Ethical Issues in the Application of IVF from the Perspective of Females Undergoing IVF / 中国医学伦理学

Infertile women experience complex biological and social experiences in the process of receiving IVF. From the perspective of females undergoing IVF, it is helpful to analyze the ethical and social problems that IVF may face more intuitively and concretely. In this study, 213 women who were undergoing IVF were randomly selected to carry out a questionnaire survey. The results showed that the choice of IVF for infertile women was driven by multiple pressures from family and society, not entirely on their own; They are not aware of the technology, but have a positive attitude, and are eager to be fully informed in the treatment process. In addition, the treatment brings great economic pressure to women who were undergoing IVF and has no significant impact on the relationship between husband and wife. Only by paying attention to the above problems and solving them can we benefit more infertile women and help them realize their reproductive wishes.

Innovative insights into extrachromosomal circular DNAs in gynecologic tumors and reproduction

Originating but free from chromosomal DNA, extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) are organized in circular form and have long been found in unicellular and multicellular eukaryotes. Their biogenesis and function are poorly understood as they are characterized by sequence homology with linear DNA, for which few detection methods are available. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies have revealed that eccDNAs play crucial roles in tumor formation, evolution, and drug resistance as well as aging, genomic diversity, and other biological processes, bringing it back to the research hotspot. Several mechanisms of eccDNA formation have been proposed, including the breakage-fusion-bridge (BFB) and translocation-deletion-amplification models. Gynecologic tumors and disorders of embryonic and fetal development are major threats to human reproductive health. The roles of eccDNAs in these pathological processes have been partially elucidated since the first discovery of eccDNA in pig sperm and the double minutes in ovarian cancer ascites. The present review summarized the research history, biogenesis, and currently available detection and analytical methods for eccDNAs and clarified their functions in gynecologic tumors and reproduction. We also proposed the application of eccDNAs as drug targets and liquid biopsy markers for prenatal diagnosis and the early detection, prognosis, and treatment of gynecologic tumors. This review lays theoretical foundations for future investigations into the complex regulatory networks of eccDNAs in vital physiological and pathological processes.

Monitoring the feeding and parental care behavior of a pair of free-living owls (Tyto furcata) in the nest during the reproductive period in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract The American Barn Owl (Tyto furcata) lives in urban, periurban and wild environments and feeds mainly on small rodents, meaning it has great importance in the biological control of pests. The aim of this work was to describe the reproductive, parental and eating habits of a pair of American barn owls naturally living outside a residence in the urban area of the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. A wood box was installed on an outside wall of the home, monitored by a video camera. A spreadsheet was created to keep track of the observations recorded. The female laid four eggs, and after an incubation period of 30-32 days all the eggs hatched, but only two chicks survived after cannibalism among the chicks. Initially, the male provided the food to the chicks and the female remained in the nest caring for the brood. After approximately a month, the female also began to leave the nest and return with prey, which was offered to the chicks, with the male also continuing this behavior. The chicks left the nest in September, 2017. The data obtained show the existence of cooperation and division of tasks between male and female owls during the reproductive period.

Resumo A coruja-das-torres americana (Tyto furcata) vive em ambientes urbanos e se alimenta principalmente de pequenos roedores, sendo de grande importância no controle biológico de pragas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os hábitos alimentares, parentais e reprodutivos de um casal de corujas-das-torres americanas, naturalmente vivendo fora de uma residência na zona urbana do município de Campos dos Goytacazes, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Uma caixa de madeira foi instalada em uma parede externa da casa, monitorada por uma câmera de vídeo. Uma planilha foi criada para manter o controle das observações registradas. A fêmea pôs quatro ovos, e após período de incubação de 30-32 dias todos os ovos eclodiram, mas apenas dois filhotes sobreviveram após o canibalismo entre os filhotes. Inicialmente, o macho fornecia a comida aos filhotes e a fêmea permanecia no ninho cuidando da ninhada. Depois de cerca de um mês, a fêmea também começou a sair do ninho e voltar com a presa, que era oferecida aos filhotes, com o macho também continuando com esse comportamento. Os filhotes deixaram o ninho em setembro de 2017. Os dados obtidos mostram a existência de cooperação e divisão de tarefas entre corujas machos e fêmeas durante o período reprodutivo.

Monitoring the feeding and parental care behavior of a pair of free-living owls (Tyto furcata) in the nest during the reproductive period in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Monitoramento do comportamento alimentar e cuidado parental de um casal de corujas de vida livre (Tyto furcata) no ninho durante o período reprodutivo no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Abstract The American Barn Owl (Tyto furcata) lives in urban, periurban and wild environments and feeds mainly on small rodents, meaning it has great importance in the biological control of pests. The aim of this work was to describe the reproductive, parental and eating habits of a pair of American barn owls naturally living outside a residence in the urban area of the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. A wood box was installed on an outside wall of the home, monitored by a video camera. A spreadsheet was created to keep track of the observations recorded. The female laid four eggs, and after an incubation period of 30-32 days all the eggs hatched, but only two chicks survived after cannibalism among the chicks. Initially, the male provided the food to the chicks and the female remained in the nest caring for the brood. After approximately a month, the female also began to leave the nest and return with prey, which was offered to the chicks, with the male also continuing this behavior. The chicks left the nest in September, 2017. The data obtained show the existence of cooperation and division of tasks between male and female owls during the reproductive period.

