wistar rats.

FUNDAMENTO: El ejercicio físico promueve estrés hemodinámico. OBJETIVO: Probar si programas de entrenamiento con carreras voluntaria y forzada inducen niveles distintos de expresión de Hsp72 en el miocardio de ratas hembra Wistar. MÉTODOS: Ratas hembra Wistar fueron distribuidas en tres grupos (n = 6, cada uno): entrenadas con carrera voluntaria (ECV), entrenadas con carrera forzada (ECF) y grupo control (C). Los animales del ECV tuvieron libre acceso a la rueda de carrera voluntaria, mientras que los del ECF fueron sometidos a carrera forzada en cinta sin fin (18 m/min, 0 por ciento inclinación, 60 m/min, 5 días/sem) durante ocho semanas. Fragmentos de los ventrículos izquierdo (VI) y derecho (VD) se recolectaron para análisis de los niveles de Hsp72. RESULTADOS: Las ratas del grupo ECV corrieron, en promedio 4,87 km, y las del ECF, 4,88 km por semana. Los animales de los grupos ECV y ECF ganaron menos peso (p<0,05) que los del grupo C (81,67 ± 11,95 g vs. 81,17 ± 10,18 g vs. 111,50 ± 2,26 g, respectivamente). El peso relativo del corazón no fue diferente (p>0,05) entre los grupos ECV, ECF y C (4,54 ± 0,79 mg/g vs. 4,94 ± 0,89 mg/g vs. 4,34 ± 0,87 mg/g, respectivamente). Las ratas entrenadas con carrera presentaron niveles de Hsp72 mayores (p<0,05) que las que corrieron voluntariamente, en el VI (287,45 ± 35,86 por ciento vs. 135,59 ± 5,10 por ciento, respectivamente) y en el VD (241,31 ± 25,83 por ciento vs. 137,91 ± 45,20 por ciento, respectivamente). CONCLUSIÓN: Los programas de entrenamiento con carreras voluntaria y forzada inducen niveles distintos de expresión de Hsp72 en el miocardio de ratas Wistar.

Measurement of plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in prostate cancer patients: relationship with clinical stage, Gleason score, prostate volume, and serum prostate-specific antigen

PURPOSE: This study focused on circulating levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with prostate cancer compared to a normal population. METHODS: We analyzed 26 normal individuals and 80 patients with prostate cancer. Blood was drawn from all subjects, and plasma was extracted to determine the concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor using a quantitative immunoassay technique (ELISA-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). RESULTS: The median plasma level of vascular endothelial growth factor was significantly elevated in patients with metastatic disease compared to patients with localized disease and with healthy controls. Patients with serum prostate-specific antigen > 20 ng/mL had significantly higher levels of plasma vascular endothelial growth factor than patients with serum prostate-specific antigen < 20 ng/mL. There was a trend for patients with a Gleason score of 8 to 10 to have higher levels of plasma vascular endothelial growth factor when compared to patients with lower Gleason scores. No relationship was found between plasma vascular endothelial growth factor and clinical staging, or between plasma vascular endothelial growth factor and prostate volume, in patients with localized prostate cancer. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that patients with metastatic prostate cancer have higher plasma vascular endothelial growth factor levels than patients with localized disease or in healthy controls.

OBJETIVO: Analisar os níveis circulantes do fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular em pacientes com câncer prostático comparados com uma população de indivíduos eutróficos. MÉTODOS: Vinte e seis indivíduos eutróficos e oitenta pacientes com câncer de próstata foram analisados nesse estudo. A coleta sangüínea foi realizada da mesma maneira em todos os pacientes e o plasma foi extraído para a determinação dos níveis do fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular, utilizando-se o método quantitativo ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). RESULTADOS: Os níveis de fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular plasmático encontraram-se significativamente elevados nos pacientes com doença metastática quando comparados com pacientes com doença localizada e com indivíduos sadios. Pacientes com PSA sérico maior que 20 ng/ml apresentaram níveis maiores de fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular plasmático quando comparados com pacientes com PSA menor que 20 ng/ml. Houve uma tendência dos pacientes com escore de Gleason de 8 a 10 apresentarem níveis maiores do fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular plasmático em relação a pacientes com escores de Gleason menores que 8. Não houve relação entre fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular plasmático e estado clínico, ou entre fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular e volume prostático em pacientes com câncer de próstata localizado. CONCLUSÃO: Os dados indicam que pacientes com câncer de próstata metastático apresentam níveis significativamente mais elevados de fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular plasmático quando comparados com pacientes com câncer localizado e com indivíduos normais.

Effects of hypothyroidism induced by 6-n-propylthiouracil and its reversal by T3 on rat heart superoxide dismutase, catalase and lipid peroxidation.

The present study critically evaluates the effects of hypothyroid and hyperthyroid states on lipid peroxidation and two enzymes of active oxygen metabolism, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the rat heart mitochondrial and post-mitochondrial fractions. Lipid peroxidation, an index of oxidative stress, was elevated in the heart tissue in hypothyroid state but reduced upon T3 supplementation. Hyperthyroidism registered increased SOD activity in post-mitochondrial fraction. Mitochondrial SOD activity was reduced in hypothyroid state, which was further reduced by T3 administration. In contrast, different thyroid states had no effect on catalase activity in the mitochondrial fraction. The hypothyroid state however, significantly augmented catalase activity in post-mitochondrial fraction. The results suggest that the antioxidant defence status of cardiac tissue is well modulated by thyroid hormone.

Efeitos da dietilpropiona, energia da dieta e sexo sobre o ganho de peso corporal, peso dos órgäos e deposiçäo de tecidos em ratos / Effects of diethylpropion, diet energy and sex on the corporal weight gain, organs weight and tissues deposition in rats

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a dietilpropiona (DEP), um derivadoo fenetilamínico utilizado como anorexígeno, e dietas de diferentes densidades calóricas, utilizando ratos de ambos os sexos. O experimento contou com 72 ratos Wistar distribuídos por sexo, bloqueados por peso inicial e alocados dois a dois em 36 gaiolas experimentais. As dietas e a água foram fornecidas ad libitum e atenderam a todas as exigências dos animais, sendo que a dieta de alta energia continha 3.700kcal de energia metabolizável (EM)/kg, a média 3.350kcal EM/Kg e a baixa 3.000Kcal EM/Kg de raçäo. A droga foi administrada com uma dose diária de 20mg/kg, durante 36 dias, por via intraperitonial. A análise estatística considerou os efeitos da droga, energia da dieta, sexo, triplicata e a interaçäo entre essas variáveis. Os resultados mostraram que houve interaçäo entre dieta e droga (p<0,0195) e que o uso da droga dimunuiu o consumo alimentar apenas em dietas de baixa e média energias. A interaçäo entre sexo e droga (p<0,0253) mostrou que a droga reduziu o ganho de peso em ambos os sexos. Conclui-se que a DEP reduziu o ganho de peso dos machos e das fêmeas, com reduçäo de gordura depositada em ambos os sexos, sndo que as percentagens de deposiçäo de gordura foram maiores nas fêmeas do que nos machos, os quais depositaram mais proteína. A DEP foi responsável pela reduçäo no consumo de diatas de baixa e média energia metabolizáve, näo havendo efeito em dietas de alta energia.