The lady's 'slippery' orchid: functions of the floral trap and aphid mimicry in a hoverfly-pollinated Phragmipedium species in Brazil.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Trap flowers are fascinating cases of adaptation, often linked to oviposition-site mimicry systems. Some trap flowers do not imprison pollinators for a pre-determined period, but rather force them to move through a specific path, manipulating their movements in a way that culminates in pollen transfer, often as they leave through a secondary opening. METHODS: We investigated the previously unknown pollination system of the lady's slipper orchid Phragmipedium vittatum and assessed the function of micro-morphological traits of its trap flowers. KEY RESULTS: Our observations revealed that P. vittatum is pollinated by females of two hoverfly species (Syrphidae). Eggs laid by flies on or near raised black spots on the flowers indicate that the orchid mimics aphids which serve as food for their aphidophagous larvae. Dark, elevated aphid-like spots appear to attract the attention of hoverflies to a slipping zone. This region has downward projecting papillate cells and mucilage secretion that promote slipperiness, causing potential pollinators to fall into the labellum. They then follow a specific upward route towards inner aphid-like spots by holding onto upward oriented hairs that aid their grip. As hoverflies are funnelled by the lateral constriction of the labellum, they pass the stigma, depositing pollen they may be carrying. Later, they squeeze under one of the articulated anthers which places pollen smears onto their upper thorax. Then, they depart through one of the narrow lateral holes by holding onto hairs projecting from the petals. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the system of aphid mimicry in Phragmipedium and highlights the sophisticated micro-morphological traits used by trap flowers in pollinator attraction, trapping, guidance and release, thus promoting precise pollen transfer.

Correção de fenda palatina secundária traumática em cão - relato de caso / Correction cleft palate secondary traumatic in dog - case report

A fenda palatina é a comunicação entre a cavidade oral e a nasal através de um orifício no palato. Tem diversas etiologias, podendo ser congênita, traumática, por deficiência mineral ou por fatores hormonais. O diagnóstico é realizado por meio de exame físico da cavidade oral, e a correção cirúrgica é o tratamento de escolha. Em animais adultos, pode ser corrigida com o auxílio de retalho mucoperiosteal, apresentando bons resultados. Já em filhotes, a correção cirúrgica é mais complicada, com prognóstico menos favorável. Este trabalho relata o caso de um canino, fêmea, sem raça definida, adulta, com histórico de fenda palatina secundária, de origem traumática, no palato mole por ingestão de osso. Para a correção cirúrgica, primeiramente foi utilizada membrana biológica de pericárdio bovino, mas não se obteve êxito. O segundo procedimento foi realizado com retalho mucoperiosteal simples autólogo e, dois meses após o procedimento, já havia cicatrização completa. A técnica de retalho mucoperiosteal simples autólogo se mostrou eficaz no tratamento da fenda palatina, aliada aos cuidados adequados no pós-operatório.(AU)

The cleft palate is the communication between the oral and nasal cavity through an aperture in the palate, it's causes include an infinitude of factors: congenital, traumatic, mineral deficiency or hormonal. Examination of the oral cavity determines if the diagnosis and treatment is surgical. Correction in adult animals is performed with mucoperiosteal flap showing good results. However, surgical correction in puppies is more complicated with less favorable prognosis. This current work reports a case of an adult, female dog of undefined breed, with a history of secondary clef palate of traumatic origin in the soft palate due to bone ingestion. For correction, a biological membrane of bovine pericardium was used, but it was not successful, requiring a second surgical procedure performed with autologous simple mucoperiosteal flap. The last technique combined with adequate postoperative care was effective.(AU)

Correção de fenda palatina secundária traumática em cão - relato de caso / Correction cleft palate secondary traumatic in dog - case report

A fenda palatina é a comunicação entre a cavidade oral e a nasal através de um orifício no palato. Tem diversas etiologias, podendo ser congênita, traumática, por deficiência mineral ou por fatores hormonais. O diagnóstico é realizado por meio de exame físico da cavidade oral, e a correção cirúrgica é o tratamento de escolha. Em animais adultos, pode ser corrigida com o auxílio de retalho mucoperiosteal, apresentando bons resultados. Já em filhotes, a correção cirúrgica é mais complicada, com prognóstico menos favorável. Este trabalho relata o caso de um canino, fêmea, sem raça definida, adulta, com histórico de fenda palatina secundária, de origem traumática, no palato mole por ingestão de osso. Para a correção cirúrgica, primeiramente foi utilizada membrana biológica de pericárdio bovino, mas não se obteve êxito. O segundo procedimento foi realizado com retalho mucoperiosteal simples autólogo e, dois meses após o procedimento, já havia cicatrização completa. A técnica de retalho mucoperiosteal simples autólogo se mostrou eficaz no tratamento da fenda palatina, aliada aos cuidados adequados no pós-operatório.(AU)