Resumo A coruja-das-torres americana (Tyto furcata) vive em ambientes urbanos e se alimenta principalmente de pequenos roedores, sendo de grande importância no controle biológico de pragas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os hábitos alimentares, parentais e reprodutivos de um casal de corujas-das-torres americanas, naturalmente vivendo fora de uma residência na zona urbana do município de Campos dos Goytacazes, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Uma caixa de madeira foi instalada em uma parede externa da casa, monitorada por uma câmera de vídeo. Uma planilha foi criada para manter o controle das observações registradas. A fêmea pôs quatro ovos, e após período de incubação de 30-32 dias todos os ovos eclodiram, mas apenas dois filhotes sobreviveram após o canibalismo entre os filhotes. Inicialmente, o macho fornecia a comida aos filhotes e a fêmea permanecia no ninho cuidando da ninhada. Depois de cerca de um mês, a fêmea também começou a sair do ninho e voltar com a presa, que era oferecida aos filhotes, com o macho também continuando com esse comportamento. Os filhotes deixaram o ninho em setembro de 2017. Os dados obtidos mostram a existência de cooperação e divisão de tarefas entre corujas machos e fêmeas durante o período reprodutivo.

Significado de afrontar una interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía en mujeres que se realizaron el procedimiento en instituciones de salud de dos ciudades colombianas / Meaning of having to cope with voluntary termination of late pregnancy in women undergoing the procedure in healthcare institutions of two Colombian cities

Objetivos: El aborto es un derecho en salud sexual y reproductiva de la mujer en Colombia, sin embargo no toda la sociedad colombiana reconoce este derecho. Este trabajo busca comprender la transformación de los significados después de haber afrontado una interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía, en mujeres residentes en Colombia, y su interacción con familiares, amigos y sistema de salud. Materiales y métodos: Investigación hermenéutica desde un paradigma constructivista, el análisis se hizo desde una perspectiva feminista con técnicas de la teoría fundamentada: codificación, categorización y comparación constante. Se realizaron 19 entrevistas semiestructuradas a 18 mujeres residentes en Colombia que se sometieron a interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía definida por ser una gestación mayor a 20 semanas, acompañada de feticidio e inducción de parto, en dos ciudades colombianas, entre 2016 y 2020. Además, se realizaron dos grupos focales, uno con algunas de las entrevistadas, y otro con feministas expertas para triangular la información emergente del proceso investigativo y profundizar los hallazgos. Resultados: Las mujeres tenían un significado negativo y contrario sobre la interrupción voluntaria del embarazo, pero cuando se encuentran inmersas en una situación que las obliga a terminar con la gestación, contravienen los significados propios y los de su sociedad y buscan justificaciones que les ayuden a mantener la decisión. Esta confrontación las hace reflexionar profunda e íntimamente y las lleva a transformar sus vidas. Conclusiones: Los significados sobre el aborto, en las mujeres que se realizan interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía, generalmente son contrarios a este derecho en salud sexual y reproductiva. Posterior al evento estos significados se transforman por medio de la reflexión consciente de las mujeres al tener que enfrentar sus propios significados y los de la sociedad.

Objectives: As part of sexual and reproductive health, abortion is a woman's right in Colombia. However, not all the members of Colombian society recognize this right. The aim of this work is to understand the transformation of meanings after having to cope with voluntary termination of late pregnancy in women living in Colombia, as well as their interaction with family and friends and the health system. Material and methods: Hermeneutic research undertaken within a constructivist paradigm and analyzed from a feminist perspective using grounded theory techniques: coding, categorization and constant comparison. Nineteen semi-structured interviews were conducted among 18 women living in Colombia who underwent voluntary termination of late pregnancy defined as more than 20 weeks of gestation, accompanied by feticide and labor induction, in two Colombian cities between 2016 and 2020. Besides, two focus groups were conducted, one with some of the interviewees and another with feminist experts in order to cross-reference the information derived from the research process and delve deeper into the findings. Results: Women attached a negative and opposite meaning to voluntary termination of pregnancy, but once they found themselves in a situation that forced them to put an end to gestation, they transgressed their own meanings and those of society to find justifications to help them uphold their decision. This confrontation brought them to a place of profound and intimate reflection and led them to transform their lives. Conclusions: Meanings regarding abortion in women who undergo late pregnancy termination are usually contrary to this right in sexual and reproductive health. After the event, these meanings become transformed through a process of conscious reflection as women come face-to-face with their own meanings and those of society.

Revelar e ter com quem contar: infertilidade e apoio social / Revelar y tener con quien contar: infertilidade y apoyo social / To disclose and have someone to count on: infertility and social support

Infertile couples seeking treatment experience a social stigma that can lead to the need for privacy and, in turn, compromise their access to social support. This multiple case study, that involved the collection of sociodemographic and health data and interviews with four heterosexual couples accessed by convenience, aimed to examine the perception of the couples about the social support received after the disclosure of the condition of infertility and/or of the assisted reproductive technology treatment. The cases were analysed individually and comparatively. From the couples' statements, it is highlighted that all of them revealed something about infertility and/or treatment at some point in the process, although some considered not revealing it. Both support and lack of support were perceived from the revelations. The non-disclosure was motivated by self-preservation and by avoidance of social pressure. The findings indicate the importance of psychological intervention to expand the couples' social support.

Parejas infértiles que buscan tratamiento experimentan un estigma social que puede acarrear la necesidad de privacidad y, a su vez, comprometer el acceso al apoyo social. Ese estudio de múltiples casos, que involucró la recogida de datos sociodemográficos, de salud y entrevistas con cuatro parejas heterosexuales accedidas por conveniencia, buscó examinar la percepción de las parejas sobre el apoyo social después de la revelación de la condición de infertilidad y/o del tratamiento con técnicas de reproducción asistida. Los casos fueron analizados individual y comparativamente. De las declaraciones de las parejas, se destaca que todas revelaron algo sobre la infertilidad y/o el tratamiento en algún momento del proceso, aunque algunos consideraron no revelarlo. Se percibió tanto el apoyo como la falta de apoyo a partir de las revelaciones. La no revelación fue motivada por la autopreservación y por la evitación de presión social. Los hallazgos indican la importancia de la intervención psicológica para ampliar el apoyo social de las parejas.

Casais inférteis que buscam tratamento experimentam um estigma social que pode acarretar a necessidade de privacidade e, por sua vez, comprometer o acesso ao apoio social. Este estudo de casos múltiplos, que envolveu a coleta de dados sociodemográficos, de saúde e entrevistas com quatro casais heterossexuais acessados por conveniência, objetivou examinar a sua percepção sobre o apoio social recebido após a revelação da condição de infertilidade e/ou de tratamento com técnicas de reprodução assistida. Os casos foram analisados individualmente e comparativamente. A partir das falas, destaca-se que todos revelaram algo sobre a infertilidade e/ou o tratamento em algum momento do processo, ainda que alguns tenham considerado não revelar. Percebeu-se tanto apoio como falta de apoio diante das revelações. A não revelação foi motivada pela autopreservação e pela evitação de pressão social. Os achados indicam a importância da intervenção psicológica para ampliar o apoio social dos casais.

Settlement and post-settlement survival of Orbicella annularis and Orbicella faveolata (Scleractinia: Merulinidae) on substrates with coatings

Introduction: One of the main bottlenecks in restoration projects based on sexual reproduction is post-settlement survival, mainly due to competition for substrate with fleshy algae and predation. Therefore, substrates of different shapes and materials have been created and tested, seeking to optimize these processes with attractive surfaces for the larvae and structures where the recruits are protected from predation, and competition is reduced. Objective: To improve settlement and post-settlement survival of two important Caribbean reef-building corals, using different coatings on substrates. Methods: To determine whether substrate coatings properties are favourable to larval settlement in Orbicella annularis, and O. faveolata, collected in Puerto Morelos, Mexican Caribbean, we evaluated their settlement for three weeks on six coatings with a combination of properties. Each coating was designed to provide a combination of two out of three properties: 1) water repellence (hydrophobicity), 2) phosphorescence-based colour, and 3) mineral-enriched surface chemistry. In a separate experiment larvae settlement was tested using coatings with a single property. Finally, we determined the post-settlement survival of O. annularis and O. faveolata on the different coatings for seven weeks. Results: The combination of high hydrophobicity and light blue phosphorescent microparticles and high hydrophobicity and red-orange phosphorescent microparticles resulted in a higher settlement of O. annularis and O. faveolata when compared with other coatings (30.8 - 66.7 % higher). No significant differences were found in the number of larval settled when the water-repellence and the phosphorescence-based were evaluated independently. Post-settlement survival time on substrates was low, with a maximum of 34 days after settlement for O. annularis and 42 days for O. faveolata. Conclusions: In terms of the larval settlement, the combination of the coatings properties appears to play an essential role in the choice of microhabitat for both O. annularis and O. faveolata. But individually these properties did not generate an advantage in the larval settlement. Moreover, some chemical components associated with the coatings may be counterproductive to the survival of the polyps over time.

Introducción: Uno de los principales cuellos de botella en proyectos de restauración basada en reproducción sexual es la supervivencia de las larvas posterior al asentamiento, principalmente por la competencia por el sustrato con algas filamentosas y la depredación. Por ello, se han creado y analizado sustratos de diferentes formas y materiales, buscando optimizar estos procesos con superficies atrayentes para las larvas, y estructuras donde los reclutas se encuentran protegidos de la depredación y se disminuya la competencia. Objetivo: Mejorar el asentamiento y la supervivencia de dos importantes corales formadores de arrecifes del Caribe, utilizando diferentes recubrimientos en sustratos. Métodos: Para determinar si las propiedades de la superficie del sustrato son favorables para el asentamiento de larvas de Orbicella annularis y O. faveolata, recolectadas en Puerto Morelos, Caribe mexicano, evaluamos su asentamiento durante tres semanas en seis recubrimientos con una combinación de propiedades. Cada recubrimiento fue diseñado para proporcionar una combinación de dos de tres propiedades: 1) repelencia al agua (hidrofobicidad), 2) fosforescencia y 3) química superficial enriquecida con minerales. En un experimento separado se evaluó el asentamiento de larvas en sustratos con recubrimientos de una sola propiedad. Finalmente, se determinó la supervivencia posterior al asentamiento de O. annularis y O. faveolata sobre los diferentes recubrimientos durante siete semanas. Resultados: La combinación de alta hidrofobicidad y micropartículas fosforescentes azules y alta hidrofobicidad y micropartículas fosforescentes rojo-naranja dio como resultado un mayor asentamiento de O. annularis y O. faveolata en comparación con otros recubrimientos (30.8 - 66.7 % mayor). No se encontraron diferencias significativas en el número de larvas asentadas cuando se evaluaron de forma independiente la repelencia al agua y la fosforescencia. El tiempo de supervivencia posterior al asentamiento en los sustratos fue bajo, con un máximo de 34 días después del asentamiento para O. annularis y 42 días para O. faveolata. Conclusiones: En el asentamiento de larvas, la combinación de las propiedades del recubrimiento parece desempeñar un papel importante en la elección del microhábitat tanto para O. annularis como para O. faveolata. Pero de forma individual estas propiedades no generaron una ventaja en el asentamiento larvario. Además, algunos componentes químicos asociados con los recubrimientos pueden ser contraproducentes para la supervivencia de los pólipos a lo largo del tiempo.