The cleft palate is the communication between the oral and nasal cavity through an aperture in the palate, it's causes include an infinitude of factors: congenital, traumatic, mineral deficiency or hormonal. Examination of the oral cavity determines if the diagnosis and treatment is surgical. Correction in adult animals is performed with mucoperiosteal flap showing good results. However, surgical correction in puppies is more complicated with less favorable prognosis. This current work reports a case of an adult, female dog of undefined breed, with a history of secondary clef palate of traumatic origin in the soft palate due to bone ingestion. For correction, a biological membrane of bovine pericardium was used, but it was not successful, requiring a second surgical procedure performed with autologous simple mucoperiosteal flap. The last technique combined with adequate postoperative care was effective.(AU)

Adult dyskinetic cerebral palsy: Upper limb movement and muscle function.

AIM: The aim of this study was to characterize upper limb motor function during a comparative analysis of electromyographic and upper limb movement analysis during drinking between healthy adults and individuals with DCP. METHOD: Fifteen healthy individuals (CG) and fifteen individuals with DCP (DG) participated in the study. Upper limb function was analyzed during drinking and consisted of a task divided into three phases: the going, the adjustment, and the return. RESULTS: Electromyographic analysis revealed a lower activity of the anterior deltoid, posterior deltoid, and biceps brachii muscles in the DG. When comparing the interactions between groups and phases, only biceps brachii shower lower muscle activity during going and adjustment phases. The DG presented a smaller range of motion (ROM) for the shoulder, elbow, forearm and wrist movements. An interaction between groups and phases showed smaller ROM for the flexion and internal rotation of the shoulder, elbow flexion, forearm pronation, and ulnar deviation in the return phase compared to CG. INTERPRETATION: The results may contribute positively to the quantification of the level of motor impairment and may be used as a reference for the development of therapeutic interventions for patients with DCP.

Red galls: the different stories of two gall types on the same host.

Several studies have suggested reasons why galls have conspicuous colours, but none of the ideas have been confirmed. However, what if the vibrant colours of some galls are explained simply by the effect of light exposure? This may lead to anthocyanin accumulation, functioning as a defence mechanism against the effects of high light. We studied the globoid galls induced by Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) on Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae), relating anthocyanin accumulation and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters to light incidence in abaxial and adaxial galls. We also tested if the anthocyanin accumulation patterns apply to another Cecidomyiidae-induced gall morphotype (intralaminar) within the same plant. Adaxial galls are exposed to higher incident light, with more anthocyanin accumulation and therefore red coloration. In galls from angled leaves, the greater the angle of the leaf, the higher the difference between anthocyanins on the sun and shade sides of galls. Photosynthetic pigment concentrations did not differ between abaxial and adaxial galls. However, we found higher (Fm ' - F')/Fm ' and Fv /Fm in the abaxial galls. Conversely, NPQ and Rfd were higher in adaxial galls. Finally, the pattern of anthocyanin accumulation was not found in the intralaminar gall. Anthocyanin accumulation in galls functions as a photoprotective strategy, maintaining tissue vitality in regions exposed to high light conditions. However, this mechanism may vary even among galls within the same host, indicating idiosyncrasy when it comes to coloration in galls. To date, this is the first study to demonstrate quantitatively why the galls of a specific species may be coloured: the variation in light regimes creates differential anthocyanin accumulation, influencing coloration.