Bioética Complexa e a saúde da mulher / Complex Bioethics and women's health / Bioética Compleja y la salud de la mujer

Objetivo: discutir diferentes abordagens éticas, na perspectiva do Modelo Bioética Complexa (MBC), sobre as questões da saúde da mulher. O MBC é uma reflexão que tem por finalidade verificar a adequação das ações envolvidas com os aspectos biológicos e biográficos, em uma perspectiva interdisciplinar, amparada por referenciais teóricos diversos e considerando também situações individuais e sociais. Metodologia: revisão narrativa de literatura, considerando múltiplas perspectivas bioéticas e éticas em relação aos temas de saúde da mulher. Resultados: os resultados de pesquisa envolvem a referência de 37 textos e considerações dos autores, fruto de pesquisas envolvendo o MBC há mais de 17 anos, em ambiente de saúde. Conclusão: a reflexão da adequação de avaliações e decisões na área da saúde da mulher deve envolver uma multiplicidade de aspectos e perspectivas, neste sentido é necessário que está visão complexa permeie o desenho de políticas de assistência à saúde.

Objective: to discuss various ethical approaches from the perspective of the Complex Bioethics Model (CBM) to women's health issues. The CBM aims to review the appropriateness of actions involving biological and biographical aspects in an interdisciplinary perspective, supported by different theoretical references and considering individual and social situations. Methods: narrative literature review considering different bioethical and ethical perspectives related to women's health. Results: research findings include references to 37 texts and reflections by the author, who has conducted health research with CBM for more than 17 years. Conclusion: reflection on the appropriateness of assessments and decisions in the field of women's health should encompass a variety of aspects and perspectives. In this sense, it is necessary that this complex perspective be included in health policy decision making.

Objetivo: este artículo pretende debatir diferentes enfoques éticos, desde la perspectiva del Modelo de Bioética Compleja (MBC), sobre cuestiones de salud de la mujer. El MBC es una reflexión que pretende verificar la adecuación de las acciones involucradas con aspectos biológicos y biográficos, en una perspectiva interdisciplinaria, recortada por diversas referencias teóricas y considerando también situaciones individuales y sociales. Metodología: revisión narrativa de la literatura, considerando múltiples perspectivas bioéticas y éticas en relación con temas de salud de la mujer. Resultados: los resultados de la investigación involucran la referencia de 37 textos y consideraciones de los autores fruto de investigaciones que involucran el MBC por más de 17años en el ambiente de salud. Conclusión: la reflexión sobre la adecuación de las evaluaciones y decisiones en el ámbito de la salud de las mujeres debe implicar una multiplicidad de aspectos y perspectivas, en este sentido es necesario que esta visión compleja impregne el diseño de las políticas de atención sanitaria.

Mating behavior of the long-legged cricket Eidmanacris meridionalis Desutter-Grandcolas, 1995 (Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae)

ABSTRACT Pair-formation, courtship, copulatory, and post-copulatory behaviors of Eidmanacris meridionalis Desutter-Grandcolas, 1995, were described under laboratory conditions and compared with congeneric species and other Phalangopsidae crickets whose mating behavior has been previously studied. Field observations for the species are also reported. Mating behaviors were observed in E. meridionalis couples: they first remained motionless, and then began walking through the arena screening the substrate. Mating behavior started with antennal contact, followed by males positioning themselves in front of females, that, when receptive, mounted on the males back and started feeding on metanotum secretions of the males. Copulation (female-above-male position) started with the engaging of copulatory structures and stopped with couple detachment. The end-to-end position was observed once, right after couple detachment. Males always remained with the spermatophore, which was eaten after removal or, alternatively, left in the substrate. The main differences in mating behavior of Eidmanacris species regard the mating position and the duration of the reproductive stages, suggesting that other reproductive repertoires can be observed in the genus since 27 species have not yet been studied in regards their reproductive behavior. We can also assume that the morphological, genetic, and chemical diversity found among the species of Phalangopsidae reflects in the behaviors of pair-formation, courtship, copulation, and post-copulation, leading to a diversity of copulation positions, duration of the stages, methods of attracting partners and parental investment. The description of Phalangopsidae mating patterns can provide important information for future evolutionary and phylogenetic studies, apart from useful for distinguishing cryptic species.

Chronic consumption of contaminated feed with 2 4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2 4 D) herbicide in rodents: effects on male reproductive health / Consumo crônico de ração contaminada com herbicida ácido 2 4 di clorofenoxiacético (2 4 D) em roedores: efeitos na saúde reprodutiva masculina

Introduction: The herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is one of the most widely used pesticides in the world. There is evidence that this herbicide can induce deleterious effects in non-target organisms, including impairment of reproduction function. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproductive effects of the chronic consumption of contaminated feed with 2,4-D in rats using food environmental spraying simulation. Methods: Animals orally exposed received nebulized chow with 2,4-D solution in different concentrations for 180 days: 0 (control - CG), 20.69 (LCG), 34.63 (MCG), or 51.66 ppm day−1 (HCG). Results: Sperm quality was impaired to 2,4-D. The percentage of sperm with progressive movement, number of sperm in the testis and daily sperm production were decreased in all exposed groups to the herbicide compared to CG. Sperm counts in the caput/corpus and cauda epididymis were reduced in MCG and HCG, and sperm transit time was delayed in the epididymis of LCG. There was a negative impact on sperm morphology and plasma membrane integrity in MCG and HCG, respectively. Germ cell exfoliation within the lumen of the seminiferous tubules and epithelial vacuolization in epididymis were found in the HCG. Conclusion: This is the first study to describe the negative impact on male reproductive morphophysiology after chronic exposure to 2,4-D using food nebulization in environmentally relevant concentrations, based on agronomic use of the herbicide. The reproductive injuries identified raise concerns about the impacts of wide population exposure to 2,4-D (AU).

Introdução: O herbicida 2,4- ácido diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D) é um dos agrotóxicos mais utilizados no mundo. Há evidências de que este herbicida pode induzir efeitos deletérios em organismos não-alvo, incluindo prejuízo na função reprodutiva. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos reprodutivos do consumo crônico de ração contaminada com 2,4-D em ratos, utilizando simulação de pulverização ambiental de alimentos. Métodos: Animais expostos oralmente receberam ração nebulizada com solução de 2,4-D em diferentes concentrações por 180 dias: 0 (controle - GC), 20,69 (LCG), 34,63 (MCG) ou 51,66 ppm dia−1 (HCG). Resultados: A qualidade espermática foi prejudicada pelo 2,4-D. A porcentagem de espermatozoides com movimento progressivo, número de espermatozoides no testículo e produção diária de espermatozoides foram menores em todos os grupos expostos ao herbicida, quando comparados ao GC. A contagem de espermatozoides na cabeça/corpo e cauda do epidídimo foi reduzida em MCG e HCG, e o tempo de trânsito espermático atrasou no epidídimo em LCG. Houve impacto negativo na morfologia espermática e na integridade da membrana plasmática em MCG e HCG, respectivamente. Esfoliação de células germinativas no lúmen dos túbulos seminíferos e vacuolização epitelial no epidídimo foram encontradas em HCG. Conclusão: Este é o primeiro estudo a descrever o impacto negativo na morfofisiologia reprodutiva masculina após exposição crônica ao 2,4-D, utilizando nebulização de alimentos em concentrações ambientalmente relevantes, com base no uso agronômico do herbicida. As lesões reprodutivas identificadas levantam preocupações sobre os impactos da ampla exposição da população ao 2,4-D (AU).

Análise da assistência sexual e reprodutiva de mulheres lésbicas, sob o olhar da Perspectiva dos Funcionamentos / Analysis of sexual and reproductive assistance for lesbian women, from the Perspective of Functioning

Trata-se de um estudo que possuiu como objeto a assistência sexual e reprodutiva da mulher lésbica, por profissionais médicos e enfermeiras, sob a perspectiva dos funcionamentos. Possuiu como objetivo geral: Analisar os funcionamentos básicos da mulher lésbica que são facilitados ou negados a partir das ações morais profissionais, de enfermeiras e médicos, durante a assistência sexual e reprodutiva. E como objetivos específicos: Discutir a influência das ações morais do profissional sobre suas práticas na assistência sexual e reprodutiva de mulheres lésbicas; Identificar quais as especificidades na assistência sexual e reprodutiva de mulheres lésbicas; Descrever os funcionamentos que são facilitados e negados durante a assistência sexual e reprodutiva de mulheres lésbicas. A presente pesquisa teve caráter exploratório-descritivo e natureza qualitativa. Os participantes da pesquisa foram 17 profissionais de saúde, 13 enfermeiras e 4 médicos, que realizam o atendimento de saúde sexual e reprodutiva, na cidade de Petrópolis. Para ter acesso aos participantes foram escolhidas, pelo menos, 1 ESF de cada distrito para conseguir abranger todo território municipal. A escolha foi feita através de sorteio aleatório e a partir da aceitação dos profissionais que atuavam naquela unidade. A escolha das unidades foi realizada de forma randomizada, respeitando os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Após submissão e aprovação dos Comitês de Ética em Pesquisa do IMS-UERJ e FMP/UNIFASE foi iniciada a coleta dos dados. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi a entrevista semiestruturada e os depoimentos foram analisados através da análise de conteúdo proposta por Bardin. Após análise de dados, estabeleceu-se 4 categorias que são desenvolvidas de acordo com os capítulos: O acompanhamento de mulheres lésbicas durante a assistência sexual e reprodutivo e seus funcionamentos básicos; O acolhimento da mulher lésbica na assistência sexual e reprodutiva; As singularidades da mulher lésbica reconhecidas ou não pelos profissionais durante a assistência sexual e reprodutiva; A (in)capacitação profissional e violências contra as mulheres lésbicas. Com este estudo constatou-se que para a realização dos funcionamentos básicos está associado ao relacionamento estabelecido entre profissional de saúde e mulher lésbica, da abertura que este profissional dá para a mulher se sentir segura e confortável para expor a sua sexualidade e dúvidas, que se acabam por ficar atrelados a moralidade dos mesmos. Outro aspecto relevante é o interesse do profissional em buscar sua atualização, capacitação e qualificação nas singularidades da assistência à mulher lésbica. Neste sentido, os entrevistados, em sua maioria, descumprem com os funcionamentos básicos para uma assistência sexual e reprodutiva de mulheres lésbicas qualificadas. (AU)