Effects of myogenic precursor cells (C2C12) transplantation and low-level laser therapy on muscle repair.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of myoblast inoculation in combination with photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) on skeletal muscle tissue following injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-five Wistar rats were divided into five groups: Control-animals not submitted to any procedure; Injury-cryoinjury of the tibialis anterior muscle; HBSS-animals submitted to cryoinjury and intramuscular Hank's Balanced Salt Solution; Injury + Cells-animals submitted to cryoinjury, followed by myogenic precursor cells (C2C12) transplantation; Injury + Cells + LLLT-animals submitted to cryoinjury, followed by myogenic precursor cells (C2C12) transplantation and PBMT (780 nm, 40 mW, 3.2 J in 8 points). The periods analyzed were 1, 3, and 7 days. The tibialis anterior muscle was harvest for histological analysis, collagen analysis, and immunolabeling of macrophages. RESULTS: No differences were found between the HBSS group and injury group. The Injury + Cells group exhibited an increase of inflammatory cells and immature fibers as well as a decrease in the number of macrophages on Day 1. The Injury + Cells + LLLT group exhibited a decrease in myonecrosis and inflammatory infiltrate at 7 days, but an increase in inflammatory infiltrate at 1 and 3 days as well as an increase in blood vessels at 3 and 7 days, an increase in macrophages at 3 days and better collagen organization at 7 days. CONCLUSION: Cell transplantation combined with PBMT led to an increase in the number of blood vessels, a reduction in myonecrosis and total inflammatory cells as well as better organization of collagen fibers during the skeletal muscle repair process. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Validation and reliability of a modified sphygmomanometer for the assessment of handgrip strength in Parkinson's disease.

BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength is currently considered a predictor of overall muscle strength and functional capacity. Therefore, it is important to find reliable and affordable instruments for this analysis, such as the modified sphygmomanometer test (MST). OBJECTIVES: To assess the concurrent criterion validity of the MST, to compare the MST with the Jamar dynamometer, and to analyze the reproducibility (i.e. reliability and agreement) of the MST in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). METHOD: The authors recruited 50 subjects, 24 with PD (65.5 ± 6.2 years of age) and 26 healthy elderly subjects (63.4 ± 7.2 years of age). The handgrip strength was measured using the Jamar dynamometer and modified sphygmomanometer. The concurrent criterion validity was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient and a simple linear regression test. The reproducibility of the MST was evaluated with the coefficient of intra-class correlation (ICC(2,1)), the standard error of measurement (SEM), the minimal detectable change (MDC), and the Bland-Altman plot. For all of the analyses, α ≤ 0.05 was considered a risk. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation of moderate magnitude (r ≥ 0.45) between the MST and the Jamar dynamometer. The MST had excellent reliability (ICC(2,1) ≥ 0.7). The SEM and the MDC were adequate; however, the Bland-Altman plot indicated an unsatisfactory interrater agreement. CONCLUSIONS: The MST exhibited adequate validity and excellent reliability and is, therefore, suitable for monitoring the handgrip strength in PD. However, if the goal is to compare the measurements between examiners, the authors recommend that the data be interpreted with caution.

Validation and reliability of a modified sphygmomanometer for the assessment of handgrip strength in Parkinson´s disease

BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength is currently considered a predictor of overall muscle strength and functional capacity. Therefore, it is important to find reliable and affordable instruments for this analysis, such as the modified sphygmomanometer test (MST). OBJECTIVES: To assess the concurrent criterion validity of the MST, to compare the MST with the Jamar dynamometer, and to analyze the reproducibility (i.e. reliability and agreement) of the MST in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). METHOD: The authors recruited 50 subjects, 24 with PD (65.5±6.2 years of age) and 26 healthy elderly subjects (63.4±7.2 years of age). The handgrip strength was measured using the Jamar dynamometer and modified sphygmomanometer. The concurrent criterion validity was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient and a simple linear regression test. The reproducibility of the MST was evaluated with the coefficient of intra-class correlation (ICC2,1), the standard error of measurement (SEM), the minimal detectable change (MDC), and the Bland-Altman plot. For all of the analyses, α≤0.05 was considered a risk. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation of moderate magnitude (r≥0.45) between the MST and the Jamar dynamometer. The MST had excellent reliability (ICC2,1≥0.7). The SEM and the MDC were adequate; however, the Bland-Altman plot indicated an unsatisfactory interrater agreement. CONCLUSIONS: The MST exhibited adequate validity and excellent reliability and is, therefore, suitable for monitoring the handgrip strength in PD. However, if the goal is to compare the measurements between examiners, the authors recommend that the data be interpreted with caution. .