This is a study that had as its object the sexual and reproductive care for lesbian women, by medical professionals and nurses, from the perspective of functioning. Its general objective was: To analyze the basic functions of lesbian women that are facilitated or denied based on professional moral actions, of nurses and doctors, during sexual and reproductive assistance. And as specific objectives: Discuss the influence of the professional's moral actions on their practices in sexual and reproductive assistance to lesbian women; Identify the specificities in sexual and reproductive assistance for lesbian women; To describe the functioning that are facilitated and denied during sexual and reproductive assistance to lesbian women. This research was exploratory-descriptive and qualitative in nature. The research participants were 17 health professionals, 13 nurses and 4 doctors, who provide sexual and reproductive health care in the city of Petropolis. To gain access to the participants, at least 1 ESF from each district was chosen to be able to cover the entire municipal territory. The choice was made through a random raffle and based on the acceptance of the professionals who worked in that unit. The choice of units was carried out at random, respecting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After submission and approval by the Research Ethics Committees of IMS-UERJ and FMP/UNIFASE, data collection began. The data collection instrument was the semi-structured interview and the testimonies were analyzed through the content analysis proposed by Bardin. After data analysis, 4 categories were established, which are developed according to the chapters: Accompanying lesbian women during sexual and reproductive assistance and its basic functions; The reception of lesbian women in sexual and reproductive assistance; The singularities of lesbian women recognized or not by professionals during sexual and reproductive assistance; Professional disability and violence against lesbian women. With this study, it was found that for carrying out the basic functions, it is associated with the relationship established between the health professional and the lesbian woman, the openness that this professional gives to the woman to feel safe and comfortable to expose her sexuality and doubts, which are end up being linked to their morality. Another relevant aspect is the professional's interest in seeking updating, training and qualification in the singularities of assistance to lesbian women. In this sense, most of the interviewees fail to comply with the basic functions for qualified sexual and reproductive assistance to lesbian women. (AU)

De la salud colectiva a la medicina "personalizada": desafíos bioéticos de la evaluación genética preimplantatoria desde la perspectiva norte-sur / From collective health to "personalized" medicine: bioethical challenges in preimplantation genetic testing from a North-South perspective

RESUMEN El artículo se interroga por los alcances y los límites del paradigma de la medicina de precisión y su relación con el enfoque de la salud colectiva. Para ello, se toma la evaluación genética preimplantatoria o PGT (preimplantation genetic testing) dado que constituye un ejemplo paradigmático de tecnologías que apuntan a la "individualización" de los procesos de salud. En esta dirección, se revisan las características y los fundamentos científico-normativos acerca de las tecnologías PGT en Argentina, y el camino que queda por recorrer para su análisis bioético. De manera más específica, se visibilizan algunas de las condiciones de posibilidad para su implementación desde la perspectiva norte-sur. Como síntesis del análisis, proponemos tres ejes o nudos problemáticos relacionados con los sesgos en la producción de conocimiento, los valores e intereses subyacentes a sus usos y los presupuestos epistemológicos que operan en la base de estas tecnologías. A lo largo de este trabajo, presentamos estos dilemas y sugerimos algunas recomendaciones para ser tenidas en cuenta en futuras investigaciones.

ABSTRACT This article examines the scope and limitations of the precision medicine paradigm and its relationship with the collective health approach. To that end, it takes preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) as a paradigmatic example of technologies aimed at the "individualization" of health processes. In this regard, we review the characteristics and scientific and regulatory foundations of PGT technologies in Argentina, and discuss the next steps for their bioethical analysis. More specifically, we shed light on some of the conditions for their implementation from a north-south perspective. We propose three themes or problematic aspects as a synthesis of our analysis, related to biases in the production of knowledge, the values and interests underlying its uses, and the underlying epistemological assumptions of these technologies. Throughout the article, we review these dilemmas and suggest some issues that should be taken into account in future research.

El islam ante los tratamientos de reproducción asistida: un estudio empírico sobre la relación entre ciencia y religión en Tánger y Barcelona / Islam and assisted reproduction treatments: an empirical study on the relationship between science and religion in Tangier and Barcelona

RESUMEN En las últimas décadas hubo un desarrollo significativo de técnicas de reproducción asistida que ayudaron a parejas con dificultades a tener hijos. Estas técnicas han sido bien recibidas en diferentes partes del mundo, y los países musulmanes no han sido una excepción. Desde la perspectiva teórica de la socióloga Michèle Lamont basada en las fronteras o "boundaries", en el año 2022 se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 20 profesionales de la salud y líderes de asociaciones musulmanes de Tánger y Barcelona, con el objetivo de analizar, en primer lugar, cómo actores claves musulmanes conciben la relación entre islam y ciencia y; en segundo lugar, cómo se negocia esta comprensión en el caso de los tratamientos de reproducción asistida. Se concluye sobre la complejidad de la delimitación de fronteras en las definiciones de ciencia y religión, y se destaca la importancia de centrarse en casos empíricos para comprender mejor la compleja relación entre los dos ámbitos y entender los debates bioéticos existentes.

ABSTRACT In recent decades there have been significant developments in assisted reproduction techniques, which have aided couples with difficulties in having children. These techniques have been well received in different parts of the world, and Muslim countries have been no exception. Adopting sociologist Michèle Lamont's theoretical perspective on "boundaries", semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 health professionals and Islamic community leaders in the cities of Tangier and Barcelona during 2022. The aim of this article is twofold: first, to analyze how key actors in the Muslim community conceive of the relationship between Islam and science; second, to explain how this understanding is negotiated in relation to assisted reproduction treatments. The article concludes with a consideration of the complexities related to drawing the line between the positions of science and religion, and emphasized the importance of examining empirical cases in order to better capture the complex relationship between these two spheres and gain a deeper understanding of existing bioethical debates.