Gait profile score and movement analysis profile in patients with Parkinson's disease during concurrent cognitive load

Background: Gait disorders are common in individuals with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and the concurrent performance of motor and cognitive tasks can have marked effects on gait. The Gait Profile Score (GPS) and the Movement Analysis Profile (MAP) were developed in order to summarize the data of kinematics and facilitate understanding of the results of gait analysis. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of the GPS and MAP in the quantification of changes in gait during a concurrent cognitive load while walking in adults with and without PD. Method: Fourteen patients with idiopathic PD and nine healthy subjects participated in the study. All subjects performed single and dual walking tasks. The GPS/MAP was computed from three-dimensional gait analysis data. Results: Differences were found between tasks for GPS (P<0.05) and Gait Variable Score (GVS) (pelvic rotation, knee flexion-extension and ankle dorsiflexion-plantarflexion) (P<0.05) in the PD group. An interaction between task and group was observed for GPS (P<0.01) for the right side (Cohen's ¯d=0.99), left side (Cohen's ¯d=0.91), and overall (Cohen's ¯d=0.88). No interaction was observed only for hip internal-external rotation and foot internal-external progression GVS variables in the PD group. Conclusions: The results showed gait impairment during the dual task and suggest that GPS/MAP may be used to evaluate the effects of concurrent cognitive load while walking in patients with PD. .

Gait profile score and movement analysis profile in patients with Parkinson's disease during concurrent cognitive load.

BACKGROUND: Gait disorders are common in individuals with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and the concurrent performance of motor and cognitive tasks can have marked effects on gait. The Gait Profile Score (GPS) and the Movement Analysis Profile (MAP) were developed in order to summarize the data of kinematics and facilitate understanding of the results of gait analysis. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effectiveness of the GPS and MAP in the quantification of changes in gait during a concurrent cognitive load while walking in adults with and without PD. METHOD: Fourteen patients with idiopathic PD and nine healthy subjects participated in the study. All subjects performed single and dual walking tasks. The GPS/MAP was computed from three-dimensional gait analysis data. RESULTS: Differences were found between tasks for GPS (P<0.05) and Gait Variable Score (GVS) (pelvic rotation, knee flexion-extension and ankle dorsiflexion-plantarflexion) (P<0.05) in the PD group. An interaction between task and group was observed for GPS (P<0.01) for the right side (Cohen's ¯d=0.99), left side (Cohen's ¯d=0.91), and overall (Cohen's ¯d=0.88). No interaction was observed only for hip internal-external rotation and foot internal-external progression GVS variables in the PD group. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed gait impairment during the dual task and suggest that GPS/MAP may be used to evaluate the effects of concurrent cognitive load while walking in patients with PD.

Comparison of quality-of-life instruments for assessing the participation after stroke based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

BACKGROUND: According to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), the participation component is considered to be the most complex component characterized in existing instruments that assess quality of life related to health (HRQoL). Questionnaires such as the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) and the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life (SS-QOL) are currently used to evaluate the participation of individuals in life activities after stroke. However, because participation and HRQoL are different constructs, it is unclear whether these instruments are best suited to this evaluation. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether the NHP and SS-QOL are suitable instruments for assessing the participation component of ICF. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which a sample of 35 individuals completed the SS-QOL and NHP. The study correlated the total score on the questionnaires with the scores on items that evaluate the participation component of the ICF. Both analyses used the Spearman correlation coefficient (r). RESULTS: There was a statistically significant, positive and strong correlation between total score on the SS-QOL and NHP and the score on specific components related to participation (r=0.8, p=0.001 and r=0.9, p=0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Both the NHP and the SS-QOL show strong correlations between the total score and the score on items that assess the participation categories of the ICF. However, the SS-QOL questionnaire appeared to be the most complete for this assessment because it evaluates more distinct domains and contains the largest number of items related to participation.

Comparison of quality-of-life instruments for assessing the participation after stroke based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) / Comparacao entre instrumentos de qualidade de vida para avaliacao da participacao apos AVE conforme a Classificacao Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saude (CIF)

BACKGROUND: According to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), the participation component is considered to be the most complex component characterized in existing instruments that assess quality of life related to health (HRQoL). Questionnaires such as the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) and the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life (SS-QOL) are currently used to evaluate the participation of individuals in life activities after stroke. However, because participation and HRQoL are different constructs, it is unclear whether these instruments are best suited to this evaluation. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether the NHP and SS-QOL are suitable instruments for assessing the participation component of ICF. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which a sample of 35 individuals completed the SS-QOL and NHP. The study correlated the total score on the questionnaires with the scores on items that evaluate the participation component of the ICF. Both analyses used the Spearman correlation coefficient (r). RESULTS: There was a statistically significant, positive and strong correlation between total score on the SS-QOL and NHP and the score on specific components related to participation (r=0.8, p=0.001 and r=0.9, p=0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Both the NHP and the SS-QOL show strong correlations between the total score and the score on items that assess the participation categories of the ICF. However, the SS-QOL questionnaire appeared to be the most complete for this assessment because it evaluates more distinct domains and contains the largest number of items related to participation. .