Estrategias para la reproducción del color en restauraciones del sector anterior informadas por estudiantes de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Buenos Aires / Strategies for color reproduction in anterior restorations informed by students of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Buenos Aires

El objetivo de este estudio fue valorar las estrategias empleadas, por estudiantes de la Facultad de Odon-tología de la Universidad de Buenos Aires para la re-producción del color en restauraciones del sector anterior según autorreporte. Materiales y Métodos: Se confeccionó un formulario en Google Forms (F) que los alumnos completaron en sus celulares con la información correspondiente a cada restaura-ción terminada. Resultados (IC95%): Se registraron 97 restauraciones en el sector anterior. El 57,73 % (47,79 - 67,09) proximales no involucraban el ángu-lo incisal y el 21,65 % (14,62 - 30,84) sí. Un 11,34 % (6,45 - 19,17) localizada en el tercio cervical. En el 93,81 % (87,15 - 97,13) se utilizó al menos una capa de composite de opacidad esmalte (E) mientras que en el 77,32 % (68,04 - 84,52) al menos una de dentina (D). En el 73,19 % (63,63 - 81,01) se utilizaron al me-nos dos opacidades E y D. Los colores de E más utili-zados fueron A2 y A3, 31,87 % (23,19 - 42,01) y 37,36 % (28,12 - 47,62) respectivamente, y el A3 de D 54,67 % (43,45 - 65,43). Tres fueron las estrategias princi-pales para la combinación de colores y opacidades: el empleo de colores iguales en ambas opacidades, y el uso de opacos de mayor o de menor intensidad; entre las que no se encontró ninguna predominante. Conclusiones: A partir de los resultados del presente estudio se puede concluir que en la mayoría de las restauraciones del sector anterior se emplean com-posites de al menos dos opacidades y que no hay una estrategia de asociación de opacidad y color predominante (AU)

The aim of this study was to assess the strategies that students from the Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires claim to use for color reproduction in anterior restorations. Materials and Methods: A form was created in Google Forms (F) and students were instructed to complete on 40REV FAC ODONTOL, UNIV BUENOS AIRES 2023 VOL 38 N° 90RepRoducción del coloR en RestauRaciones del sectoR anteRioRFosas y fisurasProximales sin compromiso de ánguloProximales con compromiso de ánguloTercio cervicalcaras libres706050403020100% (IC95%)57,73%21,65%11,34%9,28%their cell phones with the corresponding information about each completed restoration. Results(95CI%):97 restorations were recorded in the anterior sector of which 57.73 % (47.79 - 67.09) were proximal and 21.65 % (14.62 - 30.84) that involved the incisal edge.11.34 %(6.45 - 19.17) were located in the cervical third of the vestibular surfaces. In 97.94 % of the restorations Brilliant New Generation (Coltene) the chosen composite, in 93.81 % (87.15 - 97.13) enamel opacity composite (E) was used at least for one layer, while in 77.32 % (68. 04 - 84.52) at least one layer of dentin (D) was applied. In 73.19 % (63.63 - 81.01) at least two opacities E and D were required. The most used E shades were A2 and A3, 31.87 % (23.19 - 42, 01) and 37.36 % (28.12 - 47.62) respectively, and A3 of D shades 54.67 % (43.45 - 65.43). Three core strategies were identified: the use of the same colors in both opacities, and the use of opaque of greater or lesser intensity; among which no predominance was found. Conclusions: Within the conditions of this study, it can be concluded that composites of at least two opacities are used in most anterior sector restorations and that there is no predominant opacity and color association strategy (AU)

Effects of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) on the Testicular Parenchyma of Adult BALB/C Mice Submitted to a Hypercaloric Diet

Oxidative stress due to obesity plays a detrimental role in the testicular microenvironment and sperm parameters. We explored the impact of a hypercaloric diet in male BALB/c mice as a condition to trigger damage to the spermatogenic process and the antioxidant effect of Aspalathus linearis as well. We used a hypercaloric diet in animals divided into 3 groups: Control, Hypercaloric diet control (HC) and Hypercaloric diet and Rooibos infusion (HCR). Morphometric parameters, enzyme dosages, cell viability, and tubular histopathology were evaluated. Body weight increased in HCR animals at weeks 3, 4, and 8. We found a reduction in seminiferous epithelium height, with an increase in the tubular diameter of the HCR group. Catalase levels were lower in HC and HCR, while carbonyl protein was decreased in HC. We estimate that it induces oxidative stress (OS) capable of affecting the seminiferous epithelium and that the infusion of A. linearis does not demonstrate a potential benefit in cell preservation.

Doxycycline hyclate may damage testicular germinal epithelium in Wistar rats

Broad-spectrum antimicrobial doxycycline acts as an inhibitor of protein synthesis and it is widely used in the clinical treatment of various infections by microorganisms that are sensitive to the drug, as well as in animal feed. Its liposolubility guarantees its high tissue bioavailability, being associated with several biochemical changes in the organism and potentially adverse effects on reproduction. This study aims to evaluate the effects of the action of doxycycline on spermatogenesis to provide a complete analysis of the tubular and interstitial compartments and to identify possible changes in the testicular parenchyma. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: one control (water), and two treated with doxycycline at the doses of 10mg/kg and 30mg/kg, for 30 days. After euthanasia and sample processing, the following parameters were evaluated: a) tubular diameter and height of the seminiferous epithelium; b) volumetric proportions (%) and volumes (mL) of the components of the testicular parenchyma; c) counting testicular germ cell populations; d) evaluation of cell viability. The results of the comparative evaluation between the experimental groups demonstrated a significant increase in the diameter and area of the tubular lumen and a reduction in the count of spermatogonia in the experimental group that received doxycycline hyclate at a dose of 30mg/kg. In the same experimental group, an increase in the overall yield of spermatogenesis was found as a consequence of the increase in the mitotic index.

Padrão de reprodução do capital: uma contribuição da teoria marxista da dependência à ecologia / Capital reproduction pattern: a contribution from marxist dependency theory to ecology

Resumo: Neste artigo, por meio de revisão bibliográfica, discutimos a ecologia a partir da categoria-padrão de reprodução do capital, destacando a dialética entre valor e valor de uso. Concluímos, com base na TMD, que a categoria-padrão de reprodução do capital permite compreender a ecologia no âmbito da particularidade, evidenciando que a valorização é sempre acompanhada da produção material e que distintos padrões de reprodução do capital impactam desigualmente o meio ambiente e a sociedade.

Abstract: In this article, through a literature review, we discuss ecology based on the standard category of capital reproduction, highlighting the dialectic between value and use-value. We conclude, based on TMD, that the standard category of capital reproduction enables the understanding of ecology within the realm of particularity, demonstrating that valorization is always accompanied by material production and that different patterns of capital reproduction unevenly impact the environment and society.

Zebrafish ambra1b knockout reveals a novel role for Ambra1 in primordial germ cells survival, sex differentiation and reproduction

BACKGROUND: AMBRA1 is an intrinsically disordered protein, working as a scaffold molecule to coordinate, by protein-protein interaction, many cellular processes, including autophagy, mitophagy, apoptosis and cell cycle progression. The zebrafish genome contains two ambra1 paralogous genes (a and b), both involved in development and expressed at high levels in the gonads. Characterization of the zebrafish paralogous genes mutant lines generated by CRISPR/Cas9 approach showed that ambra1b knockout leads to an all-male population. RESULTS: We demonstrated that the silencing of the ambra1b gene determines a reduction of primordial germ cells (PGCs), a condition that, in the zebrafish, leads to the development of all-male progeny. PGC reduction was confirmed by knockdown experiments and rescued by injection of ambra1b and human AMBRA1 mRNAs, but not ambra1a mRNA. Moreover, PGC loss was not rescued by injection with human AMBRA1 mRNA mutated in the CUL4-DDB1 binding region, thus suggesting that interaction with this complex is involved in PGC protection from loss. Results from zebrafish embryos injected with murine Stat3 mRNA and stat3 morpholino suggest that Ambra1b could indirectly regulate this protein through CUL4-DDB1 interaction. According to this, Ambra1+/- mice showed a reduced Stat3 expression in the ovary together with a low number of antral follicles and an increase of atretic follicles, indicating a function of Ambra1 in the ovary of mammals as well. Moreover, in agreement with the high expression of these genes in the testis and ovary, we found significant impairment of the reproductive process and pathological alterations, including tumors, mainly limited to the gonads. CONCLUSIONS: By exploiting ambra1a and ambra1b knockout zebrafish lines, we prove the sub-functionalization between the two paralogous zebrafish genes and uncover a novel function of Ambra1 in the protection from excessive PGC loss, which seems to require binding with the CUL4-DDB1 complex. Both genes seem to play a role in the regulation of reproductive physiology.

Mathematical modelling approach of the study of Ebola virus disease transmission dynamics in a developing country

Background: Ebola Virus causes disease both in human and non-human primatesespecially in developing countries. In 2014 during its outbreak, it led to majority of deaths especially in some impoverished area of West Africa and its effect is still witnessed up till date. Materials and Methods:We studied the spread of Ebola virus and obtained a system of equations comprising of eighteen equations which completely described the transmission of Ebola Virus ina population where control measures were incorporated and a major source of contacting the disease which is the traditional washing of dead bodies was also incorporated. We investigated the local stability of the disease-free equilibrium using the Jacobian Matrix approach and the disease-endemic stability using the center manifold theorem. We also investigated the global stability of the equilibrium points using the LaSalle's Invariant principle.Results: The result showed that the disease-free and endemic equilibrium where both local and globally stable and that the system exhibits a forward bifurcation.Conclusions: Numerical simulations were carried out and our graphs show that vaccine and condom use is best for susceptible population, quarantine is best for exposed population, isolation is best for infectious population and proper burial of the diseased dead is the best to avoid further disease spread in the population and have quicker and better recovery.

Research progress on reproductive and developmental toxicity of e-cigarettes / 上海预防医学

E-cigarettes have gained considerable popularity worldwide recently， which have also drawn the attention of adolescents and pregnant women. However， recent studies have uncovered the negative effects of e-cigarettes on our cardiovascular system， respiratory system， nervous system， blood system and so on. Furthermore， several studies indicate that e-cigarettes can significantly impair users’ reproductive ability. In this review， we collected the most recent studies on the effects of e-cigarettes on reproductive system based on human studies， animal studies and in vitro preclinical studies. In addition， the review shows the urgency of setting e-cigarettes exposure standards. As a result， we recommend setting strict limits on the production and sales of e-cigarettes， thus encouraging consumers to consume reasonably.