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: O componente de participação da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde (CIF) foi apontado como o mais complexo de ser caracterizado a partir de instrumentos já existentes. Atualmente, indica-se o uso de questionários de qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) para avaliação da participação após acidente vascular encefálico (AVE), sendo indicado o Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) e o Stroke Specific Quality of Life (SS-QOL). No entanto, QVRS e participação são construtos distintos, assim, não está claro se esses instrumentos são os mais adequados para essa avaliação. OBJETIVO: Investigar se o NHP e SS-QOL são apropriados para avaliação do componente de participação da CIF. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal com amostra de 35 indivíduos nos quais foram aplicados o SS-QOL e o NHP com intuito de correlacionar o escore total dos questionários com o escore dos itens que avaliam os códigos do componente de participação da CIF utilizando o Coeficiente de Correlação Spearman (r). RESULTADOS: Houve correlação estatisticamente significante, positiva e de forte magnitude entre o escore total do SS-QOL e do NHP com os escores específicos do componente de participação, (r=0,8; p=0,001) e (r=0,9; p=0,001), respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: Tanto o NHP quanto o SS-QOL apresentaram correlação forte entre o escore total e o escore dos itens que avaliam as categorias de participação da CIF. No entanto, o SS-QOL pareceu ser o questionário mais completo para essa avaliação por avaliar mais domínios distintos e apresentar o maior número de itens relacionados à participação. .

Swimmer syndrome affecting an entire litter of kittens / Síndrome do filhote nadador em ninhada completa de felinos

Swimmer syndrome is a developmental abnormality characterized by a delay in the ability to walk and move about and is manifested in newborns between 15 and 20 days of age. These animals exhibit constant coxofemoral articulation abduction, and their pelvic limbs move caudally and laterally. This case reports a litter of three crossbreeds kittens (26 days old) with swimmer syndrome. Each animal was treated with physical therapy and shackle bandages that kept their pelvic limbs bent and close to the body. After seven days, all of the animals exhibited normal ambulation, indicating that this treatment had a curative effect on the kittens.(AU)

A síndrome do filhote nadador é uma anormalidade do desenvolvimento caracterizada pelo atraso na capacidade de marcha e deslocamento, a qual se manifesta por volta dos 15 a 20 dias de idade. Os animais apresentam a articulação coxofemoral em constante abdução, deslocando os membros pélvicos lateral e caudalmente. Este trabalho relata uma ninhada de três filhotes felinos, sem raça definida, de 26 dias de idade, acometidos por síndrome do filhote nadador, e discute possíveis causas, complicações e tratamentos. Os filhotes foram submetidos à fisioterapia, algemas e bandagens, as quais mantiveram os membros pélvicos flexionados junto ao corpo. Ao final de sete dias, todos os filhotes apresentavam deambulação normal, e o tratamento proposto pode ser considerado curativo para felinos.(AU)

Swimmer syndrome affecting an entire litter of kittens / Síndrome do filhote nadador em ninhada completa de felinos

Swimmer syndrome is a developmental abnormality characterized by a delay in the ability to walk and move about and is manifested in newborns between 15 and 20 days of age. These animals exhibit constant coxofemoral articulation abduction, and their pelvic limbs move caudally and laterally. This case reports a litter of three crossbreeds kittens (26 days old) with swimmer syndrome. Each animal was treated with physical therapy and shackle bandages that kept their pelvic limbs bent and close to the body. After seven days, all of the animals exhibited normal ambulation, indicating that this treatment had a curative effect on the kittens.

A síndrome do filhote nadador é uma anormalidade do desenvolvimento caracterizada pelo atraso na capacidade de marcha e deslocamento, a qual se manifesta por volta dos 15 a 20 dias de idade. Os animais apresentam a articulação coxofemoral em constante abdução, deslocando os membros pélvicos lateral e caudalmente. Este trabalho relata uma ninhada de três filhotes felinos, sem raça definida, de 26 dias de idade, acometidos por síndrome do filhote nadador, e discute possíveis causas, complicações e tratamentos. Os filhotes foram submetidos à fisioterapia, algemas e bandagens, as quais mantiveram os membros pélvicos flexionados junto ao corpo. Ao final de sete dias, todos os filhotes apresentavam deambulação normal, e o tratamento proposto pode ser considerado curativo para felinos.

ESTUDO SOROLÓGICO DE Leptospira spp. EM CÃES DOMICILIADOS DO MUNICÍPIO DE CASTANHAL, PARÁ / SEROLOGICAL STUDY OF Leptospira spp. IN DOGS FROM CASTANHAL, PARÁ

A leptospirose canina é uma antropozoonose causada por diferentes sorovares de Leptospira spp., de distribuição mundial. Pode acometer humanos, animais domésticos e silvestres, incluindo o cão. Nos cães, as leptospiras se alojam nos rins, havendo sua eliminação pela urina, com consequente contaminação ambiental e transmissão a partir do contato direto com outros cães ou pela ingestão de água e alimentos contaminados (ACHA & SZYFRES, 2001). A falta de censo canino e de controle de reprodução de cães em Castanhal, associada ao elevado índice pluviométrico na região amazônica, favorece a sobrevivência desta bactéria no ambiente, mostrando assim a importância do presente estudo, que tem por objetivo avaliar a soroprevalência de diferentes sorovares de Leptospira spp. no município de Castanhal, Pará. Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 109 cães domiciliados, sendo 51 machos e 58 fêmeas de diferentes idades e sadios. As amostras foram testadas pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando 25 so

ESTUDO SOROLÓGICO DE Leptospira spp. EM CÃES DOMICILIADOS DO MUNICÍPIO DE CASTANHAL, PARÁ / SEROLOGICAL STUDY OF Leptospira spp. IN DOGS FROM CASTANHAL, PARÁ

A leptospirose canina é uma antropozoonose causada por diferentes sorovares de Leptospira spp., de distribuição mundial. Pode acometer humanos, animais domésticos e silvestres, incluindo o cão. Nos cães, as leptospiras se alojam nos rins, havendo sua eliminação pela urina, com consequente contaminação ambiental e transmissão a partir do contato direto com outros cães ou pela ingestão de água e alimentos contaminados (ACHA & SZYFRES, 2001). A falta de censo canino e de controle de reprodução de cães em Castanhal, associada ao elevado índice pluviométrico na região amazônica, favorece a sobrevivência desta bactéria no ambiente, mostrando assim a importância do presente estudo, que tem por objetivo avaliar a soroprevalência de diferentes sorovares de Leptospira spp. no município de Castanhal, Pará. Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 109 cães domiciliados, sendo 51 machos e 58 fêmeas de diferentes idades e sadios. As amostras foram testadas pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando 25 so

Ventricular systolic reserve in asymptomatic children previously treated with low doses of anthracyclines: a longitudinal, prospective exercise echocardiography study.

BACKGROUND: The time course of mild cardiotoxicity induced by anthracycline remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term evolution of decreased myocardial reserve in children previously treated with a cumulative dose of anthracycline up to 100 mg/m(2). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven asymptomatic cancer survival patients (25 with lymphoblastic leukemia), in continuous remission and off treatment for >12 months with no alterations in conventional echocardiograms were evaluated by exercise echocardiography at 37 ± 15.4 months (T1) and 101 ± 24 months (T2) after finishing treatment (ADRIA group). This group was compared with 25 healthy individuals (control group) similar to the ADRIA group with respect to age and body surface area (BSA). All individuals underwent treadmill exercise testing according to Bruce protocol. Echocardiograms were performed before and immediately after exercise. RESULTS: The groups were similar regarding cardiac structure and left ventricular (LV) systolic function at rest at T1 and T2. The growth of LV posterior wall thickness related to BSA was lower in the ADRIA group at T2. Post exercise, smaller LV ejection indexes and attenuated changes in the afterload in ADRIA group were observed at T1 and T2. CONCLUSION: The decreased systolic reserve induced by a low dose of anthracycline in asymptomatic children and adolescents remains unaffected over a 5-year period, suggesting that positive outcomes in chronic cardiotoxicity would be expected in patients with mild impairment after anthracycline treatment.

Static balance and function in children with cerebral palsy submitted to neuromuscular block and neuromuscular electrical stimulation: study protocol for prospective, randomized, controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The use of botulinum toxin A (BT-A) for the treatment of lower limb spasticity is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Following the administration of BT-A, physical therapy plays a fundamental role in potentiating the functionality of the child. The balance deficit found in children with CP is mainly caused by muscle imbalance (spastic agonist and weak antagonist). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a promising therapeutic modality for muscle strengthening in this population. The aim of the present study is to describe a protocol for a study aimed at analyzing the effects of NMES on dorsiflexors combined with physical therapy on static and functional balance in children with CP submitted to BT- A. METHODS/DESIGN: Protocol for a prospective, randomized, controlled trial with a blinded evaluator. Eligible participants will be children with cerebral palsy (Levels I, II and III of the Gross Motor Function Classification System) between five and 12 years of age, with independent gait with or without a gait-assistance device. All participants will receive BT-A in the lower limbs (triceps surae). The children will then be randomly allocated for either treatment with motor physical therapy combined with NMES on the tibialis anterior or motor physical therapy alone. The participants will be evaluated on three occasions: 1) one week prior to the administration of BT-A; 2) one week after the administration of BT-A; and 3) four months after the administration of BT-A (end of intervention). Spasticity will be assessed by the Modified Ashworth Scale and Modified Tardieu Scale. Static balance will be assessed using the Medicapteurs Fusyo pressure platform and functional balance will be assessed using the Berg Balance Scale. DISCUSSION: The aim of this protocol study is to describe the methodology of a randomized, controlled, clinical trial comparing the effect of motor physical therapy combined with NMES on the tibialis anterior muscle or motor physical therapy alone on static and functional balance in children with CP submitted to BT-A in the lower limbs. This study describes the background, hypotheses, methodology of the procedures and measurement of the results. TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR5qzs8h.

CURRENT ASPECTS OF BIOTECHNOLOGY OF REPRODUCTION IN CARNIVORES. / Aspectos atuais das biotecnologias da reprodução em carnívoros.

O desenvolvimento de técnicas de reprodução assistida no cão e no gato desperta grande interesse, pois poderiam ser utilizadas para a conservação de espécies de carnívoros selvagens ameaçadas de extinção. Nos últimos anos houve um grande avanço das biotecnologias da reprodução aplicáveis aos felinos domésticos. No entanto, o seu desenvolvimento nos caninos domésticos tem sido dificultado pela baixa eficiência. Um dos maiores problemas reside na fisiologia única dos gametas caninos, que exigem meios complexos para a maturação e desenvolvimento, o que dificulta a implementação de protocolos e técnicas que têm sido eficazes em outras espécies. O objetivo desta revisão é descrever os avanços nas biotecnologias da reprodução que se aplicam aos cães e gatos, com enfoque sobre os aspectos que podem ser importantes para o uso em espécies protegidas de carnívoros. SUMMARY   The development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) in dogs and cats is an area of increasing interest because ART

Aspectos atuais das biotecnologias da reprodução em carnívoros / Current aspects of biotechnology of reproduction in carnivores

O desenvolvimento de técnicas de reprodução assistida no cão e no gato desperta grande interesse, pois poderiam ser utilizadas para a conservação de espécies de carnívoros selvagens ameaçadas de extinção. Nos últimos anos houve um grande avanço das biotecnologias da reprodução aplicáveis aos felinos domésticos. No entanto, o seu desenvolvimento nos caninos domésticos tem sido dificultado pela baixa eficiência. Um dos maiores problemas reside na fisiologia única dos gametas caninos, que exigem meios complexos para a maturação e desenvolvimento, o que dificulta a implementação de protocolos e técnicas que têm sido eficazes em outras espécies. O objetivo desta revisão é descrever os avanços nas biotecnologias da reprodução que se aplicam aos cães e gatos, com enfoque sobre os aspectos que podem ser importantes para o uso em espécies protegidas de carnívoros.

The development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) in dogs and cats is an area of increasing interest because ART can be potentially applied to non-domestic carnivores threatened with extinction. Much progress has been achieved in ART of the feline species. However, advances on assisted reproduction in dogs are hampered by its low efficiency. A major obstacle lies on the particular characteristics of canine gamete physiology, for instance, the highly complex requirements for oocyte maturation and development, which makes difficult to apply protocols/techniques that have been successful in other species. This review aims to depict the advances made on assisted reproductive techniques in dogs and cats, focusing on those features that may be relevant for applying these techniques to wild endangered carnivores